Agriculture Stats

• TOTAL AG PRODUCTION:

$281.4 Million in Sales (6th in State)

• 43% from Crop Sales:

• Corn (Top 10 in State)

• Soybeans (Top 10 in State)

• Dry Beans (Top 10 in State)

• Wheat (Top 10 in State)

• Sugar Beets (Top 10 in State)

• 57% from Livestock Sales:

• Milk (4th in State)

Diverse & Abundant

Agriculture provides the foundation for growth and development in Gratiot County. With 82% of land in production, Gratiot is a leader in crop and livestock production, which can be seen in the statistics below. Gratiot is also home to agribusinesses such as grain elevators, equipment dealers, and fertilizer dealers, to name a few. It is home to ZFS Ithaca, a soybean processing facility that handles 40% of the state’s soybean production, and MAC, another leading grain and bean processor in the state. In total, agriculture employs approximately 3,300 and accounts for 22% of the County’s tax base.

As a result of its agricultural character, Gratiot has been a leader in the state for renewable energy. The County is now home to five wind farms, with a sixth under construction. In total, wind development has resulted in $70.9 million in tax revenue and 38 full-time jobs. The County is also hoping to see solar development in the near future.

The future for agriculture in the County is driven by its youth. Currently, almost 600 youth participate in the 4-H youth programs through MSU Extension. Additionally, 400 students are involved in Future Farmers of America clubs across Gratiot County schools. Educational programs such as these teach children necessary skills that benefit them throughout their lives.

Gratiot County’s rural charm is a result of its agricultural roots. Various events and activities are conducted throughout the County in order to embrace agriculture and its numerous benefits.

• Hogs (9th in State)

• Poultry (5th in State)

• Cattle (7th in State)