    [United States Government Manual]
    [June 01, 2007]
    [Pages 103-126]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

    1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250

    Phone, 202-720-4623. Internet, www.usda.gov.
    SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE                          Mike Johanns
    Deputy Secretary                                  Charles F. Conner
    Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign              Mark Keenum
            Agricultural Services
        Deputy Under Secretaries                      Floyd Gaibler,
                                                              (vacancy)
        Administrator, Farm Service Agency            Teresa C. Lasseter
        Administrator, Foreign Agricultural           Michael W. Yost
                Service
        Administrator, Risk Management                Eldon F. Gould
                Agency
    Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and          Nancy M. Johner
            Consumer Services
        Deputy Under Secretary                        Kate Coler
        Administrator, Food and Nutrition             Roberto Salazar
                Service
        Executive Director, Center for                Eric Hentges
                Nutrition Policy and
                Promotion
    Under Secretary for Food Safety                   Richard Raymond
        Deputy Under Secretary                        Curt Mann
        Administrator, Food Safety and                David P. Goldman,
                Inspection Service                            Acting
    Under Secretary for Natural Resources and         Mark E. Rey
            Environment
        Deputy Under Secretaries                      Dave Tenny, (vacancy)
        Chief, Forest Service                         Abigail Kimbell
        Chief, Natural Resources                      Arlen Lancaster
                Conservation Service
    Under Secretary for Research, Education, and      Gale A. Buchanan
            Economics
        Deputy Under Secretary                        Merle D. Pierson
        Administrator, Agricultural Research          Edward B. Knipling
                Service
        Administrator, Cooperative State              Colien Hefferan
                Research, Education, and
                Extension Service
        Administrator, Economic Research              Katherine Smith,
                Service                                       Acting
        Administrator, National Agricultural          Ron Bosecker
                Statistics Service
    Under Secretary for Rural Development             Thomas C. Dorr
        Deputy Under Secretary                        Douglas Faulkner
        Administrator, Business and                   Jackie J. Gleason
                Cooperative Programs
        Administrator, Housing and Community          Russell Davis
              Facilities Programs
    [[Page 104]]

        Administrator, Utilities Programs             James Andrew
    Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations   Linda A. Strachan
        Deputy Assistant Secretary                    Bruce Blanton
    Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory      Bruce Knight
            Programs
        Deputy Under Secretaries                       J. Burton Eller,
                                                              Chuck Lambert
        Administrator, Agricultural                   Lloyd C. Day
                Marketing Service
        Administrator, Animal and Plant               Ron DeHaven
                Health Inspection Service
        Administrator, Grain Inspection,              James Link
                Packers, and Stockyards
                Administration
    Assistant Secretary for Administration            Boyd K. Rutherford
        Deputy Assistant Secretary                    Gilbert L. Smith, Jr.
        Chairman, Board of Contract Appeals           Stephen M. Daniels
        Judicial Officer                              William G. Jenson
        Chief Judge, Administrative Law               Marc Hillson
                Judges
        Director, Office of Ethics                    Raymond Sheehan
        Director, Office of Human Capital             Roberta D. Purcell
                Management
        Director, Office of Operations                Priscilla B. Carey
        Director, Office of Procurement and           Glenn Haggstrom
                Property Management
        Director, Office of Security                  Warren R. Ashworth
                Services
        Director, Office of Small and                 James E. House
                Disadvantaged Business
                Utilization
        Director, Conflict Resolution and             Dale Gentry
                Prevention Center
    Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights              Margo M. McKay
        Deputy Assistant Secretary                    Annabelle Romero
        Associate Assistant Secretary                 Clyde Thompson
        Director, Office of Civil Rights              Sadhna G. True
        Director, Office of Outreach                  Gladys Vaughn
    Chief Information Officer                         Dave Combs
        Deputy Chief Information Officer              Jerry E. Williams
    Chief Financial Officer                           Charles Christopherson
        Deputy Chief Financial Officer                Patricia Healy
    General Counsel                                   Marc L. Kesselman
        Deputy General Counsel                        J. Michael Kelly
    Inspector General                                 Phyllis K. Fong
        Deputy Inspector General                      Kathleen S. Tighe
    Director, Office of Communications                Terri Teuber
    Chief Economist                                   Keith Collins
        Deputy Chief Economist                        Joseph Glauber
        Director, Office of Risk Assessment           James Schaub
                and Cost-Benefit Analysis
        Chairman, World Agricultural Outlook          Gerald Bange
                Board
    Director, Global Change Program Office            William Hohenstein
    Director, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses    Roger Conway
    Director, National Appeals Division               Roger J. Klurfeld

    [[Page 105]]

    Director, Office of Budget and Program Analysis   Scott Steele
    Director, Office of the Executive Secretariat     Bruce Bundick

    [For the Department of Agriculture statement of organization, see the
            Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 2]

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Department of Agriculture works to improve and maintain farm income
    and to develop and expand markets abroad for agricultural products. The
    Department helps to curb and to cure poverty, hunger, and malnutrition.
    It works to enhance the environment and to maintain production capacity
    by helping landowners protect the soil, water, forests, and other
    natural resources. Rural development, credit, and conservation programs
    are key resources for carrying out national growth policies. Department
    research findings directly or indirectly benefit all Americans. The
    Department, through inspection and grading services, safeguards and
    ensures standards of quality in the daily food supply.

    The Department of Agriculture (USDA) was created by act of May 15, 1862
    (7 U.S.C. 2201).
        In carrying out its work in the program mission areas, USDA relies
    on the support of departmental administration staff, as well as the
    Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office of the Chief Information
    Officer, Office of Communications, Office of Congressional and
    Intergovernmental Relations, Office of the Inspector General, and the
    Office of the General Counsel.

    Rural Development

    USDA's rural development mission is to assist rural Americans to
    increase their economic opportunities and improve their quality of life.
    To accomplish this, USDA works to foster new cooperative relationships
    among Government, industry, and communities. As a capital investment
    bank, USDA provides financing for rural housing and community
    facilities, business and cooperative development, telephone and high-
    speed Internet access, electric, water, and sewer infrastructure.
    Approximately 800 rural development field offices, staffed by 7,000
    employees, provide frontline delivery of rural development loan and
    grant programs at the local level.

    Rural Business-Cooperative Programs

    To meet business credit needs in underserved areas, USDA rural
    development business programs are usually leveraged with commercial,
    cooperative, or other private sector lenders. USDA's business programs
    are as follows:
    Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans  This program helps create jobs
    and stimulates rural economies by providing financial backing for rural
    businesses. Loan proceeds may be used for working capital, machinery and
    equipment, buildings and real estate, and certain types of debt
    refinancing.
    Business Enterprise  These grants help public bodies, nonprofit
    corporations, and federally recognized Indian tribal groups finance and
    facilitate development of small and emerging private business
    enterprises located in rural areas. Grant funds can pay for the
    acquisition and development of land and the construction of buildings,
    plants, equipment, access streets and roads, parking areas, utility and
    service extensions, refinancing, and fees for professional services, as
    well as technical assistance and related training, startup costs and
    working capital, financial assistance to a third party,
    [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] T211657.011

