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United States Department of Agriculture

Fiscal Year 2013

Federal Program Inventory

May 2013
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Introduction

The GPRA Modernization Act (GPRAMA) of 2010 requires a central inventory of all Federal 

programs. The Federal Program Inventory has the potential to facilitate coordination across 

programs by making it easier to find programs that can contribute to a shared goal, as well as 

improve public understanding about what Federal programs do and how programs link to 

budget, performance and other information.

This document describes the Department of Agriculture’s programs and indicates which of the 

Department’s Strategic Goals and Objectives each program supports. Please refer to 

www.Performance.gov for information on the Department’s Agency Priority Goals and CrossAgency Priority (CAP) Goals. The Department contributes to the following CAP Goals: Exports, 

Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Broadband, Veteran Career Readiness, Cybersecurity, 

Real Property, and Data Center Consolidation. 

For the inventory, we identified programs by mission area and USDA agency. We largely 

defined programs based on discretionary and mandatory appropriation accounts. The 

programs are grouped by USDA’s goals and objects and in some instances management 

structure. Our inventory consists of a total of 59 programs. 
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Rural Development............................................................................................................................6

1.1. Rural Business Loans.....................................................................................................................6

1.2. Rural Business Grants ...................................................................................................................6

1.3. Energy Assistance Loan Guarantees and Payments .....................................................................7

2.1. Distance Learning Telemedicine and Broadband .........................................................................7

2.2. Rural Electrification and Telecommunication Loans.....................................................................7

2.3. Rural Water and Waste Loans and Grants....................................................................................8

3.1. Single Family Housing ...................................................................................................................8

3.2. Multi-Family Housing ....................................................................................................................8

3.3. Farm Labor Housing ......................................................................................................................9

3.4. Rental Assistance ..........................................................................................................................9

3.5. Community Facilities.....................................................................................................................9

Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service...............................................................................................10

4.1. Farm Loans..................................................................................................................................10

4.2. Commodity Programs, Commodity Credit Corporation .............................................................10

4.3. Conservation Programs, Commodity Credit Corporation...........................................................11

4.4. Grassroots Source Water Protection Program ...........................................................................11

4.5. Reforestation Pilot Program .......................................................................................................12

4.6. State Mediation Grants...............................................................................................................12

4.7. Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP)..................................................................................12

4.8. Emergency Conservation Program .............................................................................................13

4.9. Emergency Forest Restoration Program.....................................................................................13

4.10. Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)............................................................13

5.1. Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Fund..................................................................................14

6.1. Public Law 480 Title I Direct Credit and Food for Progress Program Account............................14

6.2. Food for Peace Title II Grants......................................................................................................15

6.3. McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program.......................15

6.4. Market Development and Food Assistance................................................................................15

Natural Resources and Environment.................................................................................................16

7.1. Conservation Operations............................................................................................................16
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7.2. Conservation Easements.............................................................................................................16

7.3. Environmental Quality Incentives Program................................................................................17

8.1. Capital Improvement and Maintenance.....................................................................................17

8.2. Forest and Rangeland Research..................................................................................................18

8.3. Forest Service Permanent Appropriations and Trust Funds.......................................................18

8.4. Land Acquisition..........................................................................................................................19

8.5. National Forest System...............................................................................................................19

8.6. State and Private Forestry ..........................................................................................................19

8.7. Wildland Fire Management ........................................................................................................20

Research, Education, and Economics................................................................................................20

9.1. Research and Education..............................................................................................................20

9.2. Extension.....................................................................................................................................21

9.3. Integrated Activities....................................................................................................................21

10.1. National Research...................................................................................................................22

11.1. Economic Research, Market Outlook, and Policy Analysis.....................................................23

12.1. Agricultural Estimates.............................................................................................................24

12.2. Census of Agriculture..............................................................................................................24

Marketing and Regulatory Programs ................................................................................................25

13.1. Grain Regulatory Program ......................................................................................................25

13.2. Packers and Stockyards Program............................................................................................25

14.1. Inspection and Grading of Farm Products..............................................................................26

14.2. Marketing Services..................................................................................................................26

14.3. Payments to States and Possessions ......................................................................................26

14.4. Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act ...............................................................................27

14.5. Commodity Purchases ............................................................................................................27

15.1. Safeguarding and Emergency Preparedness/Response .........................................................28

15.2. Safe Trade and International Technical Assistance ................................................................28

15.3. Animal Welfare .......................................................................................................................29

Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services............................................................................................29

16.1. Child Nutrition Programs ........................................................................................................29

16.2. Commodity Assistance Programs............................................................................................29

16.3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program..........................................................................30
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16.4. Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion.............................................................................30

Food Safety......................................................................................................................................30

17.1 Food Safety and Inspection.............................................................................................................30

Management Activities....................................................................................................................31

18.1. Management Activities...........................................................................................................31
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Rural Development

1. Rural Business and Cooperative Service $152 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$201 $202 $152

1.1. Rural Business Loans

USDA’s Rural Business and Cooperative Service provide a variety of direct loans and loan 

guarantees available to rural small businesses. Rural Business loans promote and create rural 

businesses to secure start-up capital, finance expansion and create jobs, which help diversify 

the rural economy. This investment provides increased employment opportunities for rural 

communities and upgrades community infrastructure to improve the quality of life for rural 

residents. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity.

