DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a federal executive department responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, and food. Established in 1862, the USDA's mission is to meet the needs of farmers and ranchers, promote agricultural trade and production, ensure food safety, protect natural resources, foster rural communities, and combat hunger both domestically and internationally.

Key Agencies and Services

• Agricultural Research Service (ARS): As the USDA's principal in-house research agency, ARS focuses on solving agricultural problems through research in areas such as nutrition, food safety, animal production, and sustainable agricultural systems.
• Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): APHIS safeguards U.S. agriculture by protecting animal health, animal welfare, and plant health. It collaborates with other agencies to prevent the spread of invasive pests and diseases.
• Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS): FSIS ensures that the U.S. commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged.
• Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS): AMS provides services in areas such as grading, standardization, and market news for commodities like cotton, tobacco, dairy, fruits, vegetables, livestock, and poultry.
• Rural Development (RD): RD administers programs aimed at improving the economy and quality of life in rural America, including loans, grants, and technical assistance for housing, business development, and infrastructure.

Recent Developments

In July 2025, the USDA announced a major reorganization plan to relocate most of its Washington, D.C.-based staff to five regional hubs: Raleigh, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Fort Collins, and Salt Lake City.

This move aims to streamline operations and bring the agency closer to its agricultural constituents, enhancing efficiency and responsiveness.

Headquarters and Regional Offices

The USDA's main headquarters is located in Washington, D.C.

It operates numerous offices and facilities across the United States and abroad to support its diverse programs and services.

Additionally, there is an important office located in Austin, TX, USA, expanding its regional presence.