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    production of television programs targeted to rural residents, and rural
    distance learning networks.
    Business Opportunities  This program promotes sustainable economic
    development in rural communities with exceptional needs. Funds are
    provided for technical assistance, training, and planning activities
    that improve economic conditions. Applicants must be located in rural
    areas.
    Renewable Energy and Efficiency Loans and Grants  This program
    encourages agricultural producers and small rural businesses to create
    renewable and energy-efficient systems.
    Cooperative Development  These grants finance the establishment and
    operation of centers for cooperative development. The primary purpose of
    this program is to enhance the economic condition of rural areas through
    the development of new cooperatives and improving operations of existing
    cooperatives, and encourage the development of value-added ventures.
    Cooperative Opportunities and Problems Research  This program encourages
    research, funded through cooperative agreements, on critical issues
    vital to the development and sustainability of agricultural and other
    rural cooperatives as a means of improving the quality of life in
    America's rural communities.
    Cooperative Program  This program helps farmers and rural communities
    become self-reliant through the use of cooperative organizations.
    Studies are conducted to support cooperatives that market farm products,
    purchase production supplies, and perform related business services.
    These studies concentrate on the financial, organizational, legal,
    social, and economic aspects of cooperative activity. Technical
    assistance and research is provided to improve cooperative performance
    in organizing new cooperatives, merging existing cooperatives, changing
    business structures, and developing strategies for growth. Applied
    research is conducted to give farmers and rural communities expert
    assistance pertaining to their cooperatives. The program also collects
    and publishes statistics regarding the role and scope of cooperative
    activity in U.S. agriculture. A bimonthly magazine, Rural Cooperatives,
    reports current developments and research for cooperative management
    leadership.
    Economic Development  These loans and grants finance economic
    development and job creation projects based on sound economic plans in
    rural areas. Loans and grants are available to any eligible USDA
    electric or telecommunications borrower to assist in developing rural
    areas from an economic standpoint, to create new job opportunities, and
    to help retain existing employment. Loans at zero interest are made
    primarily to finance business startup ventures and business expansion
    projects. Grants are made to eligible telephone and electric utilities
    to establish revolving loan programs operated at the local level. The
    revolving loan program provides capital to nonprofit entities and
    municipal organizations to finance business or community facilities
    which promote job creation in rural areas, for facilities which extend
    or improve medical care to rural residents, and for facilities which
    promote education and training to enhance marketable job skills for
    rural residents.
    Intermediary Relending  These loans finance business facilities and
    community development projects in rural areas. The Service lends these
    funds to intermediaries, which in turn provide loans to recipients who
    are developing business facilities or community development projects.
    Sheep Industry  The National Sheep Industry Improvement Center promotes
    strategic development activities to strengthen and enhance the
    production and marketing of sheep and goat products in the United
    States. It works to improve infrastructure and business development,
    market and environmental research, and designs unique responses to the
    needs of the industries for their long-term sustainable development. The
    Center's board of directors oversees its

    [[Page 108]]

    activities and operates a revolving fund for loans and grants.
    Technology Transfer  This program provides information to farmers and
    other rural users on a variety of sustainable agricultural practices
    that include both cropping and livestock operations. It offers reliable,
    practical information on production techniques and practices that reduce
    costs and that are environmentally friendly. Farmers can request such
    information by telephone at 800-346-9140.

    For further information, contact the Rural Development, Legislative and
    Public Affairs Staff, Stop 0705, Department of Agriculture, 1400
    Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0320. Phone, 202-720-4323.

    Rural Housing Programs

    Rural Development provides affordable rental housing, homeownership
    opportunities, and essential community facilities to rural Americans
    through a broad array of direct loan, guarantee, and grant programs.
    Rural residents and communities may inquire about any of these programs
    through local and State rural development offices. It also provides
    financial and management assistance through the following services:
        --guaranteed single-family housing (SFH) loans which guarantee loans
    made by commercial lenders to moderate-income rural residents with
    sufficient income and acceptable credit, who may lack the downpayment to
    secure a loan without assistance;
        --direct SFH loans made available to people with incomes less than
    80 percent of area median, to build, purchase, and repair rural homes;
        --home improvement and repair loans and grants for owner-occupants
    to remove health and safety hazards from a home;
        --mutual self-help housing technical assistance grants for nonprofit
    organizations and public bodies to help groups of six to eight very low-
    and low-income families to build their own homes by providing ``sweat
    equity'' which reduces the families' mortgages;
        --rural housing site loans for private or public nonprofit
    organizations to purchase sites for the development of housing for very
    low- and low-income families;
        --direct and guaranteed multi-family housing loans for private
    nonprofit corporations, consumer cooperatives, State or local public
    agencies, and individuals or organizations operating on a nonprofit or
    limited profit basis to provide rental or cooperative housing in rural
    areas for persons of very low, low, and moderate income;
        --farm labor housing loans and grants enabling farmers, public or
    private nonprofit organizations, or units of local government to build,
    buy, or rehabilitate farm labor housing;
        --housing preservation grants made to a public body or public/
    private nonprofit organization to provide assistance to homeowners and
    landlords to repair and rehabilitate housing for very low- and low-
    income families in rural areas;
        --housing for the homeless, SFH real estate-owned (REO) property to
    nonprofit organizations or public bodies for transitional housing for
    the homeless and to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to house
    families affected by natural disasters; and
        --community program loans, direct and guaranteed loans and grants
    for public and quasi-public bodies, nonprofit associations, and Indian
    tribes for essential community facilities such as health care centers,
    public safety buildings and vehicles, and child care centers.

    For further information, contact the Rural Development, Legislative and
    Public Affairs Staff, Stop 0705, Department of Agriculture, 1400
    Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0320. Phone, 202-720-4323.

    Rural Utilities Programs

    Rural Development helps finance rural electric and telecommunications
    utilities in obtaining financing and administers a nationwide water and
    waste loan and grant program to improve the quality of life and promote
    economic development in rural America. A total of 890 rural electric and
    800 rural telecommunications utilities in 47 States, Puerto Rico, the
    Virgin Islands, Guam, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Northern
    Mariana Islands, and the

    [[Page 109]]

    Federated States of Micronesia have received financial assistance. It
    also provides assistance through the following programs:
        --The electric program provides loans for improving electric service
    to persons in rural areas, including construction of electric generating
    plants and transmission and distribution lines to provide reliable
    electric service.
        --The telecommunications program provides loans and grants to
    improve telecommunications service and high-speed Internet access in
    rural areas.
        --The water and waste direct and guaranteed loan program provides
    assistance to develop water and wastewater systems, including solid
    waste disposal and storm drainage in rural areas, cities, and towns.
        --Water and waste disposal grants assist in reducing water and waste
    disposal costs to a reasonable level for users of the system.
        --Emergency community water assistance grants provide assistance to
    rural communities experiencing a significant decline in quantity or
    quality of drinking water.
        --Technical assistance and training grants are available to
    nonprofit organizations to provide rural water and waste system
    officials with technical assistance and training on a wide range of
    issues relating to the delivery of water and waste service to rural
    residents.
        --Solid waste management grants are available for nonprofit
    organizations and public bodies to provide technical assistance and
    training to rural areas and towns to reduce or eliminate pollution of
    water resources and improve planning and management of solid waste
    facilities.
        --The rural water circuit rider technical assistance program
    provides technical assistance to rural water systems to solve
    operational, financial, and management challenges.
        --The distance learning and telemedicine program provides financing
    to help rural schools and health care providers purchase or improve
    telecommunications facilities and equipment to bring educational and
    medical resources to rural areas that otherwise might be unavailable.
        --Rural Development also guarantees loans from the Department of the
    Treasury's Federal Financing Bank (FFB), which lends to borrowers,
    primarily for large-scale electric and telecommunication facilities. It
    may also guarantee electric and telecommunications loans from private
    sources.

    For further information, contact the Rural Development Legislative and
    Public Affairs Staff, Department of Agriculture, Stop 0705, 1400
    Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0320. Phone, 202-720-4323.

    Marketing and Regulatory Programs

    This mission area includes marketing and regulatory programs other than
    those concerned with food safety.

    Agricultural Marketing Service

    The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) was established by the
    Secretary of Agriculture on April 2, 1972, under the authority of
    Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.) and other authorities.
    The Service administers standardization, grading, certification, market
    news, marketing orders, research and promotion, and regulatory programs.
    Market News  The Service provides current, unbiased information to
    producers, processors, distributors, and others to assist them in the
    orderly marketing and distribution of farm commodities. Information is
    collected on supplies, shipments, prices, location, quality, condition,
    and other market data on farm products in specific markets and marketing
    areas. The data is disseminated nationally via the Internet