1.2. Rural Business Grants

USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service provides grants to support the development and 

expansion of small emerging rural businesses. Grants are made to public bodies, private 

non-profit corporations serving rural areas, universities tribes, business and communities’ 

intermediaries and cooperatives. Rural Business Grants include Rural Business Enterprise 

Grants; Rural Business Opportunity Grants; Rural Cooperative Development Grants; Value 

Added Producer Grants; Small Socially Disadvantaged Producer Grants; Delta Health Care 

Services Grants; Rural Microenterprise Assistance Grants; and Rural Economic Development 

Grants. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity.
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1.3. Energy Assistance Loan Guarantees and Payments

USDA’s Rural Business Cooperative Service provides loan guarantees, grants and payments to 

support the development of renewable and bioenergy. Loan guarantees are used to support 

the construction of biorefineries or renewable generation facilities. Loan guarantees area also 

available for the purchase of a renewable energy system or retrofitting existing systems. Grant 

funding is available through the Rural Energy for America program and supports small on and 

off farm renewable energy generation activities. Payments are provided to producers to 

encourage the continued development of feedstocks that support bioenergy development. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity.

2. Rural Utilities Service $382 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$587 $591 $382

2.1. Distance Learning Telemedicine and Broadband

USDA’s Rural Utilities Service provides direct loans and grants to support the deployment of 

broadband access across rural America. Funding is available to communities of 20,000 or less 

inhabitants and support the construction, enhancement and acquisition of broadband facilities 

and equipment. These broadband systems provide advanced telecommunications 

infrastructure, telemedicine projects and new or improved health care services to rural 

communities. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure 

our national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity.

2.2. Rural Electrification and Telecommunication Loans

USDA’s Rural Utilities Service provides loans for construction, acquisition and expansion of 

electric and telecommunications infrastructure projects. Electric program funding supports 

renewable generation and demand management services. Telecommunications loans provide 

advanced telecommunication services across rural America. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure 
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our national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Creating Thriving Rural Communities.

2.3. Rural Water and Waste Loans and Grants

USDA’s Rural Utilities Service provides loans and grants to low income rural communities of 

10,000 inhabitants or less. Funding is used to alleviate significant health risks due to a lack of 

access to water supply systems or waste disposal facilities. Grant funding is available to 

support water and waste services to the colonies and native Alaskan villages. Funding is also 

used for solid waste management, technical assistance, and evaluations activities. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure 

our national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Creating Thriving Rural Communities.

3. Rural Housing Service $1,550 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$1,521 $1,530 $1,550

3.1. Single Family Housing

The Single Family Housing programs provide direct and guaranteed loans to low and moderate 

income families in rural areas. RHS is the only Federal agency that provides direct loans for this 

purpose. Both direct and guaranteed loans are means-tested. Direct loans are limited to 

families with incomes less than 80 percent of area median income. The interest rate on direct 

loans is based on the borrower’s income and fluctuates with the current Treasury rate and may 

be subsidized down to one percent interest. Guaranteed loans are limited to borrowers with 

incomes less than 115 percent of area median income or the U.S. wide median income, 

whichever is higher. The interest rate on guaranteed loans is negotiated between the borrower 

and the private lender. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Provide decent, safe and affordable housing.

3.2. Multi-Family Housing

The Multi-Family Housing program provides financing for rental housing projects and rental 

assistance payments for the low-income tenants of those projects. The portfolio currently 
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includes about 15,000 projects that provide housing for about 411,000 households, consisting 

of approximately 700,000 low-income individuals, many of whom are elderly. Almost 285,000 

households receive rental assistance. The average annual income of these tenants is about 

$11,000. The current focus of the multi-family housing program is primarily on portfolio 

management instead of new construction. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Provide decent, safe and affordable rental housing.

3.3. Farm Labor Housing

The Farm Labor Housing Loan and Grant program provides capital financing for the 

development of housing for domestic farm laborers. Loans are made to farmers, associations 

of farmers, family farm corporations, Indian tribes, nonprofit organizations, public agencies, 

and associations of farm workers. Grants are made to farm worker associations, nonprofit 

organizations, Indian tribes, and public agencies. Funds may be used in urban areas for nearby 

farm labor.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Provide decent, safe and affordable farm rental 

housing.

3.4. Rental Assistance

Most multi-family housing projects that are financed with direct loans also receive Rental 

Assistance Payments. The payments are used to reduce the rents of low-income families to no 

more than 30 percent of their income. These payments are made through contracts with 

project sponsors. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Provide decent, safe and affordable rental housing.

3.5. Community Facilities

RHS also administers the Community Facilities programs that provide funding for a wide range 

of essential community facilities. Emphasis is given to health and public safety facilities and 

education facilities. The program serves rural communities of up to 20,000 in population. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Develop community infrastructure.
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Farm and Foreign Agricultural Service

4. Farm Service Agency $1,590 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$2,171 $2,371 $1,590

4.1. Farm Loans

USDA’s Farm Service Agency makes a variety of farm loans available to farmers and 

ranchers. These include the direct and guaranteed loan programs covered under the 

Agricultural Credit Insurance Fund (ACIF). Program objectives include improving the 

economic viability of farmers and ranchers, reducing losses in direct loan programs, 

responding to loan making and servicing requests, and maximizing financial and technical 

assistance to under-served groups.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity 

so they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive 

Agricultural System.

