Department of Agriculture
How to Contact the USDA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture affects every American's life, from the food on our tables to the farmers who grow it, and from natural resource conservation…
Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture is the federal agency responsible for farming, food, forests, and rural life. It supports farmers through loans, insurance, and conservation programs, funds agricultural research, protects plants and animals from pests and disease, manages national forests, and runs nutrition programs that help feed families and schoolchildren. Its work reaches farms, food producers, and rural towns across the country.
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Latest in Department of Agriculture
Social Safety Net
TANF vs. SNAP: What’s the Difference? Your Guide to Key Support Programs
Navigating government assistance programs can feel complex. Two significant support systems in the United States are the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and the…
Department of Agriculture
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP): Get Rewarded for Your Existing Conservation Efforts
Are you a farmer, rancher, or forest landowner already using conservation practices on your land? The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), offered by the U.S. Department of…
Department of Agriculture
Water Management on the Farm: USDA Tools and Resources
Water is the lifeblood of American agriculture, essential for growing crops and raising livestock. Recognizing this critical role, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) places a…
Topics in Department of Agriculture
Food and communities
The Food and Nutrition Service runs food assistance programs, and Rural Development supports housing, business, and services in rural areas.
All Articles on Department of Agriculture
Getting Started with EQIP: Conservation Funding for Your Land
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a cornerstone initiative of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), offering valuable financial and technical support to…
Smarter Farming, Healthier Fields: USDA’s Guide to Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Managing pests is a constant challenge in agriculture, impacting both the bottom line and the health of the farm ecosystem. Integrated Pest Management (IPM)…
A Landowner’s Guide to the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a cornerstone voluntary federal initiative administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA). Its…
Understanding USDA Conservation Programs: CRP, EQIP, and CSP
Farmers, ranchers, and private forest landowners manage vast landscapes that provide food, fiber, and vital ecosystem services. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers…
Understanding Soil Health: USDA Guidance for Healthy Land and Sustainable Futures
When we think about the ground beneath our feet, we might just see dirt. But the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and its…
Planting for Tomorrow: A Farmer’s Guide to Cover Crops with USDA Support
Cover crops represent a fundamental practice in sustainable agriculture, shifting the focus from solely harvesting a product to nurturing soil for long-term health and…
High Tunnel Systems: Unlocking USDA EQIP Funding Opportunities
High tunnel systems, often called hoop houses, represent a valuable technology for agricultural producers seeking to extend their growing seasons, improve crop quality, and…
What is Regenerative Agriculture? USDA Perspectives and Programs
Regenerative agriculture represents a holistic approach to farming and ranching that aims to improve the health of the agricultural ecosystem, with a particular focus…
Transitioning to Organic Farming: Your Guide to USDA Resources and Support
Interest in organic farming continues to grow across the United States, fueled by increasing consumer demand for organic products and a desire among farmers…
Understanding the USDA Organic Certification Process: Rules and Costs
The demand for organic products in the United States continues to grow, with domestic sales surpassing $69.7 billion in 2023. For farmers, ranchers, processors,…