7 CFR 2.22 -

Regulations last checked for updates: Apr 18, 2024

Title 7 - Agriculture last revised: Nov 16, 2024

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Table of Contents

§ 2.14 - Deputy Secretary.

§ 2.15 - Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.

§ 2.16 - Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

§ 2.17 - Under Secretary for Rural Development.

§ 2.18 - Under Secretary for Food Safety.

§ 2.19 - Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services.

§ 2.20 - Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment.

§ 2.21 - Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics.

§ 2.22 -

§ 2.23 - Assistant Secretary for Congressional Relations.

§ 2.24 - Assistant Secretary for Administration.

§ 2.25 - Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights.

§ 2.26 - Director, Office of the Executive Secretariat.

§ 2.14 - Deputy Secretary.

The following delegation of authority is made by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Deputy Secretary: Perform all of the duties and exercise all of the powers and functions which are now or which may hereafter be, vested in the Secretary of Agriculture. This delegation is subject to the limitation in § 2.10.

[60 FR 56393, Nov. 8, 1995. Redesignated at 87 FR 44266, July 26, 2022]

§ 2.15 - Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.

(a) The following delegations of authority are made by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs:

(1) Related to foreign agriculture. (i) Coordinate the carrying out by Department agencies of their functions involving foreign agricultural policies and programs and their operations and activities in foreign areas. Act as liaison on these matters and functions relating to foreign agriculture between the Department of Agriculture and the Department of State, the United States Trade Representative, the Trade Policy Committee, the Agency for International Development, and other departments, agencies, and committees of the U.S. Government, foreign governments, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the Inter-American Development Bank, the Organization of American States, and other public and private U.S. and international organizations, and the contracting parties to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

(ii) Administer Departmental programs concerned with development of foreign markets for agricultural products of the United States except functions relating to export marketing operations under section 32 of the Act of August 23, 1935, as amended (7 U.S.C. 612c), delegated to the Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, and utilization research delegated to the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics.

(iii) Conduct studies of worldwide production, trade, marketing, prices, consumption, and other factors affecting exports and imports of U.S. agricultural commodities; obtain information on methods used by other countries to move farm commodities in world trade on a competitive basis for use in the development of programs of this Department; provide information to domestic producers, the agricultural trade, the public and other interests; and promote normal commercial markets abroad. This delegation excludes basic and long-range analyses of world conditions and developments affecting supply, demand, and trade in farm products and general economic analyses of the international financial and monetary aspects of agricultural affairs as assigned to the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics.

(iv) Conduct functions of the Department relating to WTO, the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 (19 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.), the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2101 et seq.), the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (19 U.S.C. 2501 et seq.), the Omnibus Trade and Competition Act of 1988 (19 U.S.C. 2901 et seq.), and other legislation affecting international agricultural trade including the programs designed to reduce foreign tariffs and other trade barriers.

(v) Maintain a worldwide agricultural intelligence and reporting system, including provision for foreign agricultural representation abroad to protect and promote U.S. agricultural interests and to acquire information on demand, competition, marketing, and distribution of U.S. agricultural commodities abroad pursuant to title VI of the Agricultural Act of 1954, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1761-1768).

(vi) Exercise the Department's functions with respect to the International Coffee Agreement or any such future agreement.

(vii) Administer functions of the Department relating to import controls, except those functions reserved to the Secretary in paragraph (b) of this section and those relating to section 8e of the Agricultural Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 608e-1), as assigned to the Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. These include:

(A) Functions under section 22 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, as amended (7 U.S.C. 624);

(B) General note 15(c) to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (19 U.S.C. 1202);

(C) Requests for emergency relief from duty-free imports of perishable products filed with the Department of Agriculture under section 213(f) of the Caribbean Basin Recovery Act of 1983 (19 U.S.C. 2703(f));

(D) Section 404 of the Trade and Tariff Act of 1984 (19 U.S.C. 2112 note);

(E) Section 204(d) of the Andean Trade Preference Act (19 U.S.C. 3203(d));

(F) [Reserved]

(G) Section 301(a) of the United States-Canada Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act (19 U.S.C. 2112 note); and

(H) Section 204 of the Agricultural Act of 1956, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1854).

(viii) Conduct Department activities to carry out the provisions of the Export Administration Act of 1979, as amended (50 U.S.C. Chapter 56).

(ix) Exercise the Department's responsibilities in connection with international negotiations of the Grains Trade Convention and in the administration of such Convention.