4.2. Commodity Programs, Commodity Credit Corporation

CCC provides loans, purchases, and payments along with other programs in order to 

support farm income and prices and stabilize commodity markets. These actions are 

authorized under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, as amended, the 

Agricultural Act of 1949, as amended, (including amendments and extensions made by the 

Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 and the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 

(ATRA) which extended the authorization of the 2008 Farm Bill for certain programs 

(hereinafter referred to as the 2008 Farm Bill). 

CCC is required to support the price of dairy products. Marketing assistance loans are 

required to be available for wheat, feed grains, cotton, long grain and medium grain rice, 

soybeans, minor oilseeds, pulse crops, honey, wool and mohair at levels provided for by 

law. Pulse crops include both large and small chickpeas. CCC has to make an offer; open to 

all producers, to make loans upon or purchase any quantity of these commodities 

produced which meet eligibility requirements. Income support in the form of direct and 

counter-cyclical payments is required by law to be available to growers of feed grain, 

wheat, upland cotton, soybeans, minor oilseeds, peanuts and rice. The 2008 Farm Bill 

added the Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) program as an alternative to countercyclical payments and in exchange for a 20 percent reduction in direct payments and a 30 

percent reduction in marketing assistance loans rates for all commodities produced on the 
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farm except for seed cotton loans. Also, the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) Program 

compensates dairy producers when domestic milk prices fall below a specified level.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity 

so they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive 

Agricultural System.

4.3. Conservation Programs, Commodity Credit Corporation

Title II of the Food 2008 Farm Bill re-authorized funding for new and existing conservation 

programs implemented by FSA and the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). See 

the NRCS section of the program inventory for more information about the NRCS 

programs. FSA’s Conservation Reserve Program assists farm owners and operators in 

conserving and improving soil, water, air, and wildlife resources by converting highly 

erodible and other environmentally sensitive acreage normally devoted to the production 

of agricultural commodities to a long-term resource-conserving cover. CRP participants 

enroll for periods from 10 to 15 years in exchange for annual rental payments and costshare and technical assistance for installing approved conservation practices.

CRP enrolls land through general signups, Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program 

(CREP) signups, and non-CREP continuous signups. Under general signup provisions, 

producers compete nationally during specified enrollment periods for acceptance based 

on an environmental benefits index. Under continuous signup provisions, producers enroll 

specified high-environmental value lands such as wetlands, riparian buffers, and various

types of habitat at any time during the year without competition. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: Ensure Our National Forests and Private Working Lands 

Are Conserved, Restored, and Made More Resilient to Climate Change, While 

Enhancing Our Water Resources. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and Conserve the Nation’s Forests, Farms, 

Ranches, and Grasslands.

4.4. Grassroots Source Water Protection Program

The Source Water Protection Program, a joint project by FSA and the nonprofit National 

Rural Water Association (NRWA), is designed to help prevent source water pollution in 33 

states through voluntary practices implemented by producers at the local level.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private 

working lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, 

while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Protect and Enhance America’s Water Resources.
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4.5. Reforestation Pilot Program

The 2008 Agriculture Appropriations Act, PL 110-161, directed FSA to carry out a pilot 

program to demonstrate the use of new technologies that increase the rate of growth of 

reforested hardwood trees on private, non-industrial forest lands on the coast of the Gulf 

of Mexico damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Larger hardwood seedlings, such as 

those produced through root production methodologies, are believed to have better 

survival and early growth. For over four years, FSA has engaged with Mississippi State 

University in a demonstration project to evaluate the efficacy of the implementation of 

such new technologies and establishment of larger seedlings in improving hardwood 

reforestation success. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private 

working lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, 

while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and Conserve the Nation’s Forests, Farms, 

Ranches, and Grasslands.

4.6. State Mediation Grants

USDA Agricultural Mediation Program makes grants to state-designated entities that 

provide alternative dispute resolution through mediation to agricultural producers, their 

lenders and others directly affected by the actions of certain USDA agencies. In mediation, 

a trained, impartial mediator helps participants review and discuss their conflicts, identify 

options to resolve disputes and agree on solutions. Ideally, this process helps avoid 

expensive and time-consuming administrative appeals and/or litigation.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive Agricultural 

System.

4.7. Dairy Indemnity Payment Program (DIPP)

The Dairy Indemnity Program (DIPP) indemnifies dairy farmers and manufacturers of dairy 

products who, through no fault of their own, suffer income losses with respect to milk or 

milk products that are removed from the commercial market because such milk or milk 

products contained certain harmful pesticide residues, chemicals, or toxic substances, or 

were contaminated by nuclear radiation or fallout. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive Agricultural 

System.
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4.8. Emergency Conservation Program

The Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) is authorized by Title IV of the Agricultural 

Credit Act of 1978 (P.L. 95-334), as amended. ECP provides emergency cost-share 

assistance to farmers and ranchers to help rehabilitate farmland and ranchland damaged 

by natural disasters and to carry out water conservation measures during periods of severe 

drought. Cost-share assistance may be offered only for emergency conservation practices 

to restore land to a condition similar to that existing prior to the natural disaster. ECP 

program participants receive cost-share assistance of up to 75 percent of the cost to 

implement approved emergency conservation practices, as determined by county FSA 

committees. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Protect and Enhance America’s Water Resources.

4.9. Emergency Forest Restoration Program

The Emergency Forestry Restoration Program (EFRP) provides payments to eligible owners 

of nonindustrial private forest land in order to carry out emergency measures to restore 

land damaged by a natural disaster. Funding for the program is appropriated by Congress. 

