DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Fourteenth Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250 Phone, 202-447-2791 SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE ........Mike Espy Deputy Secretary ........Richard Rominger Chief of Staff ........Ronald H. Blackley Executive Assistant to the Secretary/White House Liaison ........Charles N. Duncan Executive Assistants to the Secretary ........Michael W. Alexander, Oleta G. Fitzgerald, Sharron L. Harris Counsel to the Secretary ........Kim E. Schnoor Special Assistant to the Secretary ........Robert M. Berry General Counsel ........James S. Gilliland Deputy General Counsel ........Bonnie L. Lukenctor Inspector General ........Charles R. Gillum, Acting Deputy Inspector General ........Charles R. Gillum Assistant Inspector General, Policy Development and Resource Management ........Paula F. Hayes Assistant Inspector General, Audit ........James R. Ebbitt Assistant Inspector General, Investigations ........Craig L. Beauchamp Director, Office of Budget and Program Analysis ........Stephen B. Dewhurst Associate Director ........Lawrence Wachs Associate Director for Resource Programs and Special Studies ........(vacancy) Director, Office of Public Affairs ........Ali Webb Press Secretary ........(vacancy) Deputy Directors ........Joel S. Berg, Sandra Brewster-Walker, Steve Kinsella Director, Intergovernmental Affairs ........(vacancy) Director, Press and Media Relations ........(vacancy) Director, Public Liaison ........(vacancy) Director, Publishing and Visual Communication ........(vacancy) Director, Office of the Executive Secretariat ........Reba Evans Deputy Director ........(vacancy) Under Secretary, International Affairs and Commodity Programs ........Eugene Moos Deputy Under Secretary ........Dallas Smith Administrator, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service ........Grant Buntrock Associate Administrator ........Bruce R. Weber Deputy Administrator, Management ........Rashid Nuri, Acting President, Commodity Credit Corporation ........(vacancy) Executive Vice President ........(vacancy) Secretary ........(vacancy) Deputy Secretary ........Albert Reagan Assistant Secretary ........Brenda B. King Controller ........Angelena V. Bracht Treasurer ........James R. Little Chief Accountant ........Dwight T. Tayman Administrator, Foreign Agricultural Service ........Richard Schroeter, Acting Associate Administrator ........(vacancy) Associate Administrator and General Sales Manager ........Christopher Goldthwait, Acting Assistant Administrator, Management ........Earl C. Hadlock Under Secretary, Small Community and Rural Development ........Bob Nash Deputy Under Secretaries ........Karl N. Strauber, (vacancy) Administrator, Farmers Home Administration ........Michael V. Dunn Associate Administrator ........Sharron S. Longino Deputy Administrator, Management ........Sandra Weisman Manager, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation ........Kenneth Ackerman Deputy Manager ........(vacancy) Assistant Manager, Administration ........Kathleen Connelly Administrator, Rural Development Administration ........(vacancy) Administrator, Rural Electrification Administration ........Wally B. Beyer Deputy Administrator, Program Operations ........(vacancy) Assistant Administrator, Management ........(vacancy) Assistant Secretary, Administration ........Wardell Townsend, Jr. Deputy Assistant Secretary ........Anne F.T. Reed Chairperson, Board of Contract Appeals ........Edward Houry Judicial Officer ........Donald A. Campbell Chief Judge, Office of Administrative Law Judges ........Victor W. Palmer Director, Office of Civil Rights Enforcement ........David Montoya Director, Office of Information Resources Management ........John L. Okay Director, Office of Operations ........Ira Hobbs, Acting Director, Office of Personnel ........Evelyn M. White Director, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization ........Sharron L. Harris, Acting Chief Financial Officer ........Anthony A. Williams Deputy Chief Financial Officer ........Ted David Director, Office of Finance and Management ........David Rector, Acting Assistant Secretary, Congressional Relations ........Frederick G. Slabach Deputy Assistant Secretary ........Paul S. Shearer Assistant Secretary, Economics ........Keith J. Collins, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary ........(vacancy) Director, Economic Analysis Staff ........Keith J. Collins Director, Economic Management Staff ........Allan S. Johnson Administrator, Economic Research Service ........Ken Deavers, Acting Associate Administrator ........(vacancy) Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service ........Donald M. Bay, Acting Deputy Administrator ........Donald M. Bay Director, Office of Energy ........Roger Conway Chairperson, World Agricultural Outlook Board ........James R. Donald Deputy Chairperson ........Gerald A. Bange Assistant Secretary, Food and Consumer Services ........Ellen Haas Deputy Assistant Secretary ........Shirley R. Watkins Administrator, Food and Nutrition Service ........William E. Ludwig Associate Administrator ........George A. Braley Deputy Administrator, Management ........Joseph J. Leo Director, Office of the Consumer Advisor ........William B. Wasserman Assistant Secretary, Marketing and Inspection Services ........Patricia Jensen, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary ........Patricia Jensen Administrator, Agricultural Cooperative Service ........Randall E. Torgerson Deputy Administrator ........James E. Haskell Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service ........Lon S. Hatamiya Deputy Administrator ........Kenneth Clayton Deputy Administrator, Management ........Linda P. Massaro Administrator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ........Lonnie King, Acting Associate Administrator ........Lonnie King Deputy Administrator, Management ........Michael Gregoire, Acting Administrator, Federal Grain Inspection Service ........(vacancy) Deputy Administrator ........David Shipman Administrator, Food Safety and Inspection Service ........Terry Medley, Acting Associate Administrator ........William J. Hudnall Deputy Administrator, Administrative Management ........Margaret OK Glavin Administrator, Packers and Stockyards Administration ........Calvin W. Watkins, Acting Deputy Administrator ........Calvin W. Watkins Assistant Secretary, Natural Resources and Environment ........James Lyons Deputy Assistant Secretaries ........Thomas R. Hebert ........Adela Backiel Chief, Forest Service ........Jack W. Thomas Associate Chief ........David G. Unger Deputy Chief for Administration ........LaMar Beaseley Chief, Soil Conservation Service ........Paul W. Johnson Associate Chief ........Pearlie S. Reed Deputy Chief for Administration ........(vacancy) Assistant Secretary, Science and Education ........Ronald D. Plowman, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary ........(vacancy) Administrator, Agricultural Research Service ........Essex E. Finney, Jr., Acting Associate Administrator ........Essex E. Finney, Jr. Administrator, Cooperative State Research Service ........John P. Jordan Associate Administrator ........Claire I. Harris Administrator, Extension Service ........Leodrey Williams Associate Administrator ........Mitchell Geasler Director, National Agricultural Library ........(vacancy) [For the Department of Agriculture statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 2] @U1 [Insert Department of Agriculture chart]@U0 The Department of Agriculture benefits all Americans daily. It works to improve and maintain farm income and to develop and expand markets abroad for agricultural products. The Department helps to curb and to cure poverty, hunger, and malnutrition. It wor ks to enhance the environment and to maintain our production capacity by helping landowners protect the soil, water, forests, and other natural resources. Rural development, credit, and conservation programs are key resources for carrying out national gro wth policies. Department research findings directly or indirectly benefit all Americans. The Department, through inspection and grading services, safeguards and ensures standards of quality in the daily food supply. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) was created by act of May 15, 1862 (7 U.S.C. 2201), and was administered by a Commissioner of Agriculture until 1889 (5 U.S.C. 511, 514, 516). By act of February 9, 1889 (7 U.S.C. 2202, 2208, 2212), the power s and duties of the Department were enlarged. The Department was made the eighth executive department in the Federal Government, and the Commissioner became the Secretary of Agriculture. Staff Offices Administration The Assistant Secretary for Administration serves as the principal adviser to the Secretary on all administrative management and related matters. Five departmental staff offices report to the Assistant Secretary and assist in providing staf f support to top policy officials and program agencies to ensure the efficient and effective management and operation of the Department. These are the Office of Personnel, the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, the Office of Finance a nd Management, the Office of Information Resources Management, the Office of Civil Rights Enforcement, and the Office of Operations. These offices coordinate the Department's personnel management program; equal opportunity and civil rights activities; saf ety and health activities; management improvement programs; accounting, fiscal, and financial activities; automated data processing administration; procurement and contracts; and management of real and personal property. In addition, two quasi-judicial agencies, the Office of Administrative Law Judges and the Board of Contract Appeals, report to the Assistant Secretary. Both organizations operate autonomously when adjudicating cases and deciding contract disputes. The Assistant Secretary for Administration serves as the Department's Director of Equal Employment Opportunity and oversees all equal opportunity and civil rights programs within USDA. General Counsel The General Counsel is the chief law officer of the Department and is responsible for providing legal services for all programs, operations, and activities of the Department. The functions of the General Counsel's Office are performed in t he Washington headquarters, and in 5 regional and 17 branch offices. The headquarters legal staff is divided into four sections, each directed by an Associate General Counsel, and include: Regulatory and Marketing; International Affairs, Commodity Program s, and Food Assistance Programs; Rural Development; Natural Resources; and Legislation, Litigation, Research, and Operations. In general, the regional and branch offices provide legal services relating to the activities of the Agricultural Stabilization a nd Conservation Service, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Farmers Home Administration, the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, the Forest Service, the Soil Conservation Service, and the Food and Nutrition Service. The Office also provides a full range of legal services to the Department's agencies, offices, and corporations. These legal services include: rendering opinions on legal questions; preparing or reviewing rules and regulations; preparing or inte rpreting contracts, mortgages, leases, deeds, and other documents; assisting departmental agencies in nonlitigation debt collection programs; processing applications for patents or inventions by the Department's employees; representing departmental agenci es in State water rights adjudication; considering and determining claims by and against the United States arising out of the Department's activities; assisting the Department of Justice in the preparation and trial of cases involving the Department; and representing the Secretary of Agriculture and the Commodity Credit Corporation before the Interstate Commerce Commission, the Federal Maritime Commission, and the International Trade Commission. Inspector General The Office of the Inspector General was established administratively by the Secretary of Agriculture in 1962. The Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. app.) created statutory inspectors general in the Department of Agriculture and a n umber of other Federal executive departments and independent agencies. The Inspector General conducts and supervises all audits and investigations relating to the programs and operations of the Department. The Office also is responsible for coordinating, conducting, or supervising all other activities carried out by the Department for the purpose of promoting program economy and efficiency and preventing and detecting fraud. The investigation of employee complaints, physical security of the Secretary, rev iew of legislation and regulations for their impact on program efficiency and susceptibility to abuse, and relations with governmental and nongovernmental units concerning program efficiency and prevention of fraud also are responsibilities of the Office. The Office is headed by an Inspector General who is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. For further information, call 202-720-8001. Budget and Program Analysis The Office of Budget and Program Analysis coordinates the preparation of departmental budget estimates and legislative reports; administers systems for the management and control of funds; provides policy, program, and budgetary analysis of USDA proposals; and provides staff assistance to USDA agencies in meeting their responsibilities for the development and review of regulations. Office of Public Affairs The Office of Public Affairs oversees communication efforts of USDA, providing timely information concerning USDA's agencies and their services to America's farmers, commodity organizations, agribusiness, consumers, and the media. The Director coordinates major events for the Secretary and the Department, as well as oversees the activities of Public Liaison; Intergovernmental Affairs; Public Affairs Administration; Design and Printing; News Planning and Placement; Communication Co ordinators and Review Team; and Video, Teleconferencing, and Radio. In addition, the Office acts as a liaison with State departments of agriculture, local government agencies, and Native American organizations. Judicial Officer The Judicial Officer serves as the final deciding officer, in the place of the Secretary, in regulatory proceedings and appeals of a quasi-judicial nature where a hearing is statutorily required. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations The Office of Congressional Relations' mission is to ensure that the Congress is well-informed about administrative policy and program information concerning Agriculture. Congressional Relation s is a service organization and is the Secretary's representative to the Congress. The Assistant Secretary's responsibilities include: ensuring an open dialog between the Secretary and Members of Congress, alerting Members of Congress about significant US DA actions or activities impacting their district; coordinating USDA logistics for hearings in which USDA personnel are witnesses; tracking congressional hearing transcripts and returning corrected transcripts to the appropriate congressional committee; c oordinating all congressional briefings set up by USDA agencies; acting as liaison with the White House and USDA agency Congressional Relations personnel; participating in the clearance of congressional correspondence, legislative reports, and statements of administrative policy; organizing functions which enhance good will between the Congress and the Department; and, ultimately, seeing that congressional inquiries for the public have received a response. Small Community and Rural Development Farmers Home Administration [For the Farmers Home Administration statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 2003] The Farmers Home Administration (FmHA), an agency within the Department of Agriculture, provides loans to rural residents who are unable to get credit from commercial sources at reasonable rates and terms and who have a reasonable chance for success. The Administration operates under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921) and title V of the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1471). FmHA guarantees loans made by commercial lenders for farm operating needs, farm ownership, and modest rural housing. The agency also makes direct loans to low-income rural residents and eligible farmers. Farmers and rural residents may apply for FmHA loans at approximately 1,750 local offices and 258 district offices. A county or area committee of three individuals, at least two of whom are farmers, certifies or recommends the eligibility of ind ividual farm loan applicants and reviews borrowers' progress. FmHA provides financial and management assistance through the following types of loans: Operating Loans FmHA guarantees loans made by commercial lenders and provides some direct loans to farmers who operate family-size farms and who cannot get the credit they need from conventional sources. They may be farming as individuals, joint operators , cooperatives, or corporations. Operating loan funds may be used to acquire needed resources, to make improved use of their land and labor resources, and to make adjustments necessary for successful farming and nonfarm enterprises. Funds may be advanced to pay for equipment, livestock, feed, seed, fertilizer, other farm and home operating needs; refinance chattel debts; provide operating credit to fish farmers; carry out forestry purposes; and develop income-producing, nonfarm enterprises. For loans made directly by the Administration, the interest rate is set periodically, based on the Federal Government's cost of borrowing. For loans made by other lenders and guaranteed by the Administration, the interest rate is negotiated betw een the lender and the borrower. The limit on farm operating loans made by the Administration is $200,000, and on guaranteed loans the limit is $400,000. Loans may be repaid over 1 to 7 years. FmHA also provides interest assistance by subsidizing the rate on guaranteed loans up to 4 percent, depending on borrower needs. Other reliable agricultural credit sources are encouraged to support as much of the essential needs of loan applicants as possible with the balance supplied from