Explore Metro Detroit agriculture at the 2026 Voice of Ag Conference

As the 2026 Voice of Agriculture Conference approaches, here’s a preview of the tours attendees can choose from for the afternoon of Jan. 23.

Cultivate Innovation at the Henry Ford 

Explore the intersection of agriculture and innovation at the Henry Ford in Dearborn. 

Participants will enjoy a presentation from Michigan Soybean Association, sharing insights into their partnership with the Henry Ford and their efforts to showcase how modern agriculture drives technological advancement. The presentation will highlight how Michigan farmers embrace innovation to shape the future of food and farming. 

Afterwards members will have time to explore museum exhibits at their own pace, discovering stories of American ingenuity, including agriculture’s role in powering progress from past to present.

Barnyard to Classroom at Bowers School Farm

Head to Bloomfield Hills for a hands-on look at how agriculture and education come together at Bowers School Farm, a 93-acre working farm connecting thousands of students and visitors annually to the world of agriculture through interactive learning and real farm experiences. 

From livestock care and greenhouses to maple syrup production and farm-to-table lessons, Bowers School Farm offers a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Participants will tour the barns, gardens and educational spaces that bring agriculture to life for urban and suburban audiences. You’ll also see firsthand how the farm cultivates curiosity, sustainability, and the next generation of ag advocates. 

Note: Part of this tour is outdoors (in January!), so attendees should dress accordingly. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Children must be registered or under two and ride as a lap child. 

Growing in the City: Detroit Agriculture

This tour will journey into the heart of Detroit to explore how agriculture, education, and community come together to grow opportunities in the city. 

At the Detroit Partnership for Food, Learning and Innovation (DPFLI), participants will see Michigan State University’s commitment to urban agriculture in action. The site focuses on teaching, research and outreach related to food production, soil health and community engagement — demonstrating how innovative growing techniques can thrive in an urban setting.

Next, Planted Detroit will highlight the future of fresh, local food production through advanced indoor vertical farming. Participants will learn how this company is combining technology, sustainability and community partnerships to make nutrient-dense greens available year-round in Detroit’s neighborhoods.

The tour concludes at Detroit Horse Power, where the power of horses and equestrian education are transforming young lives. Founded by a Detroit schoolteacher, this nonprofit provides inner-city youth with life skills through riding and horse care, while developing plans for a new urban equestrian center that blends recreation, responsibility and growth. 

This portion of the tour will include visiting the DHP’s construction site; dress appropriately for being outdoors during a Michigan January!

Ports & Plants: A Detroit Discovery Tour

This tour offers an exciting blend of Michigan agriculture, innovation and urban creativity through two dynamic stops in Detroit. 

The experience begins at the Port of Detroit, one of the largest inland ports in the nation. Participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at how Michigan’s agricultural products and raw materials move through this vital hub, connecting local farmers and industries to markets around the world. 

Next you’ll visit CWO Farms at the Marygrove Conservancy, an innovative urban agriculture project bringing fresh perspectives — and produce — to the city. Participants will enjoy hands-on activities exploring the versatility of agriculture in Detroit. This interactive session highlights the intersection of creativity, sustainability and Michigan agriculture in a truly memorable way. 

Again: Bring a coat, hats and gloves, as part of the tour will be outdoors.

Tours will be preceded by a Promotion & Education Chair Luncheon for county chairs to cultivate grassroots leadership and engagement. Following tours, the evening will wrap up with keynote speaker Brandi Buzzard, dinner, entertainment and networking.

MFB’s State Promotion & Education Committee is excited to welcome everyone to take part of the 2026 Voice of Agriculture Conference, Jan. 23-24 in Southfield. Registration will be open Dec. 1-5 through your county Farm Bureau. Prospective attendees should complete the interest form. 

South Haven native Sophee Garcia is interning with MFB’s Young Farmer and P&E Departments this fall. She’s studying economics and agribusiness at Michigan State University.