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 regular reports below.
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.
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.
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.
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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August 05, 2025
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced today that the annual public comment period for the Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) will run from now until September 5, 2025.
The GAAMPs are scientifically based guidelines for farm management that mitigate nuisance conditions and promote environmental stewardship, sound management of agricultural inputs, and a strong and stable agricultural industry. Expert committees review the GAAMPs each year and update them with approval from the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development.
All eight GAAMPs are open for public comment:
The GAAMPS will be available for public review and comment until 5 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, on the MDARD GAAMPs website. Comments can be submitted via:
MDARD will forward all public comments received by the September 5 deadline to the respective GAAMPs Advisory Committee Chairpersons for consideration before final review and presentation to the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development at their regularly scheduled meeting on September 24, 2025.
For a copy of any GAAMPs, including the proposed revisions, please visit www.Michigan.gov/RighttoFarm, or contact MDARD’s Right to Farm Program at 517-284-5619 or toll free at 877-632-1783.
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MDARD Reminds Owners to Vaccinate Their Animals . One visit to a veterinarian can help protect animal and human health
Grant awards will expand facilities, increase capacity, and create new jobs. Today, the Michigan Commission on Agriculture and Rural Development approved $400,000 in Food and Agriculture Investment Program (FAIP) grants to Hildebrand Fruit, LLC and the City of Oak Park
Gov. Whitmer Designates July 17 Michigan Conservation District Day. Proclamation celebrates 88th anniversary of key conservation law
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding Michiganders to be on the lookout for the invasive spotted lanternfly.
State Veterinarian Urges Owners to Plan for Animal Safety During July 4 Fireworks Secure your animals and make sure they have proper identification to keep them safe this holiday
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is offering the following food safety reminders to help Michiganders prepare for 4th of July picnics and barbecues:
Warm weather means more time outside - and a higher risk of tick bites. As warmer weather draws Michiganders outdoors, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding residents to stay vigilant against ticks – tiny pests that can pose serious health risks to both people and animals.