operating loan funds of th e agency. Operating loan borrowers are expected to refinance their operating loans and return to conventional credit when able to do so. Youth Project Loans The Administration makes loans to individual rural residents who are at least 10 but not more than 20 years old to establish and operate income-producing enterprises of modest size, either on the farm or in other locations. The interes t rate is determined by formula, periodically, based on the cost of Government borrowing. Repayment terms depend upon the type of project for which the loan is made. This program is designed to help 4-H Clubs, Future Farmers of America, and other youth gr oup members finance their agricultural or nonagricultural projects. Emergency Loans Emergency loans are made to eligible farmers, ranchers, and aquaculture operators for losses arising from natural disasters. In order to be eligible to apply for an emergency loan, farmers must carry multiperil crop insurance if it is avai lable. Only family-sized farms qualify for these loans. Each loan is scheduled for repayment as rapidly as feasible, in annual installments, consistent with the borrower's reasonable ability to pay. The schedule varies according to the purpose of the loan. The interest rate for emergency loans offsetting actual losses is 4.5 percent. Loans are limited to $500,000 or 80 percent of actual losses, less any insurance protection. Farm Ownership Loans These loans enable farmers and ranchers to buy farms and owners of inadequate or underimproved farms to enlarge or develop farms. Loans are limited to farms that are not larger than family-size farms. Loans may include funds to constr uct or repair farm homes and service buildings and facilities; improve land; develop water, forestry, and fish farming resources; establish nonfarm enterprises to supplement farm income; and refinance debts. Repayment is scheduled according to the borrower's ability to repay, but the maximum term is 40 years. The interest rate is set periodically, based on the cost of Government borrowing. The maximum for direct loans is $200,000 and for guaranteed loans is $300,000. The loan may not exceed the market value of the farm or other security. Loans to Limited-Resource Farmers The Administration makes loans to help low-income farmers and ranchers improve their farming and earn a better living. These loans are made at lower interest rates than ordinary farm loans and are intended to give the lim ited-resource farmer a chance to become more successful in farming. Limited-resource farmers are owners or tenants of small farms yielding low production and low income due to factors such as lack of land, equipment, or opportunity to get necessary financing, or limited education in farming or management. Loans to limited-resource farmers may be made for farm purchases or operating expenses. Loans for the purchase of farm real estate are made at lower interest rates. Production loans also are made at lower interest rates and evaluated every 2 yea rs. Repayment terms vary according to the purposes of the loan. While the needs of limited-resource farmers are usually well below its limits, the agency can make a real estate loan and a production loan of up to $200,000 under this program. Farm Ownershi p and Operating Loan Funds are targeted to members of socially disadvantaged groups. Beginning Farmer Loans Special assistance is available to beginning farmers and ranchers in the form of down payment farm ownership loans and special operating loans. To receive a down payment loan, an applicant must either be a first-time farm or ranch operator or not have operated one for more than 10 years, and meet certain other requirements. The applicant must provide 10 percent of the purchase price or appraised value, and FmHA will make a down payment loan for 30 percent of the purchase price or appraised value, which may not exceed $250,000. Under the special operating loan program, an applicant must either be a first-time farm or ranch operator or not have operated one for more than 5 years; present a 5-year plan of operation projecting repayment each year of the plan; and be capab le of obtaining credit elsewhere in 10 years. Soil and Water Conservation Loans Loans are made to owners or operators of farms and ranches, including farming partnerships and domestic corporations to assist them in developing, conserving, and making proper use of their land and other resources. Loans are repayable within 40 years and are limited to $50,000. The interest rate is set periodically, based on the cost of Government borrowing. Loans may be made by the Administration or by other lenders with an agency guarantee. Guaranteed loans bear an int erest rate negotiated by the lender and the borrower. Loans to Indian Tribes Loans to Indian tribes and tribal corporations are made for the acquisition of lands within the reservation. Loans are made for up to 40 years. The interest rate is set periodically, based on the cost of Government borrowing. Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Program Under the Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Program, FmHA guarantees loans made by commercial lenders to moderate-income rural residents. Eligible applicants have sufficient income and acceptable credit, but lack the down payment to secure a loan without FmHA's help. FmHA provides up to 100-percent financing for eligible borrowers and guarantees participating lenders against most losses. Direct Rural Housing Loans Section 502 loans are made to low-income families for housing in rural areas. Loans can be made to build, purchase, repair, and refinance homes. The maximum term can be 38 years, and the loan may be for 100 percent of the apprai sed value. The basic interest rate is determined periodically, based on the cost of money. Borrowers may qualify for annual subsidy on the loan, which can reduce the interest rate to as low as 1 percent. Cosigners on promissory notes may be permitted for applicants who are deficient in repayment ability. Builders may obtain from the Administration ``conditional commitments'' that are assurances to a builder or seller that if their houses meet agency lending requirements, then the agency may make loans to qualified applicants to buy the houses. An owner-occupant may obtain a section 504 loan of up to $15,000, or, in the case of senior citizens, a grant of up to $5,000 to remove hazards to the health and safety of the family. These loans, available to very low-income families, are made at 1-percent interest. Loans are made to private, nonprofit corporations, consumer cooperatives, State or local public agencies, and individuals or organizations operating on a profit or limited profit basis to provide rental or cooperative housing in rural areas for persons of low and moderate income. Maximum term is 50 years. Rental assistance may be available to help defray rent paid by low-income families. Loans repayable in 2 years are authorized to nonprofit organizations to purchase and develop land for resale as homesites for persons of low-to-moderate income. Loans and grants are also authorized for housing for farm laborers. Housing the Homeless FmHA offers single-family housing inventory property to nonprofit organizations or public bodies for transitional housing for the homeless. Qualifying organizations may lease nonprogram property if they can show a documented need in t he community for the type of housing use proposed and the financial ability to meet proposed housing costs. Nondiscrimination in employment and occupancy is required. For further information, contact the Information Staff, Farmers Home Administration, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-4323. Rural Development Administration The Rural Development Administration (RDA) promotes economic development in rural communities by financing needed facilities, assisting business development and rural cooperatives, and developing effective national strategies for rural economic development. The Rural Development Administration was authorized by title XXIII of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, as amended (7 U.S.C. 2006f et seq.), and was officially established within the Department of Agriculture by Secreta ry's Memorandum 1020-34 dated December 31, 1991. The Rural Development Administration operates its loan and grant programs principally under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921 et seq.). The Administration provides financial assistance through the following types of loans and grants: Business and Industry Loans The Administration is authorized to make or guarantee loans to public, private, or cooperative associations organized for profit or nonprofit; to certain Indian tribes or tribal groups; or to individuals for the purpose of impr oving, developing, or financing business, industry, and employment and improving the economic and environmental climate in rural communities. The purpose is to develop business enterprises in rural areas and cities with populations of less than 50,000, with priority to applications for projects in open country and rural communities and towns with populations of 25,000 and smaller. Private lenders initiate, process, close, service, and supervise guaranteed loans; the Rural Development Administration guarantees a lender against loss up to 90 percent of principal and interest. Interest rates are determined between borrower and lender. Intermediary Relending Program Loans Loans are made to nonprofit corporations, public agencies, Indian tribes, or cooperatives to establish revolving loan funds from which the borrower, in turn, makes loans to finance businesses or community development p rojects. Entities that receive loans from RDA are referred to as ``intermediaries'' and entities that receive loans from intermediaries are referred to as ``ultimate recipients.'' Loans to intermediaries may be up to $2,000,000, to be repaid over a 30 yea r period at 1-percent interest. Loans to ultimate recipients must not exceed $150,000. The term and interest rate to ultimate recipients are set by the intermediary. Ultimate recipients must not be located in a city with a population of 25,000 or more. Community Program Loans Direct and guaranteed loans are authorized to public and quasi-public bodies, nonprofit associations, and certain Indian tribes for water and waste disposal systems and essential community facilities, such as fire and rescue and he alth care. Necessary related equipment may also be purchased. The interest rate is set quarterly for direct loans and is based on yields of municipal bonds. Guaranteed loans bear an interest rate negotiated by the lender and the borrower. The Rural Development Administration guarantees a lender against los ses up to 90 percent of principal and interest. Water and waste disposal projects may serve residents of open country and rural towns with populations of not more than 10,000. Community facility loans may be made in towns populated up to 20,000. Grants may be made for up to 75 percent of the cost for water and waste disposal projects when necessary to bring user costs to a reasonable level. Industrial Development Grants Grants are available to finance and facilitate development of small and emerging private business enterprises in rural areas or cities populated up to 50,000, with priority to applications for projects in open country, rural communities and towns of 25,000 and smaller, and economically distressed communities. Industrial Development Grants include grants made to third-party lenders to establish revolving loan programs. Eligibility is limited to public bodies and private, nonprofit corporations. Public bodies include incorporated towns and villages, boroughs, townships, counties, States, authorities, districts, and Indian tribal groups in rural areas. Funds may be used to finance and develop small and emerging private business enterprises. Costs that may be paid from grant funds include the acquisition and development of land and the construction of buildings, plants, equipment, access street s and roads, parking areas, utility and service extensions, refinancing, fees, technical assistance, startup operating costs, and working capital. Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants Grants may be made for 100 percent of project costs to assist rural communities experiencing a significant decline in quantity or quality of drinking water. Grants can be made to rural cities or towns with popul ations not exceeding the State's nonmetropolitan median household income requirement. The maximum grant is $500,000 when the significant decline in quantity or quality of water occurred within 2 years, or $75,000, to make emergency repairs and replacement of facilities on existing systems. Technical Assistance and Training Grants Grants are available for nonprofit organizations to provide rural water and waste system officials with technical assistance and training on a wide range of issues relating to the delivery of water and waste servic e to rural residents. Legislation requires that at least 1 percent and not more than 2 percent of the funds appropriated for water and waste disposal grants be set aside for these grants. Solid Waste Management Grants Grants are available for nonprofit organizations and public bodies to provide technical assistance and training to rural areas and towns populated up to 10,000 to reduce or eliminate pollution of water resources and improve p lanning and management of solid waste facilities. Rural Water Circuit Rider Technical Assistance Program Since 1980, the National Rural Water Association (NRWA) has provided, by contract, technical assistance to rural water systems. Circuit riders assist rural water systems with day-to-day operational, f inancial, and management problems. Currently there are 52 circuit riders that cover the 48 continental United States. The assistance may be requested by rural water systems or by RDA. When circuit riders are not working on specific requests, they call on rural water systems to offer assistance. The Association reports monthly to the RDA national office. The program complements RDA's loan ``supervision'' responsibilities. Rural Development Strategy Assistance RDA provides assistance to rural communities in developing effective, long-term strategies for community and economic development. RDA's staff works on a national and regional basis to develop and implement creative s trategies that involve partnerships between RDA and other agencies, both public and private, to enhance the economic competitiveness of rural communities. This assures that RDA and other public programs work closely in creating sustainable development ove r the long term. In addition to its other programs, RDA provides administrative services to the State Rural Development Councils (SRDC's). This service is a secretarial support function only. RDA regional office personnel represent RDA on the SRDC's in the same manner as other SRDC members represent their departments or agencies. The SRDC's operate under the authority of 7 U.S.C. 2204b. The goals are to improve rural development program coordination among Federal agencies; to undertake active partnerships with States, localities, and the private sector; and to improve th e effectiveness of Federal rural development efforts by adopting a strategic and comprehensive approach to rural development. SRDC's review rural development needs and available resources and develop a strategic plan to execute their goals. The Executive Director, who serves at the pleasure of SRDC leadership, supports the membership in implementing the SRDC strategic State plan. Typical implementation efforts involve the resolution of intergovernmental and intragovernmental barriers for effective rural programs. Issues identified by the SRDC's which cannot be solved at the State level are advanced to the national lev el for consideration. Federal members from 11 executive departments, 5 independent agencies, and 2 White House bodies are represented on the national and State levels. At the State level, SRDC members include representatives from Federal, State, local, and tribal gov ernments, along with the private sector -- both profit and nonprofit. Cooperative Services Under provisions of Public Law 103-211, Agricultural Cooperative Service programs were united with the Rural Development Administration. The new Cooperative Services Program helps farmers and rural communities to become self-reliant t hrough the use of cooperative organizations. Studies are conducted to support cooperatives that market farm products, purchase production supplies, and perform related business services. These studies concentrate on the financial, organizational, legal, s ocial, and economic aspects of cooperative activity. Technical assistance and research is provided to improve cooperative performance in organizing new cooperatives, merging existing cooperatives, changing the business structure, and developing strategies for growth. Applied research is conducted to give farmers and rural communities expert assistance pertaining to their cooperatives. Cooperative Services also collects and publishes statistics regarding the role and scope of cooperative activity in U.S. agriculture. Its monthly magazine, Farmer Cooperatives, reports current developments and research for cooperative management and leadership. For further information, contact the Rural Development Administration, Room 5405-S, Department of Agriculture, Fourteenth Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0320. Phone, 202-690-2394. Rural Electrification Administration [For the Rural Electrification Administration statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 1700] The Rural Electrification Administration (REA) is a credit agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that assists rural electric and telephone utilities in obtaining financing. The assistance includes direct and Federal Financing Bank (FFB) f unded loans and shared security arrangements that permit REA's borrowers to obtain financing from other lenders without a guarantee. A total of 1,098 rural electric and 1,029 rural telephone utilities in 47 States, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia have received REA loans, loan guarantees, or other assistance to construct, expand, and improve rural electric and telephone systems. REA was established by Executive Order 7037 of May 11, 1935, as part of a general program