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
Search is currently unavailable. Please try again later.
The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
VIEW CURRENT MDARD JOB OPENINGS FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
At the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), we encourage and embrace innovation, creativity, and growth, so we can provide the best possible service to the robust food and agriculture industry and the residents of Michigan. As a department, we are committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that builds upon our values and invests in our employees and provides an inclusive culture through involvement and empowerment. Learn more about careers in the Michigan Food & Agriculture Industry.
Our staff work to assure food safety, protect animal and plant health, sustain environmental stewardship, provide consumer protection, enable rural development and foster efficient administration operations through service, partnership and collaboration.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has adopted a hybrid policy that includes in-person, remote, and alternative work arrangements. The department or agency has the authority to assign and schedule its employees and determine their work location. This policy also provides for work options contingent upon the operational needs of the department or agency. Approval is at the discretion of the department or agency and can be changed or rescinded based upon operational needs. The policy includes which positions may qualify for a work option, how to request one and the requirements necessary for approval.
Working for the State of Michigan comes with some great benefits.
Virtual and onsite hybrid working environments
Insurance benefits
Vacation and sick leave time
Upwards of 14 paid holidays, including Election Day (even-numbered years)
Alternative work schedules
401k and retirement options
Financial support or discounted tuition rates
Paid parental leave
Student loan forgiveness opportunities
View benefits for state employees.
Newly hired employees receive on-the-job training and are paired with experienced staff for an immersive experience into MDARD culture from day one. Advanced, position-specific and emergency preparedness training are essential for safety and transitioning into a new role.
MDARD encourages growth and staff success through a robust professional development program through job exploration, training, and coaching opportunities.
Our employees make MDARD more than just a state agency. We are a group of individuals with a shared commitment to a wide-range of customers.
Explore the work MDARD employees do every day to support Michigan’s food and agriculture industry through a series of “A Day in the Life” short videos.
"Being a food inspector allows me to help store owners and consumers understand the importance of food safety. I also appreciate being able to work a flexible work schedule which helps me balance my work life with my busy family life."
Natasha H.
Senior Food Industry Field Scientist
MDARD Food and Dairy Division
“I enjoy working in the field instead of being in an office setting every day. By conducting inspections on various weighing and measuring devices, I’m helping to ensure the people of the State of Michigan are getting what they pay for."
Sean M.
Weights & Measures Inspector
MDARD Laboratory Division
“Every day I get to work with a passionate, tight-knit team to problem-solve and protect the public during emergencies ranging from foodborne illness and foreign animal disease outbreaks to natural disasters like flooding. No two days are alike, and I know what I do makes a difference.”
Elizabeth W.
Emergency Management Planner
MDARD Executive Office