DISCUSS: Supporting Michigan’s rural communities

Our farms and families are woven into the fabric of Michigan’s rural communities and economy. Much like our crops, livestock and businesses, our rural communities need care and nurturing to ensure they can meet residents’ needs, support businesses and sustain a functional government.

Recognizing that our organization is well-positioned to help rural communities overcome barriers to growth and embrace opportunities, the Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) Rural Communities Task Force was appointed in 2023. 

In its initial work, the task force reviewed research, consulted experts and shared policy recommendations on issues impacting rural communities including land use, agricultural representation in local government and food insecurity. Delegates at the 2023 State Annual Meeting agreed with the policy recommendations and amended our policy book accordingly.

To help implement that policy and influence change, the Rural Communities Task Force proposed several ways county Farm Bureaus — and Community Action Groups — can help support their rural communities. First let’s review the task force’s four pillars: Food Insecurity, Local Government, Land Use and Broadband. As we dive into each, consider how your group could make a positive difference for agriculture in your community.

Food Insecurity

USDA data shows one in five children in the U.S. faced food insecurity in 2022, totaling more than 13 million kids. Feeding America found that 90% of food-insecure counties are rural. Children who grow up food insecure do not do well in school and experience higher rates of chronic health issues. Farm Bureau’s presence across rural Michigan gives us a unique opportunity to influence and engage with charitable food networks to help address families’ needs while also advancing Michigan agriculture. MFB policy #18 recognizes this prospect and supports measures to involve agriculture in efforts to eradicate childhood food insecurity.

Local Government

County Farm Bureaus are the largest agricultural organization in our rural communities, so if we don’t represent and defend agriculture locally, who will? Agricultural representation on local boards and commissions is critical, as is participating in planning and zoning discussions, meeting with elected officials and submitting public comments on issues. MFB Policy #66 discusses the organization’s position on topics relating to local government.

Land Use

Producing abundant food, fiber and fuel requires productive farmland. Because of this, and because Michigan communities are so diverse, we feel land-use decisions are best made locally, by the people who live there.

MFB has detailed policy on land use (MFB Policy #81) and farmland protection (MFB Policy #77), which helps position our county Farm Bureaus to provide input on planning and zoning decisions, brownfield redevelopment, housing and commercial development and more. 

Agricultural land-use decisions have and will continue to impact farming statewide. Farm Bureau members have an important role in engaging locally representing the industry on township boards, zoning boards and other local decision-making bodies — and by helping educate local officials on topics impacting agriculture.

Broadband

Limited or substandard broadband access continues to be a major impediment for many rural Michigan residents and businesses. While Farm Bureau has been a driver in improving broadband quality and availability, there’s more work to be done. Every county is different and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution looking to improve their broadband situation. MFB Policy #44 outlines the organization’s broadband positions. 

Discuss

Now let’s consider the questions below. If you’re interested in learning more about this group’s work you can review it online here. 

1. Food Insecurity
   1. What partnerships or initiatives can county Farm Bureaus develop to bridge the gap between agricultural production and food distribution for food-insecure families?
   2. How can the agricultural community leverage its resources to support local food banks and reduce the number of children facing food insecurity?
2. Local Government
   1. What specific actions can county Farm Bureaus take to ensure that agricultural interests are effectively represented in local government decisions and planning?
   2. How can Farm Bureau members increase their influence in local zoning and planning boards to ensure agricultural interests are considered in development decisions?
3. Land Use
   1. What role can county Farm Bureaus play in educating local officials about the long-term impacts of land-use decisions on agriculture?
   2. How can Farm Bureau members help balance the need for development with the preservation of farmland in their communities?
4. Broadband
   1. What are the most pressing broadband challenges faced by your community, and how can Farm Bureau’s policies address these issues effectively?
   2. How can county Farm Bureaus collaborate with technology providers and local governments to create customized solutions for improving broadband access in diverse rural areas?

Include your name & CAG affiliation with your responses:

• EMAIL: [email protected]
• MAIL: MFB CAG Responses, ATTN: Ashley Frazee, 7373 W. Saginaw Hwy, Lansing, MI 48917