Michigan is home to more than 52,000 farms — more than 95 percent of which are family owned and operated.
Our farmers are the heart and soul of a food and agriculture industry that contributes $101.2 billion annually to Michigan’s economy and employs more than 923,000 workers — about 22 percent of the state’s employment.
This summer, I launched a “Thank a Farmer” initiative, enabling residents to contribute letters of appreciation to area famers.
Under the initiative residents could visit www.SenatorJohnProos.com/thank-a-farmer and submit letters of thanks to our farmers and describe their favorite thing about southwest Michigan produce.
The response has been tremendous. My office is still in the process of sending hundreds of thank-you notes to local farmers throughout the region.
Residents can still send in their thoughts about how the blueberry pie you picked up was the best you ever had or that you appreciate the healthy fruits and vegetables your kids crave. We will make sure to pass them along.
Another excellent place to thank farmers for the abundant and wonderful fresh foods they produce is at a local farmers market.
While autumn is here, farmers markets throughout the state are going strong — selling Michigan-grown produce, fruits and other items directly to area families.
Farmers markets are enjoying a bit of a renaissance. In fact, over the last 15 years the number of farmers markets in Michigan has grown from around 90 in 2001 to more than 300 today.
Our unique climate, nutrient-rich soil and access to clean water makes Michigan a great place to grow one of the nation’s most diverse set of crops and produce.
I was proud to sponsor this initiative to highlight the extraordinary produce grown in Southwest Michigan and to give residents an easy way to thank our farmers for all they do to help feed our families and the nation. I look forward to passing along the words of encouragement and gratitude expressed by so many area residents.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.