Michigan Department of Agriculture
                          Annual Report
                                
                        Fiscal Year 2003                                
                                
                      Jennifer M. Granholm
                            Governor
                                
                            Dan Wyant
                            Director

                        Table of Contents

MDA Summary of Accomplishments                             2

Michigan Commission of Agriculture                         5

Executive Office                                           6

     Administrative Section                                6

     Office of Communications                              6

     Emergency Management Section                          8

Agriculture Development Division                           9

Animal Industry Division                                  13

Environmental Stewardship Division                        15

Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division                    18

Finance and Administrative Services Division              20

Food and Dairy Division                                   21

Human Resources Division                                  23

Laboratory Division                                       24

Michigan Agricultural Statistics                          29

Office of Racing Commission                               30

Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division              32

MDA Contact Information                                   36

       Snapshot of Michigans Food & Agriculture Industry

 Agriculture in Michigan contributes $37 billion annually to
 the states economy, making it the second-largest industry.
 Our states production agriculture and food processing
 businesses employ about 500,000 Michigan residents.

 Michigan produces over 125 commodities on a commercial basis,
 making the state second only to California in agricultural
 diversity.

 Michigan leads the nation in the production of 11 commodities
 (including tart cherries, blueberries, Niagara grapes,
 cucumbers for processing, geraniums, impatiens, petunias,
 flowering hanging baskets, and three varieties of dry beans)
 and ranks in the top 10 of 30 other commodities.

 Field crops (corn, dry beans, soybeans, sugarbeets, hay,
 wheat) are the largest segment of Michigan agriculture,
 according to production valued at more than $1 billion
 annually. They are followed by the dairy industry, valued at
 more than $800 million annually, and the floriculture and
 nursery industry, at about $580 million annually.

 Michigan exports about one-third of its agricultural
 commodities each year. In 2003, Michigan exported more than
 $842 million of agricultural products. Agriculture exports
 account for approximately one quarter to one third of the
 value of Michigan farm receipts. Michigan ranks 6th and 8th
 nationally in exports of fruits and vegetables, respectively.
 Michigans largest export commodity is soybeans and soy
 products, which was valued at $236 million in 2003.

 Michigan has about 10.1 million acres of farmland, and the
 state is home to 53,300 farms, averaging 189 acres each. There
 has been significant growth in the number of small farms over
 the past few years, as well as large farms. More than 40
 percent of the states total farmland is in some form of
 preservation agreement.

Michigan Department of Agriculture
Summary of Accomplishments

Directors Summary
The Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA), created in 1921,
serves, protects and promotes the food, agricultural,
environmental and economic interests of the people of Michigan.

The department, one of the smaller agencies in state government
with an approximate total budget of $95 million ($31 million of
this from the general fund) and 700 full-time employees, oversees
or administers a diverse array of programs that in some way
impact all of us, every day.  Each division of MDA strives to
reach program goals that reflect the departments main priorities
of:

   Food Safety and Security
   Animal and Plant Health and Protection
   Environmental Stewardship
   A Viable Agriculture Economy
   Consumer Protection
   Homeland Security

These priorities have been aligned to ensure consistency with the
Governors priorities of Education, Economy, Environment, Health
Care and Homeland Security, and the State of Michigan values of
Integrity, Inclusion, Excellence and Teamwork.

In addition to staff located at the downtown Lansing office, MDA
maintains seven regional offices and two laboratories. MDAs
field staff plays an important role in helping MDA meet its
mission through service to the citizens of Michigan.  Located
throughout the state, local experts are available to offer
assistance to industry, residents and consumers quickly and
efficiently.  In most cases, problems are solved at a regional
level, allowing businesses to continue serving their customers
effectively in accordance with state laws and regulations. MDA
has also established an office in Atlanta to address bovine
tuberculosis in Northeast Michigan; and four Emerald Ash Borer
offices, in Brighton, DeWitt, Almont and Tecumseh, to effectively
respond to this exotic pest devastating Michigans ash resources.

MDA employees are proud to serve the citizens of Michigan and
equally proud of the role they play in assuring the safety,
economic viability and environmental stewardship of Michigans
food and agriculture industry.  This report highlights MDAs key
achievements during Fiscal Year 2003 (October 1, 2002 through
September 30, 2003).

The department successfully implemented and enhanced programs to
protect and preserve Michigans food and agriculture industry and
our states natural resources.  During FY 2003, MDA:

   Spearheaded Michigans first Food Security Summit of 120
     partners representing 63 organizations from the food,
     agriculture, public health and emergency response sectors,
     to discuss how to best protect Michigans food and
     agricultural infrastructure from farm to fork. Five work
     groups were formed centering on the issues of inputs,
     production, processing, distribution/transportation and
     retail.  The strategies developed at the summit were
     incorporated into a final draft and submitted to the
     Michigan Homeland Protection Board for review and inclusion
     in the states overall Homeland Security strategy.
     
   Responded to the 2003 Blackout, which began on August 14,
     2003 and lasted three days in parts of Michigan. To ensure
     the safety of the food supply, 40 MDA inspectors visited
     1,532 food establishments, responded to 100 consumer
     complaints regarding food safety and quality, and seized a
     total of 394,000 pounds of food, valued at $734,600.
     Because the blackout affected the electric pumps at gasoline
     stations, inspectors also helped ensure a steady,
     unadulterated supply of gasoline at stations surrounding the
     blackout area.  The blackout also affected the Michigan
     State Fair, which was scheduled to open August 15.  MDA
     inspectors assured that fresh water was available at the
     fair for livestock and attendees, and that food safety
     standards were followed by the fairs food vendors.
     
   Secured and utilized federal funds for fighting Emerald Ash
     Borer in Michigan, to: help create the necessary
     infrastructure to handle response efforts; implement a large-
     scale survey effort to pinpoint the area of infestation;
     enforce the quarantine to prevent artificial spread of EAB;
     provide sanitation and disposal options; initiate research
     into the pests biology to identify possible control
     options; and ensure community and homeowner outreach and
     awareness.
     
   Worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop a
     proposed rule for bovine TB split state status for Michigan;
     conducted bovine TB animal tests, livestock movement
     investigations and surveillance activities; and conducted
     compliance activities at privately owned cervid operations
     in Michigan.  The states Electronic Identification Program
     was also expanded to 12 counties affected by bovine TB, in
     an effort to track movement of livestock through saleyards
     and slaughter facilities.
     
   Co-hosted Agricultures Conference on the Environment (ACE),
     as part of the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance
     Program (MAEAP).  MAEAP partners include the Michigan
     Department of Environmental Quality, Michigan Farm Bureau,
     Michigan State University, commodity organizations and
     federal and local units of government.  About 650 people
     attended the conference, which featured workshops, general
     sessions and a trade show focused on ensuring environmental
     stewardship on the farm and preventing agriculture-related
     pollution.
     
   Verified 17 livestock farms and three crop farms in the
     MAEAP program, an innovative initiative to help prevent or
     minimize agriculture-related pollution. Participating
     producers are recognized for their use of effective
     stewardship practices that comply with state and federal
     environmental laws and standards. MAEAP provides proactive,
     comprehensive education, on-farm technical assistance,
     environmental risk assessments, and action plans that are
     site and farm specific.
     
   Participated in the Governors Michigan Land Use Leadership
     Council as one of the six non-voting members from state
     departments that added to the Councils 26-member body.
     Represented food and agriculture interests by providing
     recommendations to the Governor and the Legislature designed
     to minimize the negative economic, environmental, and social
     impacts of current land use trends; promote urban
     revitalization and reinvestment; foster intergovernmental
     and public-private land use partnerships; identify new
     growth and development opportunities; protect Michigans
     natural resources, including farmland and open space; and
     better manage the cost of public investments in
     infrastructure to support growth.
     
   Opened Michigans sixteenth Clean Sweep site, located
     in Ingham County -- the first site in mid-Michigan.  The
     Clean Sweep program ensures safe and proper disposal of
     outdated, unused, unwanted, and potentially harmful
     pesticides; protects groundwater; and ensures safer
     farmsteads and households.
     
   Launched an enhanced  "Select a Taste of Michigan" program
     with the Governor to promote Michigan grown and processed
     foods and connect local farmers with local retailers.  A
     pilot promotion was held in West Michigan, with 68 retail
     stores and 152 growers participating in the 2003 campaign.
     Initial results are tremendous: a Michigan asparagus
     promotion increased product sales in Grand Rapids by 65
     percent, and a Michigan blueberry promotion helped the
     industry obtain new distribution in 85 retail grocery
     stores.
     
   Worked with MSU and industry partners to obtain nearly $1
     million in federal funds for a Product Center for
     Agriculture and Natural Resources at MSU.  MSU was selected
     to house the new agriculture innovation center based on the
     strong partnerships that demonstrated a track record of
     achieving value-added agriculture successes, experienced
     personnel, a strong work plan and a commitment to measuring
     performance of value-added activities.  The center will
     provide technical and business development assistance to
     increase and improve the ability of Michigans agriculture
     producers to develop markets and processes for value-added
     Michigan-grown commodities and products.
     
   Launched a new web page to protect gasoline purchasers in
     Michigan. Through Executive Directive 2003-6, the Governor
     charged MDA and the Michigan Public Service Commission with
     tracking gasoline prices to help ensure Michigan families
     pay a fair price for gasoline.  Since the April 2003 debut
     of the new page -- www.michigan.gov/gasprices the page has
     received nearly one million hits.  Hundreds of -- complaints
     regarding potential gasoline price gouging have been filed
     and investigated via this site and the departments toll-
     free hotline for follow-up on gasoline quantity and quality
     concerns.
     
   Strived to be good community partners and maintain a
     positive organizational culture through special employee
     activities and programs that also tie to the Governors
     Visions and Values.  MDA established the "A-Team," our
     Agriculture team, to increase internal communication and
     promote teamwork. Department employees raised funds for the
     Michigan Harvest Gathering, Livestock Youth Scholarship
     Funds at the Michigan State Fair and U.P. State Fair, and
     the State Employees Combined Campaign.  Staff also raised
     funds and coordinated agriculture-related activities for
     students at Walnut Street School in Lansing, a school MDA
     employees adopted almost 10 years ago.  Walnut activities
     include field trips, mentoring, classroom reading days,
     providing turkeys for a Thanksgiving celebration, and
     hosting school families in need as part of Operation Santa
     during the holidays.
     
   Implemented department-wide administrative efficiencies and
     cost reduction measures in response to budget reductions.
     This included reducing state service contracts by nearly
     $20,000; terminating 66 cellular phone contracts at a
     $16,000 savings; restricting out of state travel, saving
     nearly $56,000 from the previous year; obtaining nearly
     $23,000 in savings due to mailing efficiencies; and reducing
     procurement card purchases by over $20,000.  Total FY03
     savings for the department equaled $135,000.
     
   Initiated a reorganization process to align the services
     offered by the department with available resources to meet
     the needs of industry and the citizens of Michigan.  As part
     of this reorganization effort, the former Marketing and
     Communications Division was divided, with program areas
     moved to three existing divisions: communications and
     emergency management responsibilities were moved to the
     Executive Office; marketing responsibilities, including
     those of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council, were
     blended with existing marketing programs in the Agriculture
     Development Division; and the Producer Securities program
     and Agricultural Marketing and Bargaining Board were
     transferred to the Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division.
     

Michigan Commission of Agriculture

Nora M. Viau, Chair
(517) 373-1052

Members of the Michigan Commission of Agriculture are appointed
by the Governor to establish policies and provide administrative
direction for the Michigan Department of Agriculture. The five
Commission members are appointed for four-year terms, with
confirmation by the Michigan Senate. The Commission holds
meetings that are open to the public for attendance and comment.
Approximately half of the meetings are held in Lansing, with the
others held throughout the state.

Commissioner Nora M. Viau, Escanaba, chaired the Commission in
2003.  Commissioner William Pridgeon, of Montgomery, served as
vice-chair and Commissioner James Maitland, of Williamsburg,
served as secretary.  Doug Darling, of Maybee, continued service
on the Commission.  In February 2003, Governor Granholm appointed
James Byrum, of Onondaga, to complete the term left open with the
untimely passing away of  Commissioner Jordan B. Tatter.

The Michigan Commission of  Agriculture met monthly in 2003 with
the exception of May, August, October and December.  Commission
meetings were held in Grand Rapids (January), and East Lansing
(March and July), with remaining meetings held in Lansing.  The
Commission met in conjunction with Agriculture and Natural
Resources Week at MSU, Ag Expo at MSU, and the Michigan
Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (MAFE) Annual Convention.

Prominent issues during 2003 were Emerald Ash Borer, Bovine TB,
Generally Accepted Agricultural Management Practices (GAAMPs),
Right to Farm issues, West Nile virus, Chronic Wasting Disease
and the widespread power outage (blackout) in August.

Commission staff prepared meeting notices, agendas, minutes and
directors reports for each meeting.  The Commission conducted
all meetings and other activities within its FY03 budget of
$19,500.

Executive Office

Dan Wyant, Director
(517) 373-1052

MDAs Executive Office oversees the administrative and policy
issues of the department, provides internal and external
communications services, and coordinates communications and
response activities for state agricultural and homeland security
emergencies.  The Executive Office consists of the director,
deputy director, director of agricultural policy, legislative
liaison, public information officer, media support,
communications and emergency management staff, and administrative
support staff.

Administrative Section

MDA Director Dan Wyant is the chief executive officer of the
agency. The director was appointed by the Michigan Commission of
Agriculture in October of 1996, and works with them on policy
issues. The director also is a member of Governor Jennifer
Granholms Cabinet.   During FY 2003, Wyant also represented
Michigan on the National Fruit and Vegetable Advisory Committee,
and served on the Governors Land Use Leadership Council and
Chronic Wasting Disease Task Force.  The director also serves as
chair of the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council and holds a
seat on the Michigan State Fair Advisory Board.

MDAs deputy director, Keith Creagh, manages the day-to-day
operations of the department, working closely with all the
division directors and key program staff to oversee the functions
of MDA.

The director of agriculture policy, Christine White, works with
the director and other key personnel to review, revise and
propose department programs and policies, and also serves as the
key contact for federal issues and congressional contacts.

The legislative liaison, Brad Deacon, is MDAs link to the
Michigan Legislature and the Michigan Office of Regulatory
Reform. The liaison assists the Legislature in assessing and
preparing legislation connected with agriculture. In 2003, the
Legislature passed, and Governor Jennifer Granholm signed, a
major piece of legislation, creating a grain insurance fund to
help protect producers in the event of a business failure. Other
legislation enacted in 2003 included initial steps on groundwater
withdrawal, regulation of genetically engineered aquatic species,
labeling requirements for ethanol, and increased regulation of
anhydrous ammonia.

Office of Communications
Sara Linsmeier-Wurfel, Director

The Office of Communications (OC) is responsible for media
relations, public information and internal and external
communications for the director and the department. The public
information officer (PIO) serves as director of this office and
MDAs spokesperson. During 2003, the PIO issued 90 press
releases, and made over 2,500 contacts with media resulting in
extensive state and national exposure for the activities and
programs of MDA.

OC staff works on a wide range of communication activities to
create and maintain a public identity for MDA, including:
creating key communication pieces; planning media and special
events; directing critical communication tools at Constitution
Hall, including a public meeting notice board, electronic "smart
board" computer systems in conference rooms, and a satellite TV
system critical for effectively handling public emergencies; and
researching video conferencing and providing audio/visual
assistance to other divisions, as needed.  During FY 2003, OC:

   Served as liaison with the Governors Communications Office
     as well as PIOs in other state government agencies, and
     served on numerous joint communications committees with
     federal, state and local agencies as well as university,
     industry and other stakeholder groups on food, agriculture,
     public health and conservation issues and programs.
     
   Developed and implemented various crisis/urgent
     communications plans and corresponding activities for a
     variety of the issues that the Department addressed
     throughout the year, including the blackout of August,
     Bovine Spongiform Encepalopathy, Emerald Ash Borer and West
     Nile virus.
     
   Spearheaded message and information development for a
     variety of Department issues, programs and activities.
     
   Created communications tools to combat the spread of Emerald
     Ash Borer, including brochures, door hangers and posters;
     worker safety vests and hats for identification; banners and
     educational displays; and press releases and advisories.
     Served on the EAB Communications Committee, working with
     partners to develop a coordinated and effective
     communication strategy for the EAB eradication effort.
     Coordinated media events, took photos and wrote web articles
     about key components of the response effort, including
     firewood blitzes, survey activities, establishment of
     marshaling yards, tree removal projects, and quarantine
     issuances and expansions.
     
   Expanded the departments Internet site to provide cost-
     effective, easily updated information.  Many publications
     were distributed electronically via the Internet, saving
     printing and distribution costs and time.  The home page of
     the MDA web site was accessed nearly14,000 times per month.
     
   Enhanced and maintained the departments Intranet site that
     shares important and interesting internal information with
     MDA staff.
     
   Served as liaisons to MDA divisions, and researched and
     advised divisions on how to meet division and department
     communication needs.
     
   Provided writing, editing and design services to divisions
     for booklets, brochures and newsletters.  Topics included:
     Emerald Ash Borer, Chronic Wasting Disease, bovine TB, West
     Nile virus, Right to Farm, Generally Accepted Agriculture
     and Management Practices, biosecurity, human health and food
     safety, groundwater protection, thoroughbred racing, fiscal
     stewardship, venison processing, analytical service testing
     fees, market development, and more.
     
   Provided graphic arts services for all divisions, including
     development and production of logos, ceremonial checks,
     original art for displays at the Michigan State Fair,
     certificates, banners, maps, pie charts, Power Point
     presentations, advertisements, posters, pictorial displays
     and more.
     
   Created a new, magazine-style web portal intended to
     showcase the many ways in which the department enriches the
     lives of the people of Michigan. The "Agriculture Every Day"
     site, officially launched in January 2003, featured new
     content each month, including information for the media,
     general public, teachers and children.
     
   Created and implemented the "A-Team" and events to improve
     internal communications and facilitate employee interaction.
     A-Team events included a kick-off rally, an employee
     appreciation and recognition breakfast, and a chili cook-
     off.  Internal communication activities included development
     of an A-Team logo to identify internal communications
     efforts; implementation of "On the Same Page" on the MDA
     Web, which included weekly media contact summaries,
     legislative updates, transition information, and hot topics
     of interest to employees; coordination of "Coffee with the
     Director" opportunities for employees to meet one-on-one or
     as a division/region with the director; and implementation
     of an "Ask the Director" section of the MDA Web for
     employees to raise questions and concerns or get direct
     feedback on questions about department activities.
     
   Coordinated employee activities as part of MDAs Employee
     Recognition/Awards Ceremony, Special Events Committee
     events, and the Governors Visions and Values Roll Out.
     
   Coordinated the 2003 State Employee Michigan Harvest
     Gathering fundraiser for the Food Bank Council of Michigan.
     
   Partnered with Walnut Street School in Lansing to help
     connected with urban kids with their food and agriculture
     roots.  MDA employees adopted Walnut Street School nearly 10
     years ago, and have hosted field trips to farms and horse
     shows, served as mentors and guest classroom readers,
     provided computer equipment and books for the school,
     sponsored Thanksgiving meals at the school, and sponsored
     school families in need as part of Operation Santa during
     the holidays.
     
Emergency Management Section
Bob Tarrant, Manager

The Emergency Management section coordinates MDAs response to
serious incidents involving disasters or threats to food or
animal safety and/or agricultural economic viability, emergency
management and emergency response capabilities.  During FY 2003,
the section:

   Coordinated MDAs response to serious incidents involving
     disasters or threats to food or animal safety and/or
     agricultural economic viability. Of these incidents, six
     disaster requests were submitted to the Secretary of USDA.
     
   Coordinated participation of department emergency management
     staff in two drills and one exercise for the DC Cook Nuclear
     Power Plant in June and July.
     
   Developed continuous in-house emergency management training
     and exercising throughout the department.   About one-fourth
     of MDA staff participated in some level of Incident Command
     System Training.  Emergency Management staff coordinated
     approximately one exercise per month during FY 2003,
     including orientations, drills and table top exercises.
     
   Helped implement new department initiatives on Homeland
     Security, including establishment of protocols for emergency
     response based on the threat level, and representation on
     Homeland Security boards and committees.
     
   Coordinated continued development of MDAs emergency
     response capabilities to meet the challenges posed by
     threats to Homeland Security.  Represented the department on
     the Michigan Homeland Security Task Force, and chaired the
     Agriculture and Food Supply Subcommittee of the Critical
     Infrastructure Protection Committee.
     
   Participated in the State Homeland Security Assessment
     process on both the local and state levels.
     
   Represented MDA on the Michigan Hazard Mitigation
     Coordinating Council, participating on the Planning
     Committee, and the Michigan Emergency Planning and Community
     Right to Know Commission.
     
