By SHELLY STRAUTZ-SPRINGBORN
Michigan Correspondent

LANSING, Mich. — Members of Michigan’s agriculture industry chewed on Gov. Jennifer Granholm last week for declaring March 20 Michigan Meatout Day.

The state’s top leader responded by issuing a second proclamation naming March 20 Michigan Agriculture Day.

The meatout proclamation was part of a nationwide campaign known as the Great American Meatout. The campaign encourages people across the United States to forego meat and animal-based products “and explore a wholesome, compassionate diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.” The promotion – on the books since 1985 – has resulted in similar proclamations being made in 30 other states.

However, in Michigan it drew criticism from a variety of the state’s agricultural organizations, lawmakers, farmers and concerned citizens. One of the issues cited by many was that Michigan Meatout Day was to occur on the same day as National Agriculture Day, which has been observed on the first day of spring since 1973.
“Gov. Granholm’s proclamation to recognize March 20 as Michigan Meatout Day is unconscionable and an insensitive slap in the face to Michigan’s livestock and dairy farmers, not to mention Michigan’s meat-eating residents,” said Wayne Wood, president of Michigan Farm Bureau, the state’s largest farm organization.

“The rationale cited in the proclamation for encouraging residents not to eat meat is misleading and incriminating, as there is science to refute many of the claims raised,” he said.

“Even more unbelievable is the Governor’s nerve to declare Michigan Meatout Day on the same day as National Agriculture Day, which is a coveted and historic occasion to recognize and celebrate all sectors of our nation’s agriculture industry. Her action is blatantly degrading to Michigan consumers and farmers, and is destructive to Michigan’s entire $71.3 billion agriculture industry.”

Michigan Agri-Business Assoc. President Jim Byrum criticized the Governor, saying the resolution “is quite possibly the most meat-headed idea yet coming from a tone-deaf administration that is out of touch with agriculture and the jobs and opportunities we provide Michigan citizens.”

U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra said, “I am deeply troubled that the Governor would relegate one of the few successful areas of Michigan’s economy to second-tier status with this boycott stunt. This announcement ignores the significant impact that agriculture has on our economy.

It also ignores the hard work and dedication of Michigan’s ag community and the 53,000 farms in Michigan.”

The proclamation also inspired a debate in the state Senate on March 17 – the same day that 30 farm organizations treated Legislators to Ag Day at the state Capitol featuring lunch made from Michigan agricultural commodities.

That day, the Senate voted 25-12 for a resolution urging Granholm to take back her proclamation. Granholm responded to the outcry by issuing another proclamation on March 17 declaring March 20 Michigan Agriculture Day, to correspond with National Agriculture Day.

“Our state’s agricultural diversity offers something for everyone,” Granholm said. “From top-quality meat and vegetables to fine produce like apples, melons and blueberries, Michigan farmers produce wholesome, healthy food we all can enjoy.

“Whether Michiganders celebrate Michigan Agriculture Day with a cheeseburger made with Michigan beef and dairy or a soup made with Michigan beans, I hope people throughout the state take a moment to enjoy Michigan’s agricultural bounty on Saturday,” Granholm said.

More than one million Michiganders work in production agriculture, food processing, and other related businesses. Michigan produces more than 200 agricultural commodities – more than any other state except California.

The state’s integrated network of family farmers, processors, wholesalers, retailers and consumers work to ensure a safe and nutritious food supply enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.