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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The Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Program offers an unbiased, third-party inspection service for the produce industry in Michigan and throughout the United States. Fruit and Vegetable inspections are based on both USDA and MDARD standards, processor specifications, and industry requests. USDA standards are used nationwide as a basis for purchase and resolving disputes. Except for federal programs and exports, the program is voluntary. All Fruit and Vegetable staff are required to be licensed by USDA on each commodity they inspect.
Inspections are conducted on incoming produce entering through channels of trade from anywhere in the world. Market inspections protect the buyer, broker, and consumer from receiving sub-standard produce. Michigan's produce buyers, brokers and receivers also use market inspections to resolve court disputes. This type of inspection is vital for the success of Michigan's produce industry.
To request a market inspection, please fill out the Market Inspection Request Form and email to MDARD-FVInspection@Michigan.gov.
Shipping Point inspections are based upon USDA standards and specifications. Shipping Point inspections protect Michigan farmers by providing them with an unbiased, third-party inspection on the produce they deliver to their customer. Shipping Point inspections are voluntary.
To request a Shipping Point inspection, please complete the Shipping Point Request Form and it will go directly to our mailbox.
The Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Audit program provides uniformity through a national auditing program for the fresh produce industry, verifying good agricultural and handling practices. It is an independent, third-party, audit-based service provided by licensed GAP inspectors who have successfully completed the GAP training class and have participated in a minimum of three audits, including two as the lead auditor. This type of audit is required by some purchasers of produce.
To request an audit, please fill out the Request for Audit Services Form along with the Agreement for Participation Form and email to MDARD-FVInspection@Michigan.gov.
For additional information regarding the Fruit & Vegetable Inspection Program, contact the Program Manager, Patricia Bizoukas, at 517-512-3603 or via email at BizoukasP@Michigan.gov.