of unemployment relief. It was given statutory authority by the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (7 U.S.C. 901-950b). Its Administrator is app ointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Electric Program The Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (7 U.S.C. 901-950b), authorized REA as a lending agency with responsibility for developing a program to provide and improve electric service to persons in rural areas, as defined by the Bu reau of the Census. The act requires that preference be given to nonprofit and cooperative associations and to public bodies. With REA's assistance, rural electric utilities have obtained financing to construct electric generating plants and transmission and distri bution lines to provide initial and continued reliable electric service. Telephone Program In 1949, REA was authorized to make loans to provide telephone service in rural areas. Congress directed that the rural telephone program be conducted to ``assure the availability of adequate telephone service to the widest practicable n umber of rural users of such service.'' About 75 percent of the telephone systems financed by the agency are commercial companies, and about 25 percent are subscriber-owned cooperatives. Loans Loans are made in accordance with the act and are subject to the provisions of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1991. By law, REA direct loans are made or insured at a municipal rate, but not greater than 7 percent. In cases of hardship, the Adminis trator may approve loans at an interest rate of 5 percent. REA also obtains funds from the Federal Financing Bank, which it lends to borrowers, mostly for large-scale electric and telephone facilities at an interest rate equal to the cost of money paid by FFB, plus one-eighth of 1 percent. FFB is locate d within the Department of the Treasury. Supplemental Financing A 1973 statement of congressional policy -- not part of the law -- said, in part, ``...that rural electric and telephone systems should be encouraged and assisted in developing their resources and ability to achieve the financial st rength needed to enable them to satisfy their credit needs from their own financial organizations and other sources at reasonable rates and terms consistent with the loan applicant's ability to pay and achievement of the act's objectives.'' When REA approves electric loans, it requires most borrowers to obtain 30 percent of their loan needs from nonagency sources without an agency guarantee. These nonagency sources include the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporatio n, which is owned by electric cooperatives and the National Bank for Cooperatives. Telephone borrowers obtain supplemental financing from the Rural Telephone Bank (RTB), an agency of the United States that was established in 1971. Loans are made to telephone systems able to meet RTB's requirements. Bank loans are made for the same purposes as loans made by REA but bear interest at a rate consistent with the Bank's cost of money. Effective in fiscal year 1988, the budget act changed the method of determining Bank interest rates. The Rural Telephone Bank is managed by a 13-member board of directors. The Administrator serves as Governor of the Bank until conversion to private ownership, control, and operation. This will take place when 51 percent of the Class A stock issu ed to the United States and outstanding at any time after September 30, 1995, has been fully redeemed and retired. The Bank board holds at least four regularly scheduled meetings a year. Activities of RTB are carried out by REA employees and the Office of the General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Rural Development Effective in fiscal year 1988, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act established a rural development program to provide interest-free loans and grants to electric and telephone borrowers to promote rural economic development and job cre ation projects. The program has financed such projects as business incubators, startups and expansions, community development, studies, and a variety of initiatives at the local level. The Rural Economic Development Act of 1990 established other programs to promote economic and community development, including a Distance Learning and Medical Link Grant Program, and gave borrowers authority to defer REA loan payments to make in vestments in rural development. Borrowers previously had been given authority to invest their own funds in rural development projects. For further information, contact the Legislative and Public Affairs Staff, Rural Electrification Administration, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-1255. Marketing and Inspection Services Agricultural Marketing Service The Agricultural Marketing Service was established by the Secretary of Agriculture on April 2, 1972, under the authority of Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.) and other authorities. The Service administers standardization, grading , inspection, certification, market news, marketing orders, and research, promotion, and regulatory programs. Market News The Service provides current, unbiased information to producers, processors, distributors, and others to assist them in the orderly marketing and distribution of farm commodities. Information is collected on supplies, demand, prices, movement, location, quality, condition, and other market data on farm products in specific markets and marketing areas. The data is disseminated nationally via a modern satellite system and is shared with several countries. The Service also assists countries in de veloping their own marketing information systems. Standardization, Grading, and Classing Grade standards have been established for nearly 240 agricultural commodities to help buyers and sellers trade on agreed-upon quality levels. Standards are developed with the benefit of views from those in the indust ries directly affected and others interested. The Service also participates in developing international standards to facilitate trade. Grading and classing services are provided to certify the grade and quality of products. These grading services are provided to buyers and sellers of live cattle, swine, sheep, meat, poultry, eggs, rabbits, fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, peanuts , dairy products, and tobacco. Classing services are provided to buyers and sellers of cotton and cotton products. These services are mainly voluntary and are provided upon request and for a fee. The Service also is responsible for the certification of tu rpentine and other naval stores products, and the testing of seed. Laboratory Testing The Service provides scientific and laboratory support to its commodity programs relating to testing of microbiological and chemical factors in food products through grading, certification, acceptance, and regulatory programs; processin g and finishing tests for cotton fiber and yarn; testing of peanuts for aflatoxin, and testing of imported flue-cured and burley tobacco for pesticide residues, and testing seeds for germination and purity. The agency also carries out quality assurance an d safety oversight activities with respect to the Service's commodity division laboratory and testing activities relating to milk market administrators, resident grading programs, and State and private laboratory programs. The Service also administers the Pesticide Data Program which, in cooperation with States, samples and analyzes fresh fruits and vegetables for pesticide residues. It shares residue test results with the Environmental Protection Agency and other public agencies. Food Quality Assurance Under a Governmentwide quality assurance program, AMS is responsible for the development and revision of specifications used by Federal agencies in procuring food for military and civilian uses. The Service coordinates and approves certification programs designed to ensure that purchased products conform to the specification requirements. Section 32 Programs Under section 32 of the act of August 24, 1935, as amended (7 U.S.C. 612c), 30 percent of customs receipts collected during each calendar year are automatically appropriated for expanding outlets for various commodities. Portions of th ese funds are transferred to the Food and Nutrition Service of USDA and to the Department of Commerce. Remaining funds are used to purchase commodities for the National School Lunch Program and other feeding programs, for diversion to other outlets, and f or administering agreement and order programs. Regulatory Programs The Service administers several regulatory programs designed collectively to protect producers, handlers, and consumers of agricultural commodities from financial loss or personal injury resulting from careless, deceptive, or fraudulen t marketing practices. Such regulatory programs encourage fair trading practices in the marketing of fruits and vegetables, require truth in seed labeling and in advertising. Under the Egg Products Inspection Act (21 U.S.C. 1031-1056), the Service provides mandatory inspection for wholesomeness in all plants processing liquid, dried, or frozen egg products, and controls the disposition of restricted shell eggs -- egg s that are a potential health hazard. Marketing Agreements and Orders These programs, under authority of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937 (7 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), help to establish and maintain orderly marketing conditions for certain commodities. Milk marketing orders establis h minimum prices that handlers or distributors are required to pay producers. Programs for fruits, vegetables, and related specialty crops like nuts and spearmint oil help stabilize supplies and market prices. In some cases, they also authorize research a nd market development activities, including advertising supported by assessments that handlers pay. Through orderly marketing, adjusting the supply to demand, and avoiding unreasonable fluctuations during the marketing season, the income of producers is i ncreased by normal market forces, and consumer interests are protected through quality and quantity control. Federal marketing orders originate with a request from a producer group to the Secretary of Agriculture. The Secretary can conduct hearings and referenda based on the producer group's proposal for a marketing order. Producer and handler assessments finance their operations. In carrying out the Government role, the Service ensures that persons interested in the development and operation of the programs have a fair hearing and that each marketing order works according to Federal law and established rules and guidelines. Plant Variety Protection Program Under authority of the Plant Variety Protection Act (7 U.S.C. 2321 et seq.), the Service administers a program that provides for the issuance of ``certificates of plant variety protection.'' These certificates afford devel opers of novel varieties of sexually reproduced plants exclusive rights to sell, reproduce, import, or export such varieties, or use them in the production of hybrids or different varieties for a period of 18 years. Research and Promotion Programs The Service monitors certain industry-sponsored research, promotion, and information programs authorized by Federal laws. These programs provide farmers with a means to finance and operate various research, promotion, and i nformation activities for cotton, potatoes, eggs, milk and dairy products, beef, pork, wool, mohair, honey, watermelon, limes, mushrooms, soybeans, and fresh cut flowers. Transportation Programs The Service is also responsible for the development of an efficient transportation system for rural America that begins at the farm gate, moves agricultural and other rural products through the Nation's highways, railroads, airport s, and waterways, and into the domestic and international marketplace. To accomplish this, AMS conducts economic studies and analyses of these systems, and represents agricultural and rural transportation interests in policy and regulatory forums. To prov ide direct assistance to the transportation community, AMS supplies research and technical information to producers, producer groups, shippers, exporters, rural communities, carriers, governmental agencies, and universities. The Service carries out responsibilities of USDA's former Office of Transportation under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 1281), the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1621), the Agricultural Trade Development and Assi stance Act of 1954 (7 U.S.C. 1691), the Rural Development Act of 1972 (7 U.S.C. 1921 note), the International Carriage of Perishable Foodstuffs Act (7 U.S.C. 4401), and the Cooperative Marketing Act of 1926 (7 U.S.C. 451-457). Organic Standards Under the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 501-522), the Service assists a National Organic Standards Board in developing national organic standards. Other Programs Other marketing service activities include financial grants to States for marketing improvement projects. The agency also has responsibility for the conduct of studies of the facilities and methods used in the physical distribution of food and other farm products; for research designed to improve the handling of all agricultural products as they move from farm to consumers; and for increasing marketing efficiency by developing improved operating methods, facilities, and equipment for proces sing, handling, and distributing dairy, poultry, and meat products. The Agricultural Marketing Service manages the Pesticide Recordkeeping Program in coordination with the National Agricultural Statistics Service and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Service has developed educational programs and assists State agencies in inspecting applicator records. Field Organization Programs and activities in the field are carried out through a variety of different types of organizations reporting to their respective Washington components. For further information, contact the Information Staff, Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-8999. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service [For the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 371] The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service was reestablished by the Secretary of Agriculture on March 14, 1977, pursuant to authority contained in 5 U.S.C. 301 and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.). The Service was established to conduct regulatory and control programs to protect and improve animal and plant health for the benefit of man and the environment. In cooperation with State governments, the agency administers Federal laws and regu lations pertaining to animal and plant health and quarantine, humane treatment of animals, and the control and eradication of pests and diseases. Regulations to prevent the introduction or interstate spread of certain animal or plant pests or diseases are also enforced by the Service. It also carries out research and operational activities to reduce crop and livestock depredations caused by birds, rodents, and predators. Plant Protection and Quarantine Programs Plant protection officials are responsible for programs to control or eradicate plant pests and diseases. These programs are carried out in cooperation with the States involved, other Federal agencies, farmers, and private organizations. Pest control programs use a single tool or a combination of pest control techniques, both chemical and nonchemical, which are both effective and safe. Agricultural quarantine inspection officials administer Federal regulations that prohibit or restrict the entry of foreign pests and plants, plant products, animal products and byproducts, and other materials that may harbor pests or diseases. I nspection service is maintained at all major ocean, air, border, and interior ports of entry in the continental United States and in Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and Bermuda. Services also are provided on a regular or on-call basis at some 500 outlying ports and military installations throughout the country. Other responsibilities include the inspection and certification of domestic commodities for export, regulation of the import and export of endangered plant species, and ensuring that imported seed is free of noxious weeds. Veterinary Services Animal health officials are responsible for determining the existence and extent of outbreaks of communicable diseases and pests affecting livestock and poultry. They organize and conduct control eradication and certification programs in cooperation with industry and State officials. Service officials assess risk relating to animal diseases and preharvest food safety. They maintain food inspection and quarantine service at designated ports of entry for imported animals and birds and are responsible for the health certificati on of livestock and poultry exported to other countries. Regulatory Enforcement and Animal Care The Service administers Federal laws concerned with the humane care and handling of all warm-blooded animals bought, sold, and transported -- including common carriers -- in commerce and used or intended for use as p ets at the wholesale level, or used or intended for use in exhibitions or for research purposes. The agency also enforces the Horse Protection Act of 1970 (15 U.S.C. 1821 note), which prohibits the soring of horses at shows and sales. International Services Service officials represent the APHIS agenda in the international arena. This includes conduct of cooperative plant and animal pest and disease control, eradication, and surveillance programs in foreign countries. These programs pro vide a first line of defense for the United States against threats such as screwworm, medfly, foot-and-mouth disease, and other exotic diseases and pests. Service officials provide international representation concerning sanitary and phytosanitary technic al trade issues, and manage programs for overseas preclearance of commodities, passengers, and U.S. military activities. Biotechnology, Biologics, and Environmental Protection Service officials are responsible for the regulation of genetically engineered organisms and products that present a plant pest risk. Regulation is carried out through a permit system. The Service als o administers a Federal law intended to ensure that all veterinary biological