Northern Lakes Economic Alliance Hosts Catalyst Conversations Event Focused on the Future of Northern Michigan Agriculture
ELK RAPIDS, MI — February 18, 2026 — The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) hosted its first Catalyst Conversations event of 2026 on February 18 at the Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall, bringing regional leaders together for a focused discussion on the evolving agricultural landscape in northern Michigan.
Agriculture remains one of the region’s most significant economic drivers, with more than 1,200 farms producing over $78.9 million in agricultural products across the NLEA’s service area. Antrim County alone generates more than half of that value for the region, underscoring the importance of this industry to local communities and businesses. The event highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing the sector and emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning.
The program featured insights from a diverse panel of agricultural industry leaders. Greg Shooks, owner of Cellar 1914 and Shooks Farms in Central Lake, shared how his family’s operation has transformed over four generations and offered his outlook on the region’s agricultural future. Dr. Jaime Luke, Assistant Professor in Michigan State University’s Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics, examined statewide and national industry trends and the shifting agricultural business climate. Ted Sherman, Operations Manager at Burnette Foods in Elk Rapids and East Jordan, discussed developments in food processing and how his family’s 60-year-old business continues to adapt and grow. Patrick McGuire, owner of Royal Farm and a first-generation farmer in Ellsworth, spoke to the evolution of his business model and provided perspective from his role on the Michigan Farm Bureau Board of Directors. NLEA Strategic Initiatives Manager Sam Bailey framed the regional trends shaping the sector and moderated the panel discussion.
Representatives from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, MSU Extension, Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity, and Michigan Farm Bureau were also in attendance to connect with participants about resources available to support Michigan’s agricultural industry.
“Agriculture plays a significant role in the economy of Northern Michigan, contributing through crop production, food processing, tourism and related industries. It helps stabilize rural communities where other industries are limited and gives identity to the region,” said Greg Shooks.
Catalyst Conversations is an ongoing NLEA event series designed to convene industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders around key economic sectors shaping the future of northern Michigan. This event was made possible, in part, with support from Networks Northwest and the Elk Rapids Chamber of Commerce.
