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 22, 2026
LANSING, Mich.—The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced an opportunity for residents to help inform funding priorities for Michigan's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
Michigan residents and organizations may email input on the 2027 specialty crop block grant funding priorities to MDA-Grants@michigan.gov. MDARD will consider all public input submitted by 5 p.m. ET on Tuesday, November 24, 2026.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program provides funding to states and territories each year to enhance the competitiveness of fruit, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruit, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture). MDARD uses USDA specialty crop block grant funding to award specialty crop block grants to eligible Michigan entities through a competitive process.
Beginning in 2027, the USDA will introduce a cost-share requirement for state-administered specialty crop block grants. Applicants for Michigan specialty crop block grants will be required to demonstrate that they can provide 25 percent of the funds requested in the form of cash or in-kind contributions. In addition, MDARD will be required to provide a 10 percent match of funds requested.
A Joint Evaluation Committee composed of experts reviews each application for Michigan specialty crop block grants based on eligibility requirements and the current year s funding priorities. The funding priorities for last year s Michigan Specialty Crop Block Grant Program were:
View last year's specialty crop block grant recipients. Visit MDARD's grant web page for more information about food and agriculture funding opportunities.
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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reporting a detection of chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a farmed cervid from Hillsdale County, which was identified through the state’s CWD surveillance program.
Multi-year partnership will protect agricultural productivity and empower farmers LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a five-year partnership with Michigan State University (MSU) Extension to bolster PFAS monitoring across Michigan, providing farmers with the tools and expertise needed to protect their land, livestock and productivity
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is seeking public comment on a proposed order that would expand bovine tuberculosis (TB) testing requirements in specific portions of Arenac, Iosco, and Ogemaw counties. A separate order, signed Aug. 1, 2026, established testing in different areas of the three same counties.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today announced a new partnership with the Greater Flint Health Coalition (GFHC) aimed at empowering new and beginning farmers and increasing community access to fresh, locally grown foods. The investment is a key step in MDARD’s ongoing work to strengthen regional food systems and create more opportunities for Michiganders to enjoy food grown right here in Michigan.
New Programs Address Barriers to Recruitment and Retention of Veterinary Professionals, Especially in Rural Areas
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.