West Michigan Agriculture Impact Analysis « West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission

West Michigan Agriculture Impact Analysis

WEST MICHIGAN AGRICULTURE CLUSTER IMPACT ANALYSIS

Project Summary:
West Michigan is rich in natural assets—abundant freshwater, nutrient-rich soils, a mild climate, and a legacy of farming knowledge passed down through generations. These factors position the region as a sleeping giant in agricultural potential, ready to be awakened.

Following the closure of Muskegon’s BC Cobb power plant in 2018, regional economic studies pointed to agriculture and food processing as powerful pathways to diversify and strengthen the local economy. In 2025, a significant step was taken to support the agricultural sectors.

The West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) teamed up with Michigan State University’s Product Center and MSU RS&GIS, to conduct the West Michigan Agriculture Cluster Impact Analysis, a comprehensive initiative designed to map (literally and figuratively) the future of farming and food processing in the region. Economic analysis for the project was led by Highland Economics, a consulting firm with deep expertise in natural resources and rural economies.

Completed in September 2025, this project builds upon previous research and expands the focus beyond Muskegon County to include Lake, Mason, Newaygo, and Oceana counties. The goal? To identify key assets, opportunities, and challenges in West Michigan’s agricultural economy—and turn insights into action.

Project Support:
This effort is made possible by funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, with additional support from the following: