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 Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) has five verifiers located across the state. Verifiers visit and review farms to make sure they are in compliance with MAEAP guidelines. They also work closely with farmers to ensure their farm is environmentally sound by finding economical and practical solutions for the farmer’s operation.
Dylan Arnett is a MAEAP Verifier. He currently verifies the following counties: Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Isabella, Lake, Mecosta, Midland, Montcalm, Osceola, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair, and Tuscola.
“As a verifier, I get to go to farms and ranches of all sizes and work with some of the most innovative people our industry has to offer as well as getting to recognize all the great work that they do! I also get to work with great local MAEAP technicians as well as MAEAP partners around the state on different projects.”
“I assist producers in reaching their environmental goals and help them be more environmentally sustainable.”
“I love going to the different operations and seeing how every producer makes their operation work for them. I have not been to one farm that does everything the same as another farm. This is what makes the job fun; there is something new every day.”
Dylan attended Michigan State University and received a Bachelor of Science in Crop and Soil Science with a minor in Technology Systems (GIS) and Environmental Studies.
Dylan is a fourth-generation farmer.
Josh Appleby is a MAEAP Verifier. He currently verifies the following counties: Allegan, Ionia, Barry, Van Buren, Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, and Branch.
“I get to recognize some of the best producers in the world for their environmental excellence. When I can’t do that, I get to work with them to reach their goals.”
“I help farmers by providing a fresh, objective view to help reduce environmental issues. I love helping to solve problems for farmers and businesses while protecting the environment.”
“We have a great partnership with many talented people and organizations. We get to work with the best farms with a common goal in mind. Every day I get to learn something new and share that information with others.”
Josh is a graduate of Western Michigan University where he studied Hydrogeology and Environmental Resource Management. In 1998 he started work with the Michigan Groundwater Stewardship Program and later the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP).
Josh is a member of his local Fire Department and Village’s council.
Dan Busby is a MAEAP verifier. He currently verifies the following counties: Antrim, Leelanau, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Crawford, Manistee, Wexford, Missaukee, Mason, Lake, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon, Ottawa, and Kent.
“I work with many technicians and partners to assist the local farm community to implement MAEAP on their farm. I feel my job as a verifier is to be that third set of eyes reviewing everything on the farm and in the field that is pertinent to potential environmental risks.”
“I assist growers to identify and reduce environmental risks on the farm and in the field.”
“I meet with the best of the best every day. We are all trying to do the same thing, make Michigan agriculture as productive and sustainable as possible without compromising our environmental quality.”
Dan attended Northern Michigan University and received a degree in Conservation and Land Use Planning. He has been a MAEAP Verifier since October 1, 2012.
Dan is a self-proclaimed fishing guru.
Erin Satchell is a MAEAP verifier. He currently verifies the following counties: Keweenaw, Houghton, Ontonagon, Gogebic, Baraga, Iron, Marquette, Dickinson, Alger, Delta, Menominee, Schoolcraft, Luce, Mackinac, Chippewa, Emmet, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Otsego, Montmorency, Alpena, Oscoda, Alcona, Roscommon, Ogemaw, and Iosco.
“There are a lot of different facets of my job. I make the final site visits for those seeking MAEAP verification. I help with training new technicians. I am a resource for the technicians in my area when they have a question or encounter something new. I help at events; sometimes giving a presentation or staffing a booth.”
“I am part of a team that brings practical and valuable information to farmers. Our customers want to farm in ways that will be productive and sustainable and we assist them in achieving that goal.”
“My co-workers are wonderful, my work is meaningful, and I cover Northern Michigan!”
Erin grew up in Tuscola County, where he farmed into his 30’s. He attended Michigan Technological University receiving his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and his Master of Science in Environmental Engineering. Erin loves to travel, especially if it’s an adventure. His three sons are the best – look out, world!
Erin is building a wooden sailboat. He is now taking reservations for the maiden voyage; estimated launch window is spring of 2018-2028.
Shelby Burlew is a MAEAP Verifier. She currently verifies the following counties: Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Genesee, Oakland, Hillsdale, Jackson, Lapeer, Macomb, Lenawee, Livingston, Shiawassee, Monroe, Wayne, and Washtenaw.
“I listen to farmers and answer any questions they might have about their farm. They put a lot of time and effort into pursuing verifications. I am excited to be out on their farms and learn about their successes and challenges.”
“I want producers to know they are doing an excellent job in taking care of the land. If they need help in making improvements in their operation, they have an excellent resource with their MAEAP technician and me.”
“I get to recognize farms that are protecting their land resources and the environment.”
Shelby grew up in Branch County where she was very active in 4-H and the National FFA organization. She received her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Michigan State University (MSU) and her Master of Science in Agricultural Sciences, with a specialization in Integrated Resource Management, from Colorado State University.
Shelby spent a summer during her time at MSU interning at the Lazy E Ranch in Guthrie, which is one of the top racing Quarter Horse breeding operations in the U.S.