Guide Note

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a federal executive agency that oversees food, agriculture, and farming concerns in the United States. Not only does it regulate resources and develop new practices for agricultural development, but it also monitors the quality and safety of food throughout the country. The USDA is a Cabinet-level agency led by a secretary appointed by the president, and is made up of numerous conglomerated agencies and offices. The USDA also has outreach operations to aid developing countries throughout the world.

Fast Facts

1. Formed: 1889
2. Also known as: United States Department of Agriculture
3. Preceding agencies: U.S. Patent Office Agricultural Division, Department of the Interior Agricultural Division
4. HQ: Washington, D.C.
5. Employees: 105,778
6. Secretary: Ed Schafer
7. Annual budget (2006): $94 billion
8. Notable projects: Agricultural/nutritional aid to developing countries, U.S. Food Stamp Program

1. 1839: Congress establishes the Agricultural Division within the Patent Office
2. 1849: Agricultural Division transferred to the newly-created Department of the Interior
3. May 15, 1862: President Lincoln establishes the Department of Agriculture as an independent, non-Cabinet
4. February 9, 1889: President Cleveland signs a bill that elevates the Department of Agriculture to a Cabinet-level agency