Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources – Boston, MA

Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR)

Supporting Local Agriculture

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), headquartered at 251 Causeway Street in Boston, is the state agency dedicated to keeping the Commonwealth’s food supply safe, secure, and sustainable. With roots dating back to the Board of Agriculture established in 1852, MDAR works to ensure the economic viability of the state’s agricultural industry while protecting the environment. The department regulates pesticide use, oversees animal health, and promotes locally grown products through the ‘MassGrown’ initiative. It serves as a vital resource for farmers, offering technical assistance and grants to improve farm operations and energy efficiency.

Regulatory and Protection Programs

MDAR’s responsibilities are vast, covering everything from apiary inspection to land preservation. The Division of Animal Health works to prevent and control infectious diseases in livestock and domestic animals, while the Division of Crop and Pest Services regulates the registration and application of pesticides. A cornerstone of the agency’s work is the Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) program, which permanently protects farmland from development, ensuring that productive land remains available for future generations of farmers.

Licensing and Public Services

The Boston office serves as the administrative center for licensing and permitting. Individuals and businesses can apply for pesticide applicator licenses, nursery certifications, and other agricultural permits through the agency’s online ePLACE portal. The department also inspects nurseries, greenhouses, and riding academies to ensure compliance with state laws. By fostering a robust agricultural economy, MDAR helps provide residents with access to fresh, local food and maintains the rural character of Massachusetts communities.

• Preservation: Protecting farmland via the APR program.
• Regulation: Pesticide licensing and mosquito control.
• Promotion: Marketing local MassGrown products.

MDAR is the steward of the state’s agricultural heritage, balancing modern food safety standards with the support needed for family farms to thrive.