Invasive stiltgrass cropping up around southern Michigan

Invasive stiltgrass cropping up around southern Michigan

by | Sep 23, 2025 | Environmental

 
Michigan Invasive Species Program banner

News Release
Sept. 22, 2025
Contact: Drew Rayner, 517-231-8763 or Joanne Foreman 517-284-5814

Invasive stiltgrass cropping up around southern Michigan

Look for and report this fast-spreading invasive grass

Stiltgrass, a highly invasive annual grass that spreads quickly in disturbed areas, recently was detected in Augusta Creek, Barry and Petersburg state game areas.

The detections were the result of surveys conducted by the Michigan Invasive Species Program’s new public lands response team. Two foresters and two biologists were hired by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources through a 2024 State General Fund increase for the program to focus on early detection and rapid response for watch list species on the state’s 4.6 million acres of public land.

Biologists Petar Simic and Natalie Bekins have spent the summer seeking out and treating infestations of watch list invasive species on state lands in the southern Lower Peninsula.

Invasive species on Michigan’s watch list pose an immediate or potential threat to Michigan’s economy, environment or human health. These species either have never been confirmed in the wild in Michigan or have a limited known distribution.

A patch of invasive stiltgrass grows in the right-of-way near the edge of a paved road.In early August, Simic located the stiltgrass infestation at Petersburg State Game Area in Monroe County by following up on an online report submitted by a park user, who had begun removing the grass. The response team manually removed and disposed of all visible stiltgrass and will continue to monitor the site and remove new growth.

Bekins detected stiltgrass at the Barry State Game Area in Barry County while conducting an oak wilt survey in late August. Just a few weeks later, she encountered the invasive grass at Augusta Creek State Game Area in Kalamazoo County. Chemical treatment and manual removal were used at both sites. The response team will work with game area staff to continue monitoring and expand survey efforts along roads and rights-of-way in both areas.

Other Michigan infestations

Invasive stiltgrass is widespread in the southeastern U.S., including expanding areas in Indiana and Ohio. It was first detected in Michigan in 2017, when an infestation was confirmed on private lands in Washtenaw County.

Additional surveying has shown that this original infestation covers a large area of both public and private land along the Huron River northwest of Ann Arbor. A coalition including Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County parks and recreation departments and Wild Ones, a native plant collaborative, is managing infestations on public lands and training landowners in techniques for private land management. The Jackson, Lenawee and Washtenaw Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area continues to scout for new infestations in the area.

Smaller infestations in Berrien, Cass and Kent counties are being managed by local CISMAs.

Why be concerned?

Invasive stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum) – also known as Nepalese browntop or Japanese stiltgrass – is highly adaptable, thriving in various soil, moisture and light conditions. It takes hold in areas of disturbed soil along forest edges, roadways, recreational trails, floodplains and stream corridors.

Each plant can produce up to 1,000 seeds, which can be spread by vehicles, foot traffic, water and wildlife. Because deer don’t feed on stiltgrass, it often takes over in areas where deer browse on native plants and leave open patches of soil.

You can help

Landowners, land managers and anyone spending time outdoors should look out for stiltgrass and report the location and photos of any suspected plants to the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network at MISIN.MSU.edu.

Identify stiltgrass

Invasive stiltgrass is identifiable by its long, narrow, pointed green leaves and silver stripe along the mid-rib.Stiltgrass looks like some native grasses, so it may not appear out of the ordinary to the general observer. Here is what to look for:

  • A thin, bamboo-like grass with jointed stems and well-spaced leaves.
  • Smooth green leaves 2 to 3 inches long and one-half inch wide, tapering to points at both ends, often with an off-center silver stripe or mid-rib.
  • 1- to 3-foot-high beds of grass, with some stems running across the ground and others shooting upright.
  • Roots, both at the base and stem joints, that are weakly attached to the soil and easy to pull up.
  • One to three slender, green flower spikes at the stem tips, appearing in August or September.

