Learn about MDARD's four bureaus, including contact information, by clicking the above link, or view specific information below.
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.
Laws and Regulations pertaining to and governing the actions and policies of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development.
This area contains information for press and media agencies. Press Releases, Pics, Podcasts & Videos
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.
Information about how MDARD's Agriculture Development Division can help you grow your business in Michigan.
Michigan's Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) was created to help protect our environment and wildlife. Michigan is partnering with the federal government to implement conservation practices of great significance to the state, and valuable to the nation, in matters of soil erosion, water quality, and wildlife habitat.
Programs under the Private Forestlands Initiative, including the Forestry Assistance Program, Qualified Forester Registration, and Qualified Forest Program.
Good migrant labor housing is an essential element in securing an adequate supply of seasonal agricultural workers.
The Cottage Food law, enacted in 2010, allows individuals to manufacture and store certain types of foods in an unlicensed home kitchen.
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.
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.
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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Equity and Inclusion Officer and Professional Development Specialist
Ashley Batteen leads the Recruiting, Professional Development and DEI strategy for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Ashley has been in her role since November of 2019 building the recruiting strategy for hiring top talent into the department, operating a professional development program for all staff, and providing leadership over the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. She also leads the states Food and Agriculture Workforce Solutions Team, a collaborative of organizations interested in supporting strategic employment planning in the food and agriculture industry.
Prior to working at MDARD, Ashley spent 12 years in the education industry, creating professional development programs for students to build their own employment strategies and success strategies. She has also worked with employers to understand their needs in building success in hiring talent. Ashley earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Spanish from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Baker College.
Ashley Batteen
Equity and Inclusion Officer and Professional Development Specialist
BatteenA@Michigan.gov
517-290-0041
