Agriculture is Michigan's second largest industry (maybe now it's our first), contributing more than $71 billion to the state's economy. Due to this we feel it is fitting that we bring awareness to National Pollinator Week which runs from June 22 to the 28th.
Michigan Agriculture Fast Facts
For some fast facts on Michigan's agriculture economy check out "A Look at Michigan Agriculture"(pdf document). Not mentioned in the document is our burgeoning grape and wine industry.
According to the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council website:
Michigan's wine, grapes and grape juice products and related industries ...
... produced nearly $790 million of total economic value to the State of Michigan in 2005
... paid more than $42 million in state and local taxes in Michigan, and an additional $42 million in federal taxes
... account for more than 5,000 jobs across the state, for a payroll of more than $190 million
Info from Pollinator Partnership:
Pollination is vital to our survival and the existence of nearly all ecosystems on earth. 80% of the world's crop plants depend on pollination. Pollinators, almost all of which are insects, are indispensable partners for an estimated 1 out of every 3 mouthfuls of food, spices and condiments we eat, and the beverages we drink. They are essential to the fibers we use, the medicines that keep us healthy, and more than half of the world's diet of fats and oils. Insect pollinators, including honey bees, pollinate products amounting to $20 billion annually in the U.S. alone.
Visit their website for more information...
Also, check out the Michigan Beekeepers Association for some great information on our much needed insect friends....
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