Agribusiness
We are growing

As a rural region, agriculture is still bountiful within the county. Approximately 64% of the county’s land is used for farming activity. Saginaw County farmers are among the most efficient in Michigan with annual top yields of sugar beets, dry beans, corn, wheat, oats and soybeans.

Much of the harvest can be found on store shelves produced by local food processors of sugar, flour and meat products. Saginaw County is also a major producer of several crops on a state and national level.

The Great Lakes Bay Region continues to maintain its strong agricultural heritage, which is a significant contributor to the region’s economy. In 2008, the region’s agricultural market value of production was nearly $269 million.

Saginaw County is home to 14 food manufacturers with an annual payroll of more than $7 million according to the 2007-2008 U.S. Census Bureau’s County Business Patterns.

Based on a 2005 estimation by Michigan Agricultural Statistics, Saginaw County was rated the number three county in the state for cucumbers and cucumber processing.

Recently Midland County was ranked best rural living character in the state and 29th in the nation. The ranking is based on a formula that includes crime rates, air quality, health care access, education, leisure activities and average income.

Saginaw County is home to Star of the West Milling Company, which was established in 1870. The company buys much of the state’s wheat crop for the production of pastry flour used by national pie and cookie bakeries with Kellogg’s being a major client. Star of the West is the 17th largest miller in the United States.

Saginaw County is also ranked 17th in Michigan and 364th in the country for colonies of bees. Overall, Saginaw ranks seventh for value of crops including nursery and greenhouse for the State and 244th in the country.