Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is a department that sits within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs in state government.
MDAR offers assistance in many different ways and through many programs. MFGA has a close working relationship with MDAR on marketing, legislative and regulatory issues that affect this industry.
Nursery and Plant Inspections
All nursery growers and agents (retailers) must be registered with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR).
Pesticides Program
This Division also oversees the Pesticide Program. There are many regulations that relate to our industry. Consult MDAR before you take any action or use any product that you do not have experience with. The laws and regulations are conveniently posted on MDAR’s “pesticides” website.
In conjunction with MDAR, the Flower Growers’ Association provides workshops and other training opportunities to help growers maintain their licenses and to educate them on changes in requirements or processes. MDAR also provides training. You will find notices in MFGA newsletters, MDAR newsletters and event notices.
Contact information
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
251 Causeway Street, Suite 500, Boston, Ma. 02114
617.626.1700 Fax: 617.626.1850
John Lebeaux, Commissioner of Agricultural Resources • 617-626-1701
Mary Jordan, Director of Agricultural Markets • 617-626-1750
Rick LeBlanc, MassGrown Coordinator, Consumer Outreach • 617-626-1759
Bonita Oehlke, Foreign Trade, Specialty Foods • 617-626-1753
David Webber, Farmers’ Markets • 617-626-1754
Gerard Kennedy, Director, Conservation & Technical Assistance • 617-626-1773
Sean Bowen, Ag Compost, Aquaculture • 617-626-1724
Melissa Adams, Ag Business Training, AIP, MEGA, SARA Programs • 413-548-1904
Ron Hall, APR Program • 617-626-1704
Laura Maul, Ag Environmental Enhancement Program (AEEP) and ACRE Program • 617-626-1739
Gerry Palano, Alternative Energy Specialist • 617-626-1706
Tayrn LaScola, Director of Crop & Pest Services • 617-626-1776
Kyle Kaseta, Nursery Inspector • 617-626-1804
Rose Arruda, Urban Ag Coordinator • 617-626-1849
Kim Skyrm, Chief Apiary Inspector/Program Coordinator–Amherst • 413-548-1905
