Two local residents have been named to the
Michigan Cherry Committee by Gov. Rick Snyder.
Brian Altonen, of Kewadin, and Jim Nugent, of Suttons Bay, were recently appointed to the committee, which is made of nine members and works to develop and implement marketing industry for Michigan's cherry industry.
"The cherry market and agricultural industry are crucial parts of Michigan's economy," says Snyder. "I am confident Brian and Jim will continue to effectively serve."
Altonen is owner and manager of a fourth-generation farm, Altonen Orchards, where he grows 140 acres of cherries, 40 acres of apples, 20 acres of pears, eight acres of peaches, 40 acres of sweet corn and 20 acres of other field crops. He holds a bachelor's degree in food systems economics and management from Michigan State University.
Nugent is partner and operator of Sunblossom Orchards, where he grows 30 acres of tart cherries and 11 acres of sweet cherries. Previously, he worked as a district horticultural agent for Michigan State University Extension and coordinator for the NW Michigan Horticultural Research Station. Nugent earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture and a master's degree in entomology, both from Michigan State University.
Altonen and Nugent will serve three-year terms that expire Feb. 1, 2015.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Gov. Rick Snyder's Office
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