The consumer information center is available to members of the agricultural community, the general public, and news media as a source of information on Minnesota agriculture.  

If you are unable to find specific answers to your questions, please use this form to request more information. If you are a member of the media and have specific questions, please contact Mike Schommer, Communications Director at 651-201-6629 or email Michael.Schommer@state.mn.us.

I'm a teacher, do you have any agriculture information or materials for classrooms?
Yes, you should start with our Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom program. They have a lot of material to help you.

Is there a list of plants that are poisonous to humans and animals?
Yes. The Plant Protection Division has a compiled a list of common plants that can cause poisoning. The plants listed can cause a wide range of symptoms ranging from mild skin irritation to serious poisoning that could be fatal.

I heard about a food recall in Minnesota, where can I get more information?
Visit the Food Recalls in Minnesota page for current information.

Can I grill steaks and chicken together?
When grilling, foods can be very susceptible to bacteria and other harmful pathogens. A key factor in keeping your food safe when grilling is proper preparation. Use the following guidelines (PDF: 112 KB / 2 pages) to help you prepare for safe grilling!

How much fertilizer is safe to use on my lawn?
Healthy lawns depend on many factors including adequate water, sunlight, carbon dioxide, and oxygen. Lawn growth also depends on nutrients or essential elements absorbed by roots from the soil. This publication should help to develop a fertilizer program to promote a healthy lawn.

My neighbor applied a pesticide and it drifted into my yard. What can I do about it?
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture investigates complaints of human or animal exposure, injury, or property damage caused by pesticide drift, careless application, or use that does not follow label directions. Information and forms for reporting a pesticide misuse complaints.

Where can I find a farmers' market near my home?
The Minnesota Grown directory is published once a year listing over 500 Minnesota farmers' markets, pick-your-own berry farms, apple orchards, Christmas tree farms, and other growers who sell direct.

I'm doing a report on agriculture. Can you tell me how many dairy cows are in Minnesota?
There are 470,000 cows in Minnesota. For more information, visit the Minnesota Agriculture Statistics Service.

I live near a feedlot and I'm sure air quality laws are being violated. What are the rules regarding feedlots in Minnesota?
The subject of animal feedlots in Minnesota has become a very hot topic in Minnesota in recent years. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) regulates and controls pollution created by these animal production facilities.

Is irradiated food cost effective?
Irradiated food (PDF: 17 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.