Program participants may receive financial assistance of up to 75 percent of the cost to 

implement approved emergency forest restoration practices. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Protect and Enhance America’s Water Resources.

4.10. Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)

The Farm Service Agency (FSA) has been responsible for managing disaster assistance 

programs for farmers and ranchers who experience losses because of natural disasters, 

resulting from drought, flood, fire, freeze, tornadoes, pest infestation, and other 

calamities. FSA administers the NAP which provides financial assistance to producers of 

noninsurable crops when low yields, loss of inventory or prevented planting occur due to a 

natural disaster. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive Agricultural 

System.
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5. Risk Management Agency $9,061 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$7,605 $10,145 $9,061

5.1. Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Fund

The Federal crop insurance program provides an important safety net that protects producers 

from a wide range of risks caused by natural disasters, as well as the risk of price fluctuations. In 

recent years, an increasing proportion of risk protection has been provided by revenue 

insurance which protects against both a loss of yield and price declines. Participation in the 

Federal crop insurance programs by producers is voluntary; however, participation is 

encouraged through premium subsidies. In addition, participation in the Federal crop insurance 

programs is required in order to participate in the supplemental agricultural disaster assistance 

programs authorized in the 2008 Farm Bill. Federal crop insurance is delivered to producers 

through private insurance companies that share in the risk of loss and opportunity for gain. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will increase the availability and effectiveness of 

Federal crop insurance as a risk management tool while enhancing and protecting the 

soundness of the program. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Ensure that Federal crop insurance products are 

fundamentally and actuarially sound. Facilitate and foster development of new 

insurance products.

6. Foreign Agricultural Service $824 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

2,335 2,351 824

6.1. Public Law 480 Title I Direct Credit and Food for Progress Program Account

P.L. 480 Title I provides for foreign food assistance through the sales of U.S. agricultural 

commodities to developing country governments and private entities through 

concessional financing agreements and for donations through Food for Progress grant 

agreements. Title I agreements are intended to encourage economic development in 

recipient countries. Food for Progress assistance is provided to developing countries and 

emerging democracies that have made commitments to introduce and expand free 

enterprise in their agricultural economies.
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 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will help America promote agricultural 

production and biotechnology exports as America works to increase food security.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Ensure U.S. Agricultural Resources Contribute to 

Enhanced Global Security.

6.2. Food for Peace Title II Grants

P.L. 480 Title II provides for donations of humanitarian food assistance to needy people in 

foreign countries in response to malnutrition, famine and other extraordinary relief 

requirements, and to meet economic development needs that address food security. The 

assistance is provided primarily through private voluntary organizations, cooperatives, or 

international organizations, mainly the World Food Program of the United Nations. The 

Title II program is administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will help America promote agricultural 

production and biotechnology exports as America works to increase food security.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Ensure U.S. Agricultural Resources Contribute to 

Enhanced Global Security.

6.3. McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program

The McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program 

alleviates hunger and malnutrition and enhances world food security by providing for the 

donation of U.S. agricultural commodities and associated financial and technical assistance 

to carry out preschool and school feeding programs in foreign countries. Maternal, infant, 

and child nutrition programs also are authorized under the program. Its purpose is to 

reduce the incidence of hunger and malnutrition and improve literacy and primary 

education, contributing to a healthy, literate workforce that can support a more 

prosperous, sustainable economy and ensure long-term food security.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will help America promote agricultural 

production and biotechnology exports as America works to increase food 

security.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Ensure U.S. Agricultural Resources Contribute to 

Enhanced Global Security.

6.4. Market Development and Food Assistance

FAS administers a variety of programs that are designed to facilitate access to international 

markets and thereby help to support a competitive U.S. agricultural system. Working 

bilaterally and with international organizations, FAS encourages the development of 

transparent and science-based regulatory systems that allow for the safe development and 

use of agricultural goods derived from new technologies. FAS works with other agencies in 

the Federal government to monitor and negotiate new trade agreements and enforce 
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existing trade agreements. FAS administers a number of programs, in partnership with 

private sector cooperator organizations, that support the development, maintenance, and 

expansion of commercial export markets for U.S. agricultural commodities and products. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a Sustainable and Competitive Agricultural 

System; Ensure U.S. Agricultural Resources Contribute to Enhanced Global Security; 

Enhance America’s Ability to Develop and Trade Agricultural Products Derived from New 

Technologies.

Natural Resources and Environment

7. Natural Resources Conservation Service $3,862 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$4,336 $4,297 $3,862

7.1. Conservation Operations

Through the Conservation Operations program, the Natural Resources Conservation Service 

(NRCS) provides for the development and delivery of a major portion of the products and 

services associated with four of the Agency’s five business lines: 1) conservation planning and 

technical consultation, 2) conservation implementation, 3) natural resource inventory and 

assessment, and 4) natural resource technology transfer.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches, and grasslands; Protect and enhance America’s water resources.

7.2. Conservation Easements

Voluntary conservation easements allow NRCS to help agricultural producers and landowners 

who want to maintain or enhance their land in a way beneficial to agriculture and/or the 

environment, while protecting important or unique agricultural land and natural areas from 

development pressures. Depending upon the program participant’s land management 

objectives, easements, rental contracts, and cost share agreements can be 10-year, 30-year, or 

permanent in duration.
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 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches, and grasslands; Protect and enhance America’s water resources.

