The business information center is available to members of the agricultural community, the general public, and news media as a source of information specifically for businesses about Minnesota agriculture. If you are unable to find specific answers to your questions, please contact us at MDA.Info@state.mn.us.  

Do I need a license to sell jellies and jams at a farmers' market?
Normally, you would need a license, however, there are exceptions. For more information on this exemption, see the section "Who is exempt from licensing at a Farmers' Market. If you have additional questions or to enquire on specific requirements, please call the Dairy & Food Information Desk at 651-201-6027.

If I am a landscaper, do I need a nursery license?
To determine if you should apply as a Nursery Stock Dealer or Nursery Stock Grower, refer to the following:

• If you plan to purchase from a certified nursery more than half (50%) of the nursery stock you will sell, you should apply as a Nursery Stock Dealer.
• If will grow more than half (50%) of the nursery stock you will sell, you should apply as a Nursery Stock Grower. Fee is based upon the number of acres from which you will sell during the current certificate year. All stock must be inspected before sale. Contact this office to schedule an early inspection.
• If you grow and sell only annual, herbaceous perennial or indoor ornamental plants, you are not required to obtain a Nursery Stock Certificate. If you will ship these plants outside Minnesota, you should obtain a Greenhouse Certificate.

Is irradiated food cost effective?
Irradiated food (PDF: 18 KB / 2 pages) is extremely cost effective. The United States Department of Agriculture estimates that American consumers will receive approximately $2 in benefits such as reduced spoilage and less illness for each $1 spent on food irradiation.

I am compiling a database of U.S. agricultural commodities and products to be used in sourcing for export sales. Could you please provide with a list of the commodities and products that you produce for export?
Export statistics for Minnesota manufactured products can be found in the International Trade Statistics.

What is a "noxious weed" and what plants are considered "noxious"?
The Minnesota Noxious Weed Program is designed to prevent the harmful effects that undesirable plants can have on the state's citizens. Landowners and land managers, both public and private, are required to control or eradicate noxious weeds on land they own or manage. The Minnesota Noxious Weed Law and Rules have been in existence since 1929 and enforcement is a cooperative effort between state, county, and local governments.

Do I need to be licensed to buy eggs from my local farmer?
Any wholesale dealer or food processor who purchases or contracts with other Minnesota dealers or farmers for fresh fruit and vegetables, milk and cream, or poultry and eggs needs to be licensed as a Minnesota Wholesale Produce Dealer. Retailers need to be licensed as Minnesota Wholesale Produce Dealers if they purchase more than $500 per month directly from Minnesota farmers.

How can I get more information about pesticide applicator training?
Visit the University of Minnesota Extension Service (UMES) web site for location and registration information about recertification training for commercial, noncommercial, structural or aquatic pesticide applicators. Contact your local county extension office or visit the UMES web site for information about private pesticide applicator training.