A look at Michigan’s agriculture department

Published July 28, 2012 1:06pm ET



Formerly the Michigan Department of Agriculture, the agency’s name was changed in 2011 by Gov. Rick Snyder to reflect an expanded economic, social, and educational focus. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development acts as both a regulator and marketer, enforcing laws related to the production, handling and distribution of agricultural products, and promoting the state’s agricultural interests.

The department’s priorities are to:

1. Assure food safety

2. Protect animal and plant health

3. Sustain environmental stewardship

4. Provide consumer protection

5. Enable rural development

6. Foster efficient administrative operations

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Source: Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development