     
Agriculture Development Division

Robert Craig, Director
(517)  241-2178

The Agriculture Development Division (AgD) serves as a catalyst
in expanding value-added agriculture initiatives and marketing
efforts to attract, expand or retain food processing and
agriculture support businesses in Michigan.  Other AgD priorities
include: the development of new or enhanced domestic and
international markets for Michigan food and agricultural
products; strengthening profitability for Michigans family
farms; and enhancing opportunities for the states food and
agriculture industry.  FY 2003 accomplishments, by program areas,
included the following:

   Supported the development of the Michigan State University
     Product Center for Agriculture and Natural Resources to
     improve economic opportunities in the Michigan agriculture,
     food and natural resources sectors. The Product Center will
     deliver technical, marketing and business services to
     farmers, farm associations, agri-businesses, food processing
     firms, natural resources-based firms and entrepreneurs to
     develop new products, services and businesses. The Product
     Center received a $1 million federal grant in September 2003
     to further bolster the contributions that MSU and other
     partners of production agriculture had invested in the
     Center. AgD staff members were trained as part of a
     value-added agricultural and natural resources innovation
     counseling network.
     
   Promoted the nine existing Agricultural Processing
     Renaissance Zones (APRZs) to firms both in and outside of
     Michigan. Supported new legislation to expand the number of
     APRZs available to 20, along with eliminating the sunset
     provision in the original legislation.
     
   Celebrated the expansion of two APRZ projects:
     
       * Zeeland Farm Services opened a new $5 million soybean
          oil refinery and bleaching plant in Zeeland, which
          generated 30 new jobs and retained 35 others.  ZFS now
          produces food-grade soybean cooking oil, called "Select
          Oil."  Future plans could include converting refined
          soybean oil into finished biodiesel fuel with a new
          biodiesel manufacturing facility.
          
       * Graceland Fruit Co-op announced the $21 million
          expansion of their value-added fruit and vegetable
          processing facilities in Frankfort, MI. The expansion
          is projected to create 45 new jobs by December 31,
          2007, and at least 75 new jobs by 2017.
          
   Supported legislation that provides tax incentives for the
     manufacturing and blending of biodiesel fuel, along with
     labeling of ethanol blends at service station gasoline pumps
     that is consistent with national label standards.
     
   Provided digital pictures and other vital information on
     vacant food processing sites in Michigan, available through
     MISiteNet, to share with prospective out-of-state food
     processing companies, farmer-owned processing co-ops and
     others that want to get started quickly in the food business
     in Michigan.
     
   Celebrated the opening of two new dairy processing
     facilities in Michigan that renovated vacant food industry
     sites:
     
       * A new cheese plant was developed in Croswell by
          renovating a former pickle processing plant.
          
       * A new milk bottling facility opened in Battle Creek at
          a former Kellogg Co. research laboratory facility that
          they expanded and modernized. The plant, operated by
          Prairie Farms Dairy, an 800-member dairy cooperative in
          Carlinville, IL, will begin bottling a fluid line of
          skim to whole milk and chocolate milk in 2004.
          
   Provided $100,000 through the MDA International Market
     Development Grant Program to 11 Michigan food and
     agricultural organizations. These proposals have the
     potential to leverage nearly $326,000, or more than a 3-to-1
     basis, in federal and private resources to develop or
     enhance overseas markets.
     
   Leveraged $90,000 in federal funds to promote Midwestern
     wines in Europe through Mid-America International Trade
     Council (MIATCO). Michigan wineries participated in
     promotional activities in Dusseldorf, Germany and London,
     England.
     
   Coordinated the promotion of processed apple, blueberry, cherry
     and cranberry (ABCC) products targeting the Mexican baking
     industry. Three Michigan companies have obtained at least one
     distributor and made more than 20 new buyer contacts in Mexico.
     Michigan companies estimate an increase in sales of $55,000 of
     the fruits over the next year.  Approximately $24,000 in sales was
     made directly at the trade show.

   Participated in an ABCC pavilion at ABASTUR, a hotel and
     restaurant show, which showcased the many ABCC products
     available from the U.S.  Three seminars were also held in
     Monterrey, Guadalajara and Cancun. These seminars trained Mexican chefs
     on the use of the ABCC products.
     
   Participated in the National Association of Convenience
     Stores (NACS) Buyers Mission, providing Michigan companies
     with the opportunity to meet convenience store buyers from
     South Korea and Mexico.  Michigan companies estimated an
     increase in export sales of $1 million in the next year.
     
   Assisted 26 Michigan firms in applying and qualifying for
     more than $209,500 in federal funds to reimburse their
     export development costs. Through its MIATCO membership, MDA
     enables Michigan food producers and processors to receive
     reimbursements of up to 44 percent of their export market
     development costs in the USDA Branded Market Access Program.
     
   Coordinated participation of 10 Michigan firms in the
     Michigan pavilion at the Food Marketing Institute/U.S. Food
     Export Showcase in Chicago, the largest grocery store trade
     show in the world.
     
   Provided technical assistance and market research to the
     Michigan Apple Committee (MAC) and the apple industry in
     efforts to open the Mexican market for Michigan fresh apple
     exports since adoption of the North American Free Trade
     Agreement (NAFTA). The division also encouraged
     representatives of a dozen Michigan apple shippers and the
     Michigan Apple Committee to work together and form the Great
     Lakes Fruit Exporters Association, an export trading
     company, which will allow them to negotiate international
     trade terms with the Mexican government without violating
     U.S. commercial anti-trust laws.
     
   Expanded the Select Michigan program and obtained USDA
     funding for the Select Michigan Foods: "Select a Taste of
     Michigan" Local and Organic Foods Program, a partnership
     among MDA, Cooperative Development Services, Michigan
     Integrated Food & Farming Systems (MIFFS), and many local
     partners. Select Michigan works to promote Michigan grown
     and processed foods and to connect local partners and
     retailers.
     
   Worked with MIFFS to develop field educational campaigns to
     promote Michigan-produced locally and organically grown
     products to Michigan consumers and retailers. Growers were
     recruited from across the state to produce product for
     partnering retailers.
     
   With the assistance of Governor Granholm, launched a pilot
     Select a Taste of Michigan advertising and marketing
     campaign in the Grand Rapids area. More than 30,000
     consumers sampled Michigan products in 137 food
     demonstrations. Michigan products were featured in 300 in-
     store point-of-purchase displays. Preliminary sales data
     indicate that the Select a Taste of Michigan promotions
     increased sales of featured Michigan products by an average
     of 111 percent over the previous years sales period. New
     distribution channels were also opened for several
     producers.
     
   Sponsored promotional events in Northville, Grand Rapids,
     Suttons Bay, Rochester, Howell, Brighton, Okemos and
     Ludington as part of the "Take Home a Taste of Michigan"
     marketing program. More than 100 specialty food processors
     participated in the events.  Featured Michigan products
     included jams, jellies, honey, gourmet coffee, pastries, ice
     cream, cheese, pickles, baking mixes, salsa and maple
     products. USDA Federal State Market Improvement Program
     funds helped offset the costs for exhibitors.
     
   Implemented activities of the Michigan Grape & Wine Industry
     Council (MGWIC), a 10-member council established by the
     Legislature to promote Michigans wine and wine grape-
     growing industries.  Due in great part to the research and
     promotional activities of the council, new wineries are
     starting up in Michigan every year; wine grape acreage
     continues to grow; sales of Michigan wines are increasing;
     and Michigan is gaining more national and international
     attention as a world-class wine region. The economic impact
     of the industry is more than $75 million, with $17 million
     of this attributed to secondary benefits of winery tourism.
     
   Assisted the MGWIC in a broad-based strategic planning
     activity to establish future direction for the councils
     work to stimulate this rapidly evolving industry.
     
   Facilitated five council meetings and several committee
     meetings to plan effective programs in the areas of
     promotion, research and education and to meet the long-term
     needs of the industry.
     
   Hosted a 10-day visit by internationally respected wine
     writer Tom Stevenson, who wrote a complimentary article in
     Decanter magazine upon his return to London, and hosted a
     tasting of Michigan wines for other European wine writers in
     January.
     
   Attended 95 percent of regular, special and annual meetings
     for Michigans 15 legislatively established commodity
     groups, and worked with the Assistant Attorney General to
     review proposed programs, statutory issues, and unpaid or
     unremitted assessment funds. Staff also assisted several
     commodity groups in implementing program changes outlined in
     Public Act 232 of 1965, as amended, the Agricultural
     Commodities Marketing Act.
     
   Received preliminary results from a producer survey of more
     than 300 Michigan agritourism entities, in cooperation with
     a Western Michigan University federal grant, to study the
     economic impact of agricultural tourism in Michigan.
     Collected an additional 1,500 consumer surveys at numerous
     agricultural tourism operations throughout the state.
     
   Administered the Julian-Stille Value-added Agriculture
     Development Grant Program, created by Public Act 322 of
     2000.  The program strengthens Michigan agriculture by
     offering producers, food processors, agri-businesses and
     others the opportunity to leverage public funds with private
     investment to foster value-added agricultural initiatives in
     the specialty crops industry. The division monitored
     progress on 28 projects that were selected in 2002 to
     receive funding totaling $1.14 million and other federal
     specialty crops block grants.
     
   Presented a summary of the early successes of the Julian-
     Stille Value-added Grant Program at the Northwest Michigan
     Farm and Orchard Show as part of their "Bouncing Back!"
     program, sponsored by the Grand Traverse Fruit Council.
     
   Received six Federal State Marketing Improvement Program
     (FSMIP) grant applications from Michigan companies and
     forwarded them to the USDA FSMIP office for a nationwide
     competition for funds. This resulted in $96,615 awarded to
     two state projects involving compost marketing and promoting
     blueberries using food safety benefits.
     

Animal Industry Division

Joan Arnoldi, DVM, Director and State Veterinarian
(517)  373-1077

The Animal Industry Division (AID) safeguards the health and
welfare of livestock and domestic animals in Michigan. The
division monitors animal disease, diseases transmitted to humans
by animals, and food safety hazards to protect the health of
Michigan residents. The division is responsible for administering
reportable animal disease programs and overseeing toxic substance
contamination incidents relating to animal health. AID also
enforces the humane treatment of animals through the licensing
and regulation of animal shelters, pet shops and riding stables.
The state veterinarian administers the division, and supervises
animal disease surveillance and eradication programs throughout
the state.

