Page 105 - MFB State Annual Meeting 2018 -- RESOLUTIONS BOOK

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chemicals, especially when near sensitive crops. MDARD meeting with industry representatives prior to regulatory enforcement rule changes.
Formation of an industry committee to advise the MDARD director regarding the inclusion of injurious plants on the nuisance plant list. Consideration should be given for a phase-in for any commercial plant species added to the nuisance plant list. Aggressive promotion and the labeling of Michigan- grown products and commend the efforts of MDARD for its leadership in highlighting the importance of the agricultural industry to the state of Michigan.
Any block grant funds received under the Federal Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act be distributed to Michigan specialty crop commodity sectors on a pro-rata basis with input from a stakeholder group comprised of representatives from the specialty crop industries. All specialty crop sectors, including the nursery and greenhouse sector, should have the opportunity to receive an equitable portion of block grant funds.
Further development of meat processing and marketing opportunities through joint cooperation between the industry, MDARD, Michigan State University and the Michigan Meat Association.
The State returning to a USDA-equivalent state meat inspection for local custom processors as soon as possible to support value-added opportunities. We will support adequate funding for this program.
Michigan Farm Bureau working with MDARD to investigate having state inspectors service small scale or portable slaughter facilities in sparsely populated rural areas. 
#23 MICHIGAN DRY BEAN INDUSTRY
1 We support the Michigan Bean Commission.
2 Due to the decline in overall dry bean acreage in
3 Michigan and the increased plantings of colored
4 varieties, we strongly recommend continuation, staffing
5 and adequate funding of the dry bean variety
6 development program at Michigan State University. The
7 bean-breeding program must include the development
8 of new varieties to better meet the demands of
9 domestic and world markets. We encourage the dry
10 bean industry to consider the application of advanced
11 technology and support publicly funded research for
12 specialty crops to enhance agronomic returns, as well
13 as end user attributes. Resistance to diseases such as
14 anthracnose and white mold should be bred into all
State Policies – Page 19