United States Department of Agriculture 

Office of Inspector General 
HIGHLIGHTS OF OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG)

PLANS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014

GOAL 1 Strengthen the Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) ability to implement and improve 

safety and security measures to protect the public health, as well as agricultural and 

Departmental resources.

§ Conduct audits to ensure that USDA food safety and inspection programs effectively 

meet program objectives.

§ Investigate smuggling of animals, animal products, plants, and plant products.

§ Investigate threats involving the safety of meat, poultry, and egg products to protect 

the public from food tampering and tainted food.

§ Investigate alleged assaults and related crimes against USDA officials and employees 

relating to the performance of their official duties.

GOAL 2 Reduce program vulnerabilities and strengthen program integrity in the delivery of 

program assistance.

§ Conduct audits of nutrition, farm, and rural community programs to determine if 

entitlements and benefits are effectively directed based on eligibility. 

§ Review USDA’s mandated reports as required by both Executive Order 13520 and the 

Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act of 2010.

§ Monitor and investigate allegations of criminal activity pertaining to USDA programs, 

including nutrition assistance programs, farm programs, and disaster funds.

GOAL 3 Provide USDA with oversight to help it achieve its results-oriented performance.

§ Perform mandated fiscal year (FY) 2013/2014 financial statement audits of six USDA 

agencies and the Department as a whole.

§ Evaluate the adequacy and security of information technology (IT) systems and 

applications.

§ Investigate allegations of significant criminal activity by USDA employees.

GOAL 4 Maintain a highly qualified and diverse workforce with the tools and training necessary to 

continuously enhance OIG’s ability to fulfill its mission.

§ Improve internal and external response times to IT security incidents.

§ Deliver quality OIG internal training courses.

§ Analyze OIG’s performance against goals set in annual plan. 

§ Track OIG management, legal, and quality assurance offices’ performance against 

timeliness standards set for their functions.
MESSAGE FROM THE INSPECTOR GENERAL

I am pleased to present the USDA OIG Annual Plan for fiscal year (FY) 2014. This document describes 

how OIG will achieve its mission of promoting economy, efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity in the 

delivery of USDA programs. In setting our goals and objectives, we aligned our annual plan with both the 

OIG Strategic Plan for FY 2013-2018 and the USDA Strategic Plan for FY 2010-2015. This plan reflects 

the priority work that OIG believes we can undertake to provide effective oversight of the broad spectrum 

of USDA programs and activities. As the Nation moves forward to address its fiscal challenges, OIG 

anticipates that there will continue to be fewer resources available to carry out its mission in 

FY 2014. OIG is presently functioning at its lowest level of authorized staffing since 1963, when the office 

was established. Accordingly, adjustments to this plan may be necessary as the year unfolds to ensure 

that we direct our resources to the areas of highest risk and vulnerability.

OIG embraces the fundamental value and dignity of all individuals, and continues to strive to be an 

employer of choice able to recruit and support a highly qualified, diverse, and inspired workforce. To 

ensure that goal, OIG issued the first internal Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, Fiscal Years 2014-

2018. This Plan is OIG’s blueprint for fully leveraging our workforce diversity, and will communicate our 

organization’s diversity and inclusion strategic direction and provide transparency and accountability for 

achievement of the related goals and strategies. 

As mandated by Executive Order 13520 and the Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery Act 

(IPERA) of 2010, we will determine USDA’s compliance with IPERA and review agencies’ methodologies 

and plans to reduce improper payments. In addition, as required by the Claims Resolution Act of 2010, 

we will review claims to determine whether USDA established and followed proper procedures for 

distributing settlement funds to eligible claimants under the “In Re Black Farmers Discrimination 

Litigation” settlements.

The Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013 (Pub. L. No. 113-2) contained language authorizing OIG to 

use any unobligated disaster assistance oversight funds provided in Pub. L. No. 110-329 for continued 

oversight of Department of Agriculture disaster- and emergency-related activities. We have developed a 

number of actions to enable us to provide timely and effective audit oversight of USDA disaster 

assistance programs, including those funded through regular appropriations, Hurricane Sandy 

supplemental appropriations, and any other supplemental disaster appropriations. This plan may be 

adjusted as we perform our oversight activities. We will also investigate allegations of fraud or misuse 

involving disaster assistance funds provided in areas damaged by Hurricane Sandy. 1

Based on OIG’s continuing commitment to our strategic goals, which are adapted to respond to key 

developments and carry out new and ongoing responsibilities, we present this Annual Plan for FY 2014. 

We look forward to continuing to work productively with Congress and the Secretary to promote the 

effective delivery of USDA programs.

Phyllis K. Fong

Inspector General

 

1

Further information on OIG’s Oversight Plan of the Disaster Relief Funding can be viewed by linking to 

http://www.usda.gov/oig/webdocs/Oversight-of-USDA-Disaster-Funding130426.pdf. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction........................................................................................................................ 1

Resources and Organization............................................................................................. 1

FY 2014 Work Plan............................................................................................................. 1

Goal 1 .................................................................................................................................

Strengthen USDA’s ability to implement and improve safety and security measures to 

protect the public health, as well as agricultural and Departmental resources

1

Goal 2 .................................................................................................................................

Reduce program vulnerabilities and strengthen program integrity in the delivery of 

program assistance 

2

Goal 3 .................................................................................................................................

Provide USDA with oversight to help it achieve its results-oriented performance

5

Goal 4 .................................................................................................................................

Maintain a highly qualified and diverse workforce with the tools and training necessary 

to continuously enhance OIG’s ability to fulfill its mission

7

FY 2013 Performance Summary and Results................................................................8...

Conclusion ......................................................................................................................... 11

Appendix A.........................................................................................................................

Related Materials and Information

12

Appendix B.........................................................................................................................

OIG Organizational Chart and Functional Responsibilities

13

Appendix C.........................................................................................................................

Distribution of Audit Resources by Agency

15

Appendix D.........................................................................................................................