The division remained very active in animal health programs in FY
2003.  Major progress was made in the Bovine Tuberculosis
Eradication Project as well as in addressing the threat of
Chronic Wasting Disease. Michigans animal health emergency
management planning was also substantially strengthened in FY
2003.  During FY 2003, AID:

   Maintained three zones in the state for the Bovine TB
     Eradication Project.  The three zones were designated
     Disease Free, Surveillance, and Infected.
     
   Conducted 129,464 bovine TB animal tests using MDA, USDA,
     and fee-basis private veterinary practitioners. Five cattle
     herds were found infected with bovine TB in FY 2003, all in
     the known affected area of Northeast Michigan.  As of
     September 30, 2003, 935,756 animals had been tested for
     bovine TB (cumulative number since project inception),
     representing nearly all of the states total herds.
     
   Conducted 28 TB livestock movement investigations and
     imposed $2,146 in fines for illegal movement of animals.
     
   Expanded the Michigan Electronic Identification Program for
     livestock to include Emmet, Charlevoix and Antrim counties.
     This brought the total number of counties in the program to
     12.  Since 2001, nine sale barns have received stationary
     readers, which have read over 30,000 head of cattle.  A
     total of seven livestock packing plants in four states have
     received stationary EID readers with over 7,000 head read by
     the readers.
     
   Conducted surveillance of livestock movement across the
     Mackinac Bridge to enhance the Bovine TB Eradication
     Project.
     
   Worked with USDA to develop a proposed rule for TB split
     state status for Michigan, which was published in the
     federal register in April 2003.
     
   Tested nearly 1,300 privately owned deer and elk for Chronic
     Wasting Disease (CWD).  All tests were negative.
     
   Made compliance visits to 300 cervidae livestock operations
     to enforce compliance with registration of their facilities.
     
   Conducted 20 cervidae movement investigations.  Eleven
     warnings were issued for violations found and nine
     investigations found no violations.
     
   Conducted Incident Command System (ICS) training (level 100)
     for AID and USDA Veterinary Services staff to help ensure
     emergency preparedness.
     
   Outfitted and equipped two trailers with emergency
     preparedness gear and supplies.  The trailers will be
     crucial for the initial response to a large-scale animal
     disease outbreak or other emergency situation.
     
   Tested approximately 200 horses for Equine Infectious Anemia
     (EIA).  Three horses tested positive, which resulted in
     issuance of five quarantines.
     
   Responded to West Nile virus (WNV) cases in 10 equine and
     two canines.
     
   Followed up on three cases of Eastern Equine Encephalitis
     (EEE) in horses.
     
   Followed up on 49 animals diagnosed positive for rabies.
     
   Maintained Pseudorabies Stage V Free Status for Michigan
     swine.
     
   Maintained Brucellosis Certified-Free State Status for
     cattle and swine.
     
Environmental Stewardship Division

Vicki Pontz, Director
(517) 241-0236

The Environmental Stewardship Division (ESD) administers programs
related to environmental protection and agriculture pollution
prevention.  Environmental stewardship activities help ensure
that farming operations protect land and water resources, and
public health.  A summary of FY 2003 program accomplishments
follows:

   Funded 13 Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP)
     technicians through 11 grants.  The technicians delivered
     technical assistance to landowners in the three watersheds
     and 29 counties with funding through non-point source grant
     partnerships with the Michigan Department of Environmental
     Quality (MDEQ).  By the end of FY03, Michigan landowners
     executed 4,052 CREP contracts representing 47,896 acres.
     Landowners enrolled 23,532 acres in Grass Filter Strips, and
     1,723 acres in Riparian Forest Buffers.  These 25,255 acres
     of corridor conservation practices, using an average 100-
     foot width, are reducing agriculturally related sediment,
     phosphorus, and nitrogen loading on over 2,000 miles of
     watercourses (streams, drains, rivers, and lakes), or the
     distance from Saginaw, Michigan to Los Angeles, California.
     Landowners also enrolled 9,768 acres of wetland
     restorations; 712 acres of shallow water area for wildlife;
     7,702 acres of whole field grass plantings (e.g., introduced
     cool season grasses and native warm season grasses); and 892
     acres of field windbreaks.
     
   Reimbursed producers for 100 percent of costs incurred for
     establishing conservation practices that control or exclude
     livestock access to surface waters through the Livestock
     Access Program (LAP), a state-sponsored component of CREP.
     By the end of FY03, the program installed 27 limited access
     livestock crossings, 33 alternative watering sources, 58.3
     miles of exclusionary fencing, and 43 acres of critical area
     treatment grass filter strips.
     
   Continued the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance
     Programs (MAEAP) Livestock System on-farm verification,
     with a total program menu of educational sessions,
     Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP) assistance,
     and the development of farm-specific verification.  Over
     1,800 producers and technical assistance providers have
     attended Phase 1 educational sessions.  Seventeen livestock
     farms have been verified to date.  A MAEAP web site -
     www.maeap.org - was developed.
     
   Continued the MAEAP Farmstead System.  Trained groundwater
     technicians to assist producers in assessing the risk of
     contaminating ground or surface water at the farmstead.
     Developed a farm-specific action plan to address risks
     identified for both livestock and non-livestock operations.
     Verified the first three Farmstead System farms.
     
   Participated in planning Agricultures Conference on the
     Environment (ACE), held in Lansing, with 650 attendees. The
     conference focused on environmental and conservation
     education for farmers and local resource technical
     assistance providers.
     
   Worked one-on-one with over 1,000 farmers through the
     Groundwater Stewardship Program  to identify groundwater
     risks and to develop plans to reduce those risks.
     Technicians implemented a wide variety of groundwater
     stewardship practices, including 544 abandoned well
     closures, 700 emergency plans, 206 spill kits, 449 acres of
     custom pesticide application, 20,331 acres of pre-sidedress
     nitrate testing and 623 acres of integrated pest management.
     
   Recycled 36,900 pounds of properly rinsed pesticide
     containers at  agri-business sites throughout the state,
     through the Michigan Pesticide Container Recycling Program.
     
   Collected, removed, and properly disposed of more than
     156,260 pounds of pesticides and mercury.  The Michigan
     Groundwater Stewardship Program, in cooperation with county
     and local units of government, has established 16 permanent
     Clean Sweep sites throughout the state.
     
   Sampled 215 drinking water wells at no charge to well owners
     through the MDA Groundwater Monitoring program. The program
     continued to focus on sampling wells in areas surrounding
     contaminated wells to help ensure public health. Also
     screened 2,271 wells for atrazine and nitrate contamination
     at no charge to well owners.
     
   Administered grants; facilitated education, training,
     capacity building, and resource assessment; and assisted in
     local strategic planning, the development of annual work
     plans, and annual budget preparations for 83 conservation
     districts.
     
   Inspected and licensed 3,934 individual living units for
     migrant workers with a capacity of 22,731 workers at 847
     locations.  Administrated $285,000 through the migrant labor
     housing construction grant program, resulting in producers
     investing $906,000 in housing construction projects, with
     significant improvements to over 122 living units and the
     establishment of 41 new living units.
     
   Provided education and assistance to encourage the increased
     use of biosolids (nutrient rich by-products of wastewater
     treatment) recycling and application.  Currently, 170
     Michigan waste treatment facilities apply about 85,000 dry
     tons of biosolids on agricultural cropland annually.
     
   Partnered with the Michigan Water Environment Association to
     develop an annual seminar to update industry members on
     information and technology for biosolids land application.
     
   Developed four quarterly newsletters, "Amendments," to
     improve awareness of the Michigan Biosolids Program and land
     application.
     
   Responded to 126 new environmental complaints through the Right to Farm
     complaint response program, which was a decrease in the number of
     complaints from the previous 12-month period.  There were approximately
     162 follow-up inspections conducted, and 26 verification requests for Site
     Selection and Odor Control on new and expanding livestock facilities were received.
  
   Participated in the annual MSU Ag Expo biosolids demonstration plot and display
     tent to provide biosolids information to producers.
     
   Distributed biosolids information packets to all Michigan
     Conservation District offices to provide producers and the
     public updated biosolids information.
     
   Facilitated 31 Intercounty Drain Petition Projects with an
     estimated project cost of  $13.4 million.  A total of
     352,000 acres were served by these projects, affecting 97
     miles of drain.  Utilized $343,000 in Clean Michigan
     Initiative dollars for stream restoration and $261,750 in
     Federal Emergency Management Assistance grant monies for
     flood mitigation.
     
   Responded to 123 drain maintenance requests in 44 different
     counties, improving approximately 800 miles of drains
     serving almost 1,765,000 acres of multiple use watersheds at
     a cost of over $3 million. Eight of the drains are currently
     involved in multipurpose watershed projects, investing over
     $4.4 million in grants funded by the Clean Michigan
     Initiative, Section 319 of the Clean Water Act; the Great
     Lakes Coastal Restoration Grant; the Great Lakes Protection
     Fund; and the Federal Hazard Mitigation Grant.
     
   Processed the renewal of 3,014 farmland and open space
     preservation agreements, securing 241,120 acres from
     development.  A total of 44,000 agreements are protecting
     more than 3.5 million acres in Michigan.  Legislative
     changes improved the incentives for enrollment, resulting in
     an increase from an average of 155 new applications annually
     in the years 1997-2000, to 308 new applicants in 2003.
     
   Permanently protected 186 acres of farmland through the
     purchase of additional farmland development rights easements
     at a cost of $638,000.  Three additional easements were
     donated, protecting an additional 354 acres.  This brings
     the number of acres permanently protected in the state to
     14,740, as of September 30, 2003.
     
   Received $193,900 in 2002-2003 for the Agriculture Energy
     Program.  The Energy Conservation Program receives funding
     from oil overcharge settlements to implement energy
     conservation practices.  This program has been in place at
     various levels since 1987.  Over $138,000 was distributed in
     grants and contracts for programs and projects with an
     energy conservation component.  Efforts from these programs
     and projects combined to save an estimated 0.743 trillion
     Btus.
     
   Administered the Forestry Assistance Program (FAP), which
     provides education and one-on-one technical assistance to
     private landowners and communities regarding local forest
     health issues, through grant monies provided by the Michigan
     Department of Agriculture. Conservation district resource
     professionals made 725 on-site assistance contacts with
     landowners representing 31,000 acres; referred 6,952 acres
     for harvest; facilitated actual timber harvests on 2,400
     acres valued at $750,000; and coordinated 113,000
     reforestation tree plantings on 1,250 acres.
     
   Completed 110 practices to elevate the protection of wells
     on Michigan golf courses, including: sealing abandoned
     wells, physically protecting wellheads from impacts,
     improving grading around wellheads and increasing security.
     
