Learn about MDARD's four bureaus, including contact information, by clicking the above link, or view specific information below.
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.
Laws and Regulations pertaining to and governing the actions and policies of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development.
This area contains information for press and media agencies. Press Releases, Pics, Podcasts & Videos
Animal ID and movement requirements in the State of Michigan
Animal health resources for veterinary professionals.
Diseases affecting, or potentially affecting, animals in Michigan
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.
Information about how MDARD's Agriculture Development Division can help you grow your business in Michigan.
Michigan's Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) was created to help protect our environment and wildlife. Michigan is partnering with the federal government to implement conservation practices of great significance to the state, and valuable to the nation, in matters of soil erosion, water quality, and wildlife habitat.
Programs under the Private Forestlands Initiative, including the Forestry Assistance Program, Qualified Forester Registration, and Qualified Forest Program.
Good migrant labor housing is an essential element in securing an adequate supply of seasonal agricultural workers.
The Cottage Food law, enacted in 2010, allows individuals to manufacture and store certain types of foods in an unlicensed home kitchen.
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.
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.
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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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) oversees and issues licensing for all animal food and treat products sold within the state. Anyone who makes animal feed, pet food food or treats must follow all state and federal rules that apply to the product.
Can hemp be added to pet food or treats?
Animal food, pet food, or animal treats with hemp as an ingredient cannot be sold. Learn more about hemp in animal feed (PDF).
What makes pet food and treats organic?
"Organic" is a labeling term on an agricultural product produced in accordance with the Organic Foods Production Act and the National Organic Program regulations. Visit www.ams.usda.gov/nop to learn more about National Organic Program regulations.
What's the difference between pet treats and pet food?
Treats and snack marketed for pets are considered "food" but are not required to be complete and balanced like food. Treats require a guaranteed analysis, however, they are not intended to be nutritionally complete and therefore do not need to meet all nutritional requirements for the species for which they are intended.
Do I need to be licensed to sell pet food or treats?
Yes. A license is required to sell pet food or treats. Learn more about how to get licensed.
What label requirements need to be met for selling pet food or treats?
Properly labeling your pet food and/or treats is an important part of your business. Your pet food label should:
See MDARD’s complete list of labeling requirements for additional information.
Are pet treats included under the Cottage Food Law?
No. The Cottage Food Law only applies to human food.