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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December 09, 2025
LANSING, Mich. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) yesterday presented Drytec Hardwoods, LLC with the 2025 Agriculture Exporter Rising Star Award.
"Drytec Hardwoods is Michigan's Agriculture Exporter Rising Star thanks to their growing international lumber sales and commitment to future expansion," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "MDARD is proud to support businesses like Drytec that export high-quality Michigan agriculture and forestry products and create jobs in our rural communities. Boosting Michigan businesses on the global scale strengthens economies and reinforces our mission of improving quality of life across the state. We look forward to watching Drytec's continued success."
Founded in 2018 by Titus Yoder and Mahlon Bontrager, Drytec Hardwoods, LLC operates a facility in Sears, Michigan that is equipped with 60,000 square feet of kiln space for drying high-quality lumber. Their products include tongue and groove boards used for flooring, walls and cabinetry as well as live edge slabs used for furniture and interior design.
Drytec's main export market is China, however, they are planning to expand into the European market. They continue to make connections with new clients by participating in export trade shows, growing their company and gaining valuable contacts through their participation.
"It is an honor to accept the Rising Star Award. When we started our family owned and operated business, we had no idea we would be doing global business in only a few years," said Titus Yoder, Co-Founder of Drytec Hardwoods, LLC. "It has broadened our horizons and expanded our customer base in ways we never expected. We hope to continue to provide a quality product and wish to see everyone in the industry succeed together."
Michigan is home to 20 million acres of sustainably managed forests and the fifth-largest timberland in the nation. Michigan exports more than $500 million of wood and paper products annually, and each year the forest product sector contributes $20 billion to the state economy while supporting more than 90,000 jobs.
MDARD presents the Agriculture Exporter Rising Star Award to a company recognized for high quality, Michigan-grown products and a strong commitment to exporting. To be eligible for the award, more than 50 percent of a company's product must be grown, processed or manufactured in Michigan, and exports must contribute significantly to the company's overall growth.
The Rising Star Award winner is selected based on factors including export growth, innovation and the pursuit of new export markets. The review committee consists of members representing the Van Andel Global Trade Center, Michigan State University's International Business Center, Comerica Bank, the U.S. Commercial Service and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation International Trade Team.
For more information on past winners and MDARD's International Marketing Program, visit the MDARD webpage.
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Event provides Christmas trees for military families across the country, celebrates Michigan Christmas Tree Month. This week, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) joined the Michigan Christmas Tree Association for a Trees for Troops event at Tannenbaum Farms.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed December as Michigan Christmas Tree Month, honoring the economic, environmental and social benefits of the state’s Christmas tree industry.
Alert of nationwide outbreak of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). The outbreak occurred after two horses that attended the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) World Finals and Elite Barrel Race in Waco, Texas in early November were confirmed to have the disease
Enjoy the delights of the holiday without causing discomfort and stress for pets. As Michiganders put the final touches on their holiday menus and travel plans, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding owners of some of the best ways to keep their pets healthy and safe this Thanksgiving.
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 Ontonagon County.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) encourages Michiganders to keep food safety top of mind as they gather with loved ones during the holiday season. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure your holiday feast is safe to eat:
MDARD Awards Over $3.1 Million Through Resilient Food System Infrastructure Program Projects build resilience across the middle of the supply chain