Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s Regenerative Agriculture Unit’s Strategic Plan

Mission:

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (MDARD) Regenerative Agriculture Program’s mission is to champion a regenerative approach to agriculture, resulting in greater farmer prosperity, improved farm ecosystems, increased community health, and vibrant food systems in the Great Lakes region.

Vision:

Michigan farming and agriculture can become a beacon for sustainability within the Great Lakes region. Michigan’s communities are nourished by a robust local food supply chains and supported by farmers committed to regenerative principles and practices. Through innovation, education, and collaboration, MDARD helps cultivate a landscape where farm profitability, environmental stewardship, and community well-being thrive in harmony.

Definition:

Regenerative agriculture is an active approach to land management driven by the goal of improving soil health. Rather than a rigid set of rules, it embraces a blend of sustainable farming methods tailored to each farmer’s needs.

By adopting regenerative agricultural practices, farmers and landowners can be profitable while restoring healthy soils and safeguarding the state’s natural resources for future generations.

MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Unit’s core principles include:

Learning and Maximizing diversity Maintaining living understanding the roots year-round context of a farm

operation

Minimizing soil Keeping soil covered Integrating livestock disturbance and increasing biodiversity

Goal 1: Establish the Regenerative Agriculture Unit, systems, and support

Objective 1: Recruit, hire and onboard staff

• Hire and onboard new staff.

Objective 2: Ensure relevant, accurate, and timely programs• Develop new programs and review annually to make improvements.• Establish an Advisory Council by the end of 2024.