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    and other electronic means and is shared with several countries. The
    Service also assists other countries in developing their own marketing
    information systems.
    Standardization, Grading, and Classing  Nearly 600 grade standards have
    been established for some 230 agricultural commodities to help buyers
    and sellers trade on agreed-upon quality levels. Standards are developed
    with the benefit of views from those in the industries directly affected
    and others interested. The Service also participates in developing
    international commodity standards to facilitate trade.
        Grading and classing services are provided to certify the grade and
    quality of products. These grading services are provided to buyers and
    sellers of live cattle, swine, sheep, meat, poultry, eggs, rabbits,
    fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, peanuts, dairy products, and tobacco.
    Classing services are provided to buyers and sellers of cotton and
    cotton products. These services are mainly voluntary and are provided
    upon request and for a fee. The Service is also responsible for testing
    seed.
    Laboratory Testing  The Service provides microbiological, chemical, and
    other scientific laboratory support to its commodity and food
    procurement programs, testing peanuts for aflatoxin, and testing seeds
    for germination and purity. The Agency also carries out quality
    assurance and safety oversight activities for its milk market
    laboratories, resident grading programs, and State and private
    laboratory programs.
        The Service also administers the Pesticide Data Program which, in
    cooperation with States, samples and analyzes 33 agricultural
    commodities for pesticides residue. It shares residue test results with
    the Environmental Protection Agency and other public agencies.
    Food Quality Assurance  Under a governmentwide quality assurance
    program, AMS is responsible for the development and revision of
    specifications used by Federal agencies in procuring food for military
    and civilian uses. The Service coordinates and approves certification
    programs designed to ensure that purchased products conform to the
    specification requirements.
    Regulatory Programs  The Service administers several regulatory programs
    designed collectively to protect producers, handlers, and consumers of
    agricultural commodities from financial loss or personal injury
    resulting from careless, deceptive, or fraudulent marketing practices.
    Such regulatory programs encourage fair trading practices in the
    marketing of fruits and vegetables, require truth in seed labeling and
    in advertising. The Service provides voluntary laboratory analyses of
    egg products, and monitors the disposition of restricted shell eggs--
    eggs that are a potential health hazard.
    Marketing Agreements and Orders  The Service administers marketing
    agreements and orders to establish and maintain orderly marketing
    conditions for certain commodities. Milk marketing orders establish
    minimum prices that handlers or distributors are required to pay
    producers. Programs for fruits, vegetables, and related specialty crops
    like nuts and spearmint oil promote product quality control and help
    stabilize supplies and market prices. In some cases, they also authorize
    research and market development activities, including advertising
    supported by assessments that handlers pay. Through the orderly
    marketing of commodities facilitated by these programs, the interests of
    both producers and consumers are protected.
    Plant Variety Protection Program  The Service administers a program that
    provides for the issuance of certificates of plant variety protection.
    These certificates afford developers of novel varieties of sexually
    reproduced plants exclusive rights to sell, reproduce, import, or export
    such varieties, or use them in the production of hybrids or different
    varieties for a period of 20 years for non-woody plants and 25 years for
    woody plants.
    Research and Promotion Programs  The Service monitors certain industry-
    sponsored research, promotion, and information programs authorized by
    Federal laws. These programs provide

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    farmers and processors with a means to finance and operate various
    research, promotion, and information activities for cotton, potatoes,
    eggs, milk and dairy products, beef, pork, honey, watermelon, mushrooms,
    soybeans, blueberries, avocados, peanuts, and popcorn.
    Transportation Programs  The Service is also responsible for the
    promotion of an efficient transportation system for rural America that
    begins at the farm gate and moves agricultural and other rural products
    through the Nation's highways, railroads, airports, and waterways, and
    into the domestic and international marketplace. To accomplish this, AMS
    conducts economic studies and analyses of these systems, and represents
    agricultural and rural transportation interests in policy and regulatory
    forums. To provide direct assistance to the transportation community,
    AMS supplies research and technical information to producers, producer
    groups, shippers, exporters, rural communities, carriers, governmental
    agencies, and universities.
    Organic Standards  The Service, with the assistance of the National
    Organic Standards Board, develops national organic standards.
    Other Programs  Other marketing service activities include financial
    grants to States for marketing improvement projects. The Agency also has
    responsibility for the conduct of studies of the facilities and methods
    used in the physical distribution of food and other farm products; for
    research designed to improve the handling of all agricultural products
    as they move from farm to consumers; for increasing marketing efficiency
    by developing improved operating methods and facilities; and for
    certifying equipment for processing, handling, and distributing dairy,
    poultry, and meat products.
    Pesticide Recordkeeping Program  The Agricultural Marketing Service
    manages the Pesticide Recordkeeping Program in coordination with State
    agencies, the National Agricultural Statistics Service, and the
    Environmental Protection Agency. The Service has developed educational
    programs and works with State agencies in inspecting applicator records.

    For further information, contact the Public Affairs Staff, Agricultural
    Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture, Room 3510, South
    Agriculture Building, Stop 0273, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-
    8998 or visit the Web site at www.ams.usda.gov.

    Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

    [For the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service statement of
    organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 371]

    The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service was reestablished by the
    Secretary of Agriculture on March 14, 1977, pursuant to authority
    contained in 5 U.S.C. 301 and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5
    U.S.C. app.).
        The Service was established to conduct regulatory and control
    programs to protect and improve animal and plant health for the benefit
    of man and the environment. In cooperation with State governments, the
    agency administers Federal laws and regulations pertaining to animal and
    plant health and quarantine, humane treatment of animals, and the
    control and eradication of pests and diseases. Regulations to prevent
    the introduction or interstate spread of certain animal or plant pests
    or diseases are also enforced by the Service. It also carries out
    research and operational activities to reduce crop and livestock
    depredation caused by birds, rodents, and predators.
    Biotechnology Regulatory Services   Biotechnology regulatory officials
    are responsible for regulating the importation, movement, and field
    release of genetically engineered plants, insects, microorganisms, and
    any other known organism or potential plant pest.
        Biotechnology regulations are designed to ensure that genetically
    engineered organisms, such as herbicide-tolerant cotton or virus-
    resistant papayas, are just as safe for agriculture and the environment
    as traditionally bred crop varieties. In regulating biotechnology, the
    Service works in concert with the Environmental Protection Agency and
    the Food and Drug Administration, agencies that also play important
    roles in

    [[Page 112]]

    protecting agriculture, a safe food supply, and the environment. Its
    involvement begins when a person or organization wishes to import, move
    across a State line, or field-test a genetically engineered plant. These
    activities are subject to the Service's permitting and notification
    system.
    Plant Protection and Quarantine   Plant protection officials are
    responsible for programs to control or eradicate plant pests and
    diseases. These programs are carried out in cooperation with the States
    involved, other Federal agencies, farmers, and private organizations.
    Pest control programs use a single tool or a combination of pest control
    techniques, both chemical and nonchemical, which are both effective and
    safe.
        Plant protection officials develop Federal regulations and policies
    that prohibit or restrict the entry of foreign pests and plants, plant
    products, animal products and byproducts, and other materials that may
    harbor pests or diseases. These regulations and policies help protect
    agricultural production and natural resources from pests and diseases.
    The Service continues to take regulatory action on prohibited or
    restricted products.
    Veterinary Services   Animal health officials are responsible for
    programs to protect and improve the health, quality, and marketability
    of U.S. animals and animal products. The programs are carried out
    through cooperative links with States, foreign governments, livestock
    producers, and other Federal agencies.
        Service officials exclude, control, and eradicate animal pests and
    diseases by carrying out eradication and control programs for certain
    diseases, providing diagnostic services, and gathering and disseminating
    information regarding animal health in the United States through land,
    air, and ocean ports. They also certify as to the health status of
    animals and animal products being exported to other countries, and
    respond to animal disease incursions or epidemics which threaten the
    health status of U.S. livestock and poultry.
        The Service also administers a Federal law intended to ensure that
    all veterinary biological products, whether developed by conventional or
    new biotechnological procedures, used in the diagnosis, prevention, and
    treatment of animal disease are safe, pure, potent, and effective. The
    Service regulates firms that manufacture veterinary biological products
    subject to the act, including licensing the manufacturing establishment
    and its products, inspecting production facilities and production
    methods, and testing products under a surveillance program.
    Animal Care  The Service administers Federal laws concerned with the
    humane care and handling of all warm-blooded animals bought, sold, and
    transported in commerce and used or intended for use as pets at the
    wholesale level, or used or intended for use in exhibitions or for
    research purposes. The agency also enforces the Horse Protection Act of
    1970, which prohibits the soring of horses at shows and sales.
    International Services  Service activities in the international arena
    include conducting cooperative plant and animal pest and disease
    control, eradication, and surveillance programs in foreign countries.
    These programs provide a first line of defense for the United States
    against threats such as screwworm, medfly, foot-and-mouth disease, and
    other exotic diseases and pests. The Service also provides international
    representation concerning sanitary and phytosanitary technical trade
    issues, and manages programs for overseas preclearance of commodities,
    passengers, and U.S. military activities.
    Wildlife Services  Wildlife services officials cooperate with States,
    counties, local communities, and agricultural producer groups to reduce
    crop and livestock depredations caused by birds, rodents, and predators.
    Using methods and techniques that are biologically sound,
    environmentally acceptable, and economically feasible, they participate
    in efforts to educate and advise farmers and ranchers on proper uses of
    control methods and techniques; suppress serious nuisances and threats
    to public health and safety caused by birds, rodents, and other wildlife
    in urban and

    [[Page 113]]

    rural communities; and work with airport managers to reduce risks of
    bird strikes. In addition, they conduct research into predator-prey
    relationships, new control methods, and more efficient and safe uses of
    present methods such as toxicants, repellants and attractants,
    biological controls, scare devices, and habitat alteration.

