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.
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 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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What Nursery Growers Need to Know About Time-Sensitive Compliance
The Japanese beetle (JB) is a serious insect pest that feeds on over 300 plant species, causing damage to both turf and ornamental plants. To prevent its spread, many U.S. states have implemented regulatory restrictions for nursery growers.
The National Japanese Beetle Harmonization Plan (JBHP) provides uniform certification guidelines to help nurseries ship plants to states that are not yet infested. If you plan to ship nursery stock to Category 1 or 2 states, you may need to act now to meet certification guidelines through insecticide treatments or approved greenhouse/screenhouse certification protocols.
Approved Greenhouse/Screenhouse (Accepted by Category 1 & 2 states): Must be approved by MDARD before adult beetle flight begins.
You may qualify for certification through an approved greenhouse or screenhouse, which allows for season-long protection if plants are produced in a secured, pest-exclusion structure and inspected prior to Japanese beetle flight season. See the greenhouse/screenhouse handout for details.
Drench Treatments (Container Plants Only; Accepted by Category 1 & 2 states): Must be applied before adult beetle flight begins, which typically occurs June 1. Confirm this date using the SAFARIS monitoring tool or contact MDARD at MDARD-NurseryCE@michigan.gov.
Container plants may be eligible for certification through pre-flight drench treatments using approved insecticides applied before adult emergence. This option has specific timing, media, and inspection requirements. See the drench treatment handout for details.
Pre-Harvest Soil Surface Treatments (Only for Category 2 states): Must be applied May through July, aligning with the Japanese beetle’s active egg-laying and early larval presence. This treatment method applies to field-grown or ball-and-burlap (B&B) stock through the application of approved insecticides directly to exposed soil surfaces. See the pre-harvest soil surface treatments handout for details.
Adult Mitigation Requirements During the Japanese Beetle Flight Season: Even if your plants are certified through approved treatments or protected structures, you must prevent adults from hitchhiking in transit. Adult Japanese beetles are abundant in the environment and will be attracted to plant material during loading of shipments. See the adult mitigation handout for details.
For questions or help getting certified, contact your district Plant Health Inspector or email MDARD-NurseryCE@michigan.gov.