Anthony Meets With Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director

LANSING, Mich., Jan. 20, 2022 — Today, state Rep. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) met with Gary McDowell, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, at the Allen Neighborhood Center, a nonprofit in Lansing that promotes healthy living and food access, along with several other programs. They discussed the food and agriculture industry, how MDARD can assist farmers, how companies have pivoted throughout the pandemic, and Gov. Whitmer’s MI New Economy plan. 

“I’m pleased to see so many efforts promoting food access and the well-being of our rural communities,” Anthony said. “In particular, I applaud the governor for establishing the Office of Rural Development. Whether it’s broadband access or population loss, our farming communities face unique challenges. Recognizing the differences between the needs of rural, suburban and urban communities is crucial. We need to make sure that every community in Michigan, no matter its geography, has the resources they need to thrive.”

The governor recently held a roundtable to highlight the Office of Rural Development and solicit stakeholder input.