About one-half of the mink produced in the U.S. are from the Great Lakes states. Wisconsin is the leading state, producing over 25 percent of the mink pelts marketed in 1990. Since 1969, Michigan has ranked from seventh to eleventh nationally, producing 2.5 to 4 percent of the mink crop. Michigan currently is sixth among the states in the number of mink farms. Although published data on fox production in Michigan is not available, it is estimated that there are presently about 20 fox farmers in the state.
Fur farming is practiced throughout Michigan.
About one-half of the mink produced in the state are raised on farms in the Upper Peninsula, while most of the fox farms are located in the Lower Peninsula. Almost all of Michigan's mink and fox farms are family owned and operated. Fur farming is an integral component of Michigan's diversified agricultural economy and lends support to other farming endeavors. Fur animal production requires little land area and can utilize soils with marginal agricultural value. Byproducts from field crops are used for animal bedding, and slaughterhouse byproducts provide feed for mink and fox.