Overview
This Atlas provides access to an array of public data on Federal
farm programs that will allow users to visually explore a core
component of U.S. agricultural policy. These programs assist
farmers in sustaining and promoting the viability of their farm
businesses or in protecting and enhancing the environment.
Agricultural producers have a number of programs available to them,
and because program designs and purposes vary, producers may
participate in multiple programs on the same farm. For example,
programs may be tied to specific commodities or to whole farm
revenues; they may provide support for current losses or be based
on historical production, or they may be in the form of multi-year
contracts for conservation. As a result, program expenditures can
vary depending on factors such as individual producers' commodity
choices, market conditions, weather patterns, pest infestations,
and environmental conditions.
