When the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) was created in 1921, its primary responsibility was to implement laws pertaining to the production, handling and distribution of agricultural products. The department was given the mandate to promote agricultural interests in Michigan and foster direct trading or marketing between producers and consumers.

Although some things have remained constant, the 21st century has brought considerable new challenges and opportunities for MDA. The department's job has become larger and more complex, and the technology more advanced.

Today, MDA operates according to much larger goals. In its dual role of regulator and marketer, MDA provides Michigan citizens with quality services and information by working cooperatively with many state, federal and local agencies and other organizations including universities, colleges and associations.

MISSION STATEMENT

"To protect, promote and preserve the food, agricultural, environmental and economic interests of the people of Michigan."

MDA GUIDING PRINCIPLES

• Quality: Dedicated to excellence and continuous quality improvement.
• Service: Service-oriented, readily available to customers, partners and staff members.
• Timeliness: Focused on providing excellent, timely customer service.
• Fairness: Honest and impartial in the performance of duties.
• Integrity: Dedicated to integrity and credibility.
• Appreciation: Courteous and respectful to customers and fellow staff members.
• Confidence: Maintain high standards of regulatory compliance and service, reinforcing confidence and trust in Michigan products.
• Compliance: Supportive of compliance assistance as a valuable component of regulatory enforcement.
• Devotion: Committed to a quality assurance philosophy that includes stakeholder input.
• Effectiveness: Efficient in using available resources and technology.

MDA PRIORITIES

1. Protect consumers by ensuring a safe, secure and wholesome food supply.
2. Promote Michigan agricultural products and the expansion of value-added opportunities and agricultural tourism in our state.
3. Preserve farmland and the quality of life in Michigans rural areas.

For more information about the Michigan Department of Agriculture call us at: (800) 292-3939 or Email: MDA-Info@michigan.gov.