Distribution of Investigative Resources by Agency

16

Appendix E.........................................................................................................................

Fiscal Year 2014 Audits Planned and In Progress

17

Overview of OIG Plans for Fiscal Year 2014..................................................................... 20

Introduction

Introduction

The United States Department of 

Agriculture (USDA), Office of Inspector 

General’s (OIG) Strategic Plan for 

FY 2013-2018 establishes our mission, 

vision, and goals for the next 5 years. OIG 

is committed to providing a positive return 

on the U.S. taxpayers’ investment by 

planning our work to address issues of the 

greatest importance and achieve the most 

significant results.

Even with diminishing staff and resources, 

OIG continues its work to ensure the overall 

integrity of payments in USDA programs 

and the effectiveness of those programs. 

This Annual Plan presents the FY 2014 

work that USDA OIG intends to undertake in 

support of our current Strategic Plan.

Resources and Organization

We assessed the work for this Annual Plan

relative to the resources that we believe will 

be available to accomplish it. Because the 

FY 2014 funding level is not yet certain, the 

Annual Plan may need to be adjusted 

during the year to reflect any resource 

constraints. Work may be delayed due to 

the Government shutdown, which resulted 

in furloughs of virtually all OIG audit and 

investigative staff. Appendix B describes 

our current organizational structure and 

functional responsibilities, which also could 

change during the year should resource 

levels change.

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 1

Goal 1 – Strengthen USDA’s ability to 

implement and improve safety and 

security measures to protect the public 

health, as well as agricultural and 

Departmental resources.

We expect to use approximately 12.0 

percent of our audit and 6.0 percent of our 

investigative resources in achieving this 

goal.2

 Our investigations work focuses on 

threats to the food supply, the agricultural 

sector, and USDA employees and facilities. 

Our audit work focuses on assessing 

management control systems designed to 

ensure that the Department is effectively 

protecting the consumer and the Nation’s 

agricultural resources. For FY 2014, our 

priorities include the following:

§ Finish our evaluation of the Food Safety 

and Inspection Service’s (FSIS) 

implementation of its Public Health 

Information System (PHIS) for domestic 

inspection. This includes assessing 

FSIS’ pilot projects for the collection of 

establishment profile data for food 

safety systems, operations, and 

demographics. 

§ Complete our follow-up on prior audits 

of FSIS’ food safety initiatives to 

determine if the agency has made 

improvements in staffing, training, and 

supervising in-plant inspectors; 

oversight of the Humane Methods of 

Slaughter Act; removing specified-risk 

materials; and information system 

management controls. 

§ Review FSIS’ inspection of ground 

turkey to determine if improvements 

could be made in the sampling and

testing protocol programs.

 

2While all OIG teams contribute to each goal, we can 

currently quantify and project only the audit and investigation 

resources employed.
Goals

§ Investigate threats involving the safety 

of meat, poultry, and egg products to 

ensure that timely response and 

appropriate corrective actions are taken 

to protect the public from food tampering 

or tainted food.

§ Complete our review to assess the 

effectiveness of the Animal and Plant 

Health Inspection Service’s (APHIS) 

Plant Protection and Quarantine 

Preclearance Program in detecting and 

eradicating problematic pests and 

plants. Our audit will also determine if 

APHIS has facilitated safe trade 

practices, including monitoring the 

movement of imported plants, fruits, and 

vegetables.

§ Determine if APHIS Wildlife Services 

predator control activities are justified 

and effective and if processes to ensure 

transparency over predatory activities 

are adequate. We will determine if 

controls over cooperative agreements 

and funds were adequate and if shared 

costs between its cooperators were 

equitable and supported. 

§ In follow-up to our 2005 audit on 

genetically engineered organism (GEO) 

release permits, determine if APHIS has 

fully implemented controls over the 

release permits and can provide 

reasonable assurance that movement 

and release of GEOs in the environment 

are in accordance with applicable laws 

and regulations.

§ The Agricultural Marketing Service 

(AMS) procures and inspects 

commodities in support of several food 

assistance programs and in 2010 

streamlined its process. Evaluate 

whether AMS has adequate controls in 

place to ensure fruits and vegetables 

are procured in compliance with Federal 

purchasing regulations. Determine if 

2 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

these products are timely and effectively 

inspected.

§ Investigate animal, animal product, 

plant, and plant product smuggling that 

can introduce devastating diseases and 

pests into American agriculture.

§ Coordinate with the Federal Bureau of 

Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task 

Forces to support ongoing investigations 

to identify and combat domestic and 

international terrorism.

§ Investigate alleged assaults and related 

crimes against USDA officials and 

employees relating to the performance 

of their official duties.

Goal 2 – Reduce program vulnerabilities 

and strengthen program integrity in the 

delivery of program assistance.

We expect to use approximately 19.6 

percent of our audit and 87 percent of our 

investigative resources to accomplish this 

goal. Our investigative focus includes 

threats to the integrity and effectiveness of 

USDA’s benefits programs. Our audit focus 

includes assessing internal control systems 

and identifying risk indicators that should 

increase both OIG’s and USDA’s ability to 

detect and prevent program abuse and 

criminal activity. For FY 2014, our priorities 

include the following:

§ Complete our review to determine 

whether the Farm Service Agency (FSA) 

can maintain an effective compliance 

and internal review function to identify, 

report, and reduce improper payments 

in agricultural programs given the 

potential impacts of staff/budget cuts 

and the agency reorganization 

announced in January 2012. 

§ Complete our review to assess the 

adequacy of controls over the Upland 

Cotton Economic Adjustment 
Goals

Assistance Program payments to 

U.S. textile manufacturers.

§ Determine if FSA has implemented 

proper controls to address risks 

resulting from January 2013 

modifications made to its operating loan 

application, eligibility, and security 

requirement regulations to allow for 

microloans to better serve the unique 

operating needs of small family farm 

operations. Also determine if FSA uses 

microloans to expand access to credit 

for a variety of producers.