   Completed 371 practices on Michigan golf courses to increase
     the protection of groundwater and surface water from pesticides and
     fertilizers, including: installing mixing and loading pads,
     installing spill kits, developing drift management plans,
     constructing pesticide storage areas, providing secondary
     containment for pesticides, improving record keeping and
     posting practices.
  
  
  
Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division

Barbara Hensinger, Director
(517) 373-9763

The Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing (FER) Division oversees
Michigans state, county and local fairs; county horse racing
programs; and horse racing breeding and owner assistance
programs.  The division also administers grant programs for the
89 fairs and the horse racing industry.  FER staff, during 2003:

   Partnered with the fair and festival industry to present
     workshops to fair and festival management at their
     conventions on subjects such as animal health and ways to
     increase youth and volunteer involvement.
     
   Continued to lead a task force to study water safety issues
     at fairgrounds.  Five studies were completed in 2003. The
     team visited each fair twice, once prior to the fair and
     again during the fair, to evaluate water supply,
     distribution system, cross-connection control, abandoned
     wells, hand washing and drinking water, sewage
     collection/treatment, animal washing, manure management, and
     chemical use/storage.
     
   Worked with the Michigan Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders
     Association to enhance the Youth Horse Racing Program. New
     in 2003, after the conclusion of the four county fair races,
     FER staff coordinated a championship race at Mount Pleasant
     Meadows, a premier pari-mutuel racetrack in Michigan.  More
     than 20 of the 65 youth who participated in 2003 competed at
     the championship race.
     
   Awarded and supervised $120,000 in competitive livestock
     grants to 30 organizations.  The program provides funding to
     increase the development and promotion of adult and youth
     involvement in the animal agriculture industry.
     
   Recommended changes to regulations monitored by FER to
     comply with the changing industry needs.  Regulation 808,
     811, 812, 813, 814, 816, 817, 820 and 823 were each opened
     and restructured.
     
   Worked with the Michigan Youth Livestock Fund to award six
     $1,000 scholarships to youth exhibitors at the Michigan
     State Fair.  The fund also provided $21,000 in educational
     awards to 125 exhibitors.
     
   Completed drug testing on horses at 13 draft horse pulls and
     78 county fair harness races.  Of the 1,427 samples
     collected at races, only six tested positive for illegal
     drugs. Only one of the 60 samples collected at the draft
     horse pulls tested positive for illegal drugs.
     
   Assisted with the Michigan State Fair, which ran from August
     15 through September 1 in 2003.  The fair length was
     extended from previous years, but opened one day late due to
     the widespread blackout that affected electrical service in
     parts of Southeast Michigan, the Eastern U.S. and Canada.  A
     FER staff person served as superintendent of the Agriculture
     Building which houses agricultural entries, exhibits and
     vendors during the fair.
     
   Assisted the MSF superintendents, in conjunction with the
     Animal Industry Division, with animal health checks and
     records and steer DNA sample collection. Performed drug
     screening of champion livestock at both the MSF and the
     UPSF.
     
   Worked with the Youth Livestock Auction committees at the
     Michigan State Fair and U.P. State Fair to coordinate the
     auctions.  MDA staff also contributed to the success of the
     auctions by raising over $4,465 internally, which was used
     to purchase lambs at both
    auctions.  The lambs were donated to the Food  Bank Council
     of Michigan.
  
   Monitored and administered incentives required to present
     successful fairs.  In 2003, 64.3 percent of the total $1.5
     million premiums paid was for competitive exhibits at all
     fairs throughout the state.
  
   Provided oversight for the U.P. State Fair.  FER Division
     Director Barbara Hensinger served as the acting fair manager
     in 2003.  Fair attendance and livestock exhibitors increased
     in 2003.
     

Finance and Administrative Services Division

David Bruce, Director
(517) 373-1100

The Finance and Administrative Services Division (FAS)
administers business processes for the department, including
budget, accounting, auditing, procurement, fiscal stewardship,
resource management, facility management, fleet management,
travel arrangements and mail operations.  During 2003, FAS:

   Completed the first "early/accelerated" year-end book
     closing with fewer experienced staff (after early
     retirements) and with less overtime.
     
   Realigned and retrained Accounting Section staff to support
     Emerald Ash Borer needs with a dedicated staff person.
     
   Started work to bring program divisions into better
     alignment with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
     matching principles, including working toward implementation
     of a rent allocation model.
     
   Increased focus and inputs into the Resource Management Team
     to pursue increased department-wide fiscal stewardship;
     educated customers and partners; and pursued continuous
     quality initiatives.
     
   Continued to improve controls over travel expenditures,
     including fine-tuning post audits (sample size,
     summarization, and communication of results) and began
     implementation of a supervisory review of travel procedure.
     
   Implemented budget cuts and closed with no overdrafts or
     supplementals, including handling the Michigan State Fair
     deficit.
     
   Negotiated statewide contracts for Emerald Ash Borer
     eradication efforts.
     
   Implemented the e-WARS project for time and activity
     reporting.
     
   Initiated department-wide Resource Stewardship Group
     meetings to further the divisions fiscal stewardship
     efforts.
     
   Reduced leased warehouse space by 40 percent.
     
   Complied with the statewide vehicle reduction
     efforts under the Governors Executive Directive.
     
   Facilitated implementation of portions of the
     states LINK Michigan telecommunications
     contract within MDA, to promote efficiencies and
     savings.
     

Food and Dairy Division

Katherine Fedder, Director
(517) 373-1060

The mission of the Food and Dairy Division (FDD) is to protect
public health and ensure a wholesome food supply, while working
to maintain a viable food and dairy industry. To achieve this
end, the division administers food, beverage and dairy laws in
Michigan. To ensure that these laws are enforced, FDD conducts
regular inspections of food and dairy products and facilities.
Inspectors visit and examine restaurants, farms, grocery stores
and other food producing, manufacturing and sales establishments.
FDD also gives support and assistance in order to maintain a
viable food industry. FDD is committed to keeping consumers and
stakeholders informed of recalls, outbreaks and other food and
dairy-related issues. All of its functions support its primary
mission - food safety. In 2003, the Food & Dairy Division
accomplished the following:

   Responded to the biggest blackout ever to hit Michigan, on
     August 14, 2003. Food inspectors were dispatched to the
     affected areas to monitor retail food establishment efforts
     and conduct inspections.  During a six-day period, 40 MDA
     staff visited 25 percent of the more than 6,000 food
     facilities in Southeast Michigan, issuing 117 seizures for
     394,000 pounds of food, valued at approximately $734,600 and
     investigating 100 consumer complaints. FDD also monitored
     the 15 dairy plants (all had back-up power) in the affected
     area. Throughout the crisis, MDA provided consumers and
     retailers with proper food safety information, issued
     updates to newspapers, and radio and TV stations, and posted
     information to the departments and the State of Michigans
     web sites. MDA officials spoke on radio stations throughout
     the affected region to alert consumers and retailers on ways
     to keep food safe.
     
   Conducted 31,005 inspections at food and dairy facilities;
     licensed 29,369 food service establishments and 12,745
     retail food establishments; and conducted over 1,100
     enforcement actions to address food safety violations
     including restaurants and cafeterias.
     
   Provided Foodborne Illness Response STrategy (F.I.R.ST.)
     training throughout the state to improve coordination during
     outbreak responses, to identify outbreaks early, to
     implement control measures promptly, and to prevent human
     illness. In 2003, the National Environmental Health
     Association and the Centers for Disease Control and
     Prevention adopted the F.I.R.ST. program as a national model
     for foodborne illness outbreak response training.
     
   Led a multi-agency initiative to evaluate the safety of
     water supplies at five fairs in Michigan and to identify
     effective risk and reduction practices.
     
   Created and distributed materials to producers and consumers
     including updated regulations on Processing Guidelines for
     Venison. Created on-going materials and education for food
     safety including numerous articles in newspapers, as well as
     extensive radio and TV.
     
   Spearheaded the first Food Security Summit with food,
     agriculture, public health and emergency response partners,
     to discuss how to best protect Michigans food and
     agricultural infrastructure. Five work groups were formed
     centering on the issues of inputs, production, processing,
     distribution/transportation and retail.  Incorporated
     strategies into a final draft to be reviewed by the Michigan
     Homeland Protection Board.
     
   Played a leadership role in emergency preparedness events
     with Michigan food industry associations, governmental
     agencies, and others representing law enforcement, public
     health, outbreak investigation, food regulation, emergency
     management, health care, and public communication/media
     relations.
     
   Partnered with the Michigan Department of Community Health
     to conduct a one-year pilot project testing the feasibility
     of using the Michigan Health Alert Network (MIHAN). By this
     mechanism, partners can send and receive notification of
     potential and actual emergency or priority situations. They
     can share detailed emergency-related information via the
     MIHAN web portal.
     
   Inspected 23,046 food concession stands at county and state
     fairs.
     
   Provided oversight for: 96,095 inspections of 46,356
     licensed food service establishments conducted by local
     health departments; the review of 2,076 plans; and the
     investigation of 5,274 non-illness and foodborne illness
     complaints.
     
   Provided training and consultation for local health
     departments and industry representatives who investigate
     foodborne illness outbreaks, on how to promptly implement
     control measures and identify steps to prevent similar
     outbreaks in the future.
     
   Collaborated with state and local public health offices,
    affected food industries, and federal law enforcement
     agencies concerning meat intentionally contaminated with a
     pesticide containing nicotine.  The incident led to the
     recall of approximately 1,700 pounds of ground beef.
     
   Shared information on 77 recalls with food inspectors, local
     health staff and the general public.
     
   Provided consultation to the food industry, regulators and
     law enforcement officials during foodborne illness
     outbreaks, unintentionally caused or due to deliberate
     contamination, food recalls, and other food-related events.
     
   Conducted 7,959 dairy farm inspections and worked with dairy
     processors to provide safe, wholesome dairy products to
     consumers.
     
   Licensed two new dairy plants in Battle Creek and Croswell.
     
   Conducted electrical safety checks on over 30 percent of
     Michigans dairy farms during routine farm visits during
     August and September, 2003.
     
Human Resources Division

Robert Kaczorowski, Director
(517) 373-1057

The Human Resources Division (HR) supports department personnel
in a variety of program areas.  The division is responsible for
the selection, hiring and compensation of department employees,
as well as the administration of employee benefits, position
classification, labor relations and training.  HR oversees
programs that ensure equal employment and equitable
representation of groups within the departments work force.
Programs include:  recruitment, student programs, career
seminars, reasonable accommodation coordination, sexual
harassment complaint investigations, health and safety
coordination, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA).  During FY 2003, HR:

   Collaborated with the Michigan Department of Civil Service
     to identify appropriate routine human resource activities
     for centralization in the Human Resources Service Center,
     and to review and develop business processes for the service
     center.  This program is jointly sponsored by the Executive
     Office; the Michigan Departments of Civil Service,
     Management and Budget, and Information Technology; and the
     Office of the State Employer, as a part of the Human
     Resources Optimization Project.
     