products, whether developed by conventional or new biotechnological procedures, used in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of animal disease are safe, pure, potent, and ef fective. This responsibility is met by regulating firms that manufacture veterinary biological products subject to the act. This includes licensing the manufacturing establishment and its products; inspecting production facilities and production methods; and testing products under a surveillance program. Animal Damage Control Animal damage control officials cooperate with States, counties, local communities, and agricultural producer groups to reduce crop and livestock depredations caused by birds, rodents, and predators. The officials conduct research in to predator-prey relationships, new control methods, and more efficient and safe uses of present methods such as toxicants, repellants and attractants, biological controls, scare devices, and habitat alteration. Using methods and techniques that are biolo gically sound, environmentally acceptable, and economically feasible, they participate in efforts to educate and advise farmers and ranchers on proper uses of control methods and techniques; they suppress serious nuisances and threats to public health and safety caused by birds, rodents, and other wildlife in urban and rural communities; and they work with airport managers to reduce risks of bird strikes. For further information, contact Legislative and Public Affairs, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-2511. Federal Grain Inspection Service The Federal Grain Inspection Service was established in the U.S. Department of Agriculture on November 20, 1976. The primary task of the Service is to carry out the provisions of the United States Grain Standards Act (7 U.S.C. 71 et seq.) and to ensure integrity in the inspection, weighing, and handling of U.S. grain. An Administrator, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, heads the agency. The Service is responsible for establishing official U.S. standards for grain and other assigned commodities, and for administrating a nationwide official inspection and weighing system. The Service may, in response to formal application, author ize private and State agencies to perform official services under the authority contained in the act. Three of the Service's four divisions are located in Washington, DC; the fourth is located in Kansas City, MO. Most employees work in field offices around the Nation. Inspection The United States Grain Standards Act requires, with some exceptions, all U.S. export grain be officially inspected. At export port locations, inspection is performed by the Service or by State agencies that have been delegated export inspectio n authority by the Administrator. For domestic grain, marketed at inland locations, the Administrator designates private and State agencies to provide official inspection services upon request. Both export and domestic services are provided on a fee basis. To ensure that the official U.S. grain standards are applied uniformly nationwide, Service field offices provide oversight, guidance, and assistance to non-Federal agencies performing inspection activities, both at export and inland inspection points. Buyers and sellers may request appeal inspections of original inspection results, first from a field office and then, if desired, from the Service's Board of Appeals and Review. The Service maintains a quality control program to monitor the nati onal inspection system and to ensure that all field locations accurately and uniformly apply the U.S. grain standards. Weighing Official weighing of U.S. export grain is performed at port locations by the Service or by State agencies that have been delegated export weighing authority by the Administrator. For domestic grain marketed at inland locations, the weighing servi ces may be provided by the Service or by designated private or State agencies. Weighing services are provided on a fee basis, upon request. As with inspection activities, Service field offices provide oversight, guidance, and assistance to non-Federal agencies performing official weighing services. With the support of the Association of American Railroads and user fees, the Service conducts a railroad track scale-testing program which includes an annual testing service for all State and railroad company-owned master scales. The Service is the only entity, public or private, which connects all railroad track scales to the national st andards. Standardization The Service is responsible for establishing, maintaining, and, as needed, revising official U.S. standards. Such standards exist for corn, wheat, rye, oats, barley, flaxseed, sorghum, soybeans, triticale, sunflower seed, canola, and mixed grain. The Service is authorized to perform applied research to develop methods of improving accuracy and uniformity in grading grain. The Service is also responsible for standardization and inspection activities for rice, dry beans, peas, lentils, hay, straw, hops, and related processed grain commodities under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1621). Although standards no longer exist for hay, straw, and hops, the Service maintains inspection procedures for and retains authority to inspect these commodities. Compliance The Service's compliance activities ensure accurate and uniform implementation of the act, applicable provisions of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, and related regulations -- including designating States and private agencies to carry ou t official inspection and weighing functions and monitoring, and overseeing and reviewing the operations of such agencies to ensure adequate performance. The Service administers a registration program for all firms that export grain from the United States. In conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General, the Service carries out a program for investigating reported violations, and initiate s followup and corrective actions when appropriate. The total compliance program ensures the integrity of the national inspection and weighing system. For further information, contact the Federal Grain Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-0219. Food Safety and Inspection Service The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) was established by the Secretary of Agriculture on June 17, 1981, pursuant to authority contained in 5 U.S.C. 301 and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.). The Service is responsible for regulating the meat and poultry industry to ensure that meat and poultry products moving in interstate and foreign commerce are safe, wholesome, and accurately labeled. Meat and Poultry Inspection Federal inspection is mandatory for the following animals and birds used for human food: cattle, calves, swine, goats, sheep and lambs, horses and other equines, chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and guineas. The work includes i nspection of each animal or bird at slaughter, and inspection of processed products during various stages of production. The Service tests product samples for microbial or chemical contaminants to monitor trends or for enforcement purposes. Facilities and equipment are approved by FSIS before inspection is granted, and each product label must be approved by the agency before products can be sold. It monitors products in storage, distribution, and retail channels; and takes necessary compliance actions to protect the public, including detention of products, voluntary product recalls, court-ordered seizures of products, administrative withdrawal of inspection, and referral for criminal prosecution. The Service also conducts State programs for the inspection of meat and poultry products sold only within the State in which produced, by authority of sections 450 through 470 and sections 601 through 691 of title 21, United States Code. The Service monitors livestock upon arrival at federally inspected facilities to ensure compliance with the Humane Slaughter Act (7 U.S.C. 1901-1906); conducts voluntary reimbursed inspection for rabbits and other domestic food animals not cover ed by the inspection law (7 U.S.C. 1622); and ensures that inedible products from meat or poultry, such as offal rendered for animal feed, are properly identified and isolated from edible products (7 U.S.C. 1624). The Service conducts a toll-free Meat and Poultry Hotline (800-535-4555) to answer questions about labeling and safe handling of meat and poultry products. The hotline is also accessible by TDD. For further information, contact the Director of Information and Legislative Affairs, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-7943. Packers and Stockyards Administration [For the Packers and Stockyards Administration statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 9, Part 204] The Packers and Stockyards Administration administers the provisions of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921, as amended (7 U.S.C. 181-229), the Truth in Lending and Fair Credit Billing Acts (15 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), and the Equal Credit Oppor tunity Act (15 U.S.C. 1691 et seq.) with respect to firms subject to the Packers and Stockyards Act. The Administration also administers the provisions of section 1324 of the Food Security Act of 1985 (7 U.S.C. 1631), certifying State central filing syste ms for notification of liens against farm products. The Packers and Stockyards Act is an antitrust, trade practice, and financial protection law. Its principal purpose is to maintain effective competition and fair trade practices in the marketing of livestock, meat, and poultry for the protection of livestock and poultry producers. Members of the livestock, poultry, and meat industries are also protected against unfair or monopolistic practices of competitors. The act also protects consumers against unfair business practices in the marketing of m eats and poultry and against restrictions of competition that could unduly affect meat and poultry prices. The provisions of the Packers and Stockyards Act are enforced by investigations of violations of the act with emphasis on payment protection; detecting instances of commercial bribery, fraud in livestock marketing, and false weighing; requiring adequate bond coverage for commission firms, dealers, and packers; and the surveillance of marketing methods at public markets and in geographical market areas of the country. For further information, contact the Office of the Administrator, Packers and Stockyards Administration, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-7051. Food and Consumer Services Food and Nutrition Service [For the Food and Nutrition Service statement of organization, see the Federal Register of June 6, 1970, 35 FR 8835] The Food and Nutrition Service is the agency of the Department that administers the programs to make food assistance available to people who need it. These programs are operated in cooperation with States and local governments. The Service was established on August 8, 1969, by the Secretary of Agriculture, under authority of 5 U.S.C. 301 and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.). Food Stamps The Food Stamp Program provides food coupons through State and local welfare agencies to needy persons to increase their food purchasing power. The coupons are used by program participants to buy food in any retail store that has been approved by FNS to accept and redeem the food coupons. Special Nutrition Programs The Service administers several programs designed to improve the nutrition of children, particularly those from low-income families. Principal among these is the National School Lunch Program, which provides financial assistance to public and nonprofit private schools of high school grade and under, in operating nonprofit school lunch programs. The School Breakfast Program provides cash assistance to State educational agencies to help schools in operating nonprofit breakfast programs meeting established nutritional standards. It is especially important in improving the diets of needy c hildren who may receive breakfast free or at reduced prices. The Summer Food Service Program for Children helps various organizations get nutritious meals to needy preschool and school-aged children during the summer months or during vacations in areas operating under a continuous school calendar. The Child and Adult Care Food Program is a companion activity that helps to get nutritious meals to preschool and school-aged children in child care facilities and to functionally impaired adults in facilities that provide nonresidential care fo r such individuals. The Special Milk Program for Children, which is administered in schools, institutions, and split-session kindergartens that do not participate in any other Federal food program, is designed to help child nutrition by paying a share of the cost o f increased servings of fluid milk made to children. Food Distribution The Food Distribution Program makes foods available to eligible recipients. Foods purchased by the Department are made available principally to children in school lunch and breakfast programs, in summer camps and child care centers, and to the nutrition program for the elderly. Also, commodities are distributed to needy families through food banks, charitable institutions, and local government agencies. The program on Indian reservations provides Indians on or near reservations with access to a wide range of donated foods, including meat, fruit, vegetables, and dairy and grain products. Supplemental Food Programs The Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children -- the WIC Program -- provides specified nutritious food supplements, nutrition education, and health care referrals to pregnant women, breastfeeding women up to 12 months post partum, non-breastfeeding women up to 6 months post partum, and children up to 5 years of age. Participants are determined by competent professionals (physicians, nutritionists, nurses, and other health officials) to be at nutritional r isk because of nutritionally related medical conditions or inadequate nutrition. Cash grants are made available to participating State health departments or comparable State agencies, or recognized Indian tribes, bands, or groups. The State agencies distribute funds to the local agencies, and the funds are used to provide fo ods for WIC recipients and to pay specified administrative and clinical costs. Commodity Supplemental Food Program This program provides supplemental foods and nutrition education to low-income infants and children; pregnant, post partum, and breastfeeding women; and elderly persons who are vulnerable to malnutrition and reside in a pproved project areas. The Department purchases foods for distribution through State agencies. Nutrition Education and Training Under this program funds are granted to the States for the development and dissemination of nutrition information and materials to children and for in-service training of food service and teaching personnel. No person may be discriminated against -- in the operation of any of the programs administered by the Food and Nutrition Service -- because of race, color, sex, creed, national origin, or handicap. For further information, contact the Public Information Officer, Food and Nutrition Service, Department of Agriculture, Alexandria, VA 22302. Phone, 703-305-2276. Office of the Consumer Advisor The Office of the Consumer Advisor serves as the focal point for coordinating USDA actions on problems and issues of importance to consumers. The Office: -- consults and advises USDA policymakers on issues and questions of importance to consumers; -- represents the Department in policy discussions related to consumer-oriented issues before Congress, in meetings with other departments and agencies, and in various public forums; -- monitors the policies, practices, and procedures of USDA programs in the area of consumer affairs; -- assists in informing consumers of USDA's functions, policies, and procedures so that consumers may know where services are to be found, what regulations consist of, and how to participate in these activities; and -- works with other USDA agencies to ensure consumer complaints are handled appropriately. For further information, contact the Office of the Consumer Advisor, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-3975. International Affairs and Commodity Programs Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service The Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) was established June 5, 1961, by the Secretary of Agriculture under authority of revised statutes (5 U.S.C. 301), and Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 (5 U.S.C. app.), as well as al l other statutes and prior reorganization plans vesting authority in the Secretary of Agriculture. ASCS administers commodity and related land use programs designed for voluntary production adjustment, resource protection, and price, market, and farm income stabilization. In each State, operations are supervised by a State committee of three or five members appointed by the Secretary. A State Executive Director, appointed by the Secretary, and staff carry on day-to-day operations of the State office. The State Di rector of the Agricultural Extension Service is an ex officio member of the State committee. In each of approximately 3,053 agricultural counties, a county committee of three farmer members is responsible for local administration. While two are held over, one is elected yearly, either directly by farmers or by farmer-elected delegates, to a county convention. The county agricultural Extension agent is a nonvoting ex officio member or secretary of the county committee. A county executive director, with other necessary staff, is employed to carry on day-to-day operations of the county off ice. Commodity Programs ASCS administers the Commodity Credit Corporation's commodity stabilization programs for wheat, corn, cotton (upland and extra long staple), seed cotton, soybeans and minor oilseeds, peanuts, rice, tobacco, milk, wool, mohair, barley, o ats, sugarbeets, sugarcane, grain sorghum, rye, and honey. Commodity stabilization is achieved through commodity loans, purchases, and payments to eligible producers. For most commodities, loans and payments are made directly to producers on the unprocessed commodity through ASCS' county offices. Some commodities are also purchased