Search Results for agency_names:"Agriculture Department"

The Department of Agriculture has submitted an information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act. They are seeking public comments on whether this data collection is necessary, the accuracy of the time estimates, and how to reduce the burden of data collection. The Rural Housing Service is using this collection to manage and evaluate the Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP), which aims to increase affordable rural rental housing by partnering with lenders and public agencies. Interested parties have until March 15, 2021, to submit comments.

The Forest Service of the USDA is inviting public comments regarding the continuation of a current information collection program, known as the Small Business Timber Sale Set-Aside Program. This initiative aims to ensure that small businesses have the opportunity to purchase timber from the National Forest System. Every five years, the Forest Service evaluates and adjusts the amount of timber reserved for small businesses, considering factors like manufacturing capability and business size changes. The public is encouraged to provide feedback on the necessity, accuracy, and ways to enhance the process of this information collection by April 26, 2021.

The Department of Agriculture is seeking public comments on an information collection request under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This request involves the Community Facilities Grant Program, which provides grants to public agencies, nonprofits, and Indian tribes for essential community services in rural areas, like schools, hospitals, and fire stations. The Department is asking for feedback on the necessity and utility of the information collected, as well as suggestions for minimizing the burden on respondents. Comments are due by March 28, 2025, and can be submitted online at the designated government website.

The Department of Agriculture has submitted an information collection requirement to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review, as part of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The focus is on the Child Nutrition Database (CNDB), which helps analyze nutrients in school meals like lunches and breakfasts. State agencies are required to use approved software, including the CNDB, for nutrient analysis to ensure compliance with dietary standards. The CNDB collects data from food manufacturers and is updated regularly; it's used voluntarily by private companies and required for compliance checks by schools. The department is requesting comments on the necessity, accuracy, and burden of this data collection.

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has re-authorized the Strategic Economic and Community Development (SECD) priority through the 2018 Farm Bill. For FY 2021, the agency is reserving funds from certain development programs to prioritize projects that support multi-jurisdictional and multi-sectoral strategic community investment plans. Applicants for these funds need to submit specific forms and meet eligibility requirements, with an emphasis on projects in rural areas. The notice also encourages projects that improve life in rural America, including areas designated as Opportunity Zones and efforts to combat substance use disorders.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is informing the public about the international standard-setting activities concerning animal and plant health. These activities involve the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), and the North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO). APHIS invites public comments on these activities, which are critical for managing global trade in animals, animal products, plants, and plant products by setting standards to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. The agency provides opportunities for stakeholders to participate in discussions and contribute to the development and implementation of these international standards.

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has reopened the comment period for their draft programmatic environmental impact statement (EIS) concerning the response to highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in poultry. This EIS evaluates the potential environmental impacts of three different action plans. The public now has until January 17, 2025, to submit their comments. This extension provides additional time for interested individuals to review and contribute their feedback.

The Economic Research Service (ERS) of the US Department of Agriculture is planning to renew a previously approved information collection effort known as the Generic Clearance for Survey Research Studies, which is due to expire in April 2025. This collection helps ERS improve survey methods and data by using various research techniques and ensures feedback from individuals, households, and businesses. The public is invited to comment on the necessity and usefulness of this data collection, as well as on any potential burdens it may create for respondents. Comments are due by February 18, 2025.

The Food and Nutrition Service of the USDA announced the benefit levels for 2025 in the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer for Children Program. These benefits, unchanged from 2024, are adjusted annually based on the Thrifty Food Plan and include regional modifications for Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. Territories. For most areas, the monthly benefit remains at $40, while Alaska and Hawaii have higher amounts due to cost differences. These adjustments comply with the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.

The U.S. Codex Office is hosting a public meeting on February 5, 2025, to discuss and gather feedback on topics for the 22nd Session of the Codex Committee on Fresh Fruits and Vegetables, which will occur in Mexico City from February 25 to March 1, 2025. Participants can register to attend the meeting virtually via video conference and are encouraged to submit comments. The meeting will cover issues like fresh fruit and vegetable standards, draft standards for specific produce, and other related business. Information and documents for the upcoming session will be available online, and the meeting offers an opportunity for the public to understand and comment on U.S. positions for the upcoming discussions.