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MDARD Acting Director outlines goals

Michigan’s new acting director of the Michigan Agriculture and Rural Development wants to focus on areas that keep the economy moving.

Kathy Angerer tells Brownfield pursuing climate action, job creation, and lowering costs are at the forefront.

“We have to think about transportation costs, we have to think about keeping our climate healthy, and being smart about those things,” she says.  “We’re working with industry; we’re working with environmentalists—we want to build a brighter future.”

She also sees attracting federal dollars to support the food and ag industry as a priority.

Angerer says in her new role she plans to review programs including the state’s voluntary environmental stewardship program, the Michigan Environmental Assurance Program or MAEAP, to make sure they’re meeting the needs of tomorrow.

“And make sure that the programs that we have in the department are reflective of the goals of the department—being climate-smart, being sustainable, looking at regenerative practices, looking at what’s good for our soil and water,” she explains.

Angerer says she has an open-door policy with stakeholders and wants to work collaboratively to make the industry stronger.

Angerer was named acting director at the beginning of January after Director Gary McDowell announced his plans for retirement.