Members of the Michigan Legislature’s agriculture committees received a sweet reminder of agriculture this week as Michigan Farm Bureau distributed copies of the children’s book I LOVE Blueberries in recognition of March is Reading Month.
Written by Shannon Anderson, I LOVE Blueberries follows a young gardener learning how to grow blueberries while building new friendships along the way, introducing young readers to agriculture through teamwork, curiosity and hands-on learning.
Each year, Michigan Farm Bureau shares the featured agriculture literacy title with members of the House and Senate agriculture committees to promote understanding of farming and encourage lawmakers to read the book while visiting schools in their districts.
“While Michigan Farm Bureau advocates for its members on legislative and regulatory matters, our organization and our members are also committed to promoting agriculture and educating the public — especially young people — about how their food is grown and produced,” said Josh Scramlin, associate legislative counsel for Michigan Farm Bureau.
This year’s selection is especially fitting for Michigan, one of the nation’s top producers of blueberries.
Joining Scramlin was Nancy Nyquist, executive director of the Michigan Blueberry Commission, who shared insights about the state’s blueberry industry.
“In 2024, Michigan produced more than 84 million pounds of blueberries,” Nyquist said. “These are multigenerational farmers who grow what I think are the best blueberries in the world.”
She encouraged lawmakers to connect with growers in their districts and experience the industry firsthand.
“Our peak season starts in early July and goes through early September,” Nyquist said. “I would encourage you all to get out on a blueberry farm.”
Lawmakers welcomed the opportunity to bring the book home and share it with their own families as well.
“Thank you for the book,” said Carrie Rheingans, who represents House District 47 in the Ann Arbor area. “My daughter loves this book, and I’m very excited to take it home and read it to her tonight and plan our trip to the Dexter blueberry farm.”
Share Story
Article Tags
