United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Tom Vilsack was sworn in as the 30th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on January 21, 2009. Appointed by President Barack Obama, Vilsack received unanimous support for his confirmation by the U.S. Senate.

The USDA provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management.

USDA has created a strategic plan to implement its vision. The plan depends on expanding markets for agricultural products and support international economic development. Developing alternative markets for agricultural products and activities, providing financing needed to help expand job opportunities and improve housing, utilities and infrastructure in rural America. Enhancing food safety by taking steps to reduce the prevalence of food borne hazards from farm to table, improving nutrition and health by providing food assistance and nutrition education and promotion. Managing and protecting America's public and private lands working cooperatively with other levels of government and the private sector.

USDA Agencies

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) - AMS facilitates the strategic marketing of agricultural products in domestic and international markets while ensuring fair trading practices and promoting a competitive and efficient marketplace. AMS constantly works to develop new marketing services to increase customer satisfaction.

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) - ARS is USDA's principal in-house research agency. ARS leads America towards a better future through agricultural research and information.

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) - APHIS protects and promotes agricultural health by administering the Animal Welfare Act and carrying out wildlife damage management activities.

Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP) - Test CNPP works to improve the health and well-being of Americans by developing and promoting dietary guidance that links scientific research to the nutrition needs of consumers.

Cooperative State Research, Education (CSREES) - In partnership with land-grant universities, and other public and private organizations, CREES provides the focus to advance a global system of extramural research, extension, and higher education in the food and agricultural sciences.

Economic Research Service (ERS) - ERS is USDA's principal social science research agency. Each year, ERS communicates research results and socioeconomic indicators via briefings, analyses for policymakers and their staffs, market analysis updates, and major reports.

Farm Service Agency (FSA) - FSA aids farmers and ranchers as it works to stabilize income through its efforts to conserve resources, provide credit and relieve operations from the effects of disaster.

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) - FNS increases food security and reduces hunger in partnership with cooperating organizations by providing children and low-income people access to food, a healthy diet, and nutrition education in a manner that supports American agriculture and inspires public confidence.

Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) - FSIS enhances public health and well-being by protecting the public from food borne illness and ensuring that the nation's meat, poultry and egg products are safe, wholesome, and correctly packaged.

Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) - FAS works to improve foreign market access for U.S. products. This USDA agency operates programs designed to build new markets and improve the competitive position of U.S. agriculture in the global marketplace.

Forest Service (FS) - FS sustains the health, diversity and productivity of the Nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) - GIPSA facilitates the marketing of livestock, poultry, meat, cereals, oilseeds, and related agricultural products. It also promotes fair and competitive trading practices for the overall benefit of consumers and American agriculture. GIPSA ensures open and competitive markets for livestock, poultry, and meat by investigating and monitoring industry trade practices.

National Agricultural Library (NAL) - NAL ensures and enhances access to agricultural information for a better quality of life.

National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) - NASS serves the basic agricultural and rural data needs of the country by providing objective, important and accurate statistical information and services to farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and public officials. This data is vital to monitoring the ever-changing agricultural sector and carrying out farm policy.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) - NRCS provides leadership in a partnership effort to help people conserve, maintain and improve our natural resources and environment.

Risk Management Agency (RMA) - RMA helps to ensure that farmers have the financial tools necessary to manage their agricultural risks. RMA provides coverage through the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, which promotes national welfare by improving the economic stability of agriculture.

Rural Development (RD) - RD helps rural areas to develop and grow by offering Federal assistance that improves quality of life. RD targets communities in need and then empowers them with financial and technical resources.