By Andi Anderson
Michigan is one of the nation’s leaders in dry bean production, and much of this success is tied to long standing research and partnerships led by Michigan State University.
Industry leaders such as Joe Cramer, executive director of the Michigan Bean Commission, highlight how MSU’s work has shaped the quality, productivity and global competitiveness of dry beans grown across the state.
The commission, which is grower funded, relies heavily on research and outreach to strengthen the industry from seed development to consumer markets.
Michigan produces more than 500 million pounds of dry beans each year, making it one of the top producers in the country and the national leader in organic beans, black beans, cranberry beans and small red beans. MSU’s 100 year breeding and genetics program has been central to this growth.
The program, formerly led by Dr Jim Kelly and now led by Dr Valerio Hoyos Villegas, has produced nearly 50 dry bean varieties grown worldwide. These varieties support better yields, disease resistance and improved canning quality.
Growers and industry partners consistently rely on MSU specialists for guidance on diseases, weeds, insects, nutrient management and soil health.
Research by experts including Dr Martin Chilvers, Dr Christy Sprague and Dr Kurt Steinke helps farmers address both current challenges and long term threats.
On farm trials supported by MSU Extension provide unbiased data that farmers use when selecting varieties and refining management decisions.
Programs such as Project GREEEN and the Agricultural Resiliency Program further support innovation by addressing urgent production issues, water challenges and extreme weather.
These partnerships help stretch grower dollars while ensuring research reaches farms quickly and effectively.
Grower leaders and industry partners emphasize that the economic impact of the dry bean industry depends heavily on continued research funding.
Without state and federal support, research progress would slow and the industry would face greater risks. Strong funding allows MSU to help growers stay competitive, maintain high quality standards and meet consumer expectations.
Michigan’s dry bean industry continues to thrive because of this teamwork between researchers, growers and industry partners, ensuring long term resilience for agriculture in the state.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu
Categories: Michigan, Education