§ Review FSA’s Farm Ownership and 

Operating Guaranteed Loan Programs

to determine whether only eligible 

borrowers were approved for 

guaranteed loans, including the 

appropriate percentage of minority 

applicants. Assess FSA’s oversight of 

the participating guaranteed lenders and 

evaluate the agency’s controls of the 

program.

§ Evaluate the implementation of USDA’s 

various beginning farmer and rancher 

program provisions to determine 

whether financial incentives are 

provided only to eligible applicants. 

Determine if USDA is reaching its 

intended audience and has established 

adequate controls to avoid duplication of 

benefits across agencies and 

programs.

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 3

3

§ Investigate allegations of criminal 

activity in farm programs, including the 

crop insurance and farm loan programs.

§ Complete our review of the Natural 

Resources Conservation Service’s 

(NRCS) administration of the 

Environmental Quality Incentives 

 

3

USDA defines a beginning farmer/rancher as someone who 

has not operated a farm/ranch for more than 10 years and 

substantially participates in the operation. Participants must 

also meet specific eligibility requirements for the program.

Program to identify potential areas of 

highest risk. These areas include 

eligibility, contract management, 

compliance, and propriety of payments.

§ Evaluate the Food and Nutrition 

Service’s (FNS) controls over civil 

monetary penalties assessed against 

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance 

Program (SNAP) retailers including 

oversight of the penalty assessment and 

collection processes. Also, determine 

whether FNS correctly calculated 

penalties, and whether FNS follows 

through to ensure penalties are 

collected once imposed by FNS.

§ Complete our evaluation of FNS’ 

methods to lower error rates in the 

National School Lunch Program (NSLP) 

and School Breakfast Program. 

Determine if FNS, State agencies, and 

school food authorities have adequate 

controls to ensure children approved for 

free and reduced price meals meet 

eligibility requirements and meal claims 

are supported and accurately 

reimbursed.

§ Complete our review to determine if 

FNS has adequate controls in SNAP to 

ensure State error rates are accurately 

reported, State agency quality control 

efforts are validated, and State agency 

administrative costs are appropriate. 

§ Review FNS and State electronic benefit 

transfer reports and transaction data to 

identify any fraudulent patterns used by 

SNAP participants (i.e., replacement 

cards, small stores clearing large 

balances). 

 
Goals

§ Complete our review to determine how 

the program costs are calculated for the 

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program 

for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), 

including average food costs and costs 

per participant nationwide. Evaluate 

how program costs can vary among 

States.

§ Investigate alleged criminal activity in 

food and nutrition programs, including 

SNAP and its Electronic Benefits 

Transfer (EBT) delivery system, WIC, 

and NSLP. Activities are expected to 

include continuing to work on an 

initiative with FNS to pursue prosecution 

of both retailers and SNAP recipients 

who misuse benefits, examining 

potential fraud involving multiple 

replacement SNAP EBT cards, and 

working with States transitioning to the 

electronic disbursal of WIC benefits.

§ As mandated by E.O. 13520 and 

IPERA, evaluate USDA’s compliance 

with IPERA, and review agencies’ 

methodologies and plans to reduce 

improper payments. Assess risks in 

high-priority programs, determine the 

extent of oversight warranted, and 

provide recommendations, where 

appropriate.

§ Assess Rural Business-Cooperative 

Service’s (RBS) management controls 

over approval and servicing of the Rural 

Energy for America Program, 

specifically to determine whether loan 

and grant recipients met eligibility 

requirements and funds were 

appropriately used in FYs 2011 and 

2012 to purchase renewable energy 

producing equipment.

§ Complete our review of Section 2501 

grants awarded in FYs 2010 and 2011 

to ensure that grantees were eligible 

and expended the grants in accordance 

with regulations. Evaluate the Office of 

Advocacy and Outreach’s policies, 

procedures, and internal controls related 

to its grant management process.

4 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

4

§ Complete our assessment of whether 

Risk Management Agency (RMA) 

National Program Operations Reviews 

reasonably determine if the approved 

insurance providers are substantially in 

compliance with applicable laws and 

regulations, the standard reinsurance 

agreement, and approved Federal Crop 

Insurance Corporation policies and 

procedures.

§ Determine if changes made to the 

Catastrophic Risk Protection (CAT) 

coverage plan meet eligibility 

requirements for attachment of CAT 

endorsements to eligible policies. We 

will also determine if policies containing 

CAT endorsements reflect accurate 

insurable acres and if these claims were 

valid.

§ Determine whether increased premium 

subsidies for RMA’s Federal Crop 

Insurance Program – Enterprise Units 

are commensurate with the reduced risk 

of loss. Identify vulnerabilities with 

enterprise units that may lead to 

program abuses. We will also 

determine what impact, if any, 

enterprise units have on crop insurance 

agent commissions.

§ Investigate allegations of criminal 

activity in USDA’s disaster relief and 

 

4

The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 

(Pub. L. No. 101-624, 7 U.S.C. §§ 2279, 2501, Outreach and 

Assistance for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and 

Ranchers) encourages and assists socially disadvantaged 

farmers and ranchers to own and operate their own farms 

and ranches and participate in agricultural programs, which 

allows them to become an integral part of the agricultural 

community and strengthen the rural economy.
Goals

assistance programs (e.g., crop 

insurance, indemnity payments, grants 

and loans, and assistance provided after 

Hurricane Sandy).

Goal 3 – Provide USDA with 

oversight to help it achieve its 

results-oriented performance.

We expect to use approximately 68.4 

percent of our audit and 7.0 percent of our 

investigative resources to accomplish this 

goal. Our audit focus is on improved 

financial management and accountability, IT 

security and management, real property 

management and procurement, and 

outreach activities. Our investigative focus 

includes allegations involving criminal 

violations that have employee corruption or 

fraud implications. For FY 2014, our 

mandated and priority work includes the 

following:

§ Audit the FY 2013/2014 USDA 

consolidated financial statements and 

the financial statements of six standalone agencies and entities: the 

Commodity Credit Corporation, the 

Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 

FNS, Forest Service (FS), NRCS, and 

Rural Development. 

