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.
Official press releases, articles, media contact information, email subscription options, social media accounts: everything you need to stay informed, all in one spot.
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.
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 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.
Food Industry Related Resources, including Emergency Action Plans
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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George McManus
Berrien County Drain Commissioner
Berrien County Administration Center
701 Main St.
St. Joseph, MI 49085
269-983-7111
Jeff VanBelle
Cass County Drain Commissioner
340 N. O’Keefe St.
Cassopolis, MI 49031
269-445-8611
Joe Parmen
Van Buren County Drain Commissioner
219 East Paw Paw, Suite 301
Paw Paw, MI 49079
269-657-8241
Those needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the drain commissioner of their county at the number listed above or may use the Michigan Relay Center by calling 711 for deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired persons.
Dated on June 22, 2026.
Dr. Tim Boring, Director
Michigan Department of
Agriculture and Rural Development
Joseph Brezvai
Deputy for the Director
517-388-3067
Agenda
Round Lake Outlet Intercounty Drain Drainage Board
(Berrien, Cass, & Van Buren Counties)
11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 9, 2026
Covert Township Hall
73943 Lake Street
Covert, Michigan
1. Call to order and Introductions
Board Members
Joseph Brezvai, Chair, Michigan Dept. of Agriculture & Rural Development
George McManus, Berrien County Drain Commissioner
Jeff VanBelle, Cass County Drain Commissioner
Joe Parmen, Van Buren County Drain Commissioner
2. Review and set the agenda
3. Motion to elect a Secretary
4. Approved minutes of May 18, 2026
5. Communications and reports of board members, committees, and consultants
a. Review maintenance request and take any necessary action
b. Discuss Route and Course and take any necessary action
c. Discuss a 197 drainage district review and take any necessary action
d. Receive the Treasurer’s report
6. Invoices paid/Drain orders signed
7. Other business
8. Public comment
9. Set the date, time, and location of the next meeting
10. Adjourn
73943 Lake Street
Covert, Michigan, 49403
Start: July 09, 2026 11:00 AM
End: July 09, 2026 12:00 PM
George McManus
Berrien County Drain Commissioner
Berrien County Administration Center
701 Main St.
St. Joseph, MI 49085
269-983-7111
Jeff VanBelle
Cass County Drain Commissioner
340 N. O’Keefe St.
Cassopolis, MI 49031
269-445-8611
Joe Parmen
Van Buren County Drain Commissioner
219 East Paw Paw, Suite 301
Paw Paw, MI 49079
269-657-8241
Those needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact the drain commissioner of their county at the number listed above or may use the Michigan Relay Center by calling 711 for deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired persons.
Dated on June 22, 2026.
Dr. Tim Boring, Director
Michigan Department of
Agriculture and Rural Development
Joseph Brezvai
Deputy for the Director
517-388-3067
Agenda
Round Lake Outlet Intercounty Drain Drainage Board
(Berrien, Cass, & Van Buren Counties)
11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 9, 2026
Covert Township Hall
73943 Lake Street
Covert, Michigan
1. Call to order and Introductions
Board Members
Joseph Brezvai, Chair, Michigan Dept. of Agriculture & Rural Development
George McManus, Berrien County Drain Commissioner
Jeff VanBelle, Cass County Drain Commissioner
Joe Parmen, Van Buren County Drain Commissioner
2. Review and set the agenda
3. Motion to elect a Secretary
4. Approved minutes of May 18, 2026
5. Communications and reports of board members, committees, and consultants
a. Review maintenance request and take any necessary action
b. Discuss Route and Course and take any necessary action
c. Discuss a 197 drainage district review and take any necessary action
d. Receive the Treasurer’s report
6. Invoices paid/Drain orders signed
7. Other business
8. Public comment
9. Set the date, time, and location of the next meeting
10. Adjourn