State Departments of Agriculture

What Are State Departments of Agriculture?

State departments of agriculture are government agencies responsible for agricultural regulation, inspection, and support at the state level. Every state has an agency—variously called the Department of Agriculture, Department of Food and Agriculture, or similar—that oversees dairy licensing, milk quality testing, animal health programs, and often state-specific support programs.

Key Functions for Dairy

Dairy Licensing and Permits

State agencies issue dairy farm licenses and permits required to sell milk. This typically includes Grade A permits for fluid milk, manufacturing grade licenses, and permits for on-farm processing. Annual renewals, fees, and inspections vary by state.

Milk Quality Inspection

State inspectors conduct regular farm inspections to verify compliance with the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO) and state-specific requirements. They evaluate milkhouse construction, equipment, cooling, sanitation, and animal health. Inspection frequency and requirements vary by state.

Bulk Tank Testing

States coordinate or conduct testing of bulk tank samples for bacteria counts, somatic cell counts, drug residues, and other quality parameters. Test results determine milk acceptability and may affect pricing.

Animal Health Programs

State veterinarian offices within agriculture departments manage disease surveillance, testing programs, and health certifications. Programs address tuberculosis, brucellosis, Johne's disease, and emerging health concerns.

Animal Identification

States implement federal animal identification requirements and may have additional state-specific identification and movement recording requirements.

Environmental Programs

Some states administer agricultural environmental programs, including nutrient management requirements, that may exceed federal standards.

State-Level Support Programs

Extension and Education

While university extension services are separate from state agriculture departments, many states coordinate dairy education, research, and outreach through partnerships between these organizations.

Marketing Programs

Many states operate dairy promotion programs, specialty product certifications, and market development initiatives through agriculture departments or affiliated organizations.

Financial Assistance

Some states offer grants, loans, or cost-share programs for dairy infrastructure, environmental improvements, or business development that supplement federal programs.

Transition Assistance

States may offer specific programs to help dairy farmers transition—whether to organic, value-added products, different enterprises, or exit from farming.

Working with State Regulators

Building Relationships

Develop positive working relationships with inspectors and department staff. They can be valuable resources for understanding requirements and solving problems. Most want to help farmers succeed within regulatory frameworks.

Staying Current

State regulations can change more frequently than federal rules. Subscribe to department communications, work with industry organizations, and maintain contact with local field staff to stay informed.

Addressing Issues

If you receive a violation notice or face compliance issues, respond promptly and professionally. Work with inspectors to understand the issue and develop a correction plan. Document your corrective actions.

Requesting Assistance

State departments often provide technical assistance beyond enforcement. Ask about educational resources, guidance documents, and support programs that can help you meet requirements.

Interstate Considerations

If you ship milk across state lines or sell animals to other states, you'll interact with multiple state programs:

• Interstate milk shipment requires Grade A certification from both states
• Animal sales often require health certificates from the state veterinarian
• Some states have additional entry requirements for livestock

Finding Your State Resources

Locate your state agriculture department through:

• State government websites
• USDA's directory of state departments
• National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA)
• Your county extension office can provide local contacts

Common Compliance Areas

• Dairy license renewal and inspections
• Milkhouse and equipment standards
• Bulk tank testing and quality standards
• Animal identification and records
• Health testing requirements
• Antibiotic use documentation
• Environmental compliance (state-specific)
• Labor law compliance (often coordinated with other state agencies)