§ Conduct the mandated audits for FY 

2013/2014 as required by the Federal 

Information Security Management Act. 

§ Complete our review of the “In Re Black 

Farmers Discrimination Litigation” 

settlement claims to determine whether 

USDA established and followed proper 

procedures for distributing settlement 

funds to eligible claimants, as required 

by the Claims Resolution Act of 2010.

§ Conduct a performance audit of 

Hispanic and Women Farmers and 

Ranchers adjudicated claims to 

determine if the claims review process is 

adequate and functioning as prescribed 

in the Claims Process Framework, that 

funds are distributed only to eligible 

applicants, and that claims are 

adequately supported.

§ Determine if USDA agencies 

implemented corrective actions in 

response to deficiencies noted during 

previous disaster-related efforts. 

Determine if disaster assistance funds 

are timely and effectively used in 

accordance with relevant laws, policies, 

and procedures; if proper internal 

control procedures were established; if 

participants were eligible and complied 

with program requirements; 

and if agencies implemented adequate 

oversight and compliance efforts. 

§ Determine if FS Firefighting Cost Share 

Agreements with non-Federal entities 

were properly established and 

implemented to distribute suppression 

costs equitably. We will also test 

whether reimbursements were properly 

determined and consistent with agreedupon cost-share agreements.

§ Follow up on prior work performed and 

evaluate FS’ current efforts in prioritizing 

its hazardous fuels reduction efforts in

those Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 

areas identified in Community Wildlife 

Protection Plans (CWPP).

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 5

5

§ Review NRCS’ controls over the 

implementation and execution of the 

Conservation Stewardship Program. 

Determine if NRCS has adequate 

controls to ensure accuracy of eligibility, 

payments, and producer compliance, 

including whether historically 

underserved participants are being paid 

based on correct cost lists used to 

calculate payments.

 

5

To reduce the risk of wildfires on National Forest Lands, FS 

thins out forest undergrowth to remove excessive fuels and 

to restore the forests to a healthier state. FS prioritizes its 

hazardous fuels reduction on WUI areas where human 

development intermingles with undeveloped wildland. These 

WUI areas are identified in CWPP.
Goals

§ Evaluate the adequacy of NRCS 

controls over the land valuation process 

for its conservation easement programs.

§ Evaluate whether the Foreign 

Agricultural Service (FAS) is effectively 

coordinating and monitoring the 

implementation of the Administration’s 

new Trade Agreement initiatives. We 

will also determine if the Department 

has effectively integrated these trade 

initiatives into USDA’s trade strategies.

§ Assess whether FAS has effectively 

implemented the Export Credit 

Guarantee program (known as the 

GSM-102 program) to meet the 

Department’s trade strategic goal and 

whether FAS has adequate controls in 

place to ensure the GSM-102 program 

is effectively administered in accordance 

with program regulations, policies, and 

procedures. 

§ Evaluate the effectiveness of the AMS 

Process Verified Program to ensure the 

certifications the agency issues for 

producers are based on substantive 

Federal standards and are adequately 

supported to ensure truth in labeling.

§ Complete our audit on USDA’s use of 

authority, granted under the Economy 

Act and 7 U.S.C. §2263 (Greenbook 

charges), to transfer funds within USDA 

for centrally provided programs.

Evaluate, at the request of Members of 

Congress, whether these funding tools 

are used appropriately and determine 

whether USDA has adequate controls in 

place to verify the necessity for benefits 

of the various transfers.

§ Complete our review of grants awarded 

in FYs 2010 and 2011 through the 

StrikeForce Initiative to ensure that 

funds were obtained and issued in 

accordance with Federal regulations. 

This includes examining the Office of 

Advocacy and Outreach’s policies and 

procedures for the use of these funds.

6 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

6

§ Identify the different USDA databases 

containing contractor information. 

Determine if the Department has a 

complete database and if the data are 

reliable. Identify debarred or suspended 

contractors that are not exempt from 

USDA programs and analyze the data 

according to Federal Acquisition 

Regulation requirements to identify 

trends that may lead to fraudulent 

behavior. 

§ Review USDA’s telecommunication 

operations and related cyber security 

activities to determine if the service level 

established in the network contract is 

adequate to support the Department’s 

large network infrastructure and if the 

network is managed in a secure manner 

in accordance with the National Institute 

of Science and Technology standards. 

§ Complete our security assessment of 

the National Agricultural Statistics 

Service (NASS) lock-up process and 

procedures. Verify that processes are in 

place to assure that NASS reports are 

properly secured and are released at 

the appropriate time.

 

§ Investigate allegations of employee 

corruption and fraud.

 

6

In 2011, USDA launched the StrikeForce Initiative, a crossagency effort to accelerate assistance to historically 

underserved groups. Through this initiative, USDA is 

working to ensure all producers have access to programs 

that can help them thrive, including proven conservation 

programs.
Goals

Goal 4 – Maintain a highly qualified and 

diverse workforce with the tools and 

training necessary to continuously 

enhance OIG’s ability to fulfill its 

mission.

Our management focus is on enhancing all 

communication through existing 

technologies, timely reporting information to 

stakeholders, and delivering quality service 

to employees. Our FY 2014 management 

priorities include the following:

§ Deliver quality OIG internal training 

courses.

§ Issue Equal Employment Opportunity 

(EEO) Counselor’s reports within 15 

calendar days of counseling period.

§ Enhance communication between 

Senior Staff and all OIG employees.

§ Improve internal and external response 

times to IT security incidents.

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 7
Performance Summary and Results

FY 2013 Performance Summary and Results

Our Strategic Plan identifies the results of our work using a life-cycle approach to our outputs 

that tracks individual actions at critical milestones. In FY 2013, OIG met 30 of the 

32 performance measures. The following tables illustrate our FY 2013 results in comparison 

with our performance targets. FY 2014 performance measures and targets can be found on the 

back cover.

