Technical Assistance

Section 342 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (the 1996 Act) expands the membership and roles of State Technical Committees established pursuant to Section 1261 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended (the 1985 Act). Under Section 1261, the Secretary must establish a technical committee in each State to assist in making technical considerations related to the implementation of the 1985 Act's conservation provisions. Consistent with the 1985 Act, State Technical Committees work closely with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in an advisory capacity. This rule sets forth the policies and procedures for the use of State Technical Committees by USDA, the membership criteria, and the responsibilities assigned to these committees. It also amends regulations to reflect the responsibilities assigned to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) beyond that of soil conservation. This rule amends regulations to acknowledge the NRCS mission to promote the long-term sustainability of all agricultural lands, including cropland, forestland, and grazing lands which include pastureland, rangeland, and grazed forest land. This rule further explains the NRCS mission to include improving water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, wetlands, and unique natural areas.