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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As of June 17, 2026, new import requirements are in place for certain domestic animals to protect Michigan against New World screwworm. Please refer to the movement page linked below for the latest information. The following poultry are exempt from movement requirements: Hatching and table eggs and chicks under 5 days of age; National Poultry Improvement Plan Types B, C, D, and J.
Rules For Movement of AnimalsNew World screwworm (NWS) is a parasitic worm detected in Texas and New Mexico in June 2026. This is not an infectious disease and currently, there are no detections of New World screwworm in Michigan. Checking animals for enlarging wounds, maggots, and other signs of infestation or discomfort are key to protecting animal health and keeping this pest out of Michigan.
New World screwworm can affect any warm-blooded animal, including livestock, pets, wildlife, and (in rare cases) people. Occasionally, the larvae also affect wild and domestic bird species.
In Michigan, New World screwworm is an emergency reportable disease in all species. If you suspect your animals may have signs of a screwworm infestation, contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) immediately:
No. New World screwworm is not a food safety issue, and the U.S. food supply remains safe.
New World screwworm most often enters an animal through a break in the skin or an exposed mucous membrane and feeds on the animal’s living flesh, causing serious damage to tissue (myiasis) that could be fatal. Even small tick bites can attract NWS flies.
Please note: Not all myiasis is caused by NWS. Other flies—such as botflies and blowflies—can also cause similar infestations. The identification of NWS requires analysis from an entomologist, which is why reporting suspect cases is crucial to protecting the state from this pest.
Screwworm infestations are difficult to detect at first. Be sure to check animals for draining or enlarging wounds, signs of discomfort/irritation, and the smell of decay. Also, look for screwworm larvae or eggs, which are creamy white in color and deposited near the edges of superficial wounds.
Adult screwworm flies are about the size of a common housefly or slightly larger and have orange eyes, a metallic blue or green body, and three dark stripes along their back.
Photo by Judy Gallagher (CC BY 4.0)
As with any reportable disease, your vigilance is key to keeping Michigan’s domestic animals healthy and safe. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have a suspect case.