The Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a key role in the agricultural industry. Its purpose is to promote and support American agriculture, conserve natural resources and strengthen rural communities. USDA works to ensure the availability of safe and healthful food, help create job opportunities, strengthen local economies and support the development of new products and services. The role of the USDA is two-fold: to oversee issues related to international trade and to help ensure the health and safety of American food and agricultural products.
National Food Security
USDA works to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s food supply. The department provides technical assistance to family farmers and ranchers and works to ensure they have access to the resources they need to compete in the global market. In addition, the USDA helps to promote food safety in the United States by enforcing the Federal Meat, Poultry and Eggs Inspection Act, which requires food producers to maintain standards of hygiene and quality in their products.
Food Assistance Programs
USDA provides a variety of food assistance programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the National School Lunch Program. These programs help to provide access to nutritious food for low-income individuals and families. The USDA also works to ensure that the food available to Americans is safe and nutritious. USDA scientists monitor food safety and quality, test for contaminants, and inspect the farms, warehouses, and processing facilities.
Rural Development
The USDA plays a key role in rural economic development. It works to help create jobs and economic opportunities in rural areas, such as providing funding for infrastructure projects and business loans. The department also helps to promote conservation of land and resources, such as providing grants for nutrient management and soil conservation efforts. In addition, the USDA works to provide access to housing, education, and health care in rural communities.
International Trade
The department serves as the United States’ “food ambassador” to other countries. USDA works to promote and protect American agricultural products around the world. It provides programs and technical assistance that help promote and protect the quality of American products abroad, as well as providing assistance to American farmers and ranchers who are looking to export their products to foreign markets.
Research and Development
USDA scientists conduct research on topics such as crop genetics, soil science and climate change in order to ensure the health and safety of America’s agriculture and food supply. The department also works to develop new technologies and services that will assist farmers, ranchers and food producers in the areas of crop production, food safety and quality. The research conducted by the USDA helps to ensure that American agriculture remains competitive in the global market.
Environmental Protection
USDA works to conserve and protect natural resources, such as soil and water, in order to maintain the health and sustainability of our nation’s agricultural industry. The department helps to promote conservation practices, such as managing crop residues, reducing water pollution and encouraging the use of alternative fuels, that reduce the environmental impact of agriculture. In addition, the USDA works to promote natural resource conservation through programs such as the Wildlife Habitat Conservation program, which helps to protect and restore habitats for fish, wildlife and plants.
