According to NASS,1 fiber-rich food crops brought more than $750 million to the state of Michigan in 2020.
Every year, Michigan State University reports research about the viability and discoveries of over 200 potato varieties.
“Famous for its navy beans, Michigan is the nation’s leading black bean producer and also raises other bean classes such as cranberry, kidney, small red, and pinto beans.”
Apple revenues in Michigan totaled over $270 million in 2020 – all from just 31,000 acres planted. The state’s most prevalent varieties are Red and Golden Delicious.
Blueberries
14,000 acres are used to produce $75 million worth of blueberries.
Asparagus
Michigan is #1 in the U.S. for growing asparagus, with 120 family farms harvesting about 20 million pounds over 9,500 acres of land.2 However, foreign markets are now dominating most sales of asparagus in stores, to the point where farmers are questioning whether to continue planting this crop.3 That’s why farm policy is needed to reform the American food system – so that local growers of fresh vegetables can compete in local markets.
Other Crops
Other fiber-rich crops commonly grown in Michigan are cucumbers, squash, cherries, cabbage, pumpkins, peaches, and oats.