Agriculture and food processing

Macomb County had 457 working farms in 2022, a 13% increase since 2017.

Ranked in the top 5% of all counties nationwide in the dollar amount of products sold for nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod products. (Source: USDA Census data) 

Food processors in Macomb County purchase more than $602.7 million in agricultural crops annually, of which 45% comes from Macomb County farms. (Source: Lightcast)

Farms covered 79,326 total acres, with an average farm size of 174 acres.

The market value of agricultural products sold was $116,097,000, up 47% from 2017.

Crops dominate sales, accounting for 88% of all agricultural sales.

Nursery, greenhouse, floriculture, and sod production is the county’s largest crop sector at $56.2 million in sales.

Soybeans and corn are the top crops by acreage (36,933 acres of soybeans; 12,834 acres of corn for grain).

Livestock, poultry, and related products generated $13.9 million in sales.

Net cash farm income totaled $26,137,000, an 87% increase since 2017.

There were 816 producers; 555 male, 261 female, with 298 new and beginning farmers.

86% of farms have internet access, and 93% are family farms.

Total crops by acreage

• 36,933 for soybeans
• 12,834 for corn and grain
• 4,707 for forage

(Source: 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture)

$116.1 million in total products sold

• $31.3 million in grains, oil seeds, dry bean and dry peas
• $56.2 million in nursery, greenhouse, floriculture and sod
• $5.9 million in vegetables, melons, potatoes and sweet potatoes
• $5.1 million in milk from cows

(Source: 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture)

• Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Food and Agriculture Investment Fund 
• MDARD Value Added and Regional Food Systems grants 
• MDARD Branded program for cash reimbursement

• Macomb Community College - The mission of MCC is to transform lives and communities through the power of education, enrichment and economic development. The College's goal is to be a leader in higher education, improving society through innovative learning experiences that create pathways for personal advancement and drive economic vitality.
• Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development - MDARD’s mission is to deliver expertise and leadership to support economic development in Michigan’s food and agriculture industries. They help Michigan businesses navigate the licensing process and offer exporting assistance, regional business development information, grant funding support and research and educational materials.
• Michigan Economic Development Corporation - The MEDC, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has tools and resources to support businesses at any stage of growth.
• Michigan Manufacturing Technical Center - The MMTC provides Michigan’s small- and medium-sized manufacturers with operational assessment, process improvement training, mentoring services, website technical assistance and market diversification tactics. It is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership providing access to industry-driven best processes and practices. 
• Macomb/St. Clair Michigan Works! - The Michigan Works! Association provides services and support to Michigan’s workforce development system. Through the Association, members can access timely, relevant professional development opportunities and ensure high-quality programs for all customers. The Association believes the key to advancing prosperity across the state is a skilled workforce.
• SCORE SE Michigan - SCORE SE Michigan and their volunteer business mentors are dedicated to providing the best possible service to help small business owners achieve their goals. Face-to-face or online, their mentors are able and willing to aid in the success of small businesses.
• Small Business Development Center - The SBDC enhances Michigan’s economic well-being by providing counseling, training, and secondary market research for new ventures, existing small businesses and advanced technology companies. With offices statewide, the SBDC impacts the economy by strengthening existing companies, creating new jobs, retaining existing jobs, and assisting companies in defining their path to success.

Achatz Handmade Pie Co

Blake Farms & Hard Cider Co.

Bosco’s Pizza Co.

Ethel’s Edibles

EW Grobbel

Lipari Foods

National Chili Company

Ray Weigands Nursery

Safie Specialty Foods

Sanders & Morley Candy Makers Inc.