Be aware of look-alikes

A few common plants in Michigan easily may be mistaken for stiltgrass.

  • Smartweeds (Polygonum spp.), with tiny, white to pink flowers on a short spike and a tell-tale dark blotch near the center of each leaf.
  • Whitegrass (Leersia virginica), which is well-rooted in the soil and has longer, thinner leaves than stiltgrass, with no mid-rib stripe.
  • Northern shorthusk (Brachyelytrum aristosum), with fine hairs on the top, bottom and edges of its leaves and stems, and leaf veins in a pattern resembling an irregular brick wall.

Prevent the spread

When enjoying the outdoors, stay on trails and, whenever possible, park in paved or cleared areas. If you have been hiking, biking or four-wheeling, always take time to clean your shoes, gear and vehicles before going to a new location.

More information on invasive species identification and prevention is available at Michigan.gov/Invasives.

Images of smartweed, whitegrass and northern shorthusk illustrating their differences from invasive stiltgrass.Stiltgrass look-alikes include smartweed, whitegrass and Northern shorthusk.

Michigan’s Invasive Species Program is cooperatively implemented by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; the Department of Natural Resources; and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Note to editors: Accompanying photos are available below for download. Caption information follows.

  • Stiltgrass BSGA: A patch of invasive stiltgrass detected in Barry State Game Area in a road right-of-way. DNR photo.
  • Stiltgrass_close-up: Stiltgrass leaves come to a point at both ends and often have a silvery stripe or mid-rib near the middle. Photo courtesy Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.
  • Northern_shorthusk: A close-up of a northern shorthusk leaf reveals its unusual, brick-like leaf vein pattern. Photo courtesy Fontenelle Nature Association.
  • White_grass: Whitegrass looks similar to stiltgrass but has longer, thinner leaves and no mid-rib stripe. Photo courtesy Chris Evans, University of Illinois, Bugwood.org.
  • Pennsylvania_smartweed: Smartweeds have jointed stems and pointed leaves like stiltgrass, but they have white or pink flowers and leaves usually have a dark blotch across the center. Photo courtesy Michigan State University.
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Increased enforcement targets trucks in work zones

Increased enforcement targets trucks in work zones

by | Sep 19, 2025 | Transportation

 
MDOT header (SOM branding)Talking Michigan Transportation (TMT) banner with the Mackinac Bridge.

I

On this week’s Talking Michigan Transportation podcast, a conv

Increased enforcement targets trucks in work zones

ersation about the Michigan State Police (MSP) deploying added enforcement in freeway work zones.

Active work zoneMC Lt. Jason Zylstra of MSP’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division (CVED) explains why they launched special enforcement in segments with major work like the heavily traveled I-96 in Ionia County.

MC Lt. Jason ZylstraMSP observes that 97 percent of at-fault crashes involving large trucks and buses are caused by driver behavior.

Zylstra also discusses:

  • The need for trucks to maintain a proper distance to other vehicles.
  • The dangers of trucks blocking lanes in zipper-merge zones and why law enforcement issues citations for that behavior.
  • Special inspections for tires, equipment and other components of commercial vehicles.

Listen now at https://www.buzzsprout.com/1374205.

Stay connected by subscribing to Talking Michigan Transportation e-mail updates. 
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

by | Sep 19, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 18, 2025

Contact: press@michigan.gov

 

Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced appointments to the following boards and commissions: Council on Climate Solutions; Natural Resources Trust Fund Board; Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees; Mental Health Diversion Council; Library of Michigan Board of Trustees; Autism Council; Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports; Council on Future Mobility and Electrification; Michigan State Waterways Commission; State Construction Code Commission; State Fire Safety Board; Electronic Recording Commission; Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice; and the State Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision.

 

Council on Climate Solutions

Lana Pollack, of Ann Arbor, is retired and most recently served as chair of the United States Section of the International Joint Commission. Pollack also served as the president of the Michigan Environmental Council and is a former Michigan State Senator. Pollack holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of Arts in education from the University of Michigan. Lana Pollack is reappointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 3, 2029.

