Apr 3, 2025

Michigan funds $5.1 million for climate resiliency research

Michigan State University, the Michigan Plant Coalition and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development have awarded $5.1 million for four agricultural research projects through the Agricultural Climate Resiliency Program.

Each project, funded for three years at $1.275 million, aims to address climate- and water-related challenges in plant agriculture. Research focuses on water efficiency, soil health, carbon sequestration and sustainable farming practices.

“Supporting Michigan’s agricultural resilience is a top priority for MDARD, and thanks to Gov. Whitmer’s bipartisan budget, we are able to fund innovative projects that tackle critical challenges facing our industry,” said MDARD director Tim Boring.

Selected from 18 proposals, the funded projects include a modeling platform to improve farm management decisions, an AI-based forecasting system for major crops, tools to prevent nutrient runoff and a study on regenerative agriculture’s impact on soil and water resources.

Researchers will work closely with Michigan growers to implement findings through MSU Extension.

For more information on the program, visit canr.msu.edu/climate-resiliency.