from producers. Price support loans, payments, and purchases also can be made available through cooperative marketing associations. The price of milk is stabilized through purchases of processed dairy products: butter, American-type cheese, and nonfat dry milk. Price stabilization programs for tobacco and peanuts are carried out th rough loans to producer associations that, in turn, make program benefits available to producers. Tobacco producers must contribute to a fund to assure that the tobacco program operates at no net cost to taxpayers, other than administrative costs. For bur ley and flue-cured tobaccos, purchasers contribute equally with producers. These contributions are in addition to budget deficit assessments also being paid by producers and purchasers. Stabilization of sugarbeet and sugarcane prices is carried out throug h loans to sugar processors, who in turn make program benefits available to producers. Loans to producers can either be ``recourse'' -- allowing producers to repay their loans at principal plus interest -- or ``nonrecourse''. Nonrecourse loans enable the producer to forfeit or deliver the commodity to the Commodity Credit Corpora tion with settlement based on the quantity and quality of goods delivered if the market price falls below the loan rate. Loan deficiency payments are available to producers who agree to forgo a nonrecourse loan. The loan rate, as determined by the Commodity Credit Corporation, is higher than the market rate. Commodity stabilization for wool and mohair is accomplished through the National Wool Act of 1954 (7 U.S.C. 1781 note) by making payments to producers to bring the national average price received by all producers up to a support level required b y the act. Eligibility for commodity loans, purchases, and payments is, in most cases, conditional upon participation in acreage reduction, paid-land diversion, payment-in-kind, allotment, or quota programs in effect for the particular crop. Under the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, payments are limited to an annual ceiling of $125,000 per person on the total payments of upland cotton, extra long staple cotton, wheat, rice, and feed grain programs for the 199 1 through 1995 crops. The act greatly expanded flexibility for participating farmers to shift program crop plantings, as well as options for oilseeds and industrial and experimental crops. The acreage reduction program requirements for the 1994 crop year are 15 perce nt for extra-long staple cotton; 11 percent for upland cotton; and no reduction for corn, grain, sorghum, rice, barley, oats, and wheat. Emergency Assistance Such programs offered to farmers in emergency-designated areas may include any or all of the following: -- furnishing cost-sharing assistance for feed purchases, purchasing fuel to burn spines off prickly pear cactus, or making available Corporation-owned feed grains at reduced prices to eligible producers who have suffered a substancial loss of their normal livestock feed production due to a natural disaster, and in some instances, donations of feed grains; -- cost-sharing with farmers who carry out emergency conservation practices to rehabilitate farmland damaged by natural disaster; and -- allowing haying and grazing on acreage diverted to conserving uses under the commodity programs or long-term land retirement program on a county-by-county basis, as needed, in the event of a natural disaster. Grain Reserve Program The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 reauthorized the Grain Reserve Program for farmer-owned wheat, corn, grain sorghum, oats, and barley. When entry into the Reserve is authorized by the Secretary of Agricultur e, producers may enter into a contract extending their 9-month loan for an additional 27 months and receive quarterly storage payments. Loans may be repaid at any time. Interest may be charged when prices exceed 105 percent of the target; however, storage payments cease when prices exceed 95 percent of the target price. Dairy Refund Payment Program The Dairy Refund Payment Program provides producers refunds of the reductions in the price received for milk during a calendar year. Reductions in price are required by law for all milk produced in the United States and market ed commercially in calendar years 1991 to 1995. Indemnity Program The Dairy Indemnity Payment Program provides indemnity payments to dairy farmers whose milk has been removed from the commercial market because it contained residues of chemicals or toxic substances, including nuclear radiation or fallout. National Security ASCS is responsible for national security emergency preparedness plans and programs relating to food production, conservation, and stabilization; food processing, storage, and wholesale distribution; livestock and poultry feed, seed, and the domestic distribution of fertilizer; and farm equipment and repair parts. ASCS also provides services relating to expansion of productive capacity, materials, and facilities under the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (50 U.S.C. 2061); plans for management, control, and allocation of water to be used for agri cultural production and food processing; consolidates all claims for material, labor, equipment, supplies, and services needed to support the national security emergency responsibilities of USDA; and guarantees payments or makes loans, as needed, for the continuation of food and agriculture activities in a national security emergency. Financial management and budget support, and financial risk assessments and analyses are provided by ASCS for the General Sales Manager of the Foreign Agricultural Service in administering Commodity Credit Corporation export credit sales and gua rantee programs and Food for Peace programs. To carry out the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 3501), the Department assigned ASCS the primary responsibility of collecting information through a reporting system involving all States and most counties. The age ncy assesses penalties on late filed information and refusals to file. The Administrator rules on appeals resulting from penalties assessed for violations of the act. Resource Conservation Programs Under the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, new incentives for preserving and protecting agricultural resources have been implemented. The major component of a new Environmental Conservation Acreage Reserve Program (ECARP) is the revised Conservation Reserve Program which puts greater emphasis on preserving and upgrading water quality, identifying environmentally sensitive area s for special conservation treatment, and planting trees. Also included under ECARP is a new Wetlands Reserve Program which features easements to implement approved plans for wetland restoration and protection of farms. The Agricultural Water Quality Protection Program is a voluntary program with a goal of enrolling 10 million acres of farmland under agricultural water protection plans by the end of 1995. The Integrated Farm Management Program Option is a voluntary program to encourage participants to plant resource conserving crops on commodity base acres. Producers who plant agricultural commodities on highly erodible land without an approved conservation plan or system, or wetland converted after December 23, 1985, will be considered ineligible for USDA program benefits. In addition, producers w ho convert wetland after December 28, 1990, will be ineligible for USDA benefits until the wetland is restored. Other provisions of the 1990 law are designed to discourage farming practices that may have adverse environmental impacts. Other previously authorized conservation programs provide cost-sharing assistance to install a variety of soil-saving practices and other measures to control erosion, to plant trees and improve timberstands, to prevent the loss of wetlands for m igratory waterfowl, and to control nonpoint source water pollution in rural America. For further information, contact the Information Division, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013. Phone, 202-720-5237. Commodity Credit Corporation The Commodity Credit Corporation was organized October 17, 1933, pursuant to Executive Order 6340 of October 16, 1933, under the laws of the State of Delaware, as an agency of the United States. From October 17, 1933, to July 1, 1939, the Corpor ation was managed and operated in close affiliation with the Reconstruction Finance Corporation. On July 1, 1939, the agency was transferred to the Department of Agriculture by the President's Reorganization Plan No. I of 1939 (5 U.S.C. app.). Approval of the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act on June 29, 1948 (15 U.S.C. 714), subsequently amended, established the Corporation, effective July 1, 1948, as an agency and instrumentality of the United States under a permanent Federal charter. The Corporation stabilizes, supports, and protects farm income and prices, assists in maintaining balanced and adequate supplies of agricultural commodities and their products, and facilitates the orderly distribution of commodities. The Corporation is managed by a Board of Directors, subject to the general supervision and direction of the Secretary of Agriculture, who is an ex officio Director and Chairman of the Board. The Board consists of seven members (in addition to th e Secretary of Agriculture), who are appointed by the President of the United States. The Corporation is capitalized at $100 million and has statutory authority to borrow up to $30 billion from the U.S. Treasury. It utilizes the personnel and facilities of the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service and, in certain fo reign assistance operations, the Foreign Agricultural Service to carry out its activities. A commodity office in Kansas City, MO, has specific responsibilities for the acquisition, handling, storage, and disposal of commodities and products held by the Corporation. Commodity Stabilization Loan, purchase, and/or payment programs of the Corporation are administered by ASCS for wheat, corn, upland and extra-long staple cotton, peanuts, rice, tobacco, milk, wool, mohair, honey, barley, oats, grain sorghum, rye, soybeans and minor oilseeds, sugarbeets, and sugarcane. Commodities acquired under the stabilization program are disposed of through domestic and export sales, commodity certificate exchanges, transfers to other Government agencies, and donations for domestic and foreign welfare use. The Corporation also is authorized to exchange surplus agricultural commodities it has acquired by the Corporation for strategic and other materials and services produced abroad. Foreign Assistance Under Public Law 480, the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1691), the Corporation carries out assigned foreign assistance activities, such as guaranteeing the credit sale of U.S. agricultur al commodities abroad. Major emphasis is also being directed toward meeting the needs of developing nations under the Food for Peace Act of 1966 (7 U.S.C. 1691), which further amends the Agricultural Trade Development and Assistance Act of 1954. Under the se authorities, agricultural commodities are supplied and exported to combat hunger and malnutrition and to encourage economic development in the developing countries. In addition, the Corporation supplies commodities under the Food for Progress Program t o provide assistance to developing democracies. The Corporation encourages U.S. financial institutions to provide financing to developing countries under the Export Credit Guarantee Programs administered by the Foreign Agricultural Service. For further information, contact the Information Division, Commodity Credit Corporation, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013. Phone, 202-720-5237. For information about Commodity Credit Corporation export programs, contact the I nformation Division, Foreign Agricultural Service, Department of Agriculture. Phone, 202-720-3448. Federal Crop Insurance Corporation [For the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation statement of organization, see the Federal Register of June 10, 1976, 41 FR 23443] The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) was created within the Department of Agriculture under the Federal Crop Insurance Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.). The primary goal of FCIC is to improve the economic stability of agriculture through a sound system of crop insurance. The Federal Crop Insurance Act of 1980 lifted many limitations of the crop insurance program, which expanded the availability of crop insurance and the number of insurable crops. The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 1421 note) strengthened the actuarial foundation of the program. An insurance program is considered actuarially sound when total premiums equal or exceed anticipated losses. Fu rther revisions allowed field offices of the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service (ASCS) to distribute material and lists of qualified agencies offering crop insurance. House Appropriations conference report language accompanying Public Law 102-142 directed Federal crop insurance to be offered through the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service. All capital stock of FCIC is owned by the United States. Administrative and other costs are financed by annual appropriations. The Corporation's management is vested in a Board of Directors, subject to the general supervision of the Secretary of Agriculture. A Manager, appointed by the Secretary, and a Deputy Manager are responsible for coordinating the day-to-day operations of FCIC and for providing policy leadership. The Federal Crop Insurance Act of 1980 requires FCIC to contract, as much as possible, with private companies and encourage insurance sales through licensed agents and brokers. As a result, FCIC's delivery system has been shifted to the private sector, which offers insurance through two sales mechanisms. In the first, sales and service agencies provide insurance of Federal papers. Loss adjustment, claims functions, and training are carried out by FCIC, which also supervises marketing services an d quality control. The second mechanism uses reinsured companies that offer crop insurance under private brand names and provide marketing, distribution, servicing, training, quality control, premium collection, and adjustment functions. The Corporation r einsures these companies against extraordinary operational and actuarial losses. Federal crop insurance covers unavoidable production losses due to adverse weather conditions, including drought, excessive rain, hail, wind, hurricanes, tornadoes, and lightning. It also covers unavoidable losses due to insect infestation, plan t disease, floods, fires, and earthquakes. It is available in 3,026 counties on 52 crops; however, not every crop is insurable in every county. Federal crop insurance does not cover losses due to neglect, poor farming practices, or theft; nor does it cove r financial losses resulting from low farm product prices. Participation in the program is voluntary, and the producer must pay a premium for the coverage. Producers may select yield coverage from 35-75 percent and from varying price elections on each commodity. The producer's premium is subsidized up t o 30 percent of the 65-percent level of coverage. Premium rates vary on the basis of productivity and risk of loss. The premium is generally not collected until harvest, can be deducted from the indemnity, and is fully tax deductible. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Compliance Field Offices -- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation head level 1 :Office head level 1 :Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- DALLAS, TX -- Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas ....... Suite 280, 1111 W. Mockingbird Ln., Dallas, 75247 ....... Billy Pryor ....... 214-290-3050 INDIANAPOLIS, IN -- Maine, Ohio, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Vermont, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Massachusetts ....... Suite B, 5969 Lakeside Blvd., Indianapolis, 46278 ....... Gene Proch aska ....... 317-254-8489 KANSAS CITY, MO -- Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri ....... 9435 Holmes, Kansas City, 64131 ....... Alvin Gilmore ....... 816-926-7963 RALEIGH, NC -- Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida ....... Suite 264, 4407 Bland Rd., Morrisville, NC 27560 ....... Johnnie Perdue ....... 919-790-2916 SACRAMENTO, CA -- Washington, Oregon, Nevada, California, Arizona, Utah, Idaho ....... Suite 460, 1303 J St., Sacramento, 95814 ....... Judith Griffith ....... 916-551-1024 ST. PAUL, MN -- Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Minnesota ....... Suite 145, 3440 Federal Dr., Egan, MN 55122-1301 ....... Patrick Morris ....... 612-725-3730 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Direct Service Offices -- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation head level 1 :Office head level 1 :Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- BISMARCK, ND -- California, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Arkansas, Nevada, Alaska, Hawaii ....... 309 N. Mandan St., Bismarck, 58501 ....... Donald J. Welken ....... 701-250-4271 COLUMBIA, SC -- Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, West Virginia, Massachusetts, Puerto Rico ....... Rm. 12 22, 1835 Assembly St., Columbia, 29201 ....... (Vacancy) ....... 803-765-5766 DES MOINES, IA -- Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico ....... Rm. 509, 210 Walnut St., Des Moines, 50309 ....... Bruce Cordes ....... 515-284-4316 NASHVILLE, TN -- Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee ....... Rm. 301, U.S. Courthouse, 801 Broadway, Nashville, 37203 ....... Larry R. Whitford ....... 615-736-5591 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Regional Service Offices -- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation head level 1 :Office head level 1 :Address head level 1 :Director head level 1 :Telephone ----------------------------------------------------------------- BILLINGS, MT -- Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming ....... Suite 106, 2110 Overland Ave., Billings, 59102-6440 ....... Robert J. Prchal ....... 406-657-6447 JACKSON, MS -- Arkansas, Louisiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee ....... Suite 318, 100 W. Capitol, Jackson, 39269 ....... Thomas J. Smith ....... 