Federal Agricultural Agencies

What Are Federal Agricultural Agencies?

Federal agricultural agencies are government organizations responsible for supporting, regulating, and overseeing the U.S. agricultural sector, including dairy. These agencies administer farm programs, set food safety standards, manage environmental regulations, conduct research, and provide market information that directly impacts dairy operations.

Key Federal Agencies for Dairy

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The primary federal agency for agricultural matters, with multiple sub-agencies relevant to dairy:

Farm Service Agency (FSA)

• Administers the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program
• Manages farm loans and emergency assistance
• Handles conservation program enrollments
• Maintains farm records and base acres

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

• Provides technical assistance for conservation practices
• Administers EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program)
• Supports manure management and nutrient planning
• Offers cost-share for conservation improvements

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

• Administers Federal Milk Marketing Orders
• Sets milk pricing and pooling rules
• Manages the Dairy Donation Program
• Conducts market news and price reporting

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

• Manages animal disease control and prevention
• Administers the National Animal Identification System
• Regulates animal imports and exports
• Leads tuberculosis and brucellosis eradication programs

National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS)

• Publishes milk production and pricing data
• Conducts the Census of Agriculture
• Provides industry statistics for planning and benchmarking

Rural Development

• Offers loans for farm infrastructure and equipment
• Supports rural broadband expansion
• Provides grants for value-added processing

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Part of the Department of Health and Human Services:

• Regulates drug residues in milk
• Sets standards for milk safety and quality
• Oversees the Grade A Pasteurized Milk Ordinance
• Regulates animal feed and feed additives
• Administers antimicrobial use regulations

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Regulates water quality and CAFO permits
• Sets air quality standards affecting dairy operations
• Oversees pesticide registration and use
• Administers nutrient management requirements

Key Programs for Dairy Farmers

Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC)

Risk management program that pays farmers when the margin between milk prices and feed costs falls below selected coverage levels. Administered by FSA with annual enrollment.

Emergency Assistance

Multiple programs provide support during disasters, disease outbreaks, or market disruptions. Livestock Indemnity Program, Emergency Assistance for Livestock, and Emergency Conservation Program are examples.

Conservation Programs

EQIP, Conservation Stewardship Program, and Agricultural Conservation Easement Program provide funding for environmental improvements on farms.

Working with Federal Agencies

Local Service Centers

USDA Service Centers, typically located at county seats, provide access to FSA and NRCS programs. Staff can help with program enrollment, applications, and technical assistance.

Online Resources

Farmers.gov serves as a single entry point for USDA programs and services. Most applications and reporting can now be done online.

Industry Organizations

National and state dairy organizations often help members navigate federal programs and advocate for dairy-friendly policies.

Compliance Considerations

Federal agencies require various compliance activities:

• Drug withdrawal periods and testing for milk quality
• Environmental permits for larger operations (CAFOs)
• Animal identification and movement records
• Conservation compliance for program eligibility
• Recordkeeping for program verification

Staying Informed

Federal programs and regulations change regularly. Stay informed through:

• Extension service newsletters and updates
• Dairy organization communications
• USDA email subscriptions
• Trade publications and industry news
• Local service center announcements