The Department of Agriculture carries out a broad spectrum of activities that benefit the producers, distributors and consumers of food and agricultural products. The department protects public health and safety through its regulation of food producers, processors and distributors, and its regulation of pesticide and fertilizer use. The department seeks to protect the state's natural resources, its agricultural industry and the public through surveillance, control, and/or eradication of selected plant pests and diseases and animal diseases in Washington state. The department works to facilitate the orderly movement of agricultural products in domestic and international markets by providing timely and accurate official inspection and certification of grain, fruits, vegetables, nursery stock, seeds, livestock and other agricultural commodities. The department combats hunger and improves health among low-income individuals and families by supporting nutritious food distribution, food banks and tribal food voucher programs. The department assists with the development of agricultural markets and to guarantee marketplace equity for businesses and consumers.

Through service, regulation and advocacy, the Washington State Department of Agriculture supports the viability and vitality of agriculture while protecting consumers, public health and the environment.