7.3. Environmental Quality Incentives Program

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) assists agricultural producers in 

identifying natural resource issues and opportunities to improve their operations, while 

providing technical and financial assistance to address them in an environmentally beneficial 

and cost-effective manner. The wide variety of EQIP-promoted conservation practices are 

designed to meet diverse environmental and natural resource challenges. EQIP’s conservation 

practices address water quantity and quality concerns, reduce the threat to the habitat of 

Endangered Species Act candidates, and provide critical habitat for migratory birds. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches, and grasslands; Protect and enhance America’s water resources.

8. Forest Service $4,858 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$4,846 $5,265 $4,858

8.1. Capital Improvement and Maintenance

The Forest Service manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Capital 

Improvement and Maintenance program funds activities to ensure on these 193 million acres 

the availability of high-quality recreation opportunities; to maintain quality facilities, roads, and 

trails; and to afford the public opportunities to interact with the natural environment while 

supporting a wide-range of tourism and infrastructure-related jobs. Infrastructure maintenance 

and improvement enables the Forest Service to supply goods and services to the American 

public, while helping meet critical resource needs.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 
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national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Restore and conserve the 

nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands.

8.2. Forest and Rangeland Research

The Forest Service’s Forest and Rangeland Research program (R&D) activities provide scientific 

information and new technologies to support the sustainable management of the Nation’s 

public and private forests and rangelands. The products and services produced by R&D 

increase the base biological and physical knowledge of our diverse ecosystems, while providing 

new knowledge and technologies to foster a healthy natural world which benefits rural and 

urban communities across all U.S. territories and States.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Restore and conserve the 

nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands; Lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to 

climate change; Reduce risk from catastrophic wildfire and restore fire to its appropriate 

place on the landscape.

8.3. Forest Service Permanent Appropriations and Trust Funds

The Forest Service’s Permanent Appropriations and Trust Funds support an incredibly diverse 

range of restoration and land management activities which maintain, enhance, or restore forest 

ecosystems to desired conditions. Funded programs include brush disposal, timber salvage 

sales, development of botanical products, stewardship contracting, recreation, and the 

maintenance of important soil, habitat, and water resources.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Restore and conserve the 

nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands; Lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to 

climate change; Protect and enhance America’s water resources; Reduce risk from 

catastrophic wildfire and restore fire to its appropriate place on the landscape.
19 | Page

8.4. Land Acquisition

Forest Service’s Land Acquisition program funds the acquisition and donation of lands, water, 

and related interests within the National Forest System (NFS) to further Agency goals for 

restoration and expanding outdoor recreation and public access. Land Acquisition not only 

consolidates and connects larges landscapes but also plays a critical role in restoring the 

ecosystem function and resilience of our national forests and grasslands to a changing climate.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Create thriving communities; 

Restore and conserve the nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands; Protect and 

enhance America’s water resources; Reduce risk from catastrophic wildfire and restore 

fire to its appropriate place on the landscape.

8.5. National Forest System

The National Forest System (NFS) program provides funds for the stewardship and 

management of the Forest Service’s 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Good 

stewardship conserves air quality, water, plants, and wildlife, while being responsive to the 

public’s diverse interests and needs. The NFS program improves the health of the land and 

protects the environment to provide the greatest good in the long term.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Restore and conserve the 

nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands; Lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to 

climate change; Protect and enhance America’s water resources; Reduce risk from 

catastrophic wildfire and restore fire to its appropriate place on the landscape.

8.6. State and Private Forestry

The State and Private Forestry program (S&PF) helps sustain the Nation’s urban and rural 

forests, assists private landowners in maintaining their forests, and protects communities and 

the environment from insects, disease, and invasive plants. S&PF focuses and prioritizes funds 

and resources to better shape and influence forest land use on a landscape scale to optimize 

public benefits from trees and forests for current and future generations.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources.
20 | Page

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance Rural Prosperity; Restore and conserve the 

nation’s forests, farms, ranches and grasslands; Lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to 

climate change; Protect and enhance America’s water resources; Reduce risk from 

catastrophic wildfire and restore fire to its appropriate place on the landscape.

8.7. Wildland Fire Management

Forest Service’s Wildland Fire Management program provides resources to maintain a high level 

of operational readiness to protect Federal and non-Federal lands from wildfire damage. The 

Agency’s diverse program activities including preparedness, hazardous woody fuels reduction, 

restoration, research and development, forest health management, and suppression, and the 

effective deployment of aviation assets and skilled firefighters. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure our national forests and private working 

lands are conserved, restored, and made more resilient to climate change, while 

enhancing our water resources.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Restore and conserve the nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches and grasslands; Lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change; Protect 

and enhance America’s water resources; Reduce risk from catastrophic wildfire and 

restore fire to its appropriate place on the landscape.

Research, Education, and Economics

9. National Institute of Food and Agriculture $1,346 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$1,353 $1,164 $1,346

9.1. Research and Education

USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) offers grants that enable researchers 

throughout the United States to solve problems critical to farmers, consumers, and 

communities. NIFA is USDA’s major extramural research agency, and funds individuals, 

institutions, and public, private, and non-profit organizations. The agency also conducts 

educational efforts to improve scientific and agricultural literacy and provide opportunities for 

students in vocational careers in agriculture, in cooperation with public institutions, private 

sector partners, and the land-grant university system.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 
21 | Page

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; create thriving communities; 

support a sustainable and competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the 

Nation’s forests, farms, ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance America's water

resources; lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change; ensure U.S. agricultural 

resources contribute to enhanced global food security; enhance America’s ability to 

develop and trade agricultural products derived from new technologies; increase access 

to nutritious food; promote healthy diet and physical activity behaviors; protect public 

health by ensuring food is safe.