   Coordinated, with the Pesticide and Plant Pest Management
     Division, the development and staffing of the Emerald Ash
     Borer Incident Response Project.
     
   Coordinated and processed the hiring of 253 employees
     throughout the year.  This included 101 full time employees;
     42 non-career employees, such as students and
     fruit/vegetable inspectors; and 110 special personal service
     contractual employees in State Fair operations, conservation
     services, and horse racing operations.
     
   Continued to expand the implementation of the web-based
     Employee Self-Service feature of the Human Resource
     Management Network.
     
   Coordinated and conducted numerous training programs
     throughout the year.  These included training in the areas
     of discriminatory harassment, workplace violence,
     performance management, targeted selection, and supervisory
     training.
     
   Collaborated with the department coaching and mentoring
     subcommittee to develop and launch the MDA Coaching and
     Mentoring program.
     
   Coordinated an annual Employee Recognition Ceremony to honor
     staff for their commitment to state government.  Employees
     were recognized for years of service, promotions and special
     achievements.  Awards included the Commission Awards for
     Excellence and Employee of the Year.
     

Laboratory Division

Steve Reh, Director
(517) 337-5040

The Laboratory Division performs scientific and analytical
services that support MDA programs.  The laboratory also performs
tests and offers technical consultation services for other state
and federal agencies, as well as fee-based services to Michigan
industry and private citizens.

The Laboratory Division consists of two world-class facilities:
the William C. Geagley Laboratory in East Lansing, and the E.C.
Heffron Metrology Laboratory in Williamston.

The Geagley Laboratory performs more than 300 different
biological, chemical and physical tests on a routine basis.  The
laboratory examines food samples, beverages, pesticides, seeds,
fertilizers and animal feeds to ensure a safe food supply, verify
labels, ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and
to guarantee product quality.  The Geagley Laboratory also
monitors food and animal feed for contaminants, tests blood and
urine from competing race horses for performance enhancing drugs
and tests livestock samples in order to prevent the spread of
infectious diseases.

The E. C. Heffron Metrology Laboratory renders ultra-precise
mass, volume and length calibration certification for Michigan
businesses, and houses the consumer protection programs for
Weights and Measures and Motor Fuels Quality.  The Metrology
Laboratory also conducts regulatory services; calibrating
standards used for enforcement by the Michigan Treasury and
Agriculture departments, Michigan State Police, and all county
road commissions.  The tests and analyses conducted by the lab
assure that weights and measures in Michigan comply with national
standards, making items eligible for international trade, and
preventing economic fraud and deception.  Division
accomplishments for FY 2003 included:

   Completed a Laboratory Division Strategic Plan that
     identified five primary goals and numerous strategies for
     the division to accomplish in the next two years.  Held a
     division wide meeting to present the Strategic Plan and
     discuss other issues such as budget, accreditation, safety
     and MDA program updates.
     
   Selected an off-the-shelf, web-based Laboratory Information
     Management System (LIMS) and began configuration work to
     implement the new LIMS in the Geagley Laboratory to provide
     future data handling requirements.
     
   Provided coaching and mentoring training for all division
     managers.
     
   Completed renovation of the greenhouse facility providing
     new glass panels, louvers and automatic environmental
     controls.
     
   Implemented or enhanced several internal administrative
     practices to help ensure smooth division operations,
     including:
     
    1.   Successfully completed the first management review of
     the Administrative Section in September, 2003; no
     corrective actions were identified.
  
    2.   Wrote a division purchasing Standard Operating
     Procedure, which was approved by the Management
     Team, to meet ISO 17025 standards.
  
    3.   Conducted a financial audit under the provisions of the
     Single Audit Act in February, 2003, and
     implemented corrective action plans to address the findings.
  
    4.   Developed a new format for time and activity recording
     that distributes staff time,  including leave times, to
     federal indexes and meets federal accounting
     requirements.
  
    5.   Provided administrative support assistance to implement
     the divisions strategic plan which includes
     eWARS, Cyberlab and ISO 17025 accreditation.
  
    6.   Completed a review of standard supplies procedures and
     made changes to more accurately and uniformly
     distribute costs and provide substantial cost savings due to
     bulk ordering of items.
     
   Tested nearly 170,000 samples for Brucellosis, Equine
     Infectious Anemia, Pseudorabies, Johnes,
     Anaplasmosis and Bluetongue.  Approximately 54,000 of
     these were service samples.  Performed confirmation testing,
     in cooperation with the federal government, of Pseudorabies
     samples from the State of Alabama.  Added a
     microbiologist to assist with tick tests for Rocky Mountain
     Spotted Fever and any unusual or developmental work
     in the laboratory.
     
   Initiated participation in a Johnes disease demonstration
     project, as part of a cooperative agreement with MSU and
     MDAs Animal Industry Division. The lab expects to receive
     and test approximately 4,000 of these samples during the
     project, which is ongoing.
     
   Celebrated the Animal Disease Surveillance sections
     successful completion of all annual federal proficiency and
     check test samples.
     
   Performed over 150,000 tests on approximately 23,000 samples
     in the Equine Drug Testing (EDT) laboratory. Over 14,000 of
     these samples were submitted for Total Carbon Dioxide (TCO2)
     testing only.  The TC02 testing program has been operating
     since 1998 and over this past year, only one positive sample
     was found, indicating the program continues to have the
     desired effect on controlling abuses related to
     "milkshaking" in race horses.
     
   In cooperation with Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division,
     EDT performed drug testing on approximately 1,500 harness
     horses racing at fairs and exhibitions throughout Michigan
     during the summer months.
     
   Participated in the "split-testing program", which offers
     confirmatory testing of samples that have been called
     "positive" in other states.
     
   Offered testing of animals at various livestock shows
     throughout Michigan and surrounding states to help ensure
     integrity in livestock competitions.  This program has grown
     due to outreach efforts by the division at the annual
     Livestock Fair Shows Education Conference.
     
   Received and forwarded 18 samples to the FDA for mycotoxin
     or pesticide testing as part of a partnership agreement.
     
   Contracted with FDA to determine the suitability and
     performance of a rapid test kit for the detection of
     ruminant protein in animal feed and meat and bone meal.
     
   Received and tested forage samples for aflatoxin as part of
     a trace back investigation for a contaminated load of milk.
     
   Trained staff on microwave digestion equipment to speed up
     sample preparation for nutrient and metals analysis.
     Obtained updated chromatography software to facilitate
     increased drug residue testing in animal feeds.
     
   Continued progress toward full accreditation to the ISO
     17025 standard for laboratory testing.
     
   Ensured accurate, timely sample test results were returned
     to customers through the data-related services of the
     laboratorys Information Services Group.  In 2003, ISG
     provided: one-day turn-around support for 54,000 fee-
     generating samples for the Animal Disease Surveillance
     section; testing cards and final reports for 1,800 fee-
     generating seed samples and 1,110 official seed samples; and
     reports of analysis for 5,700 official samples for the
     Microbiology and Food, Feed and Fertilizer sections.  The
     section also handled distribution for 21,000 EDT reports and
     4,000 for Pesticide and Environment, Food, Feed and
     Fertilizer, Liquor Control and Motor Fuels Quality sections.
     Daily reports were also provided to MDA Finance and
     Administrative Services for billing for over 55,000 fee-
     generating tests.
     
   Retained the Microbiology Sections A2LA accreditation to
     ISO 17025 Standards in the field of biological testing
     through an on site audit that took place in June.  An
     antimicrobial efficacy testing procedure was audited and
     added to the sections scope of accredited tests.
     
   Continued to work on two federally funded programs -
     Microbiology Data Program (MDP) and Antimicrobial Efficacy
     Testing.  The MDP program received and tested (for
     Salmonella and E. coli) over 1,000 samples of tomatoes,
     celery, lettuce and cantaloupe in 2003.  The Antimicrobial
     program received approximately 20 disinfectant samples
     during the fiscal year and successfully reported results on
     28 product lots (some of the samples were collected during
     the previous year).
     
   Received over 300 cider samples as part of a special cider
     project commissioned by the MSU National Food Safety and
     Toxicology Center.  The samples were tested for coliforms,
     generic E.coli, standard plate count, Salmonella sp., E.
     coli O157:H7 and pH.  Of those samples collected,
     25 samples tested positive for generic E. coli with
     no pathogens being detected in any of the cider
     samples.
     
   Maintained certification for crucial dairy testing
     procedures through successful participation in
     yearly FDA proficiency samples.
     
   Responded to 1,025 consumer concerns about substandard
     gasoline and/or the wrong amount of gasoline. Retail
     investigations of gasoline marketers resulted in 75
     administrative fines, 43 of those for sale of substandard
     fuels.
     
   Ordered the stop sale of gasoline at 62 retail stations
     because the gasoline contained water or otherwise failed to
     meet the states quality standards. Over 720 warning letters
     were issued to firms who were found violating the law for
     licensing, water content, labeling and gasoline quality.
     
   Tested approximately 1,600 gasoline samples for octane,
     oxygenates, vapor pressure, sulfur content, and distillation
     range.  Of those, 98 were found not to meet requirements for
     AKI Octane number.
     
   Obtained one ISL automated distillation apparatus that has
     aided tremendously in the units ability to maintain an
     acceptable analytical turnaround time.
     
   Monitored gasoline volatility at over 570 gasoline
     dispensing facilities to ensure that highly volatile fuels
     are not being sold in Southeastern Michigan reducing their
     contribution to air pollution in the summer months.  This
     assisted the area in maintaining National Ambient Air
     Quality Standards. One gasoline dispensing facility was
     found to be dispensing high volatility gasoline during
     routine sampling and received a warning.
     
   Collected approximately 1,600 food samples for the Pesticide
     and Microbiological Data Programs (PDP, MDP) and the
     Triazole Sampling Project.  Almost 70 percent of these
     samples were shipped to other states for analyses per the
     transshipping arrangement with USDA-PDP participants.
     
   Received 1,056 samples for pesticide residue analysis from
     food warehouses throughout the U.S., comparable to the 1,054
     received in FY02.  A total of 1,011 samples were reported
     with 623 found to contain pesticide residue, all well below
     federal tolerance levels.
     