601-965-4771 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK -- New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas ....... Suite 170, 205 NW. 63d St., Oklahoma City, 73116 ....... Ronald Berryhill ....... 405-231-5057 RALEIGH, NC -- North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine ....... Suite 160, 4407 Bland Rd., Raleigh, 27609 ....... Larry N. Atki nson ....... 919-790-2749 SACRAMENTO, CA -- California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona ....... Suite 450, 1303 J St., Sacramento, 95814 ....... William J. Murphy ....... 916-551-2153 ST. PAUL, MN -- Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin ....... Suite 2190, World Trade Ctr., 30 E. 7th St., St. Paul, 55101 ....... William Archer ....... 612-290-3304 SPOKANE, WA -- Idaho, Oregon, Washington ....... Suite 204, N. 112 University Blvd., Spokane, 99206-5275 ....... Dan Shelden ....... 509-353-2147 SPRINGFIELD, IL -- Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan ....... Suite 3, 2305 W. Monroe St., Springfield, 62704 ....... Catherine Hartman ....... 217-492-4186 TOPEKA, KS -- Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri ....... 3401 SW. Van Buren, Topeka, 66603 ....... Clarence Manning ....... 913-266-0248 VALDOSTA, GA -- Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina ....... Rm. M-113, 401 N. Patterson St., Valdosta, 31601 ....... Robert Vollmert ....... 912-242-3044 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- For further information, contact the Manager, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-254-8460. Foreign Agricultural Service The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) has primary responsibility for USDA's overseas market information, access, and development programs. It also administers USDA's export assistance and foreign food assistance programs. The Service carries ou t its tasks through its network of agricultural counselors, attache˙AE1s, and trade officers stationed overseas and its U.S.-based team of analysts, marketing specialists, negotiators, and other professionals. The Foreign Agricultural Service maintains a worldwide agricultural intelligence and reporting system through its attache˙AE1 service. This service consists of a team of professional agriculturalists posted in more than 75 countries around the w orld. They represent the Department of Agriculture and provide information and data on foreign government agricultural policies, analyses of supply and demand conditions, commercial trade relationships, and market opportunities. They report on more than 1 00 farm commodities, weather, economic factors, and related subjects that affect agriculture and agricultural trade. At FAS in Washington, DC, agricultural economists and marketing specialists analyze these and other reports. These analyses are supplemented by accumulated background information and by the Crop Condition Assessment system, which analyzes Landsa t satellite, weather, and other data. To improve access for U.S. farm products abroad, FAS' international trade policy specialists coordinate and direct USDA's responsibilities in international trade agreement programs and negotiations. They maintain an ongoing effort to reduce fore ign trade barriers and practices that discourage the export of U.S. farm products. To follow foreign governmental actions that affect the market for U.S. agricultural commodities, FAS relies on its agricultural counselors and attache˙AE1s. In Washington, a staff of international trade specialists analyzes the trade policies an d practices of foreign governments to ensure conduct in conformance with international treaty obligations. During international negotiations, FAS provides staff and support for U.S. agricultural representation. The Service has a continuing market development program to create, service, and expand commercial export markets for U.S. agricultural products. It carries out programs with nonprofit commodity groups called Cooperators, trade associations, and State agriculture departments and their regional associations. It manages market opportunity referral services and organizes trade fairs and sales teams. The Service's Office of the General Sales Manager also oversees agricultural functions under the Public Law 480 Food for Peace Program, title I (7 U.S.C. 1701); section 416(b) of the Agricultural Act of 1949 (7 U.S.C. 1431); the Commodity Credit Corporation's (CCC) Export Credit Guarantee Programs; several other export assistance programs; and direct sales of Corporation-owned surplus commodities. The Commodity Credit Corporation Export Credit Guarantee (GSM-102) and the Intermediate Export Credit Guarantee (GSM-103) Programs encourage the development or expansion of overseas markets for U.S. agricultural commodities by providing guarante es on private financing of U.S. exports to foreign buyers purchasing on credit terms. The foreign buyer contracts for the purchase of U.S. commodities on a deferred-payment basis of 3 years or less under GSM-102, or between 3 and 10 years under GSM-103. The foreign buyer's bank issues a letter of credit to guarantee payment to th e U.S. exporter or an assignee U.S. lending institution. To receive the payment guarantee, the exporter registers the sale with CCC prior to export and pays a guarantee fee. The payment guarantee is implemented only if the foreign bank fails to pay the ex porter or the assignee U.S. lending institution. The Corporation considers coverage on sales of any U.S. agricultural commodity that has the potential of expanding U.S. export markets. A U.S. exporter, private foreign buyer, or foreign government may submit requests that may result in authoriz ed guarantee coverage. Several export assistance programs are designed to counter or offset the adverse effects from competitors' unfair trade practices on U.S. agriculture. These programs include the Export Enhancement Program (EEP) and the Dairy Export Incentive Pro gram (DEIP). Under EEP, USDA provides Corporation-owned commodities or cash as export bonuses to make U.S. commodities more competitive in the world marketplace. The DEIP and EEP programs are similar, but DEIP is restricted to dairy products. The Foreign Agricultural Service is also responsible for sales of Corporation-owned surplus commodities to private trade, foreign government, and nonprofit organizations. Direct sales may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis and on a cash or cr edit basis. The only criteria for financing direct sales are a 3-year maximum credit plan and the arrangement of suitable payment terms. Another program authorized by the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 is the Market Promotion Program, formerly known as Targeted Export Assistance (TEA). The Market Promotion Program provides assistance in the form of cash or commodities to trade promotion organizations to help fund their market development activities overseas, particularly in those markets where the United States encounters unfair trade practices by foreign competitors or importers. The Service helps other USDA agencies, U.S. universities, and others enhance America's agricultural competitiveness globally; and increases income and food availability in developing nations by mobilizing expertise for agriculturally led economi c growth. The Service's programs enhance U.S. agriculture's competitiveness by providing U.S. agriculturalists and scientists with linkages to world resources. These linkages often produce new germplasm and technologies that can be vital to improving our current agricultural base and producing new and alternative products. They also foster relationships and understandings that result in trade opportunities and strengthened strategic and political ties. The Service is a link between the technical expertise of the U.S. agricultural community and Third World nations. By sharing agricultural knowledge with less-developed nations, the United States provides tools to help build stable economies and a more prosperous world. In the process, less- developed nations overcome the barriers of hunger and poverty and gain the economic means to buy needed goods and services in the world marketplace. Also, it manages programs to exchange visits, germplasm, and technologies between U.S. and international scientists; supports collaborative research projects of mutual interest to the United States and other nations; taps the U.S. agricultural c ommunity to provide technical assistance and professional development and training programs to assist economic development in lower income nations; serves as U.S. liaison with international organizations; and organizes overseas trade and investment missio ns. These activities serve the needs of other USDA agencies, the Agency for International Development, other public and private institutions, foreign nations, development banks, and the U.S. university and agricultural communities. For further information, contact the Information Staff, Foreign Agricultural Service, Deparment of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-7115. Science and Education Agricultural Research Service The Agricultural Research Service administers fundamental and applied research to solve problems in animal and plant protection and production; the conservation and improvement of soil, water, and air; the processing, storage, and distribution o f farm products; and human nutrition. The research applies to a wide range of goals, commodities, natural resources, fields of science, and geographic, climatic, and environmental conditions. Research activities are carried out at 122 domestic locations, including Puerto Rico and 8 overseas laboratories. Much of this research is conducted in cooperation with State partners in the universities and experiment stations, other Federal ag encies, and private organizations. A national program staff, headquartered at Beltsville, MD, is the focal point in the overall planning and coordination of the Service's national research programs. Day-to-day management of the various national research programs for specific field locations is assigned to 8 area offices. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Area Offices -- Agricultural Research Service head level 1 :Office head level 1 :Address ----------------------------------------------------------------- BELTSVILLE AREA -- Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, National Arboretum, Washington, DC ....... Bldg. 003, Beltsville Agricultural Research Ctr., W. Beltsville, MD 20705 MIDSOUTH AREA -- Alabama, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee ....... P.O. Box 225, Stoneville, MS 38776 MIDWEST AREA -- Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Wisconsin ....... 1815 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61604 NORTHERN PLAINS AREA -- Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming ....... Suite 150, 1201 Oakridge Rd., Fort Collins, CO 80525-5562 NORTH ATLANTIC AREA -- Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia ....... 600 E. Mermaid Ln., Philadelphia, PA 19118 PACIFIC WEST AREA -- Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington ....... 800 Buchanan St., Albany, CA 94710 SOUTH ATLANTIC AREA -- Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Virgin Islands, Virginia ....... P.O. Box 5677, Athens, GA 30613 SOUTHERN PLAINS AREA -- Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas ....... Suite 230, 7607 Eastmark Dr., College Station, TX 77840 ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- For further information, contact the Information Staff, Agricultural Research Service, Department of Agriculture, 4th Floor, 6303 Ivy Lane, Greenbelt, MD 20770. Phone, 301-344-2264. Cooperative State Research Service The Cooperative State Research Service (CSRS) facilitates the advancement of science and technology in the nationwide agricultural research system by providing Federal resources, participating in cooperative program planning and evaluation, and developing a forum for coordination between the State Agricultural Experiment Stations, the Department of Agriculture, and Federal research scientists. The agency's primary function is to administer the acts of Congress that authorize Federal appropriations for agricultural research carried out by the State Agricultural Experiment Stations of the 50 States, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands , American Samoa, Micronesia, the Northern Marianas, the District of Columbia, approved schools of forestry, the 1890 land-grant institutions and Tuskegee University, colleges of veterinary medicine, and other eligible institutions. Research programs administered by CSRS include the agricultural research act (Hatch Act revised) that provides for State/Federal cooperative funding for agricultural research programs at State agricultural experiment stations (including the Regi onal Research Program that facilitates collaboration on problems of national and regional significance); the cooperative forestry research program; the 1890 land-grant colleges and Tuskegee University research program; the animal health and disease resear ch program; a special research grants program on specific problems in agriculture; the critical materials research program (including domestic rubber); a rangeland research program; aquaculture research centers; an international trade centers research pro gram; an agricultural productivity research program; a groundwater research program; a supplemental and alternative crops research program; a small business innovative research program; a low-input sustainable agriculture research program; a small farms r esearch program; a research facilities improvement program; a program of competitive and extramural grants to State agricultural experiment stations, colleges, universities, research organizations, and individuals to promote basic research; and a competit ive support program in higher education. In fulfilling its mission of advancing science and technology in support of agriculture, forestry, people, and communities, the scientific staff allocates Federal resources for the acquisition of new knowledge, promotes excellence in research, e ncourages the emergence of creativity in science, develops improved awareness and analysis of national problems, supports the efficient management of research institutions and programs, enhances effective leadership in science, promotes the facilitation o f new scientific approaches, and strives for improved cooperation between individuals and institutions in the agricultural scientific community. CSRS also provides support and assistance for the Joint Council on Food and Agricultural Science, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Users Advisory Board, and the Committee of Nine (for regional programs). For further information, contact the Office of the Administrator, Cooperative State Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-2200. Phone, 202-720-4423. Extension Service The Extension Service was created by the Smith-Lever Act of 1914, as amended (7 U.S.C. 341 et seq.). The Service is the educational agency of the Department of Agriculture and the Federal partner in the Cooperative Extension System. The System c onsists of the Extension Service; Extension professionals at the 1862 land-grant universities in the 50 States, American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, Micronesia, the Northern Marianas, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands -- plus sixteen 1890 land-grant universities with Tuskegee University as the State partner; and staff in nearly all of the Nation's 3,150 counties as the local partners. All three partners share in financing, planning, and conducting the Cooperative Extension System's educationa l programs. As a nationwide educational network, the Cooperative Extension System helps people improve their lives through an educational process that uses scientific knowledge focused on issues and needs. Key functions include: -- providing nationwide leadership in adapting and transferring science and technology; -- anticipating and responding educationally to critical national issues affecting the food and agricultural system; -- mobilizing resources to respond to natural disasters and catastrophes; -- initiating educational programs to help implement Federal regulations and policies; and -- developing more than 3 million volunteers to serve the Nation, the States, and local communities with educational program support. Through an interactive, strategic planning process, Extension educational programs target critical issues. Current national issues being addressed are food safety and quality, international marketing, revitalizing rural America, sustainable agri culture, waste management, water quality, and health and well-being of children, youth, and families. The Extension Service has a small professional staff that formulates national policy and provides leadership, coordination, and evaluation to support State and county educational programs. The Cooperative Extension System at the land-grant universities has State, county, and area staff who work with customers to determine their needs and develop educational programs to assist farmers, families, individuals, and communities. All Ex tension programs are designed to apply new communication technologies -- including computers, videos, satellites, and teleconferences to develop and deliver educational programs. The national Cooperative Extension System also assures citizens access to re search findings and information from anywhere in the Nation. For further information, contact the Deputy Administrator, Communication, Information, and Technology, Extension Service, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-4651. National Agricultural Library The National Agricultural Library provides information services over a broad range of agricultural interests to a wide cross-section of users, from research scientists to the general public. The Library assists its users through a variety of spe cialized information centers. Its staff utilizes advanced information technologies to generate new information products, creating an electronic library as it improves access to the knowledge stored in its multimedia collection of over 2 million items. At the same time, the Library is sharing resources, cooperating with land-grant university and other libraries in many projects, and using telecommunications to share