IG Strategic and Performance Goals and FY 2013 Results

8 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

Strategic Goal Performance Goals

(1) Safety and Security Strengthen USDA’s ability to implement safety and security measures to 

protect the public health, as well as agricultural and Departmental resources.

(2) Integrity of Benefits Reduce program vulnerabilities and strengthen program integrity in the 

delivery of benefits to individuals.

(3) Management 

Improvement Initiatives

Support USDA in implementing its management improvement initiatives.

(4) Natural Resources Increase the efficiency and effectiveness with which USDA manages and 

exercises stewardship over natural resources.

(5) Qualified Diverse 

Workforce

Strive for a highly qualified, diverse workforce with the tools and training 

necessary to continuously enhance OIG’s ability to fulfill its mission and 

communicate its accomplishments.

Performance Measures FY 13 

Target

FY 13

Actual

(1) Percentage of OIG direct resources dedicated to critical-risk or high-impact activities. 92% 96.6%

99.6% 

Audit

92.5% Inv.

(2) Percentage of audit recommendations where management decisions are achieved 

within 1 year. 

90% 94.4%

(3) Percentage of audits initiated where the findings and recommendations are 

presented to the auditee within established and agreed-to timeframes.

90% 100%
Performance Summary and Results

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 9

Performance Measures FY 13 

Target

FY 13

Actual

(4) Percentage of closed investigations that resulted in a referral for action to the 

Department of Justice, State or local law enforcement officials, or a relevant 

administrative authority.

75% 86%

(5) Percentage of closed investigations that resulted in an indictment, conviction, civil 

suit or settlement, judgment, administrative action, or monetary result.

70% 88.6%

(6) On a biannual basis, positive employee satisfaction rate reported in staff surveys. 70% 66.4%

(7) OIG Hotline will process, research, and refer USDA health and safety complaints 

within 24 hours of receipt by an analyst.

80% 88.6%

(8) Issue new or update 10 Inspector General directives. 90% 250%

7

(9) Time from receipt of an SF-52 for a standard recruitment action until positions are 

posted and opened through the automated system averages 10 days.

90% 100%

(10) Time to issue candidate certificates after the closing date of an announcement 

averages 5 days.

90% 100%

(11) All Information Technology Division (ITD) systems including the LAN, WAN, e-mail, 

and ARGOS remain operational, excluding planned outages for system maintenance 

and outages caused by outside factors.

97% 99.8%

(12) ITD staff will make an initial response to help desk request within 2 hours or less. 90% 91.0%

(13) ITD staff will resolve help desk request within 24 hours. 85% 87.3%

(14) Internal and external IT security incidence response and resolution accomplished 

within 30 days of incident in accordance with the Agriculture Security Operations Center 

(ASOC).

90% 100%

(15) Budget information provided to the Department for the Office of Management and 

Budget requirements on time.

95% 97.4%

(16) Accounting information and regular reports submitted to the National Finance 

Center and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer on time.

95% 98.1%

(17) Micro-purchases awarded within 3 working days of receipt of approved AD-700. 90% 88.5%

(18) All public reports meet management and statutory timeframes and content 

requirements.

95% 100%

(19) Positive evaluation scores on OIG internal training course evaluations. 80% 86.3%

(20)The EEO Counselor’s internal and external reports will be completed within 15 

calendar days after completing the counseling period.

90% 100%

(21)8A Diversity Strategic Plan will be developed and will include objectives addressing 

how each goal will be reached and performance measures to assess our progress.

100% 100%

(22) Inspection reports issued in final with management response within 60 days. 85% 100%

 

7

25 directives were issued during the fiscal year,substantially exceeding the expected ten directives.

8 New performance measure for FY 2013.
Performance Summary and Results

10 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

Performance Measures FY 13 

Target

FY 13

Actual

(23) Inspection report recommendations accepted annually. 85% 96.4%

(24) Total requests from Congress acknowledged either orally or in writing within 

5 working days of receipt.

90% 95.8%

(25) Counsel to the Inspector General issues IG subpoenas within 5 working days upon 

receipt of complete information for review.

90% 100%

(26)9 Meet statutory deadlines on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) appeals. 95% 100%

(27)9Issue legal opinions within 30 calendar days of receipt of request, or other agreedto date.80% 92.3%

Performance Measures for Recovery Act Work FY 13 

Target

FY13 

Actual

(1) Notify USDA agency managers of significant audit findings related to Recovery Act 

programs, along with recommendations for corrective action, within 30 days after 

identification.

100% N/A10

(2) Respond to Recovery Accountability and Transparency Board-sponsored requests 

and projects within established schedules or agreed-to timeframes.

94.4% 100%

(3) An investigative determination to accept or decline an allegation of whistleblower 

retaliation is made within 180 days of receipt.

100% N/A10

(4) Whistleblower retaliation allegations are investigated and reported within 180 days 

of receipt.

75% N/A10

(5) Timely and accurate monthly Recovery Act funds reports submitted to the Recovery 

Accountability and Transparency Board.

95% 100%

 

9 New performance measure in FY 2013.

10 Performance measure did not have any activity in FY 2013.
Conclusion

Conclusion

Throughout FY 2014, we will measure our 

progress in achieving the performance 

objectives of this plan through periodic 

reporting. Adjustments may be made to 

reflect shifting priorities, increased or 

reduced resources, Government 

shutdowns, or other circumstances that may 

arise.

In developing this annual plan, we made 

every effort to realistically assess our 

planned work’s strategic alignment and 

importance, anticipated outcomes, and 

resource requirements. We believe it 

represents a balanced and achievable set of 

performance objectives for FY 2014. We 

will report on our results through our 

semiannual reports to Congress.