 

The Council on Climate Solutions was created by Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-182. The Council acts in an advisory capacity to Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to formulate and oversee the implementation of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which will serve as the action plan for this state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition toward economywide carbon neutrality.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Natural Resources Trust Fund Board

Dr. Brandy Brown, of Kalamazoo, is the founder of Sadberry Singer, a firm dedicated to creating innovative, equity-centered climate solutions. Dr. Brown previously served as a vice president at DNV and as the chief innovation officer for Walker-Miller Energy Services. Dr. Brown also served as the climate and energy advisor for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Dr. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications, law, economics, and government and a Master of Public Administration from American University as well as a Doctor of Philosophy in interdisciplinary evaluation from Western Michigan University. Dr. Brandy Brown will be reappointed for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2029.

 

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board oversees the Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund which has been in place since 1976. The Trust Fund provides financial assistance to local governments and the Department of Natural Resources to purchase land or rights in land for public recreation or protection of land because of its environmental importance or its scenic beauty. It also assists in the appropriate development of land for public outdoor recreation.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Veterans’ Trust Fund Board of Trustees

Kimberly Napoleon, of Saginaw, is an accredited veteran service officer for the Department of Michigan American Legion and was the first female commander of VFW Department of Michigan. Napoleon is also a U.S. Army Veteran and served in the Gulf War. Kimberly Napoleon is appointed to represent independent veterans for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 25, 2026. Napoleon succeeds Rodney Loonsfoot, whose seat designation has changed.

 

Rodney Loonsfoot, of Baraga, serves as a Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Tribal Council member and is a tribal veteran service officer for Keweenaw Bay Indian Community. Loonsfoot is a veteran who served in the Marine Corps and the Michigan National Guard and is a member of National American Indian Veterans, Inc. Rodney Loonsfoot is appointed to represent a congressionally chartered veterans’ organization, The National American Indian Veterans (NAIV), for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring February 25, 2026. Loonsfoot succeeds Carol Hebert, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan Veterans Trust Fund was created in 1946 from $50 million in postwar reserve funds. In 1996, the Veterans Trust Fund was provided additional protection by being added to the State Constitution with voter approval of Proposal C. The Veterans Trust Fund was established to provide grants for the emergency needs of veterans. The Veterans Trust Fund, utilizing approximately $2 million in interest earnings from the trust, administers the Emergency Grant Program. Emergency Grants are available to honorably discharged war time service veterans and their dependents during times of unforeseen and short-term financial emergencies or hardships. Veterans Trust Fund grant policies and adjudication, county committee appointments and expenditure from trust earnings are governed by this board.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Mental Health Diversion Council

Chief David Boysen, of Kalamazoo, is the chief of Kalamazoo Public Safety. Previously, Boysen was an assistant chief of public safety, and the captain of community safety and problem solving for Kalamazoo Public Safety. Boysen holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and police science from Western Michigan University. Chief David Boysen is appointed to represent local law enforcement for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 30, 2029.  Boysen succeeds Troy Goodnough, whose seat designation has changed.

 

The Mental Health Diversion Council was created in the Michigan Department of Community Health to advise and assist in the implementation of the Diversion Action Plan and provide recommendations for statutory, contractual or procedural changes to improve diversion.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Library of Michigan Board of Trustees

Breina Pugh, of Lansing, is the government and community relations manager for the Lansing Board of Water and Light. Pugh holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from Alma College. Breina Pugh will be appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2028. Pugh succeeds De’Janae Douglas, whose term has expired.

 

Audrey Barker, of Alto, is a youth branch librarian at the Kent District Library. Barker was previously a substitute teacher and paraprofessional at Professional Educational Services Group. Audrey holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Grand Valley State University. Audrey Barker will be reappointed to represent public libraries for a term commencing October 2, 2025, and expiring October 1, 2028.