    For further information, contact Legislative and Public Affairs, Animal
    and Plant Health Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture,
    Washington, DC20250. Phone, 202-720-2511.

    Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration

    The Grain Inspection, Packers, and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) was
    established in 1994 to facilitate the marketing of livestock, poultry,
    meat, cereals, oilseeds, and related agricultural products, and to
    promote fair and competitive trading practices for the overall benefit
    of consumers and American agriculture. The Agency's mission is carried
    out in two different segments of American agriculture. The Federal Grain
    Inspection Service provides the U.S. grain market with Federal quality
    standards and a uniform system for applying them. The Packers and
    Stockyards Programs (P&SP) enforces the Packers and Stockyards Act of
    1921 (P&S Act), 7 U.S.C. 181 et seq., to promote fair and competitive
    marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.
    GIPSA also certifies State central filing systems for notification of
    liens against farm products. GIPSA is responsible for establishing
    official U.S. standards for grain and other assigned commodities, and
    for administering a nationwide official inspection and weighing system.
    Inspection  The United States Grain Standards Act requires that, with
    some exceptions, all U.S. export grain be officially inspected. At
    export port locations, inspection is performed by GIPSA or by State
    agencies that have been delegated export inspection authority by the
    Administrator. For domestic grain marketed at inland locations, the
    Administrator designates private and State agencies to provide official
    inspection services upon request. Both export and domestic services are
    provided on a fee basis.
    Weighing  Official weighing of U.S. export grain is performed at port
    locations by GIPSA or by State agencies that have been delegated export
    weighing authority by the Administrator. For domestic grain marketed at
    inland locations, the weighing services may be provided by GIPSA or by
    designated private or State agencies. Weighing services are provided on
    a fee basis, upon request.
    Standardization  The Administration is responsible for establishing,
    maintaining, and revising official U.S. standards for corn, wheat, rye,
    oats, barley, flaxseed, sorghum, soybeans, triticale, sunflower seed,
    canola, and mixed grain. It is authorized to perform applied research to
    develop methods to improve accuracy and uniformity in grading grain. It
    is also responsible for standardization and inspection activities for
    rice, dry beans, peas, lentils, hay, straw, hops, and related processed
    grain commodities. Although standards no longer exist for hay, straw,
    and hops, GIPSA maintains inspection procedures for and retains
    authority to inspect these commodities.
    Methods Development  The Administration's methods development activities
    include applied research or tests that produce new or improved
    techniques for measuring grain quality. Examples include new knowledge
    gained through study of how to establish the framework for real-time
    grain inspection and develop reference methods to maintain consistency
    and standardization in the grain inspection system, and the comparison
    of different techniques for evaluation of end-use quality in wheat.
    Packers and Stockyards Activities  The P&S Act prohibits unfair,
    deceptive, anti-competitive, and fraudulent practices by market
    agencies, dealers, packers, swine contactors, and live poultry dealers
    in those particular industries. The P&S Act protects producers and
    poultry growers by requiring most regulated entities to obtain bonds and
    meet strict payment requirements. To protect unpaid cash

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    sellers of livestock, packers are subject to trust provisions which
    require that livestock and related investments or proceeds from meat,
    meat food products, or livestock products derived from them be held in
    trust for unpaid sellers until payment is made in full. A similar
    provision exists for live poultry dealers to protect growers. P&SP
    analyzes all trust and bond claims as a courtesy to the regulated
    industries. It is also responsible for the Truth-in-Lending Act and the
    Fair Credit Reporting Act as each relates to persons and firms subject
    to the P&S Act. P&SP carries out the Secretary's responsibilities under
    section 1324 of the Food Security Act of 1985 pertaining to State-
    established central filing systems to pre-notify buyers, commission
    merchants, and selling agents of security interests against farm
    products. GIPSA administers the section of the statute commonly referred
    to as the ``Clear Title'' provision, and certifies qualifying State
    systems.

    For further information, contact the Grain Inspection, Packers, and
    Stockyards Administration, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC
    20250. Phone, 202-720-0219.

    Food Safety

    Food Safety and Inspection Service

    The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) was established by the
    Secretary of Agriculture on June 17, 1981, pursuant to authority
    contained in 5 U.S.C. 301 and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5
    U.S.C. app.). FSIS is responsible for ensuring that the nation's
    commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome,
    and correctly labeled and packaged.
    Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products Inspection  Federal meat and poultry
    inspection is mandatory for cattle, calves, swine, goats, sheep, lambs,
    horses (and other equines), chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and guineas
    used for human food. FSIS provides for the inspection of each animal or
    bird at slaughter and processed products during various stages of
    production.
        FSIS inspects all raw meat and poultry sold in interstate and
    foreign commerce, including imported products. It monitors meat and
    poultry products after they leave federally inspected plants. FSIS tests
    samples of egg products and meat and poultry products for microbial and
    chemical contaminants to monitor trends for enforcement purposes.
        FSIS provides inspection at Federal facilities for meat, poultry,
    and egg products, as well as voluntary inspection for animals not
    covered under mandatory inspection regulations such as buffalo, rabbit,
    and deer. It monitors meat and poultry products in storage,
    distribution, and retail channels; and takes necessary compliance
    actions to protect the public, including detention of products,
    voluntary product recalls, court-ordered seizures of products,
    administrative withdrawal of inspection, and referral for criminal
    prosecution. FSIS also monitors state inspection programs which inspect
    meat and poultry products sold only within the state in which they were
    produced.
        FSIS maintains a toll-free meat and poultry hotline (phone, 888-674-
    6854, TTY, 800-256-7072) to answer questions in English and Spanish
    about the safe handling of meat, poultry, and egg products. The
    hotline's hours are Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.,
    Eastern Time, year-round. An extensive selection of food safety
    messages, in English and Spanish, is also available at the same number
    24 hours a day.
        ``Ask Karen'' is a Web-based virtual representative tool that
    provides answers to consumer questions about food safety. ``Ask Karen''
    is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at www.askkaren.gov.

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    For further information, contact the Director, Food Safety Education
    Staff, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture,
    Beltsville, Maryland 20705. Phone, 301-344-4755. Fax, 301-504-0203.
    Internet, www.fsis.usda.gov. E-mail, MPHotline.fsis@usda.gov.

    Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services

    The mission of Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services is to reduce
    hunger and food insecurity, in partnership with cooperating
    organizations, by providing access to food, a healthful diet, and
    nutrition education to children and needy people in a manner that
    supports American agriculture.