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 11
Appendix A

APPENDIX A 

Related Materials and Information

OIG Strategic Plan for FY 2013-2018:

http://www.usda.gov/oig/webdocs/USDA_OIG_2013_Five_Year_Plan_508c.pdf

USDA Strategic Plan for FY 2010-2015:

http://www.ocfo.usda.gov/usdasp/sp2010/sp2010.pdf

USDA Major Management Challenges (August 2013) 

http://www.usda.gov/oig/webdocs/MgmtChallenges2013.pdf

OIG Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan for FY 2014-2018:

http://www.oig.usda.gov/intranet/dcr/DIStratPlanFY14-FY18.pdf

12 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 
Appendix B

Organization Chart and Functional Responsibilities

September 2013

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 13

Vacant

Diversity & Conflict 

Resolution 

(202) 720-6902

Christy Slamowitz

Counsel to the Inspector 

General

(202) 720-9110

Paul Feeney

Deputy Counsel

(202)720-6901

Antigone 

Potamianos

Deputy Counsel

(202) 720-9110

Scott Williams

Compliance & Integrity 

(301) 504-1111

Phyllis Fong

Inspector General

(202) 720-8001

David Gray 

Deputy Inspector General

(202) 720-7431

Note 1: *AIG – Assistant Inspector General

Note 2: **DAIG – Deputy Assistant Inspector General

Gil Harden 

AIG* for Audit

(202) 720-6945

Tracy LaPoint

DAIG** for 

Audit

(202) 690-4483

Steven 

Rickrode

DAIG for 

Audit

(202) 720-5907

Rod DeSmet

DAIG for 

Audit

(202) 720-1918

Karen Ellis

AIG for Investigations

(202) 720-3965

Lane Timm 

AIG for Management

(202) 720-6979

Kathy Horsley 

DAIG for 

Investigations 

(202) 720-3965

(Vacant)

DAIG for Management 

(202) 720-6979

6 Headquarters Divisions

3 Regional Offices 

16 Field Offices

3 Headquarters 

Divisions

5 Regional 

Offices

42 Sub offices &

Residences

4 Headquarters 

Divisions

6 Regional 

Offices

1 Sub office
Appendix B

Areas of Responsibility:

Audit

The Office of Audit examines the economy 

and efficiency of USDA programs and 

operations, including program results, 

compliance with applicable laws and 

regulations, and the accuracy of financial 

reports. While most audit work is done by inhouse staff, Audit contracts with certified

public accountants for some work and 

oversees the quality of work done by auditors 

under contract to other USDA agencies. 

OIG audits are performed in accordance with 

Government Auditing Standards, published by 

the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

Investigations

The Office of Investigations utilizes specific 

law enforcement authorities, tools, and 

techniques, including the use of asset 

forfeiture, to conduct investigations and 

prevent fraud, waste, and abuse in the 

programs and operations of USDA.

14 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

11

 

Investigative work is intended to result in 

appropriate actions to resolve allegations and 

to prevent and deter future instances of illegal 

or fraudulent acts or misconduct.

Counsel

The Office of Counsel (OC) provides legal 

advice and representation on issues arising 

during the course of audit and investigative 

activities, or internal administrative and 

management issues. OC also manages 

OIG’s congressional and media relations, 

ethics, and the Freedom of Information

Act/Privacy Act programs, and reviews 

proposed legislation, regulations, and 

procedures.

 

11 As a component member of the U.S. Department of 

Justice’s (DOJ) Asset Forfeiture Program, OIG supports 

DOJ’s National Asset Forfeiture Strategic Plan by making 

tracing and recovery of assets an integral part of every

appropriate criminal investigation. Asset forfeiture can be a 

vital tool to deprive criminals of the fruits and 

instrumentalities of their crimes, thereby deterring criminal 

activities.

Management

The Office of Management (OM) ensures that 

OIG staff, funds, technology, equipment, and 

policies are in place so that we can function 

efficiently and effectively. Responsibilities 

include asset management, budget 

formulation and execution, human resources, 

cross-OIG workplace training, information 

technology, and policy preparation for OIG. 

OM also facilitates OIG’s planning activities 

and prepares cross-cutting documents on OIG 

accomplishments.

Compliance and Integrity

The Office of Compliance and Integrity (OCI) 

performs independent quality assurance and 

internal control reviews of OIG operations. 

The reviews provide senior management with 

reasonable assurance that OIG operations 

and activities are being carried out in 

accordance with policy. OCI also investigates 

allegations of criminal and/or serious 

administrative misconduct by OIG employees. 

Diversity and Conflict Resolution

The Office of Diversity and Conflict Resolution 

advises OIG leadership on applying the 

principles of civil rights, equal employment 

opportunity, dispute resolution, diversity, and 

inclusion regarding matters pertaining to the 

OIG workforce, program activities, and policy 

development. This office also guides 

employees who seek to use the Federal 

employment discrimination complaint and 

dispute resolution processes, as needed. 

Through its Special Emphasis Programs and 

other diversity initiatives, this office also leads 

OIG’s efforts to foster and maintain a diverse 

workforce and ensures that OIG continues to 

recognize and value every individual’s unique 

skills and perspectives.
Appendix C

Distribution of Audit Resources by Agency

FY 2014 PLANNED

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 15

MISSION AREA AGENCY %

NATURAL RESOURCES AND 

ENVIRONMENT – 10.2%

Forest Service (FS) 4.4

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

(NRCS)

5.8

FARM AND FOREIGN 

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES –16.4%

Farm Service Agency (FSA) 6.6

Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) 2.6

Risk Management Agency (RMA) 6.9

Commodity Credit Corporation(CCC) 0.3

RURAL DEVELOPMENT – 7.5% Rural Development (RD) 4.9

Rural Utilities Service (RUS) *

Rural Housing Service (RHS) 0.2

Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) 2.4

FOOD, NUTRITION, AND 

CONSUMER SERVICES – 12.7%

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) 12.7

FOOD SAFETY – 5.9% Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) 5.9

MARKETING AND REGULATORY 

PROGRAMS – 8.4%

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 4.6

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

(APHIS)

3.8

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 

Administration (GIPSA)

