NLEA Northern Michigan AG Industry Update

Description

Join us for our first Catalyst Conversations event of 2026 on February 18th from 10 AM to noon in Elk Rapids! This dynamic discussion will focus on northern Michigan's evolving agricultural sector and the trends shaping its future.

From weather impacts to shifts in global trade, 2025 has been an eventful year for agriculture across the region. With more than 1,200 farms generating over $78.9 million in agricultural products in the NLEA region—and over half of that value coming from Antrim County—this event will take place in the heart of the industry.

Hear insights from a panel of industry experts and local business owners as they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and emerging trends influencing regional agriculture today. Additionally, a number of resource providers like Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, MSU Extension, Office of Rural Prosperity, and Michigan Farm Bureau will be attending. More details included below.

 

Greg Shooks, Owner of Cellar 1914 and Shooks Farms, will discuss how the business has changed over four generations and his outlook for the regional agricultural industry.

Dr. Jaime Luke — Assistant Professor in Michigan State University’s Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics — will discuss the challenges and opportunities in the state and national ag industry, the evolving ag business climate, and her predictions for the future of the industry.

Ted Sherman, Operations Manager at Burnette Foods, will discuss trends in the food processing industry, how the family business has evolved over 60 years to succeed, and what he sees for the industry looking forward.

Patrick McGuire, Owner of Royal Farm, will discuss his experiences as a first generation farmer, how their business model has evolved over the years, and his unique perspective as a member of the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors.

Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager with NLEA, will discuss the industry trends shaping our region before moderating the panel discussion.

Light refreshments will be provided. Interested in sponsoring this or future events? Contact Sam Bailey at sam@thenlea.com.