Agency's Role

The U.S. Department of Agriculture "provides leadership on food, natural resources, agriculture, nutrition, rural development, and related issues based on public policy, the best available science, and effective management". One of the ways that this agency has an impact on environmental quality is through the establishment of regional climate hubs for risk adaptation and mitigation to climate change. These hubs deliver science-based knowledge and provide:

• technical support for land managers to respond to drought, heat stress, floods, pests, and changes in the growing season

• assessments and regional forecasts for hazard and adaptation planning to provide more time to prepare

• outreach and education for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners on ways to mitigate risks and thrive despite changes

This program is important in making sure that farmers and ranchers have the resources to effectively keep growing their crops even when environmental changes occur.