Reps. Tyler, Barnett, Constan, Crawford, Darany, Heise, Hooker, Horn, Knollenberg, LeBlanc, Liss, Lori, MacMaster, O'Brien, Segal, Slavens and Talabi offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 209.  

            A resolution to declare March 14, 2012, as Agriculture Day in the state of Michigan. 

            Whereas, Agriculture is the second largest industry in the state of Michigan and agriculture has grown during our most recent economic hardships; and

 Whereas, Michigan is a national leader in the production of commodities, with more than 200 separate commodities produced on a commercial basis. Our state is the leading producer in 17 of those commodities; and

            Whereas, Michigan’s agricultural economy is stronger than the economy in general. There are 55,000 farms and over 500 food processors in Michigan; and

            Whereas, Michigan farmers contribute more than $71.3 billion in high-quality food, fiber and floriculture annually to the state's economy; and

            Whereas, Michigan's many microclimates permit the growing of grains, corn, beans, celery, apples, cherries and grapes among others; and

 Whereas, Michigan's livestock and dairy sectors produce superior quality beef, poultry, pork and dairy products enjoyed throughout the world; and 

            Whereas, Our abundant natural resources continue to make Michigan a great place to live, work and play. As the state continues to recover from the most recent economic struggles, agriculture will continue to play a vital role in our long-term recovery; and

            Whereas, Michigan agriculture is a renewable economic resource for the state, employing more than one million people and creating income that is replenished every year in the state; and

            Whereas, Michigan agriculture is a family affair, with families or partners owning the overwhelming majority of the state’s farms and agricultural facilities; now, therefore, be it

 Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare March 14, 2012, as Agriculture Day in the state of Michigan.  We recognize and honor the achievements and contributions of farmers and the thousands of people involved in jobs relating to Michigan agriculture.