Which agency is primarily responsible for pesticide regulation in Michigan?

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is primarily responsible for pesticide regulation in Michigan. This agency oversees the registration, distribution, and use of pesticides within the state to ensure that they meet safety and efficacy standards. MDARD also enforces state and federal pesticide laws, provides education and outreach to pesticide applicators and dealers, and manages pesticide-related environmental concerns.

While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a significant role in regulating pesticides at the federal level, it is MDARD that administers and enforces those regulations locally. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality focuses more on broader environmental issues and compliance rather than specific pesticide regulations. Similarly, the Michigan Health Department does not primarily handle pesticide oversight but is more focused on public health matters. Therefore, MDARD is the appropriate agency for this specific responsibility, making it the correct answer.