9.2. Extension

The Nation’s land-grant institutions include extension as a critical mission, where, through 

teaching, research, and outreach programs at thousands of county and regional extension 

offices, these institutions extend their resources to solve public needs with college or university 

resources. NIFA is the federal partner in this Cooperative Extension System and plays a key role 

by distributing annual congressionally appropriated capacity building grants to supplement 

state and county funds, and affects how these grants are used by identifying timely national 

priorities. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; create thriving 

communities; support a sustainable and competitive agricultural system; restore and 

conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance 

America's water resources; lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change; ensure 

U.S. agricultural resources contribute to enhanced global food security; enhance 

America’s ability to develop and trade agricultural products derived from new 

technologies; increase access to nutritious food; promote healthy diet and physical 

activity behaviors; protect public health by ensuring food is safe.

9.3. Integrated Activities

NIFA’s Integrated Programs provide support for integrated, multi-functional research, 

education, and extension activities. Integrated, multi-functional projects are particularly 

effective in addressing important agricultural issues through the conduct of problem-focused 

research that is combined with education and extension of knowledge to those in need of 

solutions. These activities address critical national, regional, and multi-state agricultural issues, 

priorities, or problems. 
22 | Page

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; create thriving communities; 

support a sustainable and competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the 

Nation’s forests, farms, ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance America's water 

resources; lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change; ensure U.S. agricultural 

resources contribute to enhanced global food security; enhance America’s ability to 

develop and trade agricultural products derived from new technologies; increase access 

to nutritious food; promote healthy diet and physical activity behaviors; protect public 

health by ensuring food is safe.

10.Agricultural Research Service $1,303 million 

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$1,125 $1,047 $1,303

10.1. National Research

The Agricultural Research Service is the principal in-house research agency for USDA. The 

agency conducts research to develop new scientific knowledge, transfer technology to the 

private sector to solve technical agricultural problems of broad scope and high national priority, 

and provide access to scientific information. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; create thriving communities; 

support a sustainable and competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the 

Nation’s forests, farms, ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance America's water 

resources; lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change; ensure U.S. agricultural 

resources contribute to enhanced global food security; enhance America’s ability to 

develop and trade agricultural products derived from new technologies; increase access 
23 | Page

to nutritious food; promote healthy diet and physical activity behaviors; protect public 

health by ensuring food is safe; protect agricultural health by minimizing major diseases 

and pests to ensure access to safe, plentiful, and nutritious food.

11.Economic Research Service $79 million 

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$78 $78 $79

11.1. Economic Research, Market Outlook, and Policy Analysis

The Economic Research Service (ERS) provides economic research and information to inform 

public and private decision making on economic and policy issues related to agriculture, food, 

natural resources, and rural America. Through a broad range of products, ERS research provides 

data and expert economic analysis of many critical issues facing farmers, agribusiness, 

consumers, and policymakers. ERS expertise helps these stakeholders conduct business, 

formulate policy, or better inform themselves about agriculture, food, natural resources, and 

rural America. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; create thriving communities; 

support a sustainable and competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the 

Nation’s forests, farms, ranches, and grasslands; lead efforts to mitigate and adapt to 

climate change; protect and enhance America’s water resources; ensure U.S. 

agricultural resources contribute to enhanced global food security; support sustainable 

agriculture production in food-insecure nations; enhance America’s ability to develop 

and trade agricultural products derived from new technologies; increase access to 

nutritious food; promote healthy diet; protect public health by ensuring food is safe.
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12.National Agriculture Statistics Service $159 million 

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$159 $167 $159

12.1. Agricultural Estimates

In line with its mission to provide timely, accurate, and useful statistics in service to U.S. 

agriculture, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service conducts hundreds of surveys each 

year on issues including agricultural production, economics, demographics, and the 

environment. This data provides the information necessary for producers, agribusinesses, farm 

organizations, commodity groups, economists, public officials, and others to make decisions in 

agricultural marketing and investing. The data also keeps agricultural markets stable, efficient, 

and fair by ensuring accessible and objective data are available to both commodity market 

buyers and sellers. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will ensure that 

all of America’s children have access to safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; support a sustainable and 

competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance America’s water resources; increase 

access to nutritious food.

12.2. Census of Agriculture

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service conducts the census of agriculture every five 

years. The census provides comprehensive data at the national, State and county levels that 

give snapshots of the agriculture economy, including number and size of farms, farm typology, 

characteristics of farm operators, land use, production expenses, value of land and buildings, 

market value of agricultural production sold, acreage of hundreds of crops, inventory of 

livestock and poultry, farming practices including irrigation, and marketing and utilization of 

government-sponsored programs. Census data are relied upon to measure trends and new 

developments in the agricultural sector. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will ensure that 

all of America’s children have access to safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; support a sustainable and 

competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the Nation’s forests, farms, 
25 | Page

ranches, and grasslands; protect and enhance America’s water resources; increase 

access to nutritious food.