    Food and Nutrition Service

    The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) administers the USDA food
    assistance programs. These programs, which serve one in six Americans,
    represent our Nation's commitment to the principle that no one in this
    country should fear hunger or experience want. They provide a Federal
    safety net to people in need. The goals of the programs are to provide
    needy persons with access to a more nutritious diet, to improve the
    eating habits of the Nation's children, and to help America's farmers by
    providing an outlet for distributing foods purchased under farmer
    assistance authorities.
        The Service works in partnership with the States in all its
    programs. State and local agencies determine most administrative details
    regarding distribution of food benefits and eligibility of participants,
    and FNS provides commodities and funding for additional food and to
    cover administrative costs. FNS administers the following food
    assistance programs:
        --The Food Stamp Program provides food benefits through State and
    local welfare agencies to needy persons to increase their food
    purchasing power. The benefits are used by program participants to buy
    food in retail stores approved by the Food and Nutrition Service to
    accept and redeem the benefits.
        --The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and
    Children (WIC) improves the health of low-income pregnant,
    breastfeeding, and nonbreastfeeding postpartum women, and infants and
    children up to 5 years of age by providing them with specific nutritious
    food supplements, nutrition education, and health care referrals.
        --The WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program provides WIC
    participants with increased access to fresh produce. WIC participants
    receive coupons to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from authorized
    farmers.
        --The Commodity Supplemental Food Program provides a package of
    foods monthly to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding
    women, their infants and children under age 6, and the elderly.
    Nutrition education is also provided through this program.
        --The National School Lunch Program supports nonprofit food services
    in elementary and secondary schools and in residential child-care
    institutions. More than half of the meals served through these
    institutions are free or at reduced cost.
        --The School Breakfast Program supplements the National School Lunch
    Program by supporting schools in providing needy children with free or
    low-cost breakfasts that meet established nutritional standards.
        --The Special Milk Program for Children provides milk for children
    in those schools, summer camps, and child-care institutions that have no
    federally supported meal programs.
        --The Child and Adult Care Food Program provides cash and
    commodities for meals for preschool and school-aged children in child-
    care facilities and for functionally impaired adults in facilities that
    provide nonresidential care for such individuals.
        --The Summer Food Service Program for Children helps various
    organizations get nutritious meals to needy preschool and school-aged
    children during the

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    summer months and during school vacations.
        --The Emergency Food Assistance Program provides State agencies with
    commodities for distribution to food banks, food pantries, soup
    kitchens, and other charitable institutions throughout the country, with
    administrative funds to assist in distribution.
        --The Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations and the Trust
    Territories provides an extensive package of commodities monthly to low-
    income households on or near Indian reservations in lieu of food stamps.
    This program is administered at the local level by Indian tribal
    organizations or State agencies.
        --The Nutrition Program for the Elderly provides cash and
    commodities to States for meals for senior citizens. The food is
    delivered through senior citizen centers or meals-on-wheels programs.
        --The Nutrition Assistance Programs for Puerto Rico and the Northern
    Marianas are block grant programs that replace the Food Stamp Programs
    in these two territories and provide cash and coupons to resident
    participants.
        --The Nutrition Education and Training Program grants funds to
    States for the development and dissemination of nutrition information
    and materials to children and for training of food service and teaching
    personnel.

    For further information, contact the Public Information Officer, Food
    and Nutrition Service, Department of Agriculture, Alexandria, VA 22302.
    Phone, 703-305-2286. Internet, www.usda.gov/fns.htm.

    Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

    The Center coordinates nutrition policy in USDA and provides overall
    leadership in nutrition education for the American public. It also
    coordinates with the Department of Health and Human Services in the
    review, revision, and dissemination of the Dietary Guidelines for
    Americans, the Federal Government's statement of nutrition policy formed
    by a consensus of scientific and medical professionals.

    For further information, contact the Office of Public Information,
    Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, Suite 200, 1120 20th Street
    NW., Washington, DC 20036-3406. Phone, 202-418-2312. Internet,
    www.cnpp.usda.gov.

    Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services

    Farm Service Agency

    The Farm Service Agency (FSA) administers farm commodity, disaster, and
    conservation programs for farmers and ranchers, and makes and guarantees
    farm emergency, ownership, and operating loans through a network of
    State and county offices.
    Farm Commodity Programs  FSA manages commodity programs such as the
    direct and countercyclical program, commodity and livestock disaster
    programs, marketing assistance loan programs, noninsured crop disaster
    assistance programs, and the tobacco transition payment program. It
    administers commodity loan programs for wheat, rice, corn, grain
    sorghum, barley, oats, oilseeds, peanuts, upland and extra-long-staple
    cotton, and sugar. FSA provides operating personnel for the Commodity
    Credit Corporation (CCC), a Government-owned and -operated organization.
    CCC provides short-term loans using the commodity as collateral. These
    loans provide farmers with interim financing and facilitate orderly
    marketing of farm commodities throughout the year.
    Farm Loan Programs  FSA makes and guarantees loans to family farmers and
    ranchers to purchase farmland and finance agricultural production. These
    programs help farmers who are temporarily unable to obtain private
    commercial credit. These may be beginning farmers who have insufficient
    net worth to qualify for commercial credit, who have suffered financial
    setbacks from natural disasters, or who

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    have limited resources with which to establish and maintain profitable
    farming operations.
    Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)  NAP provides
    catastrophic crop loss protection for crops not covered by Federal crop
    insurance. Crops that are eligible include commercial crops grown for
    food and fiber, floriculture, ornamental nursery products, Christmas
    tree crops, turfgrass sod, seed crops, aquaculture (including ornamental
    fish such as goldfish), and industrial crops. Losses resulting from
    natural disasters not covered by the crop insurance policy may also be
    eligible for NAP assistance. NAP does not include trees grown for wood,
    paper, or pulp products.
    Other Emergency Assistance  There are FSA programs to assist farmers who
    encounter natural disasters from drought, flood, freeze, tornadoes, and
    other natural calamities. Eligible producers can be compensated for crop
    losses, livestock feed losses, and tree damage, and for the cost of
    rehabilitating eligible farmlands damaged by natural disaster. Low-
    interest loans for eligible farmers can help cover production and
    physical losses in counties declared disaster areas.
        The largest component of USDA disaster assistance is the Crop
    Disaster Program (CDP), which has provided more than $3 billion in
    financial relief to farmers, ranchers, foresters, and other agricultural
    producers who incurred losses because of recent adverse weather
    conditions.
    Conservation Programs  FSA's conservation programs include enhancement
    of wildlife habitat and water and air quality. The Conservation Reserve
    Program is the Federal Government's single-largest environmental
    improvement program on private lands. It safeguards millions of acres of
    topsoil from erosion, improves air quality, increases wildlife habitat,
    and protects ground and surface water by reducing water runoff and
    sedimentation. In return for planting a protective cover of grass or
    trees on vulnerable property, the owner receives a rental payment each
    year of a multi-year contract. Cost-share payments are also available to
    help establish permanent areas of grass, legumes, trees, windbreaks, or
    plants that improve water quality and give shelter and food to wildlife.
    Commodity Operations  FSA's commodity operations facilitates the
    storage, management, and disposition of commodities used to meet
    humanitarian needs abroad. FSA's commodity operations also administers
    the United States Warehouse Act (USWA) which authorizes the Secretary of
    Agriculture to license warehouse operators who store agricultural
    products. Warehouse operators that apply must meet the USDA standards
    established within the USWA and its regulations. Under the milk price
    support program, the Commodity Credit Corporation buys surplus butter,
    cheese, and nonfat dry milk from processors at announced prices to
    support the price of milk. These purchases help maintain market prices
    at the legislated support level, and the surplus commodities are used
    for hunger relief both domestically and internationally. FSA's commodity
    operations also coordinates with other Government agencies to provide
    surplus commodities for various programs and also purchases commodities
    for the National School Lunch Program and other domestic feeding
    programs.

    For further information, contact the Public Affairs Branch, Farm Service
    Agency, Department of Agriculture, Stop 0506, 1400 Independence Avenue
    SW., Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-5237. Internet,
    www.fsa.usda.gov.

    Commodity Credit Corporation

    The Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) stabilizes, supports, and
    protects farm income and prices, assists in maintaining balanced and
    adequate supplies of agricultural commodities and their products, and
    facilitates the orderly distribution of commodities.
        CCC carries out assigned foreign assistance activities, such as
    guaranteeing the credit sale of U.S. agricultural commodities abroad.
    Major emphasis is also being directed toward meeting the needs of
    developing nations.

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    Agricultural commodities are supplied and exported to combat hunger and
    malnutrition and to encourage economic development in developing
    countries. In addition, under the Food for Progress Program, CCC
    supplies commodities to provide assistance to developing democracies.

    For further information, contact the Information Division, Foreign
    Agricultural Service, Department of Agriculture, Stop 1004, 1400
    Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-7115. Fax,
    202-720-1727.

