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.
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.
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.
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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October 15, 2025
Proposals due by 5 p.m. on December 3, 2025
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced today it will accept applications for Rural Development Fund Grants now through 5 p.m. (EST) Wednesday, December 3.
Rural Development Fund Grants promote the sustainability of land-based industries and support infrastructure benefiting rural communities in Michigan. Land-based industries include food and agriculture; forestry; mining; oil and gas production; and tourism.
"Rural communities and land-based industries are vital to Michigan's economy," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "Rural Development Fund Grants help expand and sustain crucial industries that deliver economic opportunities, build prosperity and improve quality of life in rural communities throughout our state."
Rural Development Fund Grants are available for projects focused on:
Eligible counties include those with a population no greater than 70,000 residents or micropolitan statistical areas. Communities may self-identify as rural if they can provide an example of a state or federal program that classifies them as rural. Applicants must specifically reference the state or federal program within their application. For a complete list of eligible counties, visit the Rural Development Fund Grant website.
A Joint Evaluation Committee composed of experts will evaluate all applications through a competitive review process. The maximum limit on project grant fund requests is $100,000. There is no minimum limit on project grant fund requests. All proposals require a cash match of at least 30 percent. Applicants must describe how the project will impact and produce measurable outcomes for rural communities around land-based industries. All applicants are required to submit three letters of support with their application.
MDARD will host an informational webinar on this grant opportunity on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 10 a.m. (EDT). More information about the webinar is located on the MDARD website.
Proposals must be received online through the MiAgGrants system no later than 5 p.m. (EST) on December 3, 2025. Proposals received after 5 p.m. (EST) will not be considered.
The Rural Development Fund Grants are funded by the Nonferrous Metallic Minerals Extraction Severance Tax. Revenue from the severance tax is in accordance with PA 410 of 2012. The Rural Development Fund was created under PA 411 of 2012.
Those interested in applying for the grant program may visit the MDARD Grant website to view the program details. Any additional communications concerning this Request for Proposal should be sent to mda-grants@michigan.gov.
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