Rhode Island Agriculture

Consisting of six primary program areas, the Agriculture section of RIDEM's Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment works to sustain, promote and enhance Rhode Island's agricultural viability today and for generations to come.

NOTICE

The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is introducing a new online system for applications and forms administered by the Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment, including agricultural product registrations, commercial pesticide applicators, animal health permits and licenses, and forestry applications.

As a result, we are temporarily pausing the acceptance of online applications and renewals for Product Registrations until the system launches in mid-October. Paper-based applications will still be accepted until the new system launches.

For more information, visit dem.ri.gov/dafe-portal

several eggplants — The RI Produce Safety Portal is LIVE for online registration and submissions of PSR exemption applications

Person looking at a apples at a stand at a Farmer's Market — Find Locally-Grown Fruits and Vegetables from Rhode Island Farmers

several sheep — Harvesting Rhode Island TV series spotlights state’s farms, unusual crops

Farm Fresh RI NE Ag Exchange — NE Ag Exchange An online forum for agriculture in the New England, free and open to the public

Relish Rhody grass with anchor made up of fork and spoon — Relish Rhody is a State-led, interagency strategy to improve the food system in Rhode Island.

GAP Grower Certification Program A voluntary program for growers, part of a nationwide food safety effort.

RI Seafood Learn about efforts to identify and promote seafood landed in the Ocean State by commercial fishermen and grown in Rhode Island waters by farmers.

Program and Partner News & Highlights

Farm Ranch Stress Assistance Network RI (FRSAN RI)

Help Is On the Way! DEM Division of Agriculture and the Center for Mediation and Collaboration are partnering to launch a mental health and wellness program for farmers, commercial fishers, and workers in forestry-related industries. Learn More

Wholesale Readiness for Institutions Food Buyers (RI Food Policy Council)

Rhode Island institutions — including our 44 school districts, 11 hospitals, and 11 colleges and universities — provide an important market for Rhode Island grown, harvested, and manufactured food. In addition to supporting local farm, seafood, and prepared food businesses, institutional food purchases also help increase access to fresh, healthy, local food for all Rhode Islanders. Find resources and inspiration for RI institutional food buyers and sellers

Grower Resource: Free legal service for growers

The Legal Food Hub of the Conservation Law Foundation connects income–eligible farmers, food businesses, and the organizations that support them to FREE legal services for a wide range of legal issues.

Farm to Institution New England report and statistics

View the FINE Metrics Dashboard

Unsolicited Seeds (USDA)

Do Not Plant Unsolicited Seeds. Do Not Throw Unsolicited Seeds In The Trash.

Residents across Rhode Island have reported receiving unsolicited packages that appear to have originated in a foreign country and contain seeds. Read DEM Press Release

USDA Resource: Buying and Selling Plants and Seeds Online