(x) Plan and carry out programs and activities under the foreign market promotion authority of: The Wheat Research and Promotion Act (7 U.S.C. 1292 note); the Cotton Research and Promotion Act (7 U.S.C. 2101-2118); the Potato Research and Promotion Act (7 U.S.C. 2611-2627); the Egg Research and Consumer Information Act of 1974 (7 U.S.C. 2701-2718); the Beef Research and Information Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 2901-2911); the Wheat and Wheat Foods Research and Nutrition Education Act (7 U.S.C. 3401-3417); the Floral Research and Consumer Information Act of 1981 (7 U.S.C. 4301-4319); subtitle B of title I of the Dairy and Tobacco Adjustment Act of 1983 (7 U.S.C. 4501-4514); the Honey Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act of 1984, as amended (7 U.S.C. 4601-4613); the Pork Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1985 (7 U.S.C. 4801-4819); the Watermelon Research and Promotion Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 4901-4916); the Pecan Promotion and Research Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6001-6013); the Mushroom Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6101-6112); the Lime Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6201-6212); the Soybean Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6301-6311); the Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 6401-6417); the Fresh Cut Flowers and Fresh Cut Greens Promotion and Consumer Information Act (7 U.S.C. 6801-6814); the Sheep Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 7101-7111); the Commodity Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1996 (7 U.S.C. 7411-7425); the Canola and Rapeseed Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act (7 U.S.C. 7441-7452); the National Kiwifruit Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Act (7 U.S.C. 7461-7473); and, the Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act (7 U.S.C. 7481-7491). This authority includes determining the programs and activities to be undertaken and assuring that they are coordinated with the overall departmental programs to develop foreign markets for U.S. agricultural products.

(xi) Formulate policies and administer barter programs under which agricultural commodities are exported.

(xii) Perform functions of the Department in connection with the development and implementation of agreements to finance the sale and exportation of agricultural commodities under the Food for Peace Act (7 U.S.C. 1691,1701.).

(xiii) [Reserved]

(xiv) Coordinate within the Department activities arising under the Food for Peace Act (except as delegated to the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics in § 2.21(a)(8)), and represent the Department in its relationships in such matters with the Department of State, any interagency committee on the Food for Peace Act, and other departments, agencies and committees of the Government.

(xv)-(xvi) [Reserved]

(xvii) Carry out activities relating to the sale, reduction, or cancellation of debt, as authorized by title VI of the Agricultural Trade and Development Act of 1954, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1738 et seq.).

(xviii) [Reserved]

(xix) Allocate the agricultural commodities acquired under price support programs that have been determined by the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation or designee to be available for export among the various export programs.

(xx) Conduct economic analyses pertaining to the foreign sugar situation.

(xxi) Exercise the Department's functions with respect to the International Sugar Agreement or any such future agreements.

(xxii) Exercise the Department's responsibilities with respect to tariff-rate quotes for dairy products under chapter 4 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (19 U.S.C. 1202).

(xxiii) Serve as a focal point for handling quality or weight discrepancy inquiries from foreign buyers of U.S. agricultural commodities to insure that they are investigated and receive a timely response and that reports thereof are made to appropriate parties and government officials in order that corrective action may be taken.

(xxiv) Establish and administer regulations relating to foreign travel by employees of the Department. Regulations will include, but not be limited to, obtaining and controlling passports, obtaining visas, coordinating Department of State medical clearances and imposing requirements for itineraries and contacting the Foreign Agricultural Affairs Officers upon arrival in the Officers' country(ies) of responsibility.

(xxv) Formulate policies and administer programs and activities authorized by the Agricultural Trade Act of 1978, as amended (7 U.S.C. 5601 et seq.).

(xxvi) Administer the Foreign Service personnel system for the Department in accordance with 22 U.S.C. 3922,except.22(a)(2)(i), but including authority to approve joint regulations issued by the Department of State and authority to represent the Department of Agriculture in all interagency consultations and negotiations with the other foreign affairs agencies with respect to joint regulations.

(xxvii) Establish and maintain U.S. Agricultural Trade Offices, to develop, maintain and expand international markets for U.S. agricultural commodities in accordance with title IV of Public Law No. 95-501 (7 U.S.C. 1765a-g).

(xxviii) Administer the programs under section 416(b) of the Agricultural Act of 1949, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1431(b)), relating to the foreign donation of CCC stocks of agricultural commodities, except as otherwise delegated in § 2.42(a)(43).

(xxix) Support remote sensing activities of the Department and research with satellite imagery including:

(A) Providing liaison with U.S. space programs;

(B) Providing administrative management of the USDA Remote Sensing Archive and the transfer of satellite imagery to all USDA agencies;

(D) Arranging for acquisition, and preparation of imagery for use to the extent of existing capabilities.

