Elk Rapids farmers are some of the most sophisticated, creative and innovative leaders of technology in product development and marketing today.  They are personally driven to excellence by a local community spirit, worldwide food demand, top-notch agriculture education and research from nearby universities such as Michigan State University, a popular cultural shift towards farmland preservation, and food infrastructure awareness.
Expanded fruit drying operations, new powder derivative technology, and advanced extended-season warehousing, have added new markets and year-round product capabilities.  New uses have been found for pits using dryers for conversion to biofuel and landscape fill. These are just a few of the examples of progressive thinking in one industry in the Elk Rapids area.   Many other innovative stories, in diverse industries, have been written in our sandy soil, paving the way for related businesses to follow.
During the summer months and into our fall, the Elk Rapids area is blessed to be able to enjoy a wide selection of produce provided by local farmers, as well as other homemade products. The outdoor market is held at the Elk Rapids Chamber of Commerce every Friday from June 3, through October 14. Plants, honey, vegetables, and many other goodies will tempt your taste buds.