 

The Library of Michigan Board of Trustees makes recommendations to the Michigan Department of Education regarding the Library’s services, budget, and proposed governing rules. The Board of Trustees also makes recommendations regarding the employment of other administrative and general assistants and employees of the Library as are necessary for the care and management of the Library, including the Law Library Branch of the Library.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Autism Council

Krista Orellana, of East Grand Rapids, is the vice president of growth and chief clinical officer at Acorn Health. Orellana previously worked as a behavior analyst at Glenwood Resource Center and is a licensed behavior analyst. Orellana holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and psychology from Central Michigan University and a Master of Arts in behavioral analysis from Western Michigan University. Krista Orellana will be reappointed to represent certified behavior analysts for a term commencing October 1, 2025, and expiring September 30, 2029.

 

The Autism Council is charged with overseeing Michigan’s Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) State Plan. The Council will implement, monitor, and update the Michigan ASD State Plan which will provide for comprehensive, lifespan supports to individuals with ASD and their families through access to information and resources, coordination of services, and implementation of evidence-based practices.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports

Nichole Fisher, of Lansing, is the executive director of mParks. Fisher holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts in parks and recreation from Central Michigan University. Nichole Fisher is appointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026. Fisher succeeds Rahaf Khatib, whose term has expired.

 

Bryan Rief, of Northville, is the co-founder and chief executive of EPIC Fitness Group. Rief holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Tufts University. Bryan Rief is reappointed for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring April 30, 2026.

 

The Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports was established in 1992 to improve the health of, and increase physical activity among, Michigan residents.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Council on Future Mobility and Electrification

Oliver Gross, of Oxford, is the senior fellow of energy storage and electrification at Stellantis. Gross serves on the Moxion Power Corporate Advisory Board, the Calix Technical Advisory Committee, and the AnteoTech Scientific Advisory Board. Gross holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Applied Science in materials science from the University of Toronto. Oliver Gross will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

Judd Herzer, of Holt, is the mobility director for Michigan State University. Previously, Herzer was the director of strategic policy at the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and an infrastructure and technology advisor to the Executive Office of Governor Whitmer. Herzer holds a Bachelor of Arts in political economy and a Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University. Judd Herzer will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

Alan Taub, of West Bloomfield, is the director of the University of Michigan Electric Vehicle Center and is a professor of engineering in materials science, engineering, and mechanical engineering. Prior to joining the University in 2012, Taub retired from his role as vice president for Global Research and Development at General Motors. Taub holds a Bachelor of Science in materials engineering from Brown University and a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in applied physics from Harvard University.  Alan Taub will be reappointed to represent business, policy, research, or technological leaders in future mobility for a term commencing October 22, 2025, and expiring October 21, 2029.

 

The Michigan Council on Future Mobility and Electrification serves in an advisory capacity to the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, the Governor, and the Legislature, providing annual recommendations on changes in state policy. In doing so, the Council works to ensure Michigan continues to be an epicenter of future transportation solutions around mobility and electrification.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan State Waterways Commission

Steve Remias, of Shelby Township, is a member of the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce and was previously the president and chief executive officer of MacRay Harbor. Remias was inducted into the Michigan Boating Industry Association Hall of Fame for his work on the state’s Clean Marinas program. Remias holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a concentration in accounting from Wayne State University. Steve Remias is appointed as a representative of the marine trades industry for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring September 18, 2026. Remias succeeds Erik Krueger, who has resigned.

 

The Michigan State Waterways Commission is responsible for the acquisition, construction, and maintenance of recreational harbors, channels, docking and launching facilities, and administration of commercial docks in the Straits of Mackinac.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Construction Code Commission

Nicholas White, of Petoskey, is a retired architect. White holds a Bachelor of Arts in fine art from Ohio Wesleyan University and Bachelor of Science in architecture from the University of Cincinnati. Nicholas White is appointed as a member of the general public for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2028. White succeeds Justin Schott, whose term has expired.