    Risk Management Agency

    The Risk Management Agency (RMA), via the Federal Crop Insurance
    Corporation (FCIC), oversees and administers the crop insurance program
    under the Federal Crop Insurance Act.
        Crop insurance is offered to qualifying producers through 16 private
    sector crop insurance companies. Under the new Standard Reinsurance
    Agreement (SRA), RMA provides reinsurance, pays premium subsidies,
    reimburses insurers for administrative and operating costs and oversees
    the financial integrity and operational performance of the delivery
    system. RMA bears much of the noncommercial insurance risk under the
    SRA, allowing insurers to retain commercial insurance risks or reinsure
    those risks in the private market.
        In 2006, the Federal crop insurance program is expected to provide
    producers with more than $44 billion in protection on approximately 246
    million acres through about 1.2 million policies. There are 22 insurance
    plans available and 26 active pilot programs in various stages of
    development.
        RMA is also working closely with the private sector to find new and
    innovative ways to provide expanded coverage. This includes risk
    protection for specialty crops, livestock and forage, and rangeland and
    pasture. Thus, RMA is able to reduce the need for ad hoc disaster bills
    and available coverage caused by long-term production declines that
    result from extended drought in many areas.
        Additional information about RMA can be found on its Web site
    (www.rma.usda.gov), including agency news, State profiles, publications,
    announcements on current issues, summaries of insurance sales, pilot
    programs, downloadable crop policies, and agency-sponsored events. The
    site also features online tools, calculators, and applications.

    For further information, contact the Office of the Administrator, Risk
    Management Agency, Department of Agriculture, Stop 0801, 1400
    Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-690-2803.
    Internet, www.rma.usda.gov.

    Foreign Agricultural Service

    The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) works to improve foreign market
    access for U.S. products, to build new markets, to improve the
    competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace, and
    to provide food aid and technical assistance to foreign countries.
        FAS has the primary responsibility for USDA's activities in the
    areas of international marketing, trade agreements and negotiations, and
    the collection and analysis of international statistics and market
    information. It also administers the USDA's export credit guarantee and
    food aid programs. FAS helps increase income and food availability in
    developing nations by mobilizing expertise for agriculturally led
    economic growth.
        FAS also enhances U.S. agricultural competitiveness through a global
    network of agricultural economists, marketing experts, negotiators, and
    other specialists. FAS agricultural counselors, attaches, trade
    officers, and locally employed FAS staff stationed in over 90 countries
    support U.S. agricultural interests and cover 140 countries.
        In addition to agricultural affairs offices in U.S. embassies,
    agricultural trade offices also have been established in a number of key
    foreign markets and function as service centers for U.S. exporters and
    foreign buyers seeking market information.
        Reports prepared by our overseas offices cover changes in policies
    and other developments that could affect U.S. agricultural exports. FAS
    staff in U.S. embassies around the world assess

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    U.S. export marketing opportunities and respond to the daily
    informational needs of those who develop, initiate, monitor,and evaluate
    U.S. food and agricultural policies and programs.
        In addition to data collection, FAS also maintains a worldwide
    agricultural reporting system based on information from U.S.
    agricultural traders, remote sensing systems, and other sources.
    Analysts in Washington, DC, prepare production forecasts, assess export
    marketing opportunities, and track changes in policies affecting U.S.
    agricultural exports and imports.
        FAS programs help U.S. exporters develop and maintain markets for
    hundreds of food and agricultural products, from bulk commodities to
    brand name items. Formal market promotion activities are carried out
    chiefly in cooperation with agricultural trade associations, State-
    regional trade groups, small businesses, and cooperatives that plan,
    manage, and contribute staff resources and funds to support these
    efforts. FAS also provides guidance to help exporters locate buyers and
    provides assistance through a variety of other methods. This includes
    supporting U.S. participation in several major trade shows and a number
    of single-industry exhibitions each year.

    For further information, contact the Public Affairs Division, Foreign
    Agricultural Service, Stop 1004, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW.,
    Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-1004. Phone, 202-720-
    7115. Fax, 202-720-1727. Internet, http://www.fas.usda.gov.

    Research, Education, and Economics

    This mission area's main focus is to create, apply, and transfer
    knowledge and technology to provide affordable food and fiber, ensure
    food safety and nutrition, and support rural development and natural
    resource needs of people by conducting integrated national and
    international research, information, education, and statistical programs
    and services that are in the national interest.

    Agricultural Research Service

    The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) conducts research to develop and
    transfer solutions to agricultural problems of high national priority.
    It provides information access and dissemination to ensure high-quality
    safe food and other agricultural products; assess the nutritional needs
    of Americans; sustain a competitive agricultural economy; enhance the
    natural resource base and the environment; and provide economic
    opportunities for rural citizens, communities, and society as a whole.
        Research activities are carried out at 103 domestic locations
    (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and 5 overseas
    locations. Much of this research is conducted in cooperation with
    partners in State universities and experiment stations, other Federal
    agencies, and private organizations. National Programs, headquartered in
    Beltsville, MD, is the focal point in the overall planning and
    coordination of ARS' research programs. Day-to-day management of the
    respective programs for specific field locations is assigned to eight
    area offices.
    ARS also includes the National Agricultural Library (NAL), which is the
    primary resource in the United States for information about food,
    agriculture, and natural resources, and serves as an electronic gateway
    to a widening array of scientific literature, printed text, and
    agricultural images. NAL serves USDA and a broad customer base including
    policymakers, agricultural specialists, research scientists, and the
    general public. NAL works with other agricultural libraries and
    institutions to advance open and democratic access to information about
    agriculture and the Nation's agricultural knowledge.

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    For further information, contact the Agricultural Research Service,
    Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC
    20250. Phone, 202-720-3656. Fax, 202-720-5427 Internet,
    www.ars.usda.gov.

    Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service

    The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service
    (CSREES) links the research and education resources and activities of
    USDA and works with academic and land-grant institutions throughout the
    Nation. In cooperation with its partners and customers, CSREES advances
    a global system of research, extension, and higher education in the food
    and agricultural sciences and related environmental and human sciences
    to benefit people, communities, and the Nation.
        CSREES's programs increase and provide access to scientific
    knowledge; strengthen the capabilities of land-grant and other
    institutions in research, extension, and higher education; increase
    access to and use of improved communication and network systems; and
    promote informed decisionmaking by producers, consumers, families, and
    community leaders to improve social conditions in the United States and
    around the world. These conditions include improved agricultural and
    other economic enterprises; safer, cleaner water, food, and air;
    enhanced stewardship and management of natural resources; healthier,
    more responsible and more productive individuals, families, and
    communities; and a stable, secure, diverse, and affordable national food
    supply.
        CSREES provides research, extension, and education leadership
    through programs in plant and animal systems; natural resources and
    environment; economic and community systems; families, 4-H, and
    nutrition; competitive research and integrated research, education, and
    extension programs and awards management; science and education
    resources development; and information systems and technology
    management.
        CSREES's partnership with the land-grant universities is critical to
    the effective shared planning, delivery, and accountability for
    research, higher education, and extension programs.

    For further information, contact the Communications Staff, Cooperative
    State Research, Education, and Extension Service, Department of
    Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-2207.
    Phone, 202-720-4651. Fax, 202-690-0289. E-mail, CSREES@csrees.usda.gov.
    Internet, www.csrees.usda.gov.

    Economic Research Service

    The mission of the Economic Research Service (ERS) is to inform and
    enhance public and private decisionmaking on economic and policy issues
    related to agriculture, food, the environment, and rural development.
        Activities to support this mission and the following goals involve
    research and development of economic and statistical indicators on a
    broad range of topics including, but not limited to, global agricultural
    market conditions, trade restrictions, agribusiness concentration, farm
    and retail food prices, foodborne illnesses, food labeling, nutrition,
    food assistance programs, worker safety, agrichemical usage, livestock
    waste management, conservation, sustainability, genetic diversity,
    technology transfer, rural infrastructure, and rural employment.
    Research results and economic indicators on such important agricultural,
    food, natural resource, and rural issues are fully disseminated to
    public and private decisionmakers through published and electronic
    reports and articles; special staff analyses, briefings, presentations,
    and papers; databases; and individual contacts. Through such activities,
    ERS provides public and private decisionmakers with economic and related
    social science information and analysis in support of the Department's
    goals of enhancing economic opportunities for agricultural producers;
    supporting economic opportunities and quality of life in rural America;
    enhancing the protection and safety of U.S. agriculture and food;
    improving U.S. nutrition and health; and enhancing

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    the natural resource base and environment. More information on ERS's
    program is contained on the ERS Web site (www.ers.usda.gov).

