Learn about MDARD's four bureaus, including contact information, by clicking the above link, or view specific information below.
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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.
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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.
Farmland Preservation
Programs under the Private Forestlands Initiative, including the Forestry Assistance Program, Qualified Forester Registration, and Qualified Forest Program.
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.
Good migrant labor housing is an essential element in securing an adequate supply of seasonal agricultural workers.
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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April 24, 2026
The program's mobile veterinary unit will support the development of new generations of animal health professionals, ensuring the continued protection of animal and public health throughout Michigan
LANSING, Mich.— Today, in honor of World Veterinary Day (April 25, 2026), the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU CVM) are proud to announce the upcoming launch of the new mobile veterinary unit for the Community Medicine Program, ensuring veterinary and veterinary nursing students will have additional opportunities to refine their skill set while improving access to veterinary care in underserved communities across Michigan.
"By vaccinating animals, offering guidance and education to animal owners, and reporting reportable diseases, Michigan s veterinary health professionals are crucial to creating healthier and safer communities," said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. "However, with the current veterinary shortages being experienced in Michigan and around the country, more support for veterinarians is needed as the demand for their services and expertise keeps increasing. We hope the opportunities and experiences offered through this new mobile veterinary unit will ignite a career-long passion to protect animal health and serve the underserved."
World Veterinary Day is a day devoted to recognizing the valuable and essential contributions of veterinary health professionals in maintaining animal and public health. Their guidance, insights, and feedback are fundamental to identifying cases of zoonotic diseases (diseases impacting both animals and people like rabies, West Nile virus, and bovine tuberculosis) and helping to limit the spread and risk posed by those diseases. Healthy animals create the foundation for healthy communities.
However, this system can become compromised when there is a lack of access to veterinary care. In December 2023, MDARD and MSU College of Veterinary Medicine announced the start of a new Community Medicine Program aimed at connecting veterinary students to animal welfare organizations and local animal shelters who are in desperate need of veterinary services, helping to alleviate some of the pressures felt by high patient volumes and the need for adequate staffing and resources by local veterinary clinics.
"This initiative brings together education and service in a way that benefits both our students and the communities we serve," said Dr. Kelley Meyers, Executive Director of the MSU Veterinary Medical Center. "By partnering with animal welfare organizations, our veterinary and veterinary nursing students gain valuable surgical experience while building the skills and perspective needed to make a meaningful impact in diverse communities throughout their careers."
"It's rare for two distinct needs to align so perfectly. While our students are eager for the surgical experience necessary to grow as clinicians, countless animals across Michigan require sterilization and care to become eligible for adoption," said Dr. David Emery, Assistant Professor and lead clinician of the Community Medicine Program. "This partnership bridges that gap by enriching veterinary education while providing life-saving services to animals who might otherwise go without."
Maintaining the health and well-being of Michigan's animals is a collaborative effort. More collaborators result in better protection of the state's domestic animals from disease and a healthier Michigan. To learn more about the Community Medicine Program, please visit MSU College of Veterinary Medicine's website.
The mobile veterinary unit to be used in the Community Medicine Program in its earliest stages of construction.
Early construction of the interior of the mobile veterinary unit, before being outfitted with stainless steel surfaces.
The mobile veterinary unit to be used in the Community Medicine Program before its complete exterior and wrap were applied.
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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Agricultural Preservation Fund Board (MAPFB) announced today that they have awarded nearly $2 million of Agricultural Preservation Fund grants to permanently protect farmland in seven counties and townships.
To mark National Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is calling on Michiganders to protect their landscapes and the state’s natural resources from invasive pests this spring.
Michigan wheat producers have approved a referendum to continue the Michigan Wheat Program.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding Michiganders to keep food safety in mind as they prepare meals for family and friends this spring. Taking a few simple precautions to keep your food safe and your guests healthy:
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced $150,000 of Animal Welfare Fund grants to help registered Michigan animal shelters care for homeless pets.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced an innovative new research grant program to combat per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination on Michigan agricultural lands.