 

Tyrese West, of Detroit, is an apprenticeship coordinator at LiUNA Training of Michigan. West holds a Bachelor of Science in actuarial science from the University of Michigan and a Master of Arts in education technology from the University of Michigan-Dearborn. Tyrese West is appointed as a representative of organized labor for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 31, 2028. West succeeds Daryl Gallant, whose term has expired.

 

The State Construction Code Commission was created to improve the quality of housing for Michigan residents while assisting the housing industry. The Commission may study the effect of the code, and other related laws, to ascertain their effect on the cost of building construction and maintenance, and the effectiveness of their provisions for insuring the health, safety, and welfare of the people of this state. The Commission may take testimony and hold hearings relating to any aspect or matter relative to the administration or enforcement of this act.

 

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

State Fire Safety Board

Sarah Glann, of Sanford, is the superintendent for Meridian Public Schools. Glann holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and a Master of Educational Leadership from Saginaw Valley State University. Sarah Glann is appointed as a member of the governing board of a school district, public school academy, or intermediate school district for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring July 15, 2029. Glann succeeds Ruth Ann Knapp, whose term has expired.

 

The State Fire Safety Board assists in the development of fire safety rules covering the construction, operation, and maintenance of schools, health care facilities, penal facilities, and state-owned and leased facilities. The Board assists in the operation and maintenance of public assembly and other buildings, oversight of delegation of fire inspection responsibilities, and serves as an administrative hearing body on decisions made by the Bureau of Fire Services.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Electronic Recording Commission

Corinne Rockoff, of Ferndale, is a senior attorney at Miller Canfield Paddock and Stone, PLC, whose practice focuses on real estate, construction, and financial litigation. Rockoff was previously a shareholder at Maddin Hauser Roth & Heller, PC. Rockoff is also the chair of the board of directors for The Ruth Ellis Center. Rockoff holds a Bachelor of Science in international relations and politics and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Carnegie Mellon University and a Juris Doctor from George Washington University Law School. Corinne Rockoff is appointed to represent attorneys licensed to practice law in the state and whose expertise emphasizes real property matters for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring January 1, 2026. Rockoff succeeds Dominic Rios, whose term has expired.

 

The Electronic Recording Commission keeps the standards and practices of county registers of deeds in this state in harmony with the standards and practices of offices of county registers of deeds in other jurisdictions. The Commission keeps the technology used by county registers of deeds in this state compatible with technology used by offices of county registers of deeds in other jurisdictions.

 

These appointments are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice

Uolanda Davis-Campbell, of Detroit, is the executive director of Urban Solutions Training and Development. Davis-Campbell holds a Bachelor of Science in communications and non-profit management from Eastern Michigan University. Uolanda Davis-Campbell is appointed as a volunteer who works with delinquent youth or youth at risk of delinquency for a term commencing September 18, 2025, and expiring August 2, 2028. Davis-Campbell succeeds Maryann Sarosi, whose term has expired.

 

The mission of the Michigan Committee on Juvenile Justice is to advise the Governor on matters related to juvenile justice legislation and administration, mobilize communities to develop and implement comprehensive, data driven prevention services, and create a strategic plan that sets standards, determines priorities, and allocates funds for successful delinquency prevention and rehabilitative programs that promote stronger families, healthier youth, and safer communities.

 

This appointment is not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

WEEKEND WORK for MDOT (I, M, US roads)

WEEKEND WORK for MDOT (I, M, US roads)

by | Sep 18, 2025 | Transportation
newsroom

09/19-09/22/25                                                WEEKEND WORK for MDOT (I, M, US roads)

This is the current weekend construction, in addition to on-going projects in other locations. Always check Michigan.gov/drive for this info and for ALL projects and follow @MDOT_MetroDet.