    For further information, contact the Information Services Division,
    Economic Research Service, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC
    20036-5831. Phone, 202-694-5100. Fax, 202-694-5641.

    National Agricultural Statistics Service

    The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) prepares estimates
    and reports on production, supply, price, chemical use, and other items
    necessary for the orderly operation of the U.S. agricultural economy.
        The reports include statistics on field crops, fruits and
    vegetables, dairy, cattle, hogs, sheep, poultry, aquaculture, and
    related commodities or processed products. Other estimates concern farm
    numbers, farm production expenditures, agricultural chemical use, prices
    received by farmers for products sold, prices paid for commodities and
    services, indexes of prices received and paid, parity prices, farm
    employment, and farm wage rates.
        The Service prepares these estimates through a complex system of
    sample surveys of producers, processors, buyers, and others associated
    with agriculture. Information is gathered by mail, telephone, personal
    interviews, and field visits.
        NASS is responsible for conducting the Census of Agriculture. The
    Census of Agriculture is taken every 5 years and provides comprehensive
    data on the agricultural economy down to the county level. Periodic
    reports are also issued on aquacultures, irrigation, and horticultural
    specialties.
        The Service performs reimbursable survey work and statistical
    consulting services for other Federal and State agencies and provides
    technical assistance for developing agricultural data systems in other
    countries.

    For further information, contact the Executive Assistant to the
    Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Department of
    Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-2000. Phone, 202-720-2707. Fax, 202-
    720-9013.

    Natural Resources and Environment

    This mission area is responsible for fostering sound stewardship of 75
    percent of the Nation's total land area. Ecosystems are the underpinning
    for the Department's operating philosophy in this area in order to
    maximize stewardship of our natural resources. This approach ensures
    that products, values, services, and uses desired by people are produced
    in ways that sustain healthy, productive ecosystems.

    Forest Service

    [For the Forest Service statement of organization, see the Code of
    Federal Regulations, Title 36, Part 200.1]

    The Forest Service was created by the Transfer Act of February 1, 1905
    (16 U.S.C. 472), which transferred the Federal forest reserves and the
    responsibility for their management from the Department of the Interior
    to the Department of Agriculture. The mission of the Forest Service is
    to achieve quality land management under the sustainable, multiple-use
    management concept to meet the diverse needs of people. It's objectives
    include:
        --advocating a conservation ethic in promoting the health,
    productivity, diversity, and beauty of forests and associated lands;
        --listening to people and responding to their diverse needs in
    making decisions;
        --protecting and managing the national forests and grasslands to
    best demonstrate the sustainable, multiple-use management concept;

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        --providing technical and financial assistance to State and private
    forest landowners, encouraging them toward active stewardship and
    quality land management in meeting their specific objectives;
        --providing technical and financial assistance to cities and
    communities to improve their natural environment by planting trees and
    caring for their forests;
        --providing international technical assistance and scientific
    exchanges to sustain and enhance global resources and to encourage
    quality land management;
        --assisting States and communities in using the forests wisely to
    promote rural economic development and a quality rural environment;
        --developing and providing scientific and technical knowledge,
    improving our capability to protect, manage, and use forests and
    rangelands; and
        --providing work, training, and education to the unemployed,
    underemployed, elderly, youth, and the disadvantaged.
    National Forest System  The Service manages 155 national forests, 20
    national grasslands, and 8 land utilization projects on over 191 million
    acres in 44 States, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico under the
    principles of multiple-use and sustained yield. The Nation's tremendous
    need for wood and paper products is balanced with the other vital,
    renewable resources or benefits that the national forests and grasslands
    provide: recreation and natural beauty, wildlife habitat, livestock
    forage, and water supplies. The guiding principle is the greatest good
    to the greatest number in the long run.
        These lands are protected as much as possible from wildfire,
    epidemics of disease and insect pests, erosion, floods, and water and
    air pollution. Burned areas get emergency seeding treatment to prevent
    massive erosion and stream siltation. Roads and trails are built where
    needed to allow for closely regulated timber harvesting and to give the
    public access to outdoor recreation areas and provide scenic drives and
    hikes. Picnic, camping, water-sport, skiing, and other areas are
    provided with facilities for public convenience and enjoyment. Timber
    harvesting methods are used that will protect the land and streams,
    assure rapid renewal of the forest, provide food and cover for wildlife
    and fish, and have minimum impact on scenic and recreation values. Local
    communities benefit from the logging and milling activities. These lands
    also provide needed oil, gas, and minerals. Rangelands are improved for
    millions of livestock and game animals. The national forests provide a
    refuge for many species of endangered birds, animals, and fish. Some
    34.6 million acres are set aside as wilderness and 175,000 acres as
    primitive areas where timber will not be harvested.
    Forest Research  The Service performs basic and applied research to
    develop the scientific information and technology needed to protect,
    manage, use, and sustain the natural resources of the Nation's forests
    and rangelands. The Service's forest research strategy focuses on three
    major program components: understanding the structure and functions of
    forest and range ecosystems; understanding how people perceive and value
    the protection, management, and use of natural resources; and
    determining which protection, management, and utilization practices are
    most suitable for sustainable production and use of the world's natural
    resources.
    Manpower Programs  The Service operates the Youth Conservation Corps and
    the Volunteers in the National Forests programs and participates with
    the Department of Labor on several human resource programs that involve
    the Nation's citizens, both young and old, in forestry-related
    activities. Included in these programs are the Job Corps and the Senior
    Community Service Employment Program. These programs annually accomplish
    millions of dollars worth of conservation work, while providing
    participants with such benefits as training, paid employment, and
    meaningful outdoor experience.

    For further information, contact the Office of Communications, Forest
    Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC
    20090-6090. Phone, 202-205-8333.

    [[Page 123]]

                          Field Offices--Forest Service
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Region/Station/Area                        Address
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------
    National Forest System Regions--Regional Forester
    1. Northern                 Federal Bldg. (P.O. Box 7669), Missoula, MT
                                 59807
    2. Rocky Mountain           740 Simms St., P.O. Box 25127, Lakewood, CO
                                 80225
    3. Southwestern             517 Gold Ave. SW., Albuquerque, NM 87102
    4. Intermountain            324 25th St., Ogden, UT 84401
    5. Pacific Southwest        630 Sansome St., San Francisco, CA 94111
    6. Pacific Northwest        333 SW. 1st Ave., P.O. Box 3623, Portland,
                                 OR 97208
    8. Southern                 1720 Peachtree Rd. NW., Atlanta, GA 30367
    9. Eastern                  310 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203
    10. Alaska                  Federal Office Bldg. (P.O. Box 21628),
                                 Juneau, AK 99802
                           Research Stations--Director
    Forest Products Laboratory  1 Gifford Pinchot Dr., Madison, WI 53705
    North Central               1992 Folwell Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108
    Northeastern                Suite 200, 100 Matson Ford Rd., P.O. Box
                                 6775, Radnor, PA 19087-4585
    Pacific Northwest           333 SW. 1st Ave., P.O. Box 3890, Portland,
                                 OR 97208
    Pacific Southwest           800 Buchanan St., P.O. Box 245, Albany, CA
                                 94710
    Rocky Mountain              240 W. Prospect Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80526
    Southern                    200 Weaver Blvd., P.O. Box 2860, Asheville,
                                 NC 28802
                   State and Private Forestry Areas--Director
    Northeastern                Suite 200, 100 Matson Ford Rd., P.O. Box
                                 6775, Radnor, PA 19087-4585
    International Institute of  UPR Experimental Station Grounds, Botanical
     Tropical Forestry           Garden, Call Box 25000, Rio Piedras, PR
                                 00928
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Natural Resources Conservation Service

    [For the Natural Resources Conservation Service statement of
    organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Parts 600
    and 601]

