122 



The basic Science and Education functions of the USDA - Research, Extension and 

 Education - merit close attention and priorities for each division should be coordinated 

 by one agency for in\proved efficiency and a more effective delivery system. Some 

 examples are listed: 



• In the new world economy, competitive advantages for the United States will 

 depend on maintenance and enhancement of our ability to generate and use 

 science, technology, and education. Because of the long history of USDA in these 

 areas, future priorities should build on these advantages; 



• American agriculture must continue to lead the world in adoption of science and 

 technology in order for the American public to enjoy continued benefits, and the 

 American economy to prosper; 



• A better trained and educated work force must occupy a high priority in 

 rebuilding rural America; 



• There must be an increased role for the USDA in undergraduate, graduate, non- 

 formal and extension education to address the specialized needs of agriculture, 

 natural resources, and family and consumer affairs; 



• Increased interaction and collaboration between the Science and Education 

 community and relevant USDA agencies such as Human Nutrition Information 

 Service, Soil Conservation Service, ASCS, Farmers Home Administration, Forest 

 Service, National Ag Library, Food and Nutrition Service and Food Safety and 

 Inspection Service is essential for a more functional and effective department; 



• Continued and enhanced collaboration with other federal agencies and 

 departments outside USDA, such as EPA, Energy, Interior, HHS, Commerce, 

 Labor, NSF and NIH is necessary if American Agriculture is to continue to 

 capitalize on scientific advances across all areas of science in the interest of the 

 general public. 



In light of the above, and with particular attention to the opportunities and mandates 

 emerging throughout government, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, as it relates to 

 the Science and Education agencies and the land-grant university system, should take 

 note of the following principles when establishing new priorities: 



• Now more than ever, there is a need to retain flexibility for change and focus on 

 enhancing the ability of the department to anticipate and respond to critical issues 

 in a timely manner. 



• Extension, research and education efforts of the USDA should emphasize rural 

 development and revitalization as well as an environmentally sound and 

 internationally competitive production agriculture. The USDA /Land-Grant 

 University partnership must now respond to the greater and more complex issues 

 of agriculture, environment and soded/economic rural infrastructure. 