*

RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND 

ECONOMICS – 0.4%

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) *

National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) *

National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) 0.4

Economic Research Service (ERS) *

EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT AND 

OTHER ENTITIES – 4.8%

Office of the Secretary (OSEC), Departmental 

Management (DM), Office of the Chief Financial 

Officer (OCFO), Office of the Chief Information 

Officer (OCIO), Office of the Assistant Secretary 

for Civil Rights (OASCR)

4.8

MULTIPLE AGENCY – 33.7% 33.7

*No work is currently scheduled for this agency in FY 2013.
Appendix D

Distribution of Investigative Resources by Agency

FY 2014 ANTICIPATED

16 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

MISSION AREA AGENCY %

NATURAL RESOURCES AND 

ENVIRONMENT – 2.0%

Forest Service (FS) 1.5

Natural Resources Conservation Service 

(NRCS)

0.5

FARM AND FOREIGN 

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES – 18.0%

Farm Service Agency (FSA) 11.5

Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) 0.5

Risk Management Agency (RMA) 6.0

RURAL DEVELOPMENT – 7.0% Rural Utilities Service (RUS) 1.0

Rural Housing Service (RHS) 4.5

Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) 1.5

FOOD, NUTRITION, AND 

CONSUMER SERVICES – 62.0%

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) 62.0

FOOD SAFETY – 4.0% Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) 4.0

MARKETING AND REGULATORY 

PROGRAMS – 4.0%

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) 0.5

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service 

(APHIS)

3.0

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 

Administration (GIPSA)

0.5

RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND 

ECONOMICS – 1.0%

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) 0.9

National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) 0.1

OTHER – 2.0% Departmental Management (DM), Office of the 

Chief Financial Officer (OCFO), Office of the 

Chief Information Officer (OCIO), Office of the 

Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR), 

OIG, other

2.0
Appendix E

Fiscal Year 2014 Audits Planned and In Process

Table Key: 

Asterisk (*) Denotes work-in-process, which is carried over from an assignment initiated in the 

prior fiscal year.

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 17

AGENCY TITLE GOAL

AMS Evaluation of USDA’s Process Verified Programs Improvement Initiatives

AMS Procurement and Inspection of Fruits and 

Vegetables

Safety and Security

APHIS * Plant Protection Quarantine Pre-clearance 

Program

Safety and Security

APHIS’ Wildlife Services – Wildlife Damage 

Management

Safety and Security

CCC * CCC FY 2013 and 2012 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

CCC FY 2014 and 2013 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

DM * Eligibility and Compliance Consideration for 

Section 2501 Grants Awarded FYs 2010-2011

Integrity of Benefits

* USDA Strikeforce Initiative for 2011 Improvement Initiatives

FAS * Effectiveness of the Export Credit Guarantee 

Program

Improvement Initiatives

FAS’ Implementation of the Administration’s Trade 

Agreement Initiatives

Improvement Initiatives

FNS Improper Payments Elimination and Recovery 

Improvement Act of 2012 Accountable Official 

Report Review (FNS)

