The Director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), Tim Boring, is praising the Governor's education budget for its focus on school nutrition and Farm to School programs. The budget includes funding to ensure that all Michigan students receive breakfast and lunch in their schools, with an extra 10 cents per meal, and support for Farm to School initiatives.
Boring believes that nutrition is crucial for student success, and he recognizes the important role of agriculture in this process. By providing students with access to locally grown and processed foods, Michigan's farmers can contribute delicious and nutritious options to school menus. From apples to milk, carrots, and beef, the state offers a wide variety of fresh and healthy choices.
The Director also highlights the positive impact of Farm to School programs, which create new opportunities for local farmers. These programs not only teach students about healthy eating habits but also promote Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables. Additionally, they ensure that students receive wholesome and fresh meals, which in turn support the growth of the food and agricultural industry in the state.
Michigan's agricultural diversity is remarkable, with the state leading in the production of various crops like dry black beans, tart cherries, and asparagus. With over 46,000 farms spread across nearly 10 million acres, the state's agriculture sector provides employment for over 805,000 people, making up about 17.2 percent of the workforce. The contribution to the state's economy from the food and agriculture system is over $104.7 billion annually.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-laughingmango
Categories: Michigan, Education