The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship advocates for Iowa’s farmers and protects consumers, animals, our food supply and our shared soil and water resources. Our programs strengthen rural communities, support a thriving agriculture economy, and build a stronger future for all Iowans.
The Animal Industry Division helps protect the health and well-being of Iowa’s livestock and companion animals. Through licensing, inspection, and permitting programs, the division promotes responsible animal care and production practices. The team is also constantly preparing to respond quickly and effectively to foreign animal disease outbreaks to limit the spread of the virus and help farmers maintain market access.
The State Veterinarian also leads the Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine, which oversees veterinarians licensed to practice in Iowa, giving pet owners and livestock producers confidence that their animals are receiving safe, high-quality care.
The Consumer Protection and Food Safety Division oversees labeling, licensing and inspections to ensure food safety, product quality, accuracy and transparency in the marketplace. Through dairy, meat and poultry, grain, and feed and fertilizer inspections, and weight scale and fuel pump certifications, the division helps ensure Iowans get what they pay for and have access to high quality food, feed, and fuel.
Bureaus within the consumer protection division also inspect honeybee hives, seeds and plants to maintain crop and plant health, and license pesticide applicators to ensure pest management and crop protection products are used safely and responsibly.
The Soil Health and Water Quality Division works alongside farmers, landowners, city managers, and public and private partners to advance and accelerate conservation projects across Iowa. Using a combination of in-field management, edge-of-field filtration, and urban practices, the division is working to reduce soil erosion, filter nitrates and improve water quality. These proven solutions are tailored to the needs of the local landscape, and positively impact food production, the environment and our communities.
In addition to its regulatory responsibilities, IDALS is working to build strong local and domestic markets for the products Iowa’s hardworking farmers produce.
Choose Iowa is the state’s signature branding and marketing program promoting Iowa-grown, Iowa-made and Iowa-raised food, beverages and ag products. Choose Iowa helps farmers and small businesses add value and tap into new markets, gives consumers more local food choices, and generates economic activity in our rural communities.