   Developed and validated a new method for the analysis of
     sweet potatoes, which is more time and cost efficient and
     safer for employees.  Michigans Pesticide Data Program lab
     is the first in the nation to be able to switch to the new
     method.  The MDA lab is analyzing for 30 percent more
     pesticide product residues in sweet potatoes than those
     analyzed in celery (USDA replaced celery sampling with sweet
     potatoes this year).  Many of these are newer pesticides
     creating analytical challenges in their detection.  The
     program continues to work toward meeting the variable needs
     of EPA in collecting data for registration of pesticides.
     
   Purchased two new analytical instruments (GC/MSD & LC/MS/MS)
     with federal funds to enhance pesticide residue testing
     capabilities.  Both systems are up and running and are in
     the process of being validated.  The Pulsed Flame
     Photometric Detector (PFPD) was validated and used for sweet
     potato analysis.
     
   Participated in three proficiency tests covering three
     commodities and 26 analytes, one from USDA-PDP and two from
     the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC).  The
     PDP section performed well in all three.  Internal
     proficiency checks were conducted by the Quality Assurance
     Section covering two commodities and 18 pesticide analytes
     this fiscal year.
     
   Progressed toward ISO 17025 accreditation with the
     completion by PDP staff of the Quality Manual and review of
     71 of the 73 SOPs previously written.  This resulted in 20
     of these SOPs being archived.  In addition, 13 new SOPs have
     been written.  A GAP analysis has been completed by staff
     and most of the findings addressed.  SOPs are now on a more
     rigorous schedule for review.  Audits of the Section doubled
     in FY03 as compared to FY02.
     
   Analyzed multiple sample matrices for a broad range of
     pesticides.
     
   Analyzed 126 Use Investigation samples in support of
     investigations of complaints from the misuse of pesticides.
     
   Participated in an EPA funded Seed Corn Worker Protection
     Project. The joint project included MDA and Michigan State
     University to determine the exposure that farm workers
     receive from working in seed corn fields that were recently
     spayed with pesticides.  A total of 162 samples were
     analyzed as part of the project.
     
   Analyzed groundwater samples submitted by the MDA
     Environmental Stewardship Division as part of the State
     Management Plan (SMP). The SMP is a partnership program of
     both MDA and EPA designed to monitor the possible exposure
     of groundwater to pesticides and fertilizers.  Over 2,260
     groundwater samples were screened for nitrates and triazine
     herbicides.  Results of the screening tests identified 99
     sites for additional confirmation testing.
     
   Analyzed cheese samples submitted by the MDA Food and Dairy
     Division to monitor for possible exposure of consumers to
     fat soluble pesticides. In FY 2003, 33 samples were
     analyzed, with no residues detected.
     
   Analyzed 46 pesticide formulation and 40 antimicrobial
     commercial products to ensure they met label claims.
     
   Conducted 9,383 weights and measures device inspections at
     2,553 establishments. Investigated over 860 complaints
     involving allegations of short weight, short measure and
     item pricing violations. Of those inspected, 17.6 percent of
     the commercial devices failed to meet the requirements of
     state law.
     
   Issued 199 warning letters and held seven compliance
     meetings (compared with 127 and 12, respectively in 2002 and
     121 and eight, respectively in 2001).
     
   Issued 26 consent agreements and conducted one prosecution
     for weights and measures, with fines and penalties assesses
     equaling $123,985.
     
   Fully implemented the new service registration program, with
     186 servicepersons and 84 service agencies registered.
     
   Received continued accreditation for the E.C. Heffron
     Metrology Laboratory to the National Voluntary Laboratory
     Accreditation Program (NVLAP) and a Certificate of
     Measurement Traceability from the National Institute of
     Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST named the E.C. Heffron
     Metrology Laboratory as a regional small volume prover
     calibration laboratory and provided both technical and
     monetary support for the setup and accreditation of these
     calibrations.
     
   Tested over 11,000 commercial, law enforcement, and official
     legal metrology standards.
     
Michigan Agricultural Statistics

Dave Kleweno, Director
(517) 324-5300

Michigan Agricultural Statistics (MAS) is responsible for
compiling Michigans official agricultural information database,
which was established under a formal agreement between Michigan
and the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Agricultural
Statistics Service (NASS).

MAS conducts numerous surveys and routinely prepares forecasts
and estimates on acreage, yield and production of Michigan field
crops, fruits and vegetables. Crop-weather information is
provided weekly during the growing season to reflect current crop
conditions and development progress. MAS also estimates
Michigans livestock, poultry and dairy populations, and tracks
related commodity prices. The estimating program provides
information on agricultural land values, farm numbers, land in
farms, expenditures and labor. Growing areas, production, and
value of Michigans floriculture industry are published annually.
Another significant survey component involves collection of
agriculture pesticide use data. MAS also conducts the Michigan
Census of Agriculture every five years; supplemental surveys are
periodically performed for aquaculture, irrigation, horticulture,
and land ownership.  During 2003, MAS:

   Provided county estimates for 14 major crop and livestock
     commodities as part of a cooperative program with MDA.
     
   Published the results of the Michigan Turfgrass Survey,
     which collected turf management data for the first time from
     all sectors of the turfgrass industry. The survey, which
     began in the fall of 2002, shows the turfgrass industry
     annually contributes $1.8 billion to the states economy.
     
   Collected data on the acreage, varieties, and rootstock of
     Michigan fruit crops. Questions were added to the survey to
     analyze the impact that abandoned orchards have on current
     operations. The results of the fruit tree inventory will be
     published in the summer of 2004.
     
   Prepared for the publication of the 2002 Census of
     Agriculture.  Extensive analysis, summarization, and data
     preparation were involved for release of the information in
     February and June 2004.
     
   Prepared a special Michigan Farm Facts publication to
     provide a graphical snapshot of Michigans agricultural
     industry based on the census of agriculture.
     
   Provided support and the infrastructure necessary for
     growers to earn pesticide recertification credits for
     completing chemical use surveys. The PPPM Division approved
     three surveys in which growers could receive one credit for
     completing the survey.  Many growers have expressed
     appreciation for this survey incentive and benefit.
     
   Collected chemical use information on corn, potatoes, six
     fruit crops, nursery crops, and floriculture crops. Survey
     data will be used to evaluate chemical use levels for the
     U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which will in turn be
     used in setting worker safety standards and in administering
     the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA).
     
   Partnered with the Michigan State University Project GREEEN
     (Generating Research & Extension to meet Economic and
     Environmental Needs) to collect 2003 chemical use
     information for grapes. Supplemental funding and program
     support allowed for the continuation of an uninterrupted
     data series, which has been published every two years
     beginning in 1991.
     
   Conducted the Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey, a part of
     the Census of Agriculture. Irrigated farms were surveyed for
     information on crops irrigated and the practices being used.
     These data will be used extensively in establishing the
     states water policy with respect to agricultural use.
     
   Released the annual agricultural statistics bulletin, which
     included details of 2002 production, stocks, inventory,
     disposition, utilization and prices of agricultural
     commodities. The publication included MDAs annual report,
     Michigan rankings, record highs and lows, county estimates,
     and chemical usage data. Due to budget limitations, a
     special four-page Highlights publication was produced to
     communicate the value of Michigan agriculture to a larger
     audience in a more economical fashion.
     
   Worked with the National Association of State Departments of
     Agriculture (NASDA), using telephone and field enumerator
     staff located throughout the state and employed by NASDA, to
     assist in collecting data from farmers and agribusinesses.
     
  
  
The Office of Racing Commissioner

Robert Geake, Racing Commissioner
(734) 462-2400

The Office of Racing Commissioner (ORC) is an independent agency
within MDA that regulates pari-mutuel horse racing in Michigan,
in accordance with the states Horse Racing Law and the rules of
the Racing Commissioner.

The Racing Commissioner, appointed by the Governor for a four-
year term, prescribes rules, regulations and conditions under
which all pari-mutuel horse racing meets are conducted in the
state.

The ORC allocates race dates and issues track, race meeting and
occupational licenses.  The office also collects license and
track revenues, appoints stewards and veterinarians to represent
the state, approves track-appointed officials, and monitors the
daily conduct of horse racing.  ORC also conducts equine and
human drug testing programs, and investigates any irregularities
in racing that may lead to formal hearings and sanctions.  ORC
functions primarily as a regulatory agency, but also focuses on
improving and promoting horse racing in Michigan.  During FY
2003, the ORC:

   Welcomed R. Robert Geake, who was appointed Racing
     Commissioner by the Governor on December 20, 2002.
     
   Won an important court decision when the Muskegon County
     Circuit Court denied a motion for a stay of the Horsemens
     Simulcast Purse Pool Distribution Order for 2003 on April
     17, 2003.  The motion was sought by the Michigan Horsemens
     Benevolent and Protective Association and the Great Lakes
     Downs track in Muskegon, to prevent the ORC from
     implementing the order for the distribution of 2003 purse
     pool funds among Michigans seven tracks, as required by the
     Horse Racing Law of 1995, as amended.
     
   Promulgated a new rule regarding the process for determining
     the annual simulcast purse pool distribution order.
     
   Increased the level of security at racetracks by
     implementing a video surveillance system in addition to
     mandatory sign-in procedures in the paddock and stable
     areas.
     
   Conducted investigations of an application to build a
     racetrack in the state filed by Triple Creek Associates on
     December 12, 2002.
     
   Continued the effort to eradicate West Nile virus from
     Michigans equine population by encouraging vaccinations and
     surveillance of racing breeds.
     
   Assisted with the Criminal Justice Information Systems
     (CJIS) legislative committee for LIEN status upgrades.
     
   Strengthened enforcement of the law prohibiting telephone
     and Internet wagering in Michigan through collaboration with
     the Michigan Attorney General.  As a result, XpressBet,
     Inc., of Pennsylvania notified all of its clients in
     Michigan that, under current state law, it cannot accept
     telephone or Internet wagers and will no longer do so.
     
   Implemented a simulcast tax deposit program for the seven
     pari-mutuel tracks in the state.  This new program created
     substantial time savings for employees at the tracks, the
     ORC, the Michigan Department of Treasury, and MDA.
     
   Created preliminary guidelines to expand regulatory
     functions through the licensing of off-track training
     facilities in the state.
     
   Promoted public awareness of Michigan horse racing at the
     2003 Michigan State Fair in Detroit as a featured exhibit in
     the Agriculture Building.
     

Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division

Ken Rauscher, Director
(517) 373-1087

The Pesticide and Plant Pest Management (PPPM) Division is
responsible for the enforcement of laws and regulations
pertaining to the manufacture and distribution of agricultural
products, the sale and use of pesticides, exotic pest
interception and control, pest management, fruit and vegetable
inspection and groundwater protection. In cooperation with
multiple federal agencies, and under the authority of both state
and federal laws, PPPM administers programs to protect human
health and the environment from potential risks related to the
improper use of pesticides.  The division also oversees programs
to control exotic pests, certify nursery stock and other plant
material for interstate shipment, inspect and grade fruits and
vegetables, and certify commodities for export.  PPPM also
ensures consumer protection through proper storage and labeling
of agricultural products such as feed, seed, fertilizer and
animal remedies.  During fiscal year 2003, PPPM recorded many
significant accomplishments.  Of note are the many strides made
in the attempt to control and eradicate the Emerald Ash Borer
(EAB), a destructive insect of ash trees native to eastern Asia
that was first discovered and identified in Michigan in the
summer of 2002 in Southeast Michigan.  During FY 03, PPPM:

   Extended the EAB quarantine in August 2003, to include an
     additional seven counties (Genesee, Ingham, Jackson, Lapeer,
     Lenawee, St. Clair, and Shiawassee). The quarantine
     prohibited the transport of ash trees and ash products from
     the quarantined counties unless chipped to one-inch in
     diameter or less.
     
   Identified and contacted firms and persons that may have
     artificially spread EAB, including nurseries, landscapers,
     firewood dealers, logging companies, utility companies, tree
     removal and trimming firms, municipalities and/or other
     government agencies involved with tree work, composting
     yards, and any ash material marshalling yards.  In FY03,
     PPPM inspectors contacted approximately 7,300 of these
     firms/individuals.
     
   Investigated the movement of ash nursery stock, which is
     prohibited in Michigans Lower Peninsula.  Staff also
     monitored and surveyed the nurseries and surrounding areas
     for the presence of EAB.  In 2003, 3,148 inspections were
     conducted.
     
   Conducted trace-back work for each EAB infestation found
     outside the generally infested area (outliers).
     
   Identified multiple outliers (infestations outside the core
     area).  Outliers were prioritized for removal, based on
     their distance from the pest management zones and other
     criteria.
     
   Eradicated, in the spring of 2003, a population of EAB
     discovered in the Tipton area.  Working with researchers at
     MSU and USDA to determine the extent of the infestation,
     PPPM hired contractors to remove and dispose of
     approximately 1,000 ash trees.  PPPM monitored the site
     throughout the summer and found no return of EAB to the
     area.
     
   Assisted researchers from MSU and USDA at outlier sites
     located around the state, by establishing "trap trees",
     removing and peeling bark from sections of trees, collecting
     larvae, and monitoring EAB at outlier sites in St. Clair and
     Ingham counties.  Monitoring of these sites continues, with
     the possibility of eradication in 2004.
     
   Worked closely with the Southeast Michigan Council of
     Governments (SEMCOG) and other organizations to host EAB
     forums for legislators, elected officials, and other
     community leaders, as well as community information
     meetings.
     
   Developed, in cooperation with MSU Extension, an EAB outlier
     communication protocol and response format survey form for
     reporting new infestations outside the core area. The
     protocol/survey will ensure timely and uniform reporting of
     new infestations and information dissemination.
     
   Worked with PPPM regulatory staff and EAB partners to
     establish firewood alert checkpoints at key regional rest
     areas and welcome centers leaving the quarantined area on
     Labor Day weekend and prior to the beginning of firearm deer
     hunting season.  Conducted radio, print and TV interviews to
     support the operation and to help further spread word of the
     quarantine.
     
   Developed a communications plan for the EAB outlier
     eradication program, including outreach to impacted
     residents, public officials and the media.
     
   Worked with the Governors Office and EAB Task Force to
     present an EAB forum and tour for state legislators.
     
   Implemented the EAB Task Force recommendation for a no-cost
     disposal program to provide an incentive to bring ash
     material to specific government-sponsored locations thereby
     assuring containment and control over the movement of the
     EAB infested ash.  The program included establishing four
     "marshalling yards" within the EAB infested core area, which
     received and disposed of ash materials from municipalities,
     contractors, and private citizens at no cost. This
     marshalling yard pilot project helped assure quarantine
     compliance by providing a disposal location for infested ash
     that was within the regulated area; and provided economic
     relief to all parties for the cost of disposal.  In total,
     there were 38,563 tons of ash materials ground and
     incinerated in the period of March through September 2003.
     
   Initiated an EAB survey program aimed at defining the extent
     of the EAB infestation in Southeast Michigan and detecting
     outlying infestations beyond this generally infested area.
     
   Added nearly 60 new staff members during the summer of 2003,
     to perform and manage EAB survey activities. Surveyors
     follow survey protocol to inspect ash trees for symptoms at
     a density of one survey site per 10 acres while using GPS
     technology to navigate through survey plots and to record
     survey data.  During the second half of 2003, surveyors
     logged 48,158 survey points, examined 300,000 ash trees, and
     covered over 600,000 acres (940 square miles).
     
   Examined ash trees at over 1,500 nurseries, campgrounds,
     sawmills, wood-burning power plants, and new construction
     sites throughout Michigan.
     
   Responded to approximately 2,000 calls received on the EAB
     toll-free hotline in 2003, resulting in the discovery of
     four outlier EAB infestations.
     
   Inspected and certified more than 12,000 acres of nursery
     stock and more than 19,000 acres (736 fields) of commercial
     Christmas tree production for compliance with interstate and
     international trade requirements.
     
   Issued 2,060 federal phytosanitary certificates for exports
     of agricultural commodities.  Commodities certified for
     export included beans and grain, fruits and vegetables, logs
     and lumber and propagative plants and plant parts.
     
   Conducted 95 inspections at facilities producing or
     distributing animal feeds. PPPM inspectors have been
     inspecting feed manufacturing facilities throughout the
     state for compliance with FDA Bovine Spongiform
     Encephalopathy (BSE) regulations since 1998.
     
   Investigated four complaints alleging feed-related animal
     deaths or illnesses and submitted 789 samples to ensure feed
     safety and label guarantees.
     
   Collected leaf samples from 29,132 stone-fruit trees to test
     them for Plum Pox Virus (PPV), as part of a national survey.
     All samples tested negative, providing reassurance to
     Michigans $1.7 million stone fruit nursery and orchard
     industry.
     
   Coordinated the gypsy moth cooperative suppression program,
     resulting in the treatment of 20,200 acres in five counties
     and providing relief to residents and communities in heavily
     infested areas.
     
   Conducted 3,211 shipping-point inspections and 932 market
     inspections to determine the grade of produce.  Produce
     entering Michigan from other states and foreign countries,
     and destined for both the fresh market and processing, was
     also inspected as part of our Fruit and Vegetable Inspection
     Program.
     
   Submitted 17 requests to EPA for emergency exemptions to
     allow the use of an unregistered pesticide to control an
     emergency pest problem, in accordance with Section 18 of the
     Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
     
   Conducted pesticide product and use-related inspections and
     investigations, including 132 pesticide use investigations,
     42 of which occurred in agricultural situations; 75 planned
     use inspections, 32 of which occurred at commercial
     applicator facilities; 50 pesticide-producing establishment
     inspections; 21 federal marketplace inspections; 68
     restricted use pesticide audits; and 1,261 compliance
     monitoring contacts/inspections.
     
   Cancelled the registration of three herbicides containing
     the active ingredient Dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate
     (DCPA), also known as Dacthal, based on detection in
     groundwater at several Michigan locations.  These were
     cancelled to protect the environment and human health.
     
   Participated, in conjunction with state partners, in the
     West Nile Virus (WNV) Core Work Group, coordinating state
     WNV surveillance and outreach and response activities.
     
   Administered 14,138 examinations to individuals seeking
     pesticide applicator certification or registration
     credentials and approved 702 seminars for recertification
     credits allowing 1,582 applicators to renew their
     credentials through continuing education programs.
     
   Conducted more than 529 sanitation inspections of Michigans
     364 grain elevators and feed manufacturing facilities to
     ensure the safety and integrity of raw grain commodities in
     storage.
     
   Continued a partnership with state agencies and stakeholders
     to advise agricultural dealers and farmers on how they can
     help deter illicit use of anhydrous ammonia while protecting
     its safe, intended use.  Projects included presentations,
     press conferences, creating and updating Internet site
     information, and distributing bumper stickers, brochures,
     and tabletop displays to agricultural-related groups.
     
   Conducted annual inspections of commercial facilities
     storing bulk pesticides and fertilizers to ensure that all
     commercial facilities storing bulk agrichemcials in Michigan
     have containment.
     
   Conducted precision, safety and security inspections of
     aircraft and spray systems as part of the annual Operation
     SAFE Fly-In. Seven pilots (all from Michigan), making nine
     flights over the calibration card line, participated in this
     years Operation SAFE, sponsored jointly with the Michigan
     Agricultural Aviation Association and Michigan State
     University Extension. The program facilitates partnerships key to
     ensuring that aerial application standards for safety and
     security are met and that training and equipment are up-to-
     date.
  
  
  
  
Please contact us with any questions or for more information.

Michigan Department of Agriculture

P.O. Box 30017

Lansing, MI  48909

Phone:         (517) 373-1104

Fax:           (517) 335-7071

Online:   www.michigan.gov/mda

E-mail:   mda-info@michigan.gov

Toll-free:     (800) 292-3939

Dan Wyant
Director
(517) 373-1052 or wyantd@michigan.gov
                                
Keith Creagh
Deputy Director
(517) 335-3402 or creaghk@michigan.gov
                                
Brad Deacon
Legislative Liaison
(517) 335-3403 or deaconb9@michigan.gov
                                
Sara Linsmeier-Wurfel
Public Information/Media Relations Officer
(517) 241-4282 or linsmeiers@michigan.gov

Christine White
Director of Agriculture Policy
(517) 335-3403 or whitec9@michigan.gov

Agriculture Development Division                       (517) 241-2178
Animal Industry Division                               (517) 373-1077
Environmental Stewardship Division                     (517) 241-0236
Food and Dairy Division                                (517) 373-1060
Fairs, Exhibitions and Racing Division                 (517) 373-9763
Finance and Administrative Services Division           (517) 373-1100
Human Resources Division                               (517) 373-1057
William C. Geagley Laboratory                          (517) 337-5040
E. C. Heffron Metrology Laboratory                     (517) 655-8202
Michigan Agricultural Statistics Service               (517) 324-5300
Office of Racing Commissioner                          (734) 462-2400
Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division           (517) 373-1087