Crosby Farms was established in 1864. It is one of the oldest farms in Oceana County. Mr. Raymond Crosby began raising asparagus around 50 years ago. Prior to Raymond's passing, he sold the business to his son, Chris Crosby. Crosby Farms currently harvests 70 acres of asparagus and has consistently added Christmas trees over the last few years. The total number of employees that are on board during harvest season are between 5-8 workers. Asparagus harvesting season usually lasts between 6 to 8 weeks, beginning around May 1st and ending approximately July 1st. Workers are paid a piece rate. The asparagus is mainly sold in bulk cuts and tips to local processors. The type of labor consists of hand-snap pickers for asparagus and tree trimmers for the Christmas trees. The asparagus pickers ride on riders and are required to lift 30 lb. plastic bins.

approved housing is provided. The housing was built in 1990 and is inspected and licensed on an annual basis by the Michigan Department of Agriculture. The housing is licensed for 12 persons.

Crosby Farms has not been subject to unemployment taxes since the total harvesting acreage decreased. However, he is a worker's compensation provider. Another amenity apart from housing, is that the Hart Telamon Migrant Head Start is only 1 mile away from the housing. It is very convenient.

Crosby Farms is a 'verified' Michigan Agricultural Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) farm. The Farm is one of only a half-a-dozen verified MAEAP farms in Oceana County. A 'verified' MAEAP farm, means that the grower voluntarily prevents or minimizes agricultural pollution risks and is in compliance with state and federal environmental regulations on his farm. For further information regarding MAEAP, visit their website at www.maeap.org.

If interested contact:
Catalina Burillo
E Mail: BurilloC@michigan.gov
Voz: (231) 861- 2162
Fax:(231) 861-6300
Oceana Employment & Training WDC
195 North Michigan Avenue
Shelby, MI 49455