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).
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
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.
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.
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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October 08, 2026
New Programs Address Barriers to Recruitment and Retention of Veterinary Professionals, Especially in Rural Areas
LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced two grants worth nearly $1.4 million to improve access to veterinary science education and support early career veterinary professionals who practice in rural areas. The investments come as the country is experiencing a significant veterinary shortage, particularly in rural areas and large animal practice.
“MDARD is partnering with Michigan State University and the Michigan FFA Foundation to give young Michiganders more and better opportunities to pursue careers in veterinary science, especially in rural Michigan communities,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “These new programs will help protect animal health and the future of Michigan’s food supply by giving students more exposure to veterinary medicine, equipping more teachers to provide instruction in veterinary science and helping early career veterinary professionals overcome the challenges of practicing in rural areas.”
MDARD is providing a $900,000 grant to Michigan State University (MSU) to implement the Michigan Rural Veterinary Workforce Model. This evidence-based model addresses three major barriers to recruiting and retaining veterinary professionals in rural communities:
MDARD is also providing a $492,633 grant to help fund the Michigan FFA Foundation's efforts to educate the next generation of veterinary science professionals. The funding will support the implementation of:
MDARD is investing in these partnerships as the U.S. Department of Agriculture warns of a nationwide shortage of veterinarians. Today’s grants are intended to increase access to veterinary science education while helping early career rural veterinary professionals navigate growing challenges posed by high student loan debt, the high costs of starting a practice, demanding workloads and professional isolation.
These grants are part of MDARD’s ongoing efforts to support early career agriculture professionals. In September, MDARD announced 14 new grants to support local food production, 13 of which were awarded to first-generation farmers. The department is also strengthening support for new and beginning farmers through its regenerative agriculture education and outreach grants, its partnership with the VFW National Home to train veterans at a demonstration farm and other measures.
Learn more about MDARD grants and how MDARD protects animal health in Michigan.
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With deer season underway, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding hunters and consumers to take care when choosing where to have deer processed, where to donate your harvested deer and where to buy farm-raised venison. Following state rules helps protect you and your loved ones from foodborne illness.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a three year, $3 million partnership with the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan to drive a landmark initiative connecting Michigan’s agricultural sector with the rapidly expanding sustainable aviation and maritime fuel industries. The project positions Michigan as a national leader in developing low carbon fuel supply chains while ensuring new economic opportunities flow directly to Michigan farmers.
With the fall harvest in full swing, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding producers that using licensed grain dealers can help protect their financial interests.
Today, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) Farm to Family Program is announcing its latest grant recipients. The Regenerative Value Chains Grant Program focuses on expanding operations and market opportunities for farmers who are just starting out or want to broaden their impact and are using regenerative agriculture practices.
Stronger together: The collective efforts of every Michigander can help protect against rabies
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a $494,960 grant to support the Detroit Food Policy Council (DFPC) in its work to enhance agricultural education, provide technical assistance to urban farmers, increase local food access and reduce food waste.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the detection of box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis) in Genesee County This invasive pest is not a threat to Michigan’s natural resources, but it can lead to significant defoliation and death of ornamental boxwood.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced $1.9 million in grants for groundbreaking research to better understand and address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in agriculture
Safety is the cornerstone to the sustainability, resilience and integrity of Michigan’s agricultural industry and everyone has a role to play