Multiple work crews may be involved in these closures. WEATHER AFFECTS ALL WORK AND MAY CAUSE DELAYS OR CANCELLATIONS.

 

I-75:

Oakland – SB I-75, University to Featherstone, 3 lanes open, Sat 9am-Sun 1pm, slope restoration.

Wayne – NB I-75 CLOSED, Schaefer to Clark, Fri 9pm-Mon 5am, incl ramps, bridge work.

Wayne – SB I-75, M-39 to Dix Toledo, 1 LANE OPEN, Sat 6am-Sun 9pm, incl Dix ramp, bridge work.

 

I-94:

Wayne – WB I-94 RAMP CLOSED to SB US-24/Telegraph, Fri 9pm-Sun 5am, bridge work.

Wayne – EB I-94 RAMP CLOSED to NB US-24/Telegraph, Fri 9pm-Sun 5am, bridge work.

Wayne – WB I-94 RAMP CLOSED to Conner, Sat-Sun 7am-7pm, soil boring.

 

I-96:

Oakland – EB I-96 at Kent Lake, 1 LANE OPEN, Sat 5am-Sun 5am, pavement repair.

Oakland – EB I-96 at Kent Lake, 2 LANES OPEN, Sun 5am-Wed 5am, pavement repair.

Wayne – WB I-96, Joy Rd to M-8/Davison, 2 LANES OPEN, Fri 9am-Mon 5am, patching.

 

I-696:

Oakland – EB/WB I-696 RAMPS CLOSED to Orchard Lake, Fri 7pm-Mon 6am, road work.

 

M-1: (Woodward)

Oakland – NB M-1 at US-24BR/Square Lake, 1 LANE OPEN, Thurs 9 am-Mon 6am, sewer repair.

Oakland – NB M-1 at US-24BR/Square Lake, 3 LANES OPEN, Mon 6am-Fri 5pm, sewer repair.

Oakland – NB M-1, Normandy to 14 Mile, 3 lanes open, Mon-10/10; daily 9am-3pm, S/S all day, road work.

Oakland – SB M-1, Orchard Lake Rd to South Blvd, 1 LANE OPEN, Mon-Wed 9am-3pm, utility work.

Oakland – NB M-1, South Blvd to Auburn Ave, 1 LANE OPEN, Mon-Wed 9am-3pm, utility work.

 

M-10:

Wayne – SB M-10 RAMP CLOSED to NB I-75, Fri 9pm-Mon 5am, road repair.

Wayne – NB/SB M-10 RAMPS CLOSED to SB I-75/I-96 CD, Fri 9pm-Mon 5am, road repair.

 

M-19:

Macomb – NB/SB M-19 CLOSED, 25 Mile to 26 Mile, Thu 11am-Mon 5am, pavement repairs.

Macomb – NB/SB M-19, 32 Mile/Division to Big Hand, 1 LANE OPEN, Sat-Sun 5am-7pm, mill/resurface.

 

M-53:

Macomb – SB M-53, Metropolitan Pkwy to 15 Mile, 2 LANES OPEN, Mon-Wed 10am-2pm, soil work.

 

M-59: (Highland Rd)

Oakland – EB/WB M-59, Duck Lake to Elizabeth Lake, 1 LANE OPEN, Sun 6am-Sat 9pm.

 

M-97: (Groesbeck Hwy)

Macomb – NB M-97, 15 Mile to Harrington, 1 LANE OPEN, Sat-Sun 7am-3pm, joint sealing.

 

M-153: (Ford Rd)

Wayne – EB/WB Ford Rd/M-153, Venoy to Inkster Dr, 1 LANE OPEN, Fri 7pm-Sun 10am, joint sealing.

 

US-24: (Telegraph)

Wayne – NB/SB US-24 at I-94, 1 LANE OPEN, Fri 9pm-Sun 5am, bridge inspection.

Wayne – NB US-24 RAMP CLOSED to WB I-94, Fri 9pm-Sun 5am, bridge inspection.