Marketing and Regulatory Programs

13. Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration $91 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$86 $88 $91

13.1. Grain Regulatory Program

USDA’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) establishes the official 

U.S. standards and quality assessment methods for grain and related products, regulates 

handling practices to ensure compliance with the U.S. Grain Standards Act and Agricultural 

Marketing Act of 1946, and manages a network of Federal, State, and private laboratories that

provide impartial, user-fee funded official inspection and weighing services. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity.

13.2. Packers and Stockyards Program

USDA’s GIPSA regulates and monitors the activities of dealers, market agencies, stockyard 

owners, live poultry dealers, buyers, packers, and swine contractors in order to detect 

prohibited unfair, unjust, discriminatory or deceptive, and anti-competitive practices in the 

livestock, meat and poultry industries. GIPSA also reviews the financial records of these entities 

to promote the financial integrity of the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity.
26 | Page

14. Agricultural Marketing Service $1,191 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

1,149 1,090 1,191

14.1. Inspection and Grading of Farm Products 

AMS provides impartial verification services that ensure agricultural products meet specified 

requirements. These services include AMS’ grading program which verifies that product meets 

USDA grade standards. These services are voluntary, with users paying for the cost of the 

requested service.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a sustainable and competitive agricultural 

system.

14.2. Marketing Services 

Under Marketing Services, AMS administers a variety of programs that enhance the marketing 

and distribution of agricultural products. Activities include the collection, analysis, and 

dissemination of market information; surveillance of shell egg handling operations; statistical 

sampling and analysis of commodities for pesticide residues; development and enforcement of 

organic standards; research and technical assistance aimed at improving efficiency of food 

marketing and distribution; and monitoring of pesticide recordkeeping.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving; USDA will ensure that 

all of America’s children have access to safe, nutritious, and balanced meals. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a sustainable and competitive agricultural 

system; protect public health by ensuring food is safe.

14.3. Payments to States and Possessions

The Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP) is a grant program which provides 

matching funds to State Departments of Agriculture, State agricultural experiment stations, and 

other appropriate State agencies to help them explore new market opportunities for U.S. food 

and agricultural products, and to encourage research and innovation aimed at improving the 

efficiency and performance of the marketing system.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a sustainable and competitive agricultural 

systems
27 | Page

14.4. Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act 

Activities are carried out under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) and the 

Produce Agency Act (PAA) and are funded by license fees. These Acts are designed to: (1) 

protect producers, shippers, distributors, and retailers from loss due to unfair and fraudulent 

practices in the marketing of perishable agricultural commodities; and (2) prevent the 

unwarranted destruction or dumping of farm products handled for others. To increase 

protection and avert financial losses to growers and licensed firms, the PACA was amended in 

1984 to create a statutory trust. Sellers of fruits and vegetables who have not been paid are 

secured under this legislation until full payment is made. Complaints of violations are 

investigated and resolved through: (1) informal agreement between the two parties; (2) formal 

decisions involving payments to injured parties; (3) suspension or revocation of license; and (4) 

publication of the facts. Any interested party or group may request AMS assistance in settling 

disputes under the PACA.

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a sustainable and competitive agricultural 

system.

14.5. Commodity Purchases

Section 32 of the Act of August 24, 1935, authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture, through 

payments or indemnities, to encourage the domestic consumption of agricultural commodities 

or products by persons in low income groups, and to re-establish farmers’ purchasing power in 

connection with the normal production of agricultural commodities. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving; USDA will ensure that 

all of America’s children have access to safe, nutritious, and balanced meals. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Support a sustainable and competitive agricultural 

system; protect public health by ensuring food is safe.
28 | Page

15.Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service $1,071 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

1,103 1,092 1,071

15.1. Safeguarding and Emergency Preparedness/Response

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) provides technical and financial 

support to help control or eradicate a variety of animal and plant health threats. This support 

includes activities to protect the health of livestock, poultry, and other animals, and to protect 

the health of crops and woodlands. Included as well are the activities of APHIS’ Wildlife Service 

to minimize damages caused by wildlife. APHIS’ biotechnology regulatory activity and the 

agency’s investigative efforts are also included. Finally, APHIS’ work to prepare for and address 

outbreaks is part of this category as well. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. USDA will ensure our 

national forests and private working lands are conserved, restored, and made more 

resilient to climate change, while enhancing our water resources. USDA will help 

America promote agricultural production and biotechnology exports as America works 

to increase food security. USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access to 

safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity; support a sustainable and 

competitive agricultural system; restore and conserve the nation’s forests, farms, 

ranches and grasslands; enhance America's ability to develop and trade agricultural 

products derived from new technologies; and protect agricultural health by minimizing 

major diseases and pests, ensuring access to safe, plentiful, and nutritious food.

15.2. Safe Trade and International Technical Assistance

USDA’s APHIS provides technical support to facilitate safe U.S. agricultural trade. This includes 

work to obtain new and maintain existing export markets as it relates to sanitary and 

phytosanitary conditions. The work under this category also monitors and responds to 

emerging foreign agricultural pests and disease threats to the United States, as well as, 

supporting the development of science-based regulatory systems around the world. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will help America promote agricultural production and 

biotechnology exports as America works to increase food security. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance America's ability to develop and trade 

agricultural products derived from new technologies.
29 | Page

15.3. Animal Welfare

USDA’s APHIS enforces the Animal Welfare Act and the Horse Protection Act. This work is 

conducted through inspection, education, compliance and enforcement efforts. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will assist rural communities to create prosperity so 

they are self-sustaining, re-populating, and economically thriving. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Enhance rural prosperity.

Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services

16. Food and Nutrition Service $109 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$114 $112 $109

16.1. Child Nutrition Programs

USDA’s Child Nutrition Programs provide nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals to 

children every school day; provide nutrition assistance to children during the summer; and 

improve the quality of and affordability of day care for low-income families by providing 

reimbursements for nutritious meals and snacks. Programs include the National School Lunch 

Program, School Breakfast Program, Special Milk Program, Summer Food Service Program, and 

Child and Adult Care Food Program. 

 Supported Strategic Goal: Ensure That All of America’s Children Have Access to Safe, 

Nutritious, and Balanced Meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Increase Access to Nutritious Food; Promote Healthy 

Diet and Physical Activity Behavior.

16.2. Commodity Assistance Programs

USDA’s Commodity Assistance Programs strengthen the Nation’s nutrition safety net by

providing food and nutrition assistance to children, pregnant women, low-income families, 

emergency feeding programs, Indian reservations, and the elderly. These programs also 

support American agriculture. Programs include the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, 

Emergency Food Assistance Program, farmers’ market nutrition programs, and assistance for 

the nuclear-affected islands. 

 Supported Strategic Goals: Ensure That All of America’s Children Have Access to Safe, 

Nutritious, and Balanced Meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Increase Access to Nutritious Food.
30 | Page

16.3. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) 

puts healthy food within reach for eligible low-income people via an EBT card used to purchase 

food at most grocery stores. SNAP is the primary source of nutrition assistance for low-income 

Americans. Through nutrition education partners, SNAP helps clients learn to make healthy 

eating and active lifestyle choices.

 Supported Strategic Goals: Ensure That All of America’s Children Have Access to Safe, 

Nutritious, and Balanced Meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Increase Access to Nutritious Food; Promote Healthy 

Diet and Physical Activity Behavior.

16.4. Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

USDA’s Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) works to improve the health and wellbeing of Americans by developing and promoting the best evidence-based dietary guidance 

linking scientific research to the nutrition needs of consumers. CNPP assesses the nutrition and 

health research literature through the USDA Nutrition Evidence Library and develops the 

Dietary Guidelines for Americans working jointly with HHS. Through projects such as the USDA 

Food Plans, the USDA Food Patterns, the resources and tools at the ChooseMyPlate.gov food 

guidance website, and USDA’s SuperTracker CNPP helps health professionals, nutrition 

educators, policymakers, and consumers of all ages learn and adopt the Dietary Guidelines.

 Supported Strategic Goal: Ensure That All of America’s Children Have Access to Safe, Nutritious, 

and Balanced Meals. 

 Supported Strategic Objective: Promote Healthy Diet and Physical Activity Behavior.

Food Safety

17. Food Safety and Inspection Service $1,019 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 enacted FY 2014 est.

1,016 987 1,019

17.1 Food Safety and Inspection

The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is the public health agency in the U.S. Department 

of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, 

and egg products moving in interstate commerce or exported to other countries is safe, 

wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. In addition, FSIS ensures that products 

imported from other countries are produced by a system that is equivalent to that employed by 

FSIS. FSIS is committed to ensuring public health through food safety.
31 | Page

 Supported Strategic Goals: USDA will ensure that all of America’s children have access 

to safe, nutritious, and balanced meals.

 Supported Strategic Objectives: Protect public health by ensuring food is safe. 

Management Activities 

18. Management Activities $532 million

Total Budget Authority (in millions of dollars)

FY 2012 actual FY 2013 est. FY 2014 est.

$537 $516 $532

18.1. Management Activities 

Departmental Management is USDA's central administrative management organization. 

Departmental Management provides budget and fiscal management, human resource, 

procurement and information technology support to mission areas so that they can serve 

customers more effectively and efficiently. Departmental Management manages the 

headquarters complex and provides direct customer service to Washington, D.C. employees.

DM's mission is to provide management leadership to ensure that USDA administrative 

programs, policies, advice and counsel meet the needs of USDA program organizations, 

consistent with laws and mandates, and provide safe and efficient facilities and services to 

customers. 

Other central offices conduct further management activities. The Office of the Assistant 

Secretary for Civil Rights facilitates the fair and equitable treatment of USDA customers and 

employees, while ensuring the delivery and enforcement of civil rights programs and 

activities. The Office of the Chief Economist serves as the focal point for economic 

intelligence and analysis related to agricultural markets and for risk assessment and costbenefit analysis related to Departmental regulations affecting food and agriculture. The 

National Appeals Division (NAD) conducts impartial administrative appeal hearings of 

adverse program decisions made by USDA and reviews of determinations issued by NAD 

hearing officers when requested by a party to the appeal. The Office of Communications 

provides centralized information services using the latest, most effective and efficient 

technology and standards for communication, and provides the leadership, coordination, 

expertise, and counsel needed to develop the strategies, products, and services that are 

used to describe USDA initiatives, programs, and functions to the public. The Office of 

Inspector General investigates allegations of crime against the Department's program, and 

promotes the economy and efficiency of its operations. Finally, the Office of the General 

Counsel provides legal advice and services to the Secretary of Agriculture and to all other 

officials and agencies of the Department with respect to all USDA programs and activities.
32 | Page

 Supported Strategic Goals: These Management Activities support all of the 

Department’s strategic goals as they provide assistance so that the mission areas can 

perform efficient and effective work. 

 Supported Strategic Objectives: The Management Activities support all of the 

Department’s strategic objectives.