The U.S. Department of Agriculture has established new research and development priorities aimed at strengthening national security, supporting American agriculture, and assisting farmers and consumers. The updated focus emphasizes increasing profitability for farmers and ranchers through reduced input costs and enhanced mechanization and automation.
Expanding markets and developing new uses for U.S. agricultural products, including overcoming trade barriers and advancing biobased products and bioenergy, are key objectives. Protecting agriculture from invasive species such as the New World Screwworm, Spotted Lanternfly, and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza is a priority, with research targeting prevention, detection, and control methods.
Promoting soil health to maintain long-term land productivity is also central, with efforts to improve conservation practices, water-use efficiency, and reduce inputs. Additionally, the USDA will invest in precision nutrition and food quality research to improve human health and increase demand for American products.
These priorities aim to provide a strategic roadmap for agricultural research to enhance productivity, profitability, and food safety for the future.
