Established 1971 (relocated in 2009)
Most of the dry bean and sugar beet production in Michigan is located in the Thumb and Saginaw Valley areas. Michigan is the No. 1 producer of black beans, the No. 2 producer of all dry beans and the No. 4 producer of sugar beets in the country. Research at the center has allowed Michigan producers to be national leaders in sugar beet and dry bean production, offering growers the latest information on crop management and tillage techniques, new variety trials, and pest and weed control with minimal environmental impact. In addition to dry bean and sugar beet research, studies at the 310-acre site explore other important rotational crops including corn, wheat and soybeans.
Read more about the Saginaw Valley Research and Extension Center's history.
News
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Registration is open for the Pest and Crop Management Update on February 27 in Frankenmuth
Published on February 5, 2026
Field crop producers will hear 2026 updates and integrated pest management pesticide recommendations for the Saginaw Valley and Thumb of Michigan. -
Registration is open for the Vegetable and Field Crop Production Update on February 10
Published on January 21, 2026
Hear updates for vegetable and field crop producers in the Saginaw Valley and Thumb of Michigan. -
MSU research helping drive Michigan’s dry bean industry
Published on December 1, 2025
Michigan State University AgBioResearch scientists are working closely with dry bean growers and industry organizations to address challenges from the field to the finished product. -
MSU AgBioResearch, MSU Extension announce 2025 field days
Published on May 8, 2025
The events will take place across Michigan from May through September. -
MSU AgBioResearch, MSU Extension to host field days around the state this summer
Published on May 28, 2024
Growers and producers will have the chance to participate in field days across Michigan.