Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Tim Boring praised Governor Gretchen Whitmer's Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Executive Budget Recommendation, which prioritizes economic prosperity, regenerative agriculture, and the diversification of agricultural production across the state.
"Michigan agriculture is a $105 billion industry, and Governor Whitmer continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to our farmers, producers, and rural communities," said Director Boring. "This budget recommendation provides the resources we need to continue to prioritize emergency response, support economic prosperity, and maintain our national status as an agriculture powerhouse."
Governor Whitmer's proposed budget includes key funding for MDARD programs aimed at enhancing food security, rural development, and agricultural resilience. The budget allocates $5.5 million to strengthen Michigan's food supply through proactive biosecurity measures designed to prevent and mitigate animal disease outbreaks in the livestock industry. An additional $2 million will expand the Rural Development Fund Grant Program to support projects that improve land-based industries and rural infrastructure, including job training, childcare, housing, and utilities. The proposal also includes $1.6 million to enhance plant, soil, and pest diagnostics by increasing testing capacity, allowing growers to access localized data that helps protect Michigan's agricultural sector.
Industry leaders have expressed strong support for these investments. Damen Kurzer, Executive Director of the Michigan Seed Potato Association, emphasized the importance of plant, pest, and soil diagnostics in ensuring long-term sustainability for Michigan's farmers. Lisa Woodke, Sustainability Director at Star of the West Milling Company, highlighted how expanded laboratory testing and analysis will help quantify regenerative agriculture impacts and optimize fertilizer use, making growers more competitive.
MDARD's proposed FY26 budget includes $158.3 million in total funding, with $85.9 million in general funds, underscoring the state's commitment to strengthening Michigan's agricultural sector.
For more information:
Lynsey Mukomel
MDARD
Tel: +1 517 290 1734
Email: MukomelL1@michigan.gov
www.michigan.gov