Improvement Initiatives

Effectiveness of Penalties in Deterring Individuals 

from Committing SNAP Fraud

Integrity of Benefits

* FNS FY 2013 and 2012 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

FNS FY 2014 and 2013 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

* States’ Food Costs for the Special Supplemental 

Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and 

Children

Integrity of Benefits

Controls for Authorizing SNAP Retailers and Civil 

Monetary Penalties

Integrity of Benefits

* FNS SNAP Error Rate Integrity of Benefits

* FNS’ National School Lunch Program and School 

Breakfast Program

Integrity of Benefits

FS * FS FY 2013 and 2012 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

FS FY 2014 and 2013 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

* FS Firefighting Cost Share Agreements with NonFederal Entities

Improvement Initiatives

FS Wildland Fire Activities – Hazardous Fuels 

Reduction

Improvement Initiatives
Appendix E

18 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

AGENCY TITLE GOAL

FSA * Review of FSA Accounting for FY 2013 Improvement Initiatives

* Economic Adjustment Assistance to Users of 

Upland Cotton

Integrity of Benefits

* FSA Compliance Activities Integrity of Benefits

FSA Microloans Integrity of Benefits

FSA – Farm Ownership and Operating 

Guaranteed Loan Review

Integrity of Benefits

FSIS * Implementation of the Public Health Information 

System for Domestic Inspection

Safety and Security

FSIS – Followup on 2007 and 2008 Audit 

Initiatives

Safety and Security

FSIS Ground Turkey Inspection and Safety 

Protocols

Safety and Security

MULTIPLEAGENCY

* Oversight of USDA Disaster Funds Improvement Initiatives

* USDA FY 2013 and 2012 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

USDA FY 2014 and 2013 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

FY 2014 Special-Purpose Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

FY 2013 Executive Order 13250, Reducing 

Improper Payments, High Dollar Overpayment 

Report Review

Improvement Initiatives

USDA FY 2013 Compliance with the Improper 

Payments Elimination and Recovery Act of 2010

Improvement Initiatives

* FY 2013 Federal Information Security 

Management Act Audit

Improvement Initiatives

FY 2014 Federal Information Security 

Management Act Audit

Improvement Initiatives

* Review of the Department’s U.S. Bank Purchase 

and Travel Card Data

Improvement Initiatives

* In Re Black Farmers Discrimination Litigation 

Adjudicated Claims

Improvement Initiatives

* Hispanic and Women Farmers and Ranchers 

Claim Resolution Process

Improvement Initiatives

Adjudicated Claims in the Hispanic and Women 

Farmers and Ranchers Claim Process

Improvement Initiatives

* USDA’s Controls Over Economy Act Fund 

Transfers and Greenbook Program Charges

Improvement Initiatives

USDA Beginning Farmers and Ranchers 

Programs

Integrity of Benefits

Follow-up Audit of the Controls Over Issuance of 

Genetically Engineered Organism Release 

Permits

Safety and Security

NASS * Security Review of NASS Lockup Procedures Improvement Initiatives

NRCS * NRCS FY 2013 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives 

NRCS FY 2014 Financial Statements Improvement Initiatives

* NRCS Controls Over Land Valuations for 

Conservation Easements

Improvement Initiatives

* NRCS’ Environmental Quality Incentive Program Integrity of Benefits

NRCS Conservation Easement Compliance Improvement Initiatives
Appendix E

USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 19

AGENCY TITLE GOAL

* Controls Over the Conservation Stewardship 

Program

Improvement Initiatives

OCFO Statement on Standards for Attestation 

Engagements (SSAE) No. 16 Report on Controls 

at the National Finance Center

Improvement Initiatives

Agreed-upon Procedures: Employee Benefits, 

Withholdings, Contributions, and Supplemental 

Semiannual Headcount Reporting Submitted to 

the Office of Personnel Management

Improvement Initiatives

OCIO * Review of USDA’s Telecommunication Operations 

and Related Security

Improvement Initiatives

OPPM * Review of USDA Contractor Databases Improvement Initiatives

* Review of the Department’s Contractor Payments Improvement Initiatives

RBS * RBS Cooperative Service Grant Programs –

Duplication

Integrity of Benefits

Rural Energy for America Program Integrity of Benefits

RD * Rural Development FY 2013 and 2012 Financial 

Statements

Improvement Initiatives

Rural Development FY 2014 and 2013 Financial 

Statements

Improvement Initiatives

RHS * Single Family Housing Direct Loan Servicing and 

Payment Assistance Recapture

Integrity of Benefits

RMA * Federal Crop Insurance Corporation FY 2013 and 

2012 Financial Statements

Improvement Initiatives

Federal Crop Insurance Corporation FY 2014 and 

2013 Financial Statements

Improvement Initiatives

Catastrophic Risk Protection Integrity of Benefits

* RMA National Program Operations Review Integrity of Benefits

RMA Federal Crop Insurance Program –

Enterprise Units

Integrity of Benefits

NOTES:

Goal 1 Safety and Security - Strengthen USDA’s ability to implement safety and security measures to implement 

and improve public health, as well as agricultural and Departmental resources.

Goal 2 Integrity of Benefits - Reduce program vulnerabilities and strengthen program integrity in the delivery of 

program assistance.

Goal 3 Improvement Initiatives - Provide USDA with oversight to help it achieve its results-oriented 

performance.
During FY 2013, we issued an updated OIG Strategic Plan for FY 2013-2018. The following 

table illustrates OIG’s revised strategic goals, the direct resources to be spent on each goal, and 

the new FY 2014 performance targets. 

20 USDA OIG Fiscal Year 2014 Annual Plan 

Percentage of Direct Resources To Be Spent on 

Each FY 2014 Goal

Audit Investigations

(1) Strengthen USDA’s ability to implement and improve 

safety and security measures to protect the public health, as 

well as agricultural and Departmental resources.

12.0% 6.0%

(2) Reduce program vulnerabilities and strengthen program 

integrity in the delivery of program assistance.

19.6% 87%

(3) Provide USDA with oversight to help it achieve its resultsoriented performance.68.4% 7.0%

(4) Maintain a highly qualified and diverse workforce with the 

tools and training necessary to continuously enhance OIG’s 

ability to fulfill its mission.*

N/A N/A

*Work on Goal 4 includes: (1) the OIG mission support work of the Offices of Counsel, Management, Diversity and Conflict 

Resolution, and Compliance and Integrity; and (2) the training of staff in all OIG organizational units.
Performance Measures FY 14 Target

(1) Percentage of OIG direct resources dedicated to critical-risk or high-impact 

activities.

94%

(2) Percentage of audit recommendations where management decisions are 

achieved within 1 year. 

92%

(3) Mandatory, Congressional, Secretarial and Agency (MCSA) requested 

audits initiated where the findings and recommendations are presented to the 

auditee within established or agreed-to timeframes (includes verbal 

commitments).

90%

(4) Percentage of closed investigations that resulted in a referral for action to 

the Department of Justice, State or local law enforcement officials, or a 

relevant administrative authority.

75%

(5) Percentage of closed investigations that resulted in an indictment, 

conviction, civil suit or settlement, judgment, administrative action, or 

monetary result.

70%

(6) On a biannual basis, positive employee satisfaction rate reported in staff 

surveys.

70%

(7) Internal and external IT security incidence response and resolution 

accomplished within 30 days of incident.

90%

(8) Positive evaluation scores on OIG internal training course evaluations. 80%

(9)*12 Visible and interactive communication between Senior Staff and all OIG 

employees occurs monthly.

90%

(10) EEO Counselor’s internal and external reports will be completed within 

15 calendar days after the counseling period ends.

90%

(11) Inspection reports issued in final with management response within 60 

days.

85%

(12) Inspection report recommendations accepted annually. 85%

(13) Requests from Congress acknowledged either orally or in writing within 5 

working days of receipt.

90%

(14) Counsel to the Inspector General issues IG subpoenas within 5 working

days upon receipt of complete information for review.

95%

(15) Meet statutory deadlines on FOIA appeals. 95%

(16) Issue legal opinions within 30 calendar days of receipt of request, or 

other agreed-to date.

80%

 

12 New performance measure for FY 2014.
To learn more about OIG, visit our website at 

www.usda.gov/oig/index.htm

How To Report Suspected Wrongdoing in USDA Programs 

Fraud, Waste and Abuse 

e-mail: USDA.HOTLINE@oig.usda.gov 

phone: 800-424-9121 

fax: 202-690-2474 

Bribes or Gratuities 

202-720-7257 (24 hours a day) 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on 

the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex (including gender identity 

and expression), marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, 

genetic information, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public 

assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require 

alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should 

contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). 

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of the 

Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Stop 9410, Washington, DC 20250­

9410, or call toll-free at (866) 632-9992 (English) or (800) 877-8339 (TDD) or (866) 377-8642 (English 

Federal-relay) or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish Federal relay).USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.