The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced new domestic animal movement requirements, effective June 17, to prevent New World screwworm from entering Michigan.
While no detections exist in Michigan, confirmed infestations in Texas and New Mexico prompted proactive measures. Requirements vary based on the NWS status of the origin state, with animals from infested premises prohibited until sites are released from quarantine.
The new restrictions also outline requirements for wound care, preventative treatment and documentation for those animals originating out of an area marked by USDA as an NWS infested zone or an adjacent surveillance zone.
“This parasitic fly poses a serious threat to the health of our livestock, pets and wildlife when cases go unnoticed, untreated and unreported,” said Dr. Nora Wineland, state veterinarian. “Producers, regardless of size, and pet owners need to put eyes on their animals daily to check for things like enlarging wounds or signs of irritation.
“NWS starts as a parasitic worm that can enter an animal through a small break in the skin or an exposed mucous membrane, so close inspection is vital to ensure suspect cases are identified and appropriate actions are taken to treat animals and stop the spread of the pest.”
MDARD is also launching a NWS webpage dedicated to screwworm background and resources for producers, pet owners and veterinarians. The page will be updated regularly as the department monitors the ongoing threat.
Suspected cases must be reported immediately to 800-292-3939.
Learn about beekeeping at Corunna’s honey festival
The Michigan Honey Festival returns July 18-19 at the Shiawassee County Fairgrounds in Corunna, offering beekeepers and families educational experiences from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
The festival features a new “Journey Through the Hive” classroom experience led by experts, including Meghan Milbrath of Michigan State University. Attendees can observe live hive demonstrations, watch honey extraction and participate in hands-on activities.
Delanie Craighead, the 2026 American Honey Queen, will present educational programs exploring honey's versatility and the beekeeping process. Additional attractions include local honey vendors, artisan crafts, food trucks, live music and beekeeping equipment displays.
Admission is free with $5 parking per vehicle. Visit michiganhoneyfestival.com for details.
MMPA opens Remus facility
Michigan Milk Producers Association celebrated the grand opening of its Remus processing facility on June 16, announcing a partnership with Good Culture to produce cottage cheese.
“This investment shows what can happen when member-owners put their confidence behind a shared vision,” said Doug Chapin, MMPA board chairman.
The facility expands MMPA's processing capabilities and introduces cottage cheese to its product portfolio.
The partnership allows Good Culture to scale production while maintaining supply control. Combined with recent growth at MMPA's Ovid plant, the cooperative is expanding its ability to meet consumer demand and create long-term value for member dairy farms.
Watch for spotted lanternfly this summer
MDARD reminds Michiganders to monitor for spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest confirmed across southeastern Michigan.
While not harmful to humans or animals, spotted lanternfly can stress plants and create nuisances. The insect feeds on tree of heaven, grapevines, black walnut and other species, producing sticky honeydew that attracts secondary pests.
In confirmed counties (Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Wayne), residents should squish spotted lanternflies and consider professional pest management for large infestations. Sightings in other counties should be reported through the Eyes in the Field tool with photos and location details.
Nymphs appear black with white spots from May to September, while adults display tan forewings with black spots and scarlet hindwings from August to October.
For additional information on identifying, reporting and managing spotted lanternfly, visit the state of Michigan’s spotted lanternfly website. Learn more at USDA’s spotted lanternfly website.
Dairy businesses receive innovation grants
Two Michigan companies received Dairy Business Builder Grants from the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance, totaling $250,000.
BigGoat Farm in Houghton received $100,000 to equip its creamery, creating local access to regionally produced dairy products. Sanilac Creamery in Ann Arbor received $150,000 to install an ultrafiltration membrane system, modernizing quark and cream cheese production while improving efficiency.
The grants were part of $2.9 million awarded to 28 Midwestern dairy businesses. Since 2018, DBIA has awarded 329 grants worth more than $26 million to support diversification, value-added products and export programs.
The next application period opens in the fall, with materials available Aug. 3. For more information on DBIA’s grant opportunities, visit the DBIA grant website.
MSU seeks Dairy Farm of the Year nominations
Michigan State University's Department of Animal Science is accepting nominations for the 2027 Dairy Farm of the Year Award through Sept. 15.
Established in 1958, the award recognizes farmers demonstrating excellence in dairy production and meaningful industry leadership. It remains the highest honor MSU's Department of Animal Science presents to Michigan dairy producers.
Nominations should be submitted to Miriam Weber Nielsen at msw@msu.edu. The 2027 honoree will be announced before the Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference and recognized at the Michigan Dairy Industry Banquet.
Recipients receive a portrait displayed in the Farm Bureau Pavilion on MSU's campus. Download the nomination form and learn more at canr.msu.edu.