Climate Change
Climate change will affect crop and livestock yields worldwide, which will lead to changes in food and fiber consumption, prices of agricultural commodities, and farm incomes.
Conservation Programs
Some farming practices (excess fertilization and manure, for example) can degrade our Nation's natural resources while others (such as preserving land for wildlife) can enhance our natural heritage. USDA conservation programs offer producers a range of options for assistance with conservation efforts.
Environmental Quality
ERS analyzes the extent of conservation practices and the efficacy of Federal programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program in combating the harmful effects of agriculture.
Invasive Species Issues
USDA and other Federal and State Government agencies have programs to prevent entry and to detect, monitor, and manage invasive species that enter the United States or spread to new regions. This page presents an overview, background and current issues on the ERS invasive species management research program.
Organic Agriculture
Consumer demand for organically produced goods has shown double-digit growth for well over a decade, providing market incentives for U.S. farmers across a broad range of products.