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Southwest Michigan Hosts Annual Horticulture Days Conference

Participants engaging in discussions at the Annual Horticulture Days Conference.

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News Summary

The Annual Horticulture Days Conference in Southwest Michigan showcased the region’s vibrant fruit-growing industry. Farmers and agricultural enthusiasts gathered to discuss challenges such as immigration, climate change, and labor issues, while exploring new technologies and opportunities. Experts shared valuable insights into the growth of Michigan’s fruit sector, emphasizing the need for reform in labor laws to sustain the industry. As farmers engage in critical conversations, they pave the way for a stronger future in agricultural practices.

Southwest Michigan’s Fruit-Growing Industry Shines at Annual Horticulture Days Conference

Southwest Michigan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich agricultural traditions, recently hosted the Annual Horticulture Days Conference at Lake Michigan College. This lively event gathered farmers, growers, and agricultural enthusiasts from across the state to explore the many facets of the fruit-growing industry, one of the region’s most significant economic engines.

Gathering of Minds

The conference buzzed with energy as participants engaged in discussions about a variety of topics critical to the fruit-growing sector. From the latest in farm equipment technology to pressing concerns about immigration and labor issues, everyone had something on their minds. This year, immigration concerns took center stage, with many farmers expressing hesitance to delve into the subject on camera due to the uncertainty surrounding recent changes.

As the conference progressed, attendees shared their insights into the current state of the industry, reflecting on both challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The need for stronger conversations about immigration reform and labor policies resonated throughout the event, as farmers expressed the critical role these issues play in their daily operations.

Climate Challenges and Opportunities

Another hot topic at the conference was climate change. Attendees discussed its impact on agriculture, particularly in Michigan’s fruit-growing sector. Observations shared by experts such as Mike De Schaaf, Farm Manager at the Southwest Michigan Research and Extension Center, highlighted that this year has been relatively favorable due to the absence of killing freezes, which have positively impacted crop growth and yields.

Insights from Industry Leaders

The event featured a lineup of guest speakers from various parts of the country, including notable contributions from experts at institutions like Cornell University. Their presentations provided valuable insights tailored to the unique challenges faced by Michigan growers.

One local leader, Glenn Greiffendorf, the Vineyard Manager and Winemaker at 12 Corners Winery, noted the growth trajectory of Michigan’s fruit industry, which has blossomed over the last 25 years, solidifying its position as the second largest agricultural sector in the state. However, the winery industry is feeling the heat of increased competition for consumer spending, which is affecting sales.

The Labor Dilemma

As discussions continued, Sarah Black, the Michigan Farm Bureau Director of Business Operations, shed light on the ongoing challenges surrounding the labor force. Her company’s labor services provide legal temporary guest workers to farms, emphasizing that the existing immigration program has been in place since the 1950s, with the last significant update occurring in 1986. As such, the need for reform has become increasingly apparent.

Yet, many growers felt apprehensive about going on-camera to discuss the impacts of these recent immigration and labor law changes. They expressed concerns that the ramifications would ripple through the industry in the coming months, affecting not just their farms but also the overall dynamics of the fruit-growing sector.

Looking Ahead

As Southwest Michigan’s fruit-growing industry remains a vital part of the local and state economy, events like the Annual Horticulture Days Conference provide an essential platform for dialogue. Together, farmers and growers are tackling critical issues head-on, ensuring that this thriving industry can continue to blossom and adapt in a rapidly changing world. With the support and shared knowledge exchanged at the conference, the region’s agricultural heart beats strong, as participants look towards a fruitful future.