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.
Official press releases, articles, media contact information, email subscription options, social media accounts: everything you need to stay informed, all in one spot.
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.
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.
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 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.
Food Industry Related Resources, including Emergency Action Plans
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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June 26, 2026
Secure your animals and make sure they have proper identification to keep them safe this holiday
LANSING, Mich.–As the country approaches the celebration of its 250th Independence Day, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding Michiganders to take precautions to keep pets and animals safe.
“Fireworks and Fourth of July festivities with new people, new sounds, and lots of activities can be particularly stressful and frightening for animals,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “By planning ahead, we can be sure they have a safe, secure place to be and minimize opportunities for them to escape or run away.”
A pre-recorded interview with Dr. Wineland is available for download and use by media partners.
Taking a few simple steps can ensure everyone stays safe and enjoys the holiday:
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more animals go missing around July 4 than any other time of the year. Fireworks can cause animals to become frightened and run away, making the days following Independence Day some of the busiest at local animal shelters. Making sure animals are as secure and calm as possible leads to better outcomes for the animals as well as the people who care for them.
Michigan law allows fireworks to be set off between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. June 29 to July 4 in observance of the holiday.
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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is seeking public comment on two proposed orders that would establish bovine tuberculosis (TB) testing requirements in specific portions of Antrim, Arenac, Charlevoix, Iosco and Ogemaw counties.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed the state's first detection of elm zigzag sawfly (Aproceros leucopoda) in St. Clair County. The invasive insect was identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS)
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding Michiganders to be on the lookout for the invasive spotted lanternfly this summer.
Effective June 17, Michigan implements new domestic animal entry requirements to prevent spread of NWS LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced new domestic animal movement requirements designed to keep New World screwworm (NWS) out of Michigan
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding private landowners that applications to enroll in the Qualified Forest Program (QFP) are due September 1, 2026 to receive the associated tax exemption for the 2027 tax year.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced $50,000 of horticulture fund grants to support innovative research projects that advance Michigan’s $1.4 billion nursery and ornamental horticulture industry.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is partnering with the Food Export Association of the Midwest (Food Export) to bring international food and beverage buyers from 17 countries to Detroit for the Summer in the Cities Buyers' Mission (SITC) on August 10, 2026. Early registration for the event is open until June 12.
The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development voted today to approve $275,000 in Food and Agriculture Investment Program (FAIP) grant funding to fairlife, LLC. The funding, awarded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), will allow the business to complete an expansion project that will help meet consumer demand and create 150 new jobs.
With camping season underway, the Michigan Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and Natural Resources (DNR) are reminding residents and visitors that invasive pests and diseases can hitchhike in untreated firewood, spreading easily from one location to another.