Michigan State University provides local farmers and food producers with access to university facilities, research expertise, laboratory services, demonstration farms, educational programs, and business development resources that support sustainable agriculture.
Michigan State University provides farmers with access to university soil testing resources, diagnostic expertise, and technical assistance that support sustainable agricultural production. By connecting growers with MSU Extension educators, researchers, and agricultural specialists, the university helps producers address soil fertility, nutrient management, plant health, and crop production challenges using research-based information and recommendations. These services enable farmers to make informed decisions that improve resource efficiency, crop performance, and long-term environmental stewardship.
The Kellogg Biological Station and Michigan State University Extension provide farmers with free access to university research farms, demonstration plots, field days, workshops, tours, and other educational programming focused on advancing sustainable and profitable agricultural practices. Through these opportunities, producers engage with researchers and Extension specialists while exploring topics such as soil health, cover crops, conservation systems, grain production, irrigation, pest management, wetland stewardship, farm business management, and agritourism. By providing hands-on learning experiences and access to university expertise, these programs help farmers evaluate innovative approaches, improve environmental stewardship, and strengthen the long-term sustainability and resilience of their operations.
The Organic Farmer Training Program provides aspiring and established farmers with access to university farms, sustainable agriculture instruction, and hands-on learning opportunities. Participants gain practical experience growing crops, visiting sustainable farms, and building business plans designed to support economically viable and environmentally responsible farming operations. By combining classroom learning with field-based training, the program helps strengthen Michigan's sustainable agriculture sector.
Through MSU Extension and the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences provides farmers and growers with free access to university expertise, educational programming, demonstration trials, and research-based resources that support sustainable agricultural practices. Through field meetings, workshops, publications, electronic communications, and direct engagement with Extension specialists, producers can access information on soil health, nutrient management, crop production, plant pathology, weed management, and conservation practices. These outreach activities help farmers apply the latest university research to improve productivity, environmental stewardship, and long-term farm resilience.
The MSU Product Center helps food producers, agricultural entrepreneurs, and value-added businesses access university expertise, business development support, and technical resources to bring new products and services to market. Through free public seminars, online educational resources, and publicly available guidance on licensing, regulations, food safety, and business planning, producers can access research-based information to strengthen their operations and navigate industry requirements. Commercial Food Business also connects businesses with additional technical assistance, feasibility studies, and university research and outreach resources that support innovation and sustainable growth within Michigan's food and agricultural sectors.