    The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), formerly the Soil
    Conservation Service, has national responsibility for helping America's
    farmers, ranchers, and other private landowners develop and carry out
    voluntary efforts to conserve and protect our natural resources.
    Conservation Technical Assistance  This is the foundation program of
    NRCS. Under this program, NRCS provides technical assistance to land
    users and units of government for the purpose of sustaining agricultural
    productivity and protecting and enhancing the natural resource base.
    This assistance is based on the voluntary cooperation of private
    landowners and involves comprehensive approaches to reduce soil erosion,
    improve soil and water quantity and quality, improve and conserve
    wetlands, enhance fish and wildlife habitat, improve air quality,
    improve pasture and range condition, reduce upstream flooding, and
    improve woodlands.
    Emergency Watershed Protection Program  This program provides emergency
    assistance to safeguard lives and property in jeopardy due to sudden
    watershed impairment by natural disasters. Emergency work includes
    quickly establishing a protective plant cover on denuded land and stream
    banks; opening dangerously restricted channels; and repairing diversions
    and levees. An emergency area need not be declared a national disaster
    area to be eligible for help under this program.
    Environmental Quality Incentive Program  This program assists producers
    with environmental and natural resource conservation improvements on
    their agricultural lands. One-half of the available funds are for
    conservation activities related to livestock production. Technical
    assistance, cost-share payments, incentive payments, and education focus
    on priority areas and natural resource concerns identified in
    cooperation with State technical committees, including such areas as
    nutrient management, pest management, and grazing land management.
    Farmland Protection Program  This program protects soil by encouraging
    landowners to limit conversion of their farmland to nonagricultural
    uses. States, Indian tribes, or local governments administer all aspects
    of acquiring lands that are in the program, except when it is more
    effective and efficient for the Federal Government to do so.
    Forestry Incentives Program  This program helps to increase the Nation's

    [[Page 124]]

    supply of products from nonindustrial private forest lands. This also
    ensures more effective use of existing forest lands and, over time,
    helps to prevent shortages and price increases for forest products. The
    program shares the cost incurred by landowners for tree planting and
    timberstand improvement.
    National Cooperative Soil Survey  The National Cooperative Soil Survey
    provides the public with local information on the uses and capabilities
    of their soils. The published soil survey for a county or other
    designated area includes maps and interpretations that are the
    foundation for farm planning and other private land use decisions as
    well as for resource planning and policy by Federal, State, and local
    governments. The surveys are conducted cooperatively with other Federal,
    State, and local agencies and land grant universities. The Service is
    the national and world leader in soil classification and soil mapping,
    and is now expanding its work in soil quality.
    Plant Materials Program  At 26 plant materials centers across the
    country, NRCS tests, selects, and ensures the commercial availability of
    new and improved conservation plants for erosion reduction, wetland
    restoration, water quality improvement, streambank and riparian area
    protection, coastal dune stabilization, biomass production, carbon
    sequestration, and other needs. The Plant Materials Program is a
    cooperative effort with conservation districts, other Federal and State
    agencies, commercial businesses, and seed and nursery associations.
    Resource Conservation and Development Program  This is a locally driven
    program--an opportunity for civic-oriented groups to work together
    sharing knowledge and resources in solving common problems facing their
    region. The program offers aid in balancing the environmental, economic,
    and social needs of an area. A USDA coordinator helps each designated
    RC&D council plan, develop, and carry out programs for resource
    conservation, water management, community development, and environmental
    enhancement.
    Rural Abandoned Mine Program  This program helps protect people and the
    environment from the adverse effects of past coal-mining practices and
    promotes the development of soil and water resources on unreclaimed mine
    land. It provides technical and financial assistance to land users who
    voluntarily enter into 5- to 10-year contracts for the reclamation of
    eligible land and water.
    Small Watersheds Program  The program helps local sponsoring groups to
    voluntarily plan and install watershed protection projects on private
    lands. These projects include flood prevention, water quality
    improvement, soil erosion and sediment reduction, rural and municipal
    water supply, irrigation water management, fish and wildlife habitat
    enhancement, and wetlands restoration. The Service helps local community
    groups, government entities, and private landowners working together
    using an integrated, comprehensive watershed approach to natural
    resource planning.
    Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Program  This program collects
    snowpack moisture data and forecasts seasonal water supplies for streams
    that derive most of their water from snowmelt. It helps farm operators,
    rural communities, and municipalities manage water resources through
    water supply forecasts. It also provides hydrometeorological data for
    regulating reservoir storage and managing streamflow. The Snow Supply
    Program is conducted in the Western States and Alaska.
    Watershed Surveys and Planning  This program assists Federal, State, and
    local agencies and tribal governments in protecting watersheds from
    damage caused by erosion, floodwater, and sediment and conserves and
    develops water and land resources. Resource concerns addressed by the
    program include water quality, water conservation, wetland and water
    storage capacity, agricultural drought problems, rural development,
    municipal and industrial water needs, upstream flood damages, and water
    needs for fish,

    [[Page 125]]

    wildlife, and forest-based industries. Types of surveys and plans
    include watershed plans, river basin surveys and studies, flood hazard
    analysis, and flood plain management assistance. The focus of these
    plans is to identify solutions that use land treatment and nonstructural
    measures to solve resource problems.
    Wetlands Reserve Program  Under this program, USDA purchases easements
    from agricultural land owners who voluntarily agree to restore and
    protect wetlands. Service employees help these owners develop plans to
    retire critical wetland habitat from crop production. The primary
    objectives are to preserve and restore wetlands, improve wildlife
    habitat, and protect migratory waterfowl.
    Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program  This program provides financial
    incentives to develop habitats for fish and wildlife on private lands.
    Participants agree to implement a wildlife habitat development plan, and
    USDA agrees to provide cost-share assistance for the initial
    implementation of wildlife habitat development practices. USDA and
    program participants enter into a cost-share agreement for wildlife
    habitat development, which generally lasts a minimum of 10 years from
    the date that the contract is signed.

    For further information, contact the Management Services Division,
    Natural Resources Conservation Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O.
    Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013. Phone, 202-690-4811.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Graduate School, U.S. Department of Agriculture

    Fourteenth Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250

    Phone, 888-744-4723
    Executive Director                                Jerry Ice
    Deputy Executive Director                         Lynn Edwards

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Graduate School was established by act of May 15, 1862 (7 U.S.C.
    2201). It is a continuing education school offering career-related
    training to adults. Courses are planned with the assistance of
    Government professionals and specialists. The Graduate School's
    objective is to improve Government services by providing needed
    continuing education and training opportunities for Government employees
    and agencies.
        The faculty is mostly part-time and is drawn from throughout
    Government and the community at large. They are selected because of
    their professional and specialized knowledge and experience and thus
    bring a practicality and experience to their classrooms.
        The school does not grant degrees but does provide planned sequences
    of courses leading to certificates of accomplishment in a number of
    occupational and career fields important to government. Training areas
    include management, auditing, computer science, communications, foreign
    language, procurement, financial management, and others.

    For further information, contact the Communications Office, Graduate
    School, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 270, 600 Maryland Avenue
    SW., Washington, DC 20024. Phone, 888-744-4723.

    Sources of
    Information

    Consumer Activities  Educational, organizational, and financial
    assistance is offered to consumers and their families in such fields as
    rural housing and farm operating programs, improved nutrition, family
    living and recreation, food stamp,

    [[Page 126]]

    school lunch, donated foods, and other food programs.
    Contracts and Small Business Activities  To obtain information about
    contracting or subcontracting opportunities, attending small business
    outreach activities, or how to do business with USDA, contact the Office
    of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization. Phone, 202-720-7117.
    Internet, www.usda.gov/da/smallbus.html.
    Employment  Most jobs in the Department are in the competitive service
    and are filled by applicants who have established eligibility under an
    appropriate examination administered by the Office of Personnel
    Management or Department Special Examining Units. General employment
    information is available at www.usajobs.opm.gov.
    Whistleblower Hotline  Persons wishing to register complaints of alleged
    improprieties concerning the Department should contact one of the
    regional offices or the Inspector General's whistleblower hotline.
    Phone, 800-424-9121 (toll free, outside Washington, DC); 202-690-1622
    (within the Washington, DC, metropolitan area); or 202-690-1202 (TDD).
    Fax, 202-690-2474.
    Reading Rooms  Located at each USDA agency at addresses indicated in the
    preceding text.
    Speakers  Contact the nearest Department of Agriculture office or county
    Extension agent. In the District of Columbia, contact the Office of
    Public Liaison, Office of Communications, Department of Agriculture,
    Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-2798.

    For further information concerning the Department of Agriculture,
    contact the Office of Communications, Department of Agriculture,
    Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-4623. Internet, www.usda.gov.