Learn about MDARD's four bureaus, including contact information, by clicking the above link, or view specific information below.
Find a schedule of MDARD's public meetings online, or locate regularly published reports below.
This area contains information for press and media agencies: press releases, pics, alerts & videos
The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development recommends and determines policy on food, agricultural, and rural development issues. MDARD oversees several additional boards and commissions.
Want to know how to contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development? On this page you will find phone numbers, email addresses, snail mail addresses, and online contact forms for everything we do here at MDARD. We even have a complaint form for those of you with complaints.
Live, work and play in Michigan's robust and diverse food and agriculture industry.
Laws and Regulations pertaining to and governing the actions and policies of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development.
Animal ID and movement requirements in the State of Michigan
Animal health resources for veterinary professionals.
Diseases affecting, or potentially affecting, animals in Michigan
Information on how to acquire a feed license to manufacture or distribute commercial feed in Michigan.
Rules governing the disposal of Bodies of Dead Animals (BODA).
Materials developed to provide information on how an individual may become a qualified Animal Control Officer.
Find funding for your organization.
Information about how MDARD's Agriculture Development Division can help you grow your business in Michigan.
Regenerative agricultural practices improve soil health and water quality
MDARD works with local providers of natural resource management services that help citizens implement conservation on their land and protect the environment for a cleaner, healthier, and economically stronger Michigan.
Farmland Preservation
Programs under the Private Forestlands Initiative, including the Forestry Assistance Program, Qualified Forester Registration, and Qualified Forest Program.
MAEAP helps farms of all sizes and all commodities voluntarily prevent or minimize agricultural pollution risks. We are here to help and recognize farmers who reduce erosion and runoff from private land into public waters.
The Cottage Food law, enacted in 2010, allows individuals to manufacture and store certain types of foods in an unlicensed home kitchen.
The food industry is responsible for producing safe food. Government sets standards, conducts inspections, and monitors food. Consumers also play a huge role in keeping their food safe and wholesome. Learn more.
Find a licensed firm in Michigan, from pesticide businesses to retail establishments, and more.
For the registration of horses, breeders and owners so as to render them eligible for racing and breeder/owner awards.
Good migrant labor housing is an essential element in securing an adequate supply of seasonal agricultural workers.
Retail Motor Fuel Outlet licensing information, applications and forms.
Information on Weights & Measures service person and agency registration, as well as weights and measures advisories.
For help with the sale, use, and disposal of pesticides, including labels and integrated pest management.
The plant health program protects agricultural and environmental resources through the early detection and management of invasive species and the inspection of plants and plant products for pests and diseases, while facilitating international and domestic commerce.
Each new, existing, and proposed commercial pesticide or fertilizer bulk storage facility is required to register annually with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Fertilizer License and Registration Requirements, as well as Liming License Requirements
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The Plant Health section regulates industrial hemp cultivation in Michigan for purposes ranging from fiber, grain, and microgreens, to floral material and cannabinoid production.
Bryan Webster, Program Specialist
WebsterB3@michigan.gov
517-719-1693
Below is a brief update from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) hemp grower registration for 2026:
RENEWING APPLICANTS:
MDARD mailed out 2026 renewal applications during the week of December 29, 2025, to all businesses registered in 2025. As a reminder, your current registration is valid through January 31, 2026. If you did not receive your renewal application, please contact 800-292-3939.
NEW APPLICANTS:
If you were not registered in 2025 and would like to apply for a Hemp Grower Registration, download an application online. Once your application is approved, your registration will be valid starting February 1, 2026. If you need a new registration covering any days before February 1, write this on your application and know you would need to apply again for a registration starting February 1.
Please be advised, MDARD will not issue registration unless all past sampling fees, testing fees, and administrative fines have been paid. If you need an invoice emailed to you again, please call 517-241-6001 (Accounting Service Center, invoicing and credit card payment) or 517-290-0077 (Plant Health Admin, invoicing).
Preharvest and remediation sampling performed by Plant Health Inspectors will continue to be charged as $150 per site visit. Testing of these samples by MDARD’s Geagley Laboratory will be charged at a new fee of $150 per sample beginning January 1, 2026.
Currently, several bills regarding hemp continue to be under consideration, and we will share updates as soon as more information becomes available. MDARD will continue to implement the state’s registration program for hemp growing until authorized by a legislative change to move the program to U.S. Department of Agriculture.
If you have any questions regarding the program, please call MDARD at 800-292-3939. We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding.
Thank you,
MDARD Industrial Hemp Program
Please contact the following agencies accordingly: