Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development - MDARD

Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development - MDARD Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development - MDARD, Government Organization, Lansing, MI.

MDARD improves quality of life by protecting Michiganders from the pump to the plate, supporting farmers and producers who put food on the table, and creating economic opportunities within the agriculture industry. Vision - To be recognized as a national leader among state departments of agriculture through our expertise, effectiveness, application of sound science and delivery of quality service

to our stakeholders. Mission - Assure the food safety, agricultural, environmental, and economic interests of the people of the State of Michigan are met through service, partnership and collaboration.

“It’s amazing how much technology has improved not just the quality of our food but also how much it continues to increa...
06/13/2026

“It’s amazing how much technology has improved not just the quality of our food but also how much it continues to increase the sustainability of farms,” says Annie Link. ​

Annie and her family are fifth-generation farmers at Swisslane Farms in Alto. As the farm’s Chief People Officer, she prioritizes the farming culture and looks out for her staff. With a passion for serving her community and future generations, she’s a club leader for her local county fair, the chair of the Dairy Discovery Board, and a member of the Kent County Farm Bureau Promotion & Education Committee.​

Annie encourages young women pursuing careers in agriculture “to understand what they truly want, then recognize the sacrifices and commitment it may take to achieve those goals. Find mentors who inspire and provide opportunities to volunteer in the industry. The most rewarding experiences come from giving back and often, you’ll gain more in return.”​

2026 is the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Stay tuned for more MDARD spotlights on women leaders in Michigan agriculture!

We’re crop-timistic about the future of agricultural science!​This week, MDARD’s Geagley Laboratory hosted its first-eve...
06/11/2026

We’re crop-timistic about the future of agricultural science!​

This week, MDARD’s Geagley Laboratory hosted its first-ever career day for high school and college students. ​

Our student visitors got a first-hand look at MDARD’s chemistry, microbiology, motor fuel quality, pesticide and plant pathology labs. They also met with the MDARD experts who work every day to safeguard Michigan’s food supply and protect drivers at the gas pump. ​

“We’d like students to know that MDARD can be a resource and a source of opportunities as they navigate their careers in science,” said MDARD Microbiologist Dina Weston. “We have people with a lot of different majors, backgrounds, and career paths and we want students to know there is no right or wrong way to get here.”

MilkandFroth Ice Cream has the Motor City churning for the better, with help from MDARD! ​Founded in Detroit’s Eastern ...
06/10/2026

MilkandFroth Ice Cream has the Motor City churning for the better, with help from MDARD! ​

Founded in Detroit’s Eastern Market, this small batch ice cream maker is known for crafting unforgettable dairy and vegan flavors using Michigan grown ingredients. Thanks to support from MDARD’s Value-Added and Regional Food Systems Grant, Milk & Froth transformed their production process, expanded to a second shop (in Ann Arbor), grew their team, and are creating even more delicious Michigan-made flavors.​

Now they’re looking to shape the future of ice cream with health conscious scoops, proving that some of the best frozen flavors reside right in the heart of the Motor City.​

Read more about Milk & Froth in the June edition of MDARD's Food & Ag Business Development Newsletter: https://bit.ly/4ezhgIT

06/10/2026

Summer is here, and it’s hot, Hot, HOT!!!​

Keep a close eye on your animals today as the heat index soars into the 90s across much of Michigan.​

If your animals show signs of heat stress like increased panting or drooling, move them immediately to a cool, shaded area and provide plenty of fresh, cool water.

06/08/2026

Is crimping rye even a thing? ​

Here's how one farmer in southeast Michigan uses regenerative agriculture to improve his soil health. Planting and crimping a rye cover crop builds the soil and keeps it covered, which can help minimize water loss, reduce herbicide use and prevent erosion.​

Farmers across Michigan are discovering the benefits of using regenerative agriculture to increase soil health, water quality and biodiversity. Find out more below ⬇️

Paws for applause! MDARD and the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine are proud to announce and celebrate the official lau...
06/08/2026

Paws for applause! MDARD and the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine are proud to announce and celebrate the official launch of the Community Medicine Program. As part of the program, veterinary students will be able to travel in the specially designed mobile veterinary unit to underserved communities to better support local animal shelters by providing increased access to veterinary care. Healthy animals are the foundation to healthy communities!

WOOD you like an exemption on certain taxes?​Don't forget to enroll your private forestland in MDARD's Qualified Forest ...
06/04/2026

WOOD you like an exemption on certain taxes?​

Don't forget to enroll your private forestland in MDARD's Qualified Forest Program. Application materials must be submitted by September 1, 2026 for the 2027 tax year.​

See the comment below for more information.

FACT! Michigan ranks sixth in the nation for total milk production.​Michigan milk is "udderly" amazing with an incredibl...
06/03/2026

FACT! Michigan ranks sixth in the nation for total milk production.​

Michigan milk is "udderly" amazing with an incredible dairy community and the hardworking farmers who keep it thriving.​

Did you know?​
🥛Our state is home to more than 400,000 dairy cows across approximately 900 dairy farms.​
🥛 Michigan’s dairy farms contribute an impressive $15.7 billion to the state’s economy every year.​

Here’s to the dairy farmers, processors, and partners who support this essential industry and help nourish our communities every day!

Beautiful week up on Mackinac Island at the Mackinac Policy Conference promoting all things MDARD. Specifically, we’re f...
06/01/2026

Beautiful week up on Mackinac Island at the Mackinac Policy Conference promoting all things MDARD. Specifically, we’re focused on creating opportunities for Michigan farmers and agribusinesses, providing healthier food for our communities, and addressing gaps in our regional food systems.

Under Governor Whitmer’s leadership, MDARD programs like Farm to Family, the Good Food for Michigan Project and Regenerative Agriculture are using all the tools in the toolbox to improve outcomes and strengthen economies.

Everybody loves food—MDARD wants that plate to be filled with Michigan-grown products!

Did you know Michigan's nursery and ornamental horticulture industry has an economic impact of more than a billion dolla...
05/28/2026

Did you know Michigan's nursery and ornamental horticulture industry has an economic impact of more than a billion dollars each year? MDARD is helping fund innovative research to help Michigan horticulture stay at the cutting edge!​

Click through the pics and read how three researchers at Michigan State University are focusing on real-world solutions that strengthen and sustain our green industry.

Address

Lansing, MI

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+18002923939

Website

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