from the slides -
Rankin detailed how, on Friday, May 24, 2024, the
Hidden Creek Farm posted on Facebook explaining that they “had an unexpected visit from MDARD
(Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development)…[where] three individuals proceeded to step out of the vehicles and pull a pump sprayer out of the car and started spraying the tires and sides of the vehicle down with a “mystery solution.”
Hidden Creek Farm is a 100% chemical free farm. MDARD was not given consent to spay a mystery solution on the state vehicle they were driving all over our property.
Hidden Creek Farm then said they had some “questions” about this solution: “Firstly, what was it? Second, was the person who mixed and sprayed it trained [or] qualified? Third, is MDARD going to pay for the contamination of [our] soil cleanup?”
Rankin went on to explain that biosecurity on farms, even those that don’t offer raw milk, is extremely important. Chemicals can stay in the soil, contaminating the cows’ feed and putting them and those who consume their products at risk.
Rankin also noted that this clear violation of the law is concerning for American farmers and citizens alike. He said that it could mean the government plans to expand its control and jurisdiction on privately-owned farms.
As of July 2024, MDARD does not have jurisdiction over private farms that provide cow-share programs for local residents. However, this situation clearly shows they may start showing up at all small farms throughout the state as they attempt to curtail the growing avian flu problem.
Rankin argues that this action, as well as many more that are likely on the way, is a clear violation of Americans’ private dairy rights. He is even concerned the MDARD or FDA could ban raw milk altogether.
Americans should have the right to choose the food and drink they and their families consume, including safe, chemical-free raw milk.
This part should scare the hell out of everyone
He notes that many farmers and Americans alike are afraid the government’s control over farmland can and will further restrict what people grow and consume, drastically restricting personal freedoms in the so-called land of the free.