The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is seeking nominations to the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics. Members of this Committee advise the Secretary of Agriculture on the scope, timing and content of periodic agricultural censuses, surveys of agriculture and other related industries. The committee also makes recommendations on the content of agriculture reports and represents the views and data needs of suppliers and users of agricultural statistics.
“The Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics serves a vital role to the National Agricultural Statistics Service,” said Renee Picanso, Associate Administrator. “The committee is made up of a diverse panel of experts whose expertise and experiences we tap to keep current with data needs in the rapidly changing agricultural environment. Committee members also help keep NASS informed of emerging issues in the agriculture community that can affect our statistical activities.”
The committee, appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, consists of 20 members representing a broad range of disciplines and interests including, but not limited to, agricultural producers, national farm organizations, agricultural economists, rural sociologists, farm policy analysts, educators, state agricultural organizations, organic agriculture, local and regional food systems, and agriculture-related business and marketing experts. Members serve a staggered two-year term and can serve up to three terms for a total of six consecutive years. Nominations are currently being sought for 10 open committee seats.
“Serving on this committee is a significant opportunity to bring input and recommendations to the table so we understand the data needs of all those by all of USDA,” added Picanso. “We strongly encourage anyone interested to apply and help represent the needs of today’s diverse agriculture industry.”
To submit a nomination, complete the AD-755 form , Advisory Committee or Research and Promotion Background Information, available as a .pdf on the NASS website.
The completed form must be received by November 29, 2016 by one of the following methods:
• Email: Scan the completed form and email it to: HQOA@nass.usda.gov
• eFax: (855) 493-0445
• Mail: Nominations may be mailed to Renee Picanso, Associate Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., South Building Room 5041-A, Washington, DC 20250
For more details see the Federal Register Notice of Invitation for Nominations to the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics or visit the NASS Advisory Committee website.