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 30, 2025
LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) will accept public comment on funding priorities for Michigan's 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program until 5 p.m. (EST) on November 28, 2025.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program provides annual funding to states and territories to enhance the competitiveness of fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture). MDARD uses those funds to award specialty crop block grants to eligible Michigan entities annually through a competitive process.
Based on public input, last year's funding priorities for Michigan Specialty Crop Block grants included:
Please submit any public comment to MDA-Grants@michigan.gov by 5 p.m. (EST) on November 28. The input received will be considered when developing final program priorities for 2026.
Visit MDARD's grant webpage for more information on Michigan's Specialty Crop Block grants.
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Author:
Gov. Whitmer, MDARD Applaud Quick Action by Fair Food Network. The Fair Food Network is taking quick action this week through its Double Up Food Bucks Program to assist Michigan families facing a disruption in federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Have a fab-boo-lous holiday without causing scares or stress for animals. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding owners of the best ways to keep their animals healthy and safe this Halloween.
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced today it is accepting grant proposals for the 2026 Horticulture Fund, which supports Michigan’s nursery and ornamental horticulture businesses. Proposals must be received by Friday, November 21, 2025, with the maximum grant award of $20,000.
Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock from Ottawa County
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.
The Michigan Craft Beverage Council (MCBC) announced today that it will accept proposals for the 2026 research and education grant program until 3 p.m. (EST) on November 10, 2025.