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.
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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August 06, 2026
LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Farmers Market Association (MIFMA) today announced the first round of participants in the new Farmers to Markets Program.
This innovative program will help participating farm businesses achieve consistent sales, give consumers more access to locally grown foods, and increase attendance at Michigan farmers markets. In addition to other support, participating farm businesses will receive a customized marketing plan and assistance through a partnership with Taste the Local Difference, a marketing agency in Traverse City.
"Farmers to Markets is a first-of-its-kind investment that will increase market opportunity for vendors and provide Michiganders with more access to healthy, locally grown food," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "As our Farm to Family Program continues to travel the state to understand the needs of our communities, we're hearing consistently that the demand for local foods is growing, but barriers exist for market entry and participation. Thanks to this partnership with MIFMA, we're breaking down those barriers to benefit not just farmers markets and their vendors, but Michiganders and our local economies."
"From the network of over 300 community-based farmers markets in Michigan, we were able to put together a cohort of farmers and markets that represent a wide variety of experience levels, locales and sustainability practices," said MIFMA Executive Director Amanda Shreve. "Thanks to the support they are getting from Farmers to Markets, we are already hearing that participating farmers are planning to increase their production during the next growing season."
Eleven farm businesses at five farmers markets across Michigan will participate in the Farmers to Markets Program during its first year:
City of Port Huron Farmers Market
Manistique Farmers Market
Menominee Historic Downtown Farmers Market
Northwest Detroit Farmers Market
Williamston Farm & Artisan Market
Visit MDARD's Farm to Family Program website for more information about efforts to improve Michigan families' access to nutritious, locally grown foods by supporting hardworking farmers and agribusinesses across the state.
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Media Contact:
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today invited the public to share input on proposed updates to the state’s scientifically based guidelines for agricultural management and food processing.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship Fund (MYLSF) today announced the recipients of the 2026 Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarships.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a modernized approach to commercial fertilizer bulk storage facility oversight that will better protect Michigan's environment while supporting the state's agricultural industry.
Alongside dozens of local growers and food producers, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) on Tuesday unveiled a new way for schools, hospitals and other institutions to commit to serving more locally grown food.
The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development today approved $450,000 in Food and Agriculture Investment Program (FAIP) grant funding for Star of the West Corn Milling LLC. The funding, awarded by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), will enable the company to construct a new mill facility, implement advanced technology and create 17 new jobs.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and its partners today announced a groundbreaking NextGen Crop Insurance pilot that gives farmers greater choice and flexibility in their coverage options when they implement regenerative practices that improve soil health.
Thursday afternoon, Director Tim Boring of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) joined owner Mike Hildebrand and local leaders at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Hildebrand Fruit Farms' new packing facility. The expansion comes as the family farm is set to celebrate its centennial next year. The new packing facility was funded in part by a grant from MDARD’s Food and Agriculture Investment Program (FAIP).
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed July 17 Conservation District Day to honor the hard work and dedication of the conservation districts that provide local natural resource management assistance to farmers, landowners and communities throughout Michigan.
Michigan’s State Veterinarian released the following statement in response to the ongoing statewide air quality alert: “Animals react to poor air conditions much like humans do, and certain groups—such as birds, young or older animals, and those with heart or respiratory issues—face higher risks during air quality alerts,” said State Veterinarian, Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “MDARD urges owners to monitor their animals for signs of coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, watery eyes, low energy, changes in how they sound, reduced appetite and reduced thirst. If you see anything concerning, contact your veterinarian.”