Michigan State University Partners with the MSU Horticultural Society to Advance Fruit Industry

EAST LANSING, Mich. — Millions of visitors flock to Lake Michigan each year for the abundance of recreational opportunities. While the beauty of West Michigan facilitates a bourgeoning tourism industry, a sect of the region’s residents appreciate Lake Michigan for a different reason.

Known as the “Fruit Belt,” Michigan’s west coast is home to one of the state’s most prolific agricultural sectors. Lake Michigan acts as a temperature regulator, providing a climate well-suited to growing fruit when coupled with fertile, sandy soils — from apples, blueberries, grapes and peaches to the country’s largest tart cherry-growing region near Traverse City.

According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), total economic activity of the Michigan fruit industry equates to more than $750 million annually. Specialty crop production, which includes fruit, supports more than 41,000 jobs.

To read more, please visit Michigan State University.