Michigan's agricultural sector contributes over $100 billion to the state economy annually. Thanks to the moderating microclimates created by the Great Lakes, Michigan features the second most diverse agricultural output in the country, trailing only California.
The state is the nation's leading producer of tart cherries (largely centered around Traverse City), blueberries, dry beans, and squash. It is also a major producer of apples, asparagus, corn, soybeans, and dairy products. The agricultural landscape is characterized by large row-crop farms in the southern and central Lower Peninsula, and highly specialized fruit orchards and vineyards along the Lake Michigan coast. The state also has a thriving craft beverage industry, including beer, wine, and cider production.