information among all the libraries and their users. Information on agriculture is made available through loans, photocopies, reference services, and literature searches. A subject profiling system for selective searches of agricultural data bases is available for USDA scientists. Citations to the agricultural literature are stored in the AGRICultural OnLine Access (AGRICOLA) data base, available through online computer systems and on compact disc. The Library also distributes in the United States the AGRIS data base of citations to the agricultur al literature prepared by centers in various parts of the world and coordinated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Access to information is strengthened by the use of innovative technology, including compact disc, as noted above; digital videodisc, containing fully searchable full text of publications; laser videodisc, containing photo collections; interacti ve videodisc for instruction in the use of the online AGRICOLA data base; and expert systems serving as reference advisors. Instructor-led workshops are also conducted for training at the basic and advanced levels in use of the AGRICOLA data base. Specialized information centers on subjects of current concern -- agricultural trade and marketing, alternative farming systems, animal welfare, aquaculture, biotechnology, food and nutrition, plant genome, rural development, technology transfer , water quality, and youth development -- provide enhanced information services to the Library's current clientele as well as develop new service relationships with the public and private sectors. Information center staff concentrate their efforts on stre ngthening the Library collection, developing information products, coordinating outreach activities, and establishing dissemination networks. The products and services of the Library are available to Department of Agriculture personnel, other Federal agencies, land-grant universities, the agricultural community in the U.S. and worldwide, and others with an interest in the Library's resources. The main Library is located at 10301 Baltimore Boulevard, Beltsville, MD 20705-2351. The DC Reference Center of the National Agricultural Library, located in Room 1052, South Building, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 14th Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, offers reference resources, periodicals, newspapers, and services, including data base searching, end-user training, demonstrations of new technology, and document delivery from Beltsville. For further information, contact the Office of the Director, National Agricultural Library, Beltsville, MD 20705-2351. Phone, 301-504-5248. Natural Resources and Environment Forest Service [For the Forest Service statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36, Part 200.1] The Forest Service was created by the Transfer Act of February 1, 1905 (16 U.S.C. 472), which transferred the Federal forest reserves and the responsibility for their management from the Department of the Interior to the Department of Agricultur e. The forest reserves were established by the President from the public domain under authority of the Creative Act of March 3, 1891 (26 Stat. 1103). The protection and development of the reserves (which became the national forests in 1907) are governed b y the Organic Act of June 4, 1897, as amended (16 U.S.C. 473-478); the Multiple Use-Sustained Yield Act of June 12, 1960 (16 U.S.C. 528-531); the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1601-1610); and the National Forest Management Act of 1976 (90 Stat. 2947). The Weeks Law of March 1, 1911, as amended (16 U.S.C. 480), allowed the Government to purchase and exchange land for national forests. Objectives The Forest Service has the Federal responsibility for national leadership in forestry. As set forth in law, its mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable, multiple-use management concept to meet the diverse needs of pe ople. To accomplish this goal, it has adopted objectives which include: -- advocating a conservation ethic in promoting the health, productivity, diversity, and beauty of forests and associated lands; -- listening to people and responding to their diverse needs in making decisions; -- protecting and managing the national forests and grasslands to best demonstrate the sustainable, multiple-use management concept; -- providing technical and financial assistance to State and private forest landowners, encouraging them toward active stewardship and quality land management in meeting their specific objectives; -- providing technical and financial assistance to cities and communities to improve their natural environment by planting trees and caring for their forests; -- providing international technical assistance and scientific exchanges to sustain and enhance global resources and to encourage quality land management; -- assisting States and communities in using the forests wisely to promote rural economic development and a quality rural environment; -- developing and providing scientific and technical knowledge, improving our capability to protect, manage, and use forests and rangelands; and -- providing work, training, and education to the unemployed, underemployed, elderly, youth, and the disadvantaged. National Forest System The Service manages 155 national forests, 20 national grasslands, and 8 land utilization projects on over 191 million acres in 44 States, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico under the principles of multiple-use and sustained yield. The Nation's tremendous need for wood and paper products is balanced with the other vital, renewable resources or benefits that the national forests and grasslands provide: recreation and natural beauty, wildlife habitat, livestock forage, and water suppl ies. The guiding principle is the greatest good to the greatest number in the long run. These lands are protected as much as possible from wildfire, epidemics of disease and insect pests, erosion, floods, and water and air pollution. Burned areas get emergency seeding treatment to prevent massive erosion and stream siltation. Roads and trails are built where needed to allow for closely regulated timber harvesting and to give the public access to outdoor recreation areas and provide scenic drives and hikes. Picnic, camping, water-sport, skiing, and other areas are provided with faci lities for public convenience and enjoyment. Timber harvesting methods are used that will protect the land and streams, assure rapid renewal of the forest, provide food and cover for wildlife and fish, and have minimum impact on scenic and recreation valu es. Local communities benefit from the logging and milling activities. These lands also provide needed oil, gas, and minerals. Rangelands are improved for millions of livestock and game animals. The national forests provide a refuge for many species of en dangered birds, animals, and fish. Some 34.6 million acres are set aside as wilderness and 175,000 acres as primitive areas where timber will not be harvested. Cooperation With the States The Service provides national leadership and financial and technical assistance to non-Federal forest landowners, operators, processors of forest products, and urban forestry interests. Through its cooperative State and private forestry programs, the Service protects and improves the quality of air, water, soil, and open space and encourages uses of natural resources on non-Federal lands that best meet the needs of the Nation, while protecting the environment. Cooperative programs are carried out through the State foresters or equivalent State officials, who receive grant funding under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2101). Cooperators at the State and local level provide th e delivery system for most State and private forestry programs. Grant funds and technical assistance are available for rural forestry assistance, forestry incentives, insect and disease control, urban forestry assistance, rural fire prevention and control, organization management assistance, State forest res ource planning, and technology implementation. The Service also cooperates with the Soil Conservation Service, the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service, and other USDA agencies in providing leadership and technical assistance for the forestry aspects of conservation programs. State and private forestry also is responsible for ensuring that the Service and its cooperators keep abreast of the best knowledge and technology in carrying out its programs, and helping to develop technology transfer plans for implementing re search results for a broad range of potential users. Forest Research The Service performs basic and applied research to develop the scientific information and technology needed to protect, manage, use, and sustain the natural resources of the Nation's 1.6 billion acres of forests and rangelands. This resear ch is conducted through a network of eight forest experiment stations, a Forest Products Laboratory, and the International Institute of Tropical Forestry, including research work units at 77 project locations throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Pacific Trust Islands. Under the authority of the McSweeny-McNary Act of May 22, 1928, as amended and supplemented (45 Stat. 699), research is often performed in cooperation with many of the State agricultural colleges. The Forest Research Service's strategy focuses on three major program components: understanding the structure and functions of forest and range ecosystems; understanding how people perceive and value the protection, management, and use of natural resources; and determining which prote ction, management, and utilization practices are most suitable for sustainable production and use of the world's natural resources. International Forestry In response to the U.S. commitment to support natural resource conservation around the world, Congress established the International Forestry Division within the USDA's Forest Service. Its mandate is to provide assistance that promo tes sustainable development and global environmental stability, particularly in key countries important in global climate change. This mandate includes a national goal for sustainable management of all forests by the year 2000, investigating research topi cs with implications for global forest management, or actually sharing resource management experience with colleagues around the world. Responsibility for global stewardship is shared by the entire Forest Service. The Forest Service's Office of International Forestry mobilizes support of all Forest Service units -- Research, National Forest System, State and Private Forestry, Ad ministration, and Programs and Legislation -- to work with other governmental agencies, nongovernmental groups, and international organizations in four major international areas: strategic planning and policy development, training and technical assistance , research and scientific exchange, and disaster relief. Human Resource Programs The Service operates the Youth Conservation Corps and the Volunteers in the National Forests programs and participates with the Department of Labor on several human resource programs that involve the Nation's citizens, both young a nd old, in forestry-related activities. Included in these programs are the Job Corps and the Senior Community Service Employment Program. These programs annually accomplish millions of dollars worth of conservation work, while providing participants with such benefits as training, paid employment, and meaningful outdoor experience. ---------------------------(TABLE START)--------------------------- Field Offices -- Forest Service head level 1 : head level 1 :Address ----------------------------------------------------------------- National Forest System Regions\1\ -- Regional Forester 1. Northern ....... Federal Bldg. (P.O. Box 7669), Missoula, MT 59807 2. Rocky Mountain ....... 740 Simms St. (P.O. Box 25127), Lakewood, CO 80225 3. Southwestern ....... 517 Gold Ave. SW., Albuquerque, NM 87102 4. Intermountain ....... 324 25th St., Ogden, UT 84401 5. Pacific Southwest ....... 630 Sansome St., San Francisco, CA 94111 6. Pacific Northwest ....... 333 SW. 1st Ave. (P.O. Box 3623), Portland, OR 97208 8. Southern ....... 1720 Peachtree Rd. NW., Atlanta, GA 30367 9. Eastern ....... 310 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203 10. Alaska ....... Federal Office Bldg. (P.O. Box 21628), Juneau, AK 99802 Forest and Range Experiment Stations -- Director Intermountain ....... 324 25th St., Ogden, UT 84401 North Central ....... 1992 Folwell Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108 Northeastern ....... Suite 200, 100 Matson Ford Rd. (P.O. Box 6775), Radnor, PA 19087-4585 Pacific Northwest ....... 333 SW. 1st Ave. (P.O. Box 3890), Portland, OR 97208 Pacific Southwest ....... 1960 Addison St. (P.O. Box 245), Berkeley, CA 94701 Rocky Mountain ....... 240 W. Prospect Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80526 Southeastern ....... 200 Weaver Blvd. (P.O. Box 2860), Asheville, NC 28804 Southern ....... 701 Loyola Ave., U.S. Postal Service Bldg., New Orleans, LA 70113 Forest Products Laboratory ....... 1 Gifford Pinchot Dr., Madison, WI 53705 State and Private Forestry Areas\2\ -- Director Northeastern ....... 370 Reed Rd., Broomall, PA 19008 International Institute of Tropical Forestry ....... Guadecanal St. (Call Box 25000), Rio Piedras, PR 00928 Footnote: \1\There is no Region 7. Footnote: \2\In Regions 1 through 6, 8, and 10, State and private forestry activities are directed from regional headquarters. ----------------------------(TABLE END)-------------------------- For further information, contact the Public Affairs Office, Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090. Phone, 202-720-3760. Soil Conservation Service [For the Soil Conservation Service statement of organization, see the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Parts 600 and 601] The Soil Conservation Service (SCS) was established under authority of the Soil Conservation Act of 1935 (16 U.S.C. 590a-f). It has responsibility for developing and carrying out a national soil and water conservation program in cooperation with landowners and operators and other land users and developers, with community planning agencies and regional resource groups, and with other Federal, State, and local government agencies. The Service also assists in agricultural pollution control, environ mental improvement, and rural community development. The soil and water conservation program is carried out through technical assistance to locally organized and operated conservation districts; local sponsors of watershed protection projects and resource conservation and development projects; and consultative assistance to other individuals and groups. About 3,000 conservation districts cover more than 2 billion acres in the 50 States, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Conservation Operations The Service provides technical assistance through conservation districts to landowners and operators in carrying out locally adapted soil and water conservation programs. Technical assistance is given to district cooperators and other landowners in the development of conservation plans and application of conservation treatment. Assistance to district cooperators (individuals and communities) includes: providing a soil map and other resource data; providing information about practical alternatives for treating and using the land; developing a plan for installing the treatment measures and making the land use changes needed; and helping to apply parts of the plan t hat require special skills or knowledge. In response to the USDA Water Quality Initiative, the Service is carrying out, in cooperation with other Federal and State agencies, a 5-year plan to direct its activities relative to water quality and quantity. Elements addressed in this plan i nclude program application, technology development, information and education, and evaluation and assessment. The implementation of the plan will focus on the expansion and improvement of technical assistance utilizing the agency's extensive field deliver y system through local soil and water conservation districts. A major part of the assistance required by SCS to implement the USDA Water Quality Initiative is provided through conservation operations. Soil surveys are made to determine soil use potentials and conservation treatment needs, and the publication of these surveys with interpretations are useful to cooperators, other Federal agencies, and State and local organizations. One importan t basis for conservation planning is the National Cooperative Soil Survey for which SCS has the Federal part of the responsibility. The work is carried out in cooperation with State agricultural experiment stations and other State and Federal agencies. Plant materials centers are operated to assemble, test, and encourage increased use of promising plant species in conservation programs; and snow surveys in the Western States are made to develop water supply forecasts. Under the Soil and Water Resources Conservation Act of 1977 (16 U.S.C. 2001), the Service is responsible for appraising the status and condition of soil, water, and related resources and trends in their use; designing long-range conservation pro grams with the aid of local soil conservation districts and the public; and evaluating progress in meeting conservation needs. The Service's inventory and monitoring data are used at all governmental levels for conservation, use and development of land, a nd for protecting environmental quality. The Service also helps prepare maps showing the location of important farmlands, usually on a county basis. Under the Food Security Act of 1985 and the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, the Service helps producers determine if their cropland or potential cropland is highly erodible, wetland, wetland on which the conversion would result in minimal effect, or converted wetland. Service field staffs assist producers in preparing conservation compliance plans and installing appropriate conservation systems so that eligibility for USDA program benefits is maintained. River Basin Surveys and Investigations The Service and the Forest Service cooperate with other Federal, State, and local agencies in studying the watersheds of rivers and other waterways. These studies include: -- cooperative river basin surveys, which serve as a basis for developing coordinated water resource programs; -- flood plain management studies, which furnish technical data, assistance, and information for State and local governments to use in flood plain management programs; -- joint investigations and reports with the Department of the Army in accordance with Pub. L. 87-639 (16 U.S.C. 1009); and -- interagency coordination. Watershed Planning The Service has general responsibility for administration of activities consisting of investigations and surveys of proposed small watershed projects in response to requests made by sponsoring local organizations, and for assisting spon sors in the development of watershed plans. Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations The Service has general responsibility for administration of activities that include cooperation with local sponsors, State, and other public agencies in the installation of planned works of improvement to reduce erosion, floodwater, and sediment damage; conserve, develop, utilize, and dispose of water; plan and install works of improvement for flood prevention including the development of recreational facilities and the improvement of fish and wildlife habitat; a nd loans to local organizations to help finance the local share of the cost of carrying out planned watershed and flood prevention works of improvement. The Rural Development Administration administers the loan program. The Service also has responsibility for carrying out emergency watershed protection under section 403 of the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2203). Great Plains Conservation Program The Service has general responsibility for administration of the program designed to promote conservation and greater agricultural stability in the Great Plains area. Activities include cost-sharing of conservation practi ces under 3- to 10-year contracts with farmers and ranchers in designated counties of the 10 Great Plains States, and technical services to help make needed land use adjustments and install conservation measures specified in conservation plans in accordan ce with contract schedules. Resources Conservation and Development Program The Service has general responsibility for administering the Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Program. The Program is designed to assist RC&D sponsors, State and local governments, and nonprofit o rganizations to plan, develop, and carry out programs that accelerate the conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources. The Rural Development Administration administers the loans. The RC&D Program improves the economy and quality of lif e in rural areas. Projects provide an orderly approach to land-use change and include enhancement of the environment, reductions of flooding and drainage problems, protection of scenic and historic attractions, development of local natural resource indust ries, and the improvement and development of community and recreational activities and services. Activities include investigations and surveys to help develop programs and plans of land conservation and utilization, technical services and financial assistance to sponsors, local groups, and individuals, and making loans for resource improvem ents and developments in approved projects. The Farmers Home Administration administers the loans. Rural Abandoned Mine Program The Service has USDA leadership for administration of the program to assist land users in reclaiming abandoned or inadequately reclaimed coal-mined lands and water, provided there is no continuing reclamation responsibility on the part of the mine operator, permit holder, or agent. The program provides cost-sharing aid ranging from 25 to 100 percent, as well as technical assistance to land users, under contracts of 5 to 10 years. The goal is to reclaim, conserve, and develop u nreclaimed coal lands that adversely affect people or their environment. Other Programs The Service gives technical help to the Farmers Home Administration in making soil and water conservation loans to landowners and operators and assists landowners and operators in developing recreation areas and facilities on private land. Participants in the Agricultural Conservation Program, Rural Clean Water Program, Conservation Reserve Program, Colorado River Salinity Control Program, Wetlands Reserve Program, Water Quality Incentives Program, and the Water Bank Program are p rovided with technical assistance by the Service. Under these programs, it provides technical assistance in developing conservation plans that are the basis of long-term agreements between the Department and landowners and operators. The Service assists i n the design, layout, and certification of some conservation practices installed under these programs. For further information, contact the Office of Public Affairs, Soil Conservation Service, Department of Agriculture, P.O. Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013. Phone, 202-205-0027. Economics Economic Research Service The mission of the Economic Research Service (ERS) is to provide economic and other social science information for public and private decisions on agriculture, food, natural resources, and rural America. The Service produces such information to serve the general public and to help policymakers develop, administer, and evaluate agricultural and rural policies and programs. The wide range of topics covered by ERS includes: -- U.S. and world agricultural production and demand for production resources, agricultural commodities, and food and fiber products; -- costs of and returns to agricultural production and marketing; -- economic performance of U.S. agricultural production and marketing; -- effects of governmental policies and programs on farmers, rural residents and communities, natural resources, and the public; and -- organization and institutions of U.S. and world agricultural production and marketing systems, natural resources, and rural communities. ERS-produced information is available to the public through research monographs, situation and outlook reports, standardized data products in electronic media, professional and trade journals (including The Journal of Agricultural Economics Rese arch), magazines (including Agricultural Outlook, Food Review, Rural Conditions and Trends, and Rural Development Perspectives), radio, television, newspapers, and frequent participation of ERS staff at various public forums. For further information, contact the Information Division, Economics Management Staff, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20005-4789. Phone, 202-219-0504. National Agricultural Statistics Service The National Agricultural Statistics Service prepares estimates and reports on production, supply, price, and other items necessary for the orderly operation of the U.S. agricultural economy. The reports include statistics on field crops, fruits and vegetables, cattle, hogs, sheep, poultry, and related commodities or processed products. Other estimates concern farm numbers, agricultural chemical use, prices received by farmers for pr oducts sold, prices paid for commodities and services, indexes of prices received and paid, parity prices, farm employment, and farm wage rates. The Service prepares these estimates through a complex system of sample surveys of producers, processors, buyers, and others associated with agriculture. Information is gathered by mail, telephone, personal interviews, and field visits. The 45 State-Federal offices, serving all 50 States, and the national office prepare weekly, monthly, annual, and other periodic reports for free distribution to the news media, Congress, and survey respondents. The reports are available to othe rs on a subscription basis. Information on crop and livestock products appears in about 400 reports issued annually. Cooperative agreements with State agencies also permit preparation and publication of estimates of individual crops and livestock by count ies in most States. The Service performs reimbursable survey work and statistical consulting services for other Federal and State agencies and provides technical assistance for developing agricultural data systems in other countries. For further information, contact the Information Division, Economics Management Staff, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20005-4789. Phone, 202-219-0504. Economic Analysis Staff The Economic Analysis Staff assists in developing, organizing, coordinating, and synthesizing economic and statistical analyses to be used as a basis for planning and evaluating short- and intermediate-range agricultural policy. The Staff also d evelops economic and statistical analyses to evaluate complex interagency domestic and foreign agricultural problems and issues. The staff also is responsible for departmental regulations on agricultural labor under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 note). The Staff reviews and evaluates recommendations submitted by USDA agencies, task forces, and study groups for their impact upon the agricultural economy. It analyzes the economic policy implications of legislative proposals of the Department and of Congress. The Staff also represents the Department in meetings with agriculture, industry, and consumer groups to discuss the economic impact of existing and proposed Department policies. For further information, contact the Information Division, Economics Management Staff, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20005-4789. Phone, 202-219-0504. Office of Energy The Office of Energy serves as the focal point for all energy-related matters within the Department. The Office is responsible for developing and coordinating all USDA energy policies, reviewing and evaluating all USDA energy and energy-related programs, and providing liaison with the Department of Energy and other Federal agencies and departments on energy activities that may affect agriculture and rural America. A major component of this is responsibility for the coordination and evaluation of the departmental Biofuels Program. The Office also represents the Department in meetings with agriculture, industry, and consumer groups to discuss effects of departmental energy policies, programs, and proposals on the agricultural sector and rural econ omy. For further information, contact the Information Division, Economics Management Staff, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20005-4789. Phone, 202-219-0504. World Agricultural Outlook Board The World Agricultural Outlook Board coordinates the preparation and clearance of all commodity and aggregate agricultural forecasts issued by the Department. The Board's objective is to improve the consistency, objectivity, and reliability of U SDA outlook information. The Board serves as a focal point for the Department's economic intelligence work of gathering and interpreting developments that affect agriculture. The Board assembles interagency experts who develop official forecasts of supply, utilization, and prices for commodities. It also coordinates Departmentwide activities involving long-term economic projections, remote sensing, weather, and climate. The Board operates a Joint Agricultural Weather Facility with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration which continually monitors world weather and assesses its effects on agriculture. The Board also plans and participates in departmental, interdepartmental, regional, and international outlook conferences and briefings. For further information, contact the Information Office, World Agricultural Outlook Board, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250-3800. Phone, 202-720-5447. Economics Management Staff The Economics Management Staff provides management services to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, the Economic Research Service, the World Agricultural Outlook Board, the Economic Analysis Staff, and the Office of Energy. These servic es include budget, financial management, personnel and related programs, administrative services, information, equal opportunity and civil rights, and general management assistance. For further information, contact the Information Division, Economics Management Staff, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20005-4789. Phone, 202-219-0504. Graduate School, U.S. Department of Agriculture Fourteenth Street and Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250 Phone, 202-720-4419 Director ........Philip H. Hudson Deputy Director ........Lynn Edwards Program Director, Center for Applied Technology ........Nat Hopkins Program Director, Correspondence Study ........Norma Harwood Director of Information and Public Affairs ........Brian Gray Program Director, Evening and Saturday ........Ronald MacNab Program Director, Government Audit Training Institute ........Donald Smuland Program Director, International Training ........Jane Burke Program Director, International Visitor and Exchange ........Lily Parsons Director of Administration ........William Capezio Registrar ........Carolyn Nelson The Graduate School, U.S. Department of Agriculture, is a continuing education school offering career-related training to adults. It is self-supporting and does not receive direct appropriated funds from Congress or the Department of Agriculture . Fees charged individuals and Government agencies are nominal. Courses are planned with the assistance of Government professionals and specialists. The faculty is mostly part-time and is drawn from throughout Government and the community at large. They a re selected because of their professional and specialized knowledge and experience and thus bring a practicality and experience to their classrooms. Faculty holding regular Government positions take annual leave or leave without pay when teaching during t heir normal work hours. The school does not grant degrees but does provide planned sequences of courses leading to certificates of accomplishment in a number of occupational and career fields important to government. Training areas include management, aud iting, computer science, communications, foreign language, procurement, financial management, and others. The Graduate School's objective is to improve Government services by providing needed continuing education and training opportunities for Government employees and agencies. The Graduate School, administered by a Director and governed by a Genera l Administration Board appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, was established by the Secretary of Agriculture on September 2, 1921, pursuant to act of May 15, 1862 (7 U.S.C. 2201); joint resolution of April 12, 1892 (27 Stat. 395); and the Deficiencie s Appropriation Act of March 3, 1901 (20 U.S.C. 91). For further information, contact the Information Office, Graduate School, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Room 129, 600 Maryland Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20024. Phone, 202-720-4419. Sources of Information Consumer Activities Educational, organizational, and financial assistance is offered to consumers and their families in such fields as rural housing and farm operating programs, improved nutrition, family living and recreation, food stamp, school lunch, d onated foods, and other food programs. Phone, 202-447-2791. Contracts and Small Business Activities Contact the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-7117. Employment Most jobs in the Department are in the competitive service and are filled by applicants who have established eligibility under an appropriate examination administered by the Office of Personnel Management or Department Special Examining Units. General employment inquiries may be sent to the Recruitment and Employment Division, Office of Personnel, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-5626. Persons interested in employment in the Food and Nutrition Service should contact the Regional Offices located in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, San Francisco, and Robbinsville, NJ, or the national headquarters in Alexandria, VA. Phon e, 703-305-2351. Persons interested in employment in the Office of the Inspector General should contact the USDA Office of Personnel, Room 31-W, Administration Building, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-5781. In addition, all Forest Service field units listed on page 144 will accept employment applications. Environment Educational, organizational, technical, and financial assistance is offered to local citizens, their organizations and communities in such fields as watershed protection, flood prevention, soil and water conservation practices to reduce erosio n and sedimentation, community water and waste disposal systems, safe use of pesticides, and the development of pesticide alternatives. Contact the nearest county Extension agent or USDA office, or write to the Office of Public Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, for information on consumer activities and the environment, as previously described. Phone, 202 -720-2791. Films Motion pictures on a variety of agricultural subjects are available for loan through various State Extension Service film libraries. Contact the Video and Teleconference Division, Office of Public Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 2 0250, for a listing of cooperating film libraries. Phone, 202-720-6072. Color filmstrips and slide sets on a variety of subjects are available for purchase. For a listing of titles and prices, contact the Photography Division, Office of Public Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720- 6633. Whistleblower Hotline Persons wishing to register complaints of alleged improprieties concerning the Department should contact one of the Regional Offices or the Inspector General's ``Whistleblower Hotline'' -- outside Washington, DC, phone toll-free, 800 -424-9121; within the Washington, DC, metropolitan area, phone, 202-690-1622, or 202-690-1202 (TDD). Reading Rooms Located at each USDA agency; addresses indicated in text. Speakers Contact the nearest Department of Agriculture office or county Extension agent. In the District of Columbia, contact the Office of Public Liaison, Office of Public Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-2798. For further information concerning the Department of Agriculture, contact the Office of Public Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250. Phone, 202-720-2791.