Michigan tree fruit tour features latest ag-tech innovations

What’s happening: Growers, researchers, and ag-tech leaders will explore the latest innovations in Michigan’s tree fruit industry during the Summer 2026 Bus Tour and Technology Demonstration Day on August 27.  The tour features a chance to see cutting-edge research, hands-on equipment demos and more.  The day-long event is hosted by MSU Extension, MSU AgBioResearch, the Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Center Foundation, and the Benzie Manistee Horticultural Society. 

About the tour: The tour includes stops in Grand Traverse and Antrim counties. The day begins at the Northwest Michigan Horticultural Research Center in Traverse City. Stops include: Bratschi Orchards (Williamsburg): Cherry Ke Orchards (Rapid City): and the research center ito see drone thinning trials in Honeycrisp apples, UV light treatment for bacterial pathogens in sweet cherries and apples, and a Rears power blast sprayer with sonic technology.

After the tour: The event concludes back with a free, public happy hour and dinner featuring local Michigan wines, ciders, and appetizers by caterer John Hardy. Participants will have the chance to exchange ideas, connect with industry leaders, and discover sustainable, automated solutions driving the future of specialty crop production. The happy hour and dinner at the Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center are free and open to the public. 

Registration and cost: The fee is $65 and includes the bus tour, taco bar lunch and happy hour.  Information: Summer 2026 Bus Tour and Technology Demonstration.