Wayne – SB US-24 RAMP CLOSED to EB I-94, Fri 9pm-Sun 5am, bridge inspection.

MDARD Awards Over $1.8 Million for Projects That Create Jobs

MDARD Awards Over $1.8 Million for Projects That Create Jobs

by | Sep 18, 2025 | Agriculture

bob new header

For immediate release: Sep. 18, 2025

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel, 517-290-1734

MDARD Awards Over $1.8 Million for Projects That Create Jobs, Boost Local Agriculture Businesses

Grants will fund 26 projects to retain, attract, expand or develop ag processing in Michigan

LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today awarded over $1.8 million of Underserved, Value Added and Regional Food System Grants to 26 Michigan producers, processors and community development organizations.

“This grant program is just one example of how MDARD improves quality of life for Michiganders by bolstering the food systems and agriculture businesses that sustain our health and prosperity,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Today’s grants are strategic investments that will enhance the production and delivery of locally grown foods while creating more than 100 jobs across the state. We’re proud to support these businesses in delivering for their communities.”

Following a rigorous application and review process, MDARD awarded Underserved, Value Added and Regional Food System Grants to the following 26 entities:

Mid-Michigan

  • Angus Cattle Co. LLC (Laingsburg) – $100,000 for establishing and operating a fully functional storefront at Angus Cattle Co. that will enable direct interface with consumers and expand sales of locally raised beef and pork. This project will generate one full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • The Cut Custom Processing LLC (Rosebush) – $73,500 for installing commercial dry aging and curing equipment to enable the production of high-quality, value-added beef and pork products. This project will generate two full-time and two part-time jobs.

Northern Michigan

  • Bear Creek Organics LLC (Petoskey) – $82,910 for expanding refrigerated transportation and refrigerated cold storage capacity to support current and future business demand and increase farmer access to new markets. This project will generate two full-time and four part-time jobs.
  • Boss Dairy Farms Inc., which does business as Charlevoix Cheese Company (Charlevoix) – $94,042 for purchasing automated cheese-cutting equipment and packaging supplies to expand cheese processing and keep up with demand. This project will generate one full-time and one part-time job.
  • By the Light of Day (Traverse City) – $68,528 for purchasing equipment critical to the efficient mechanization to grow and produce the highest quality herbs, flowers and fruit, immediately improving efficiency by 75 percent, expand production volume by 60 percent. This project will generate two full-time and two part-time jobs.
  • DeBacker Family Dairy, LLC (Menominee) – $50,095 for expanding its on-farm bottling operation in Menominee County. The project will increase bottling capacity from nine to 24 heads, allowing the farm to produce labeled 8-ounce milk bottles for schools and institutions across the Upper Peninsula. This project will generate three full-time and two part-time jobs.

Southeast Michigan

  • Ghost Acre Farm (Detroit) – $100,000 for building a new washing and packing facility for harvested crops that includes processing, lockable tool storage and refrigeration. This project will generate one full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • Give and Grow Mushrooms, LLC (Chesterfield) – $12,475 for increasing the scale of their current Maitake mushroom growing operations and expanding into value added food processing. This project will generate two full-time jobs.
  • Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County, Inc (Ann Arbor) – $48,500 for purchasing a large blast chiller for their kitchen to process and flash freeze large amounts of locally grown produce for their Meals On Wheels and Medically Tailored Meal programs.
  • The Lindsay Street Greenbelt Collective (Detroit) – $45,600 for creating an outdoor farm market improve residents’ access to fresh, locally grown foods. This project could create up to 20 part-time jobs over the next three years.
  • Mother of Pearl Design LLC (Detroit) – $100,000 for completing their studio, including electrical and plumbing work, walk-in cooler installation, storage and lighting, and space to host public workshops on floral design, seed starting, and herbal preparation. This project will generate one full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • Samit & Sajid Qurbani House (Hamtramck) – $84,000 for completing critical installations, expansions and health and safety improvements required for USDA inspection. This project will create four full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • Sanctuary Farms (Detroit) – $99,952 for purchasing equipment and funding pre-development activities to increasing compost production capacity and distribution and support a more resilient, community-centered food system in Southeast Michigan. This project will generate two full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • Washtenaw Meats LLC (Ann Arbor) – $85,674 for consolidating inventory, increasing storage and improving order fulfillment to better serve small Michigan livestock producers and buyers. This project will generate two part-time jobs.

