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.
This area contains information for press and media agencies: press releases, pics, alerts & videos
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.
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.
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 Cottage Food law, enacted in 2010, allows individuals to manufacture and store certain types of foods in an unlicensed home kitchen.
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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February 10, 2026
Maple Hardwoods Inc. is a second-generation, family-owned timber company located in Hessel, Michigan. Founder Luke Jaroche came to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 1993 in search of an opportunity to build a business of his own. After beginning his career with The Chard Sawmill, he purchased the operation in 1998 and established what is now Maple Hardwoods Inc. Today, Luke’s children have joined the business, continuing the company’s legacy into the next generation.
Prior to 2021, the facility was not operating at peak efficiency, limiting the company’s ability to fully utilize hardwood timber and maximize production. Recognizing the need to modernize, Maple Hardwoods sought support to improve its facility and operations.
In 2021, Maple Hardwoods received a Food and Agriculture Investment Fund grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The grant supported a sawmill modernization and expansion project that created 10 new jobs, increased productivity by 72 percent, and boosted utilization of locally sourced trees by 20 percent.
With the modernization and addition of advanced optimization and scanning technology, the facility now produces more lumber per log while significantly reducing waste. These improvements have strengthened operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. As a result, Maple Hardwoods has been able to expand into new markets including Quebec, Ontario, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
By working with MDARD, Maple Hardwoods Inc. has updated its facility, broadened its market reach, and continued to grow its business while creating year-round, well-paying jobs in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
For more information on ways MDARD can help your business to grow, visit our Economic Development webpage.
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