North Michigan News

Rep. Jack Bergman, along with Rep. John Moolenaar and more than thirty other lawmakers, has called on U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins to ensure specialty crops are included in any future USDA economic aid package. In a letter addressed to Secretary Rollins, the group highlighted the importance of specialty crops to the national economy and described challenges that farmers face.

The lawmakers stated, "specialty crops are critical to America’s food security, dietary health, and economic vitality. They represent a significant share of our agricultural output, provide job opportunities across rural communities, and support a robust export market. Beyond their economic impact, specialty crops sustain a strong nutritional foundation critical for improving public health and lowering long-term health care costs across the nation."

They further explained, "Producers of specialty crops continue to face unique challenges, including high labor costs, vulnerabilities to weather and supply chain disruption, and limited risk management options compared to other commodities. In times of market disruption or natural disaster, these producers are disproportionately at risk. Without adequate support, the financial health of our growers is jeopardized."

Support for the letter also came from the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance: "Specialty crops represent a considerable portion of crop value in the United States and are grown in rural communities throughout all 50 states. Despite significant challenges, the family farms responsible for these crops produce the safe, nutritious fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts, as well as cultivate the trees, flowers and plants, that play a vital role in the nation’s health and wellbeing. Any economic aid package designed for agriculture must include specialty crops."

Michigan is noted as a leading producer of several specialty crops such as apples, asparagus, blueberries, cherries, cucumbers, and squash. The state produces one of the most diverse sets of crops nationwide and contributes over $100 billion annually to its economy.

Jack Bergman has served in Congress representing Michigan’s 1st district since 2017 (https://www.congress.gov/member/jack-bergman/B001301). He was born in Shakopee, Minnesota in 1947 and resides in Watersmeet.

Media outlets have reported that an economic aid package for farmers is currently being developed by federal authorities.

A complete copy of the lawmakers' letter can be accessed online.