Southwest Michigan

  • Berry Delicious Farms, Inc (Covert) – $100,000 for enhancing post-harvest cold storage for small and mid-sized growers, thereby ensuring reliable market access for locally grown produce. This project will generate two full-time and five part-time jobs.
  • Brumfield Angus Farms (Sawyer) – $22,400 for developing a walk-in freezer facility as part of their new registered Angus beef processing operation. This project will generate one full-time job.
  • Carriage House Ciders, LLC (Benton Harbor) – $36,845 for finding a larger facility and buying the necessary equipment to double production capacity over the next three years to more than 4,000 gallons. This project will generate one full-time and three part-time jobs.
  • Coco & Catrina Farms LLC (Covert) – $99,170 for upgrading their packing line to handle more fruit directly at the farm during peak harvest, reducing pressure on regional packing facilities and keeping the local supply chain moving. This project will generate one full-time and four part-time jobs.
  • DeGrandchamp Blueberry Farms, Inc. (South Haven) – $100,000 for strengthening Michigan’s agriculture community; increasing demand for Michigan-grown blueberries, cranberries and other specialty crops; expanding market opportunities for local growers; and serving as a replicable model for direct-to-consumer farm operations. This project will generate two full-time and eight part-time jobs.
  • Fluffy Butt Farms LLC (Battle Creek) – $69,924 for expanding their state-licensed, on-farm poultry processing facility and enhancing direct-to-consumer marketing by acquiring key equipment and developing branding materials. This project will generate one part-time job.
  • Old Europe Cheese (Benton Harbor) – $76,662 for the design, production and implementation of new molds necessary to manufacture 14-ounce and 5-ounce soft ripened brie cheeses. This project will generate four full-time jobs.
  • Park Street Market (Kalamazoo) – $100,000 for investing in food processing equipment to offer a broader array of fresh meat and produce to the community. This project will generate five full-time and ten part-time jobs.

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  • Stony Croft Farms (Lapeer) – $44,413 for installing new milling equipment that will increase the farms’ value-added grain production capacity and meet growing customer demand for locally milled grain products. This project will generate one full-time and one part-time job.

West Michigan

  • Green Wagon Farm (Ada) – $100,000 for constructing three movable hoop houses needed for climate-resilient growing space. This project will generate two full-time jobs.
  • Lakeshore Food Club (Hart) – $42,000 for increasing local food distribution to schools and food assistance programs in Mason, Lake and Oceana counties; enhancing food access for food-insecure populations in the three-county service area; and increasing the volume and variety of state-sourced foods distributed to food-insecure populations. This project will generate two full-time and four part-time jobs.
  • Plainsong Farm & Ministry (Rockford) – $42,500 for infrastructure investments that will extend the farm’s growing season and increase food storage capacity, thereby increasing underserved families’ access to healthy food and related educational programming. This project will generate one part-time job.

Underserved, Value Added and Regional Food System Grants help:

  • Retain, expand, attract or develop agricultural processing in Michigan,
  • Support traditionally underserved businesses,
  • Improve value-added agricultural processing, and
  • Strengthen area supply chains and regional food systems.

Since Fiscal Year 2019, MDARD has awarded more than $11.2 million of Underserved, Value Added and Regional Food System Grants. The grants were part of more than $184 million of investments MDARD delivered over the past seven years to help Michigan communities create jobs, build infrastructure and promote agricultural development.

For more information about this program and to find out when future funding will become available, please visit MDARD’s website.