Resolution Update

Arthur Neal

FGIS Deputy Administrator

&

Dr. Edward Jhee

TSD Director

Grain Inspection Advisory Committee Meeting

May 12, 2021
Program Guidance

The Advisory Committee recommends FGIS take steps to 

reconcile and consolidate instructions to ensure clear, easy 

to access guidance. This would help the official system 

provide more accurate, consistent and timely service.
Budget

The Advisory Committee recommends that OMB eliminate 

the limitation on inspection and weighing services 

expenses. If this is not possible, the Committee 

recommends that the $55 million limitation only apply to 

grain export activities under the provisions of the USGSA.
Systems Approach

FGIS execution support to the “USDA Soybean Systems 

Approach” should not compel a change in U.S. grading 

standards, nor require FGIS financial resources. 
Lengthen Terms of Service for GIAC Members

The GIAC recommends that the 2020 reauthorization of the 

U.S. Grain Standards Act establishes a 5-year term of service 

for GIAC members with the utilization of shorter terms to 

stagger appointments. This process of appointing members 

serves to strengthen commitments of service, establish 

continuity, foster collaboration and encourage cohesiveness 

of the committee. Members are eligible to serve multiple but 

not successive terms. If the reauthorization of the 2020 

USGSA extends the terms of service for GIAC members, the 

committee recommends that the Secretary extend current 

GIAC member terms according to this policy.
Review of Geographic Boundaries

The GIAC committee recommends a comprehensive survey of the 

market and scope of service needs in each boundary for official 

grain inspection services and the number of the official agencies. 

Since FGIS was created in 1976, there have been significant 

changes in the number and operations of both grain handling 

facilities and officially designated inspection agencies; the amount 

of grain and oilseeds handled and processed within each 

geographic boundary; and the number of quality attributes and 

other quality tests conducted by these agencies. The Advisory 

Committee believes these changes in the domestic marketplace, 

necessitate that FGIS comprehensively update information and data 

upon which the geographic boundaries are based.
Vessel Stowage Exams

The Advisory Committee commends FGIS on its efforts to incorporate 

innovative technology by delivering services to its shareholders, while 

protecting the safety of personnel. The Committee strongly encourages 

the approval and implementation of the “pilot program” for Barge Stowage 

Examinations via camera system.

The Committee also recommends FGIS continue studying its 

technological innovative programs for cost savings, efficiency, and 

operational safety concerns, as it relates to Vessel Stowage Examinations. 

(i.e. UAV with NIR technology and/or camera when applicable).
HVAC

The Advisory Committee commends FGIS for researching 

an improved method for HVAC classification in Durum 

wheat. The committee recommends FGIS continue to 

research and develop a bleaching method to quantify and 

separate HVAC kernels from soft kernels in durum wheat to 

facilitate subclass determinations. The committee 

encourages FGIS to further investigate whether the same 

or similar methods can be used to determine DHV kernels 

versus non-vitreous kernels in the Hard Red Spring Wheat 

class. 
Mycotoxin Test Kits

The Advisory Committee urges FGIS to continue to identify 

causes of variation in mycotoxin testing and to develop a 

comprehensive plan to address these causes. The 

Committee requests FGIS to investigate certifying and 

reporting at lower levels than the current limit of 

quantitation, and report back to the Committee.
New Devices

The Advisory Committee appreciates FGIS’ recognition of 

the importance of encouraging competition in the official 

device system. The Committee urges FGIS to develop a 

comprehensive and proactive approach to identifying new 

technology priorities that may bring improved test results, 

greater efficiency and/or lower cost. The Committee 

recognizes that any new devices must add value to the 

testing system in compliance with current guidelines. 
LED Lighting

The Advisory Committee recommends FGIS continue 

research on the most appropriate LED lighting solution that 

may include overhead or task lights.