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Objective 6. Integration of Systems 



Areas of emphasis for objective 6 are included under objectives I through 5 where 

 apptopriate. Integrative systems research aimed at more general goals will be a critical 

 component of planning and setting priorities for related implementation strategies. 



High-priority ARS 

 Special Programs 



ARS Plant Genome Program/Animal Genome Program 



• Gene construction for broad genetic similarities and differences for useful gene maps 

 of major species. 



• Gene construction for imponant economic trails of major species for which some data 

 already exist. 



• Development of new mapping and sequencing technologies; electronic data manage- 

 ment for data access and dissemination: and robotics and automation for new, 

 automatic DNA processing procedures. 



• Identification of genes or groups of genes responsible for desired productivity traits 

 and resistance to diseases and parasites. 



• Application of new knowledge and techniques to modify plants and animals so as to 

 improve production efficiency, nutritional quality and safety of food, and U.S. 

 competitiveness in export markets. 



ARS Global Climate Change Research Program 



• Climate and hydrologic systems that will affect policy responses to greenhouse and 

 atmospheric warming, water supplies, food security, biochemical dynamics, ozone 

 depletion, biological productivity and diversity, and foreslation. 



• Ecological systems and dynamics and causes and effects related to how ecosystems 

 cause global change and how they are affected by global change. 



ARS Utilization Research Program 



• Substantial-value-added products such as chemical pesticide substitutes, edible films, 

 biodegradable industrial and food products, industrial enzymes, and food additives. 



• High-value-added products such as biomedical and veterinary products, essences, 

 altars, and flavors. 



Moderate-value-added products such as bulk fermentation chemicals and replacements 

 for significant imports such as latex, vegetable gums, and specialty vegetable oils. 