(xxx) Promote cooperation and coordination between 1862, 1890, 1994, and NLGCA Institutions, HSACUs, and cooperating forestry schools and international partner institutions in developing countries by exercising the Secretary's authority in 7 U.S.C. 3292,including,Education,and,or,developing.

(xxxi) Administer programs under the Food for Progress Act of 1985 (7 U.S.C. 1736o), except as otherwise delegated in § 2.42(a)(43).

(xxxii) Serve as Department adviser on policies, organizational arrangements, budgets, and actions to accomplish international scientific and technical cooperation in food and agriculture.

(xxxiii) Administer and direct the Department's programs in international development, technical assistance, and training carried out under the Foreign Assistance Act, as amended, as requested under such act (22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.).

(xxxiv) Administer and coordinate assigned Departmental programs in international research and scientific and technical cooperation with other governmental agencies, land grant universities, international organizations, international agricultural research centers, and other organizations, institutions, or individuals (7 U.S.C. 1624,3291.

(xxxv) Direct and coordinate the Department's participation in scientific and technical matters and exchange agreements between the United States and other countries.

(xxxvi) Direct and coordinate the Department's work with international organizations and interagency committees concerned with food and agricultural development programs (7 U.S.C. 2201-2202).

(xxxvii) Coordinate policy formulation for USDA international science and technology programs concerning international agricultural research centers, international organizations, and international agricultural research and extension activities (7 U.S.C. 3291).

(xxxviii) Disseminate, upon request, information on subjects connected with agriculture which has been acquired by USDA agencies that may be useful to the U.S. private sector in expanding foreign markets and investment opportunities through the operation of a Department information center, pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 2201.

(xxxix) Enter into contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and cost reimbursable agreements relating to agricultural research, extension, or teaching activities (7 U.S.C. 3318,3319a.

(xl) Determine amounts reimbursable for indirect costs under international agricultural programs and agreements (7 U.S.C. 3319).

(xli) Administer the Cochran Fellowship Program (7 U.S.C. 3293).

(xlii) Determine quantity trigger levels and impose additional duties under the special safeguard measures in accordance with U.S. note 2 to subchapter IV of chapter 99 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (19 U.S.C. 1202).

(xliii) Implement provisions of the Trade Act of 1974 regarding adjustment assistance for farmers (19 U.S.C. 2401-2401g).

(xliv) Implement section 3107 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 1736o-1).

(xlv) Administer the International Agricultural Education Fellowship Program (7 U.S.C. 3295).

(xlvi) Implement section 3206 of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 1726c) regarding local and regional food aid procurement projects.

(xlvii) Administer the Borlaug International Agricultural Science and Technology Fellowship Program (7 U.S.C. 3319j).

(xlviii) Compile and make available information relating to the improvement of international food security, and provide technical assistance for the improvement of international food security to Federal, State, or local agencies; agencies or instrumentalities of the government of foreign country; domestic or international organizations; or intergovernmental organizations (7 U.S.C. 1736dd).

(xlix) Administer the following provisions of the Agricultural Act of 2014, Public Law 113-79:

(A) Section 12314 relating to the Pima Agriculture Cotton Trust Fund (7 U.S.C. 2101 note), in coordination with the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

(B) Section 12315 relating to the Agriculture Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund (7 U.S.C. 7101 note), in coordination with the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

(l) In consultation with the Tribal Advisory Committee and the Director of the Office of Tribal Relations, and in coordination with the Secretaries of Commerce, State, Interior, and the heads of any other relevant Federal agencies, implement section 3312 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (7 U.S.C. 5608) to support greater inclusion of Tribal agricultural food products in Federal trade activities.

(2) [Reserved]

(3) Administer responsibilities and functions assigned under the Defense Production Act of 1950 (50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.), and title VI of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5195 et seq.), concerning foreign agricultural intelligence and other foreign agricultural matters.

(4) Carry out prize competition authorities in section 24 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719) related to functions otherwise delegated to the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, except for authorities delegated to the Chief Financial Officer in § 2.28(a)(29) and authorities reserved to the Secretary in paragraph (b)(2) of this section.

(5) Related to the U.S. Codex Office. (i) Inform the public of the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (19 U.S.C. 2578; Pres. Proc. 6780).

(ii) Enter into agreements with organizations, institutions or individuals throughout the world to conduct activities related to the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, including international outreach and education, in order to promote and support the development of a viable and sustainable global agricultural system; antihunger and improved international nutrition efforts; and increased quantity, quality, and availability of food (7 U.S.C. 3291).

(iii) Coordinate with institutions and other persons throughout the world performing agricultural and related research, extension, and teaching activities by exchanging research materials and results with such institutions or persons or by conducting with such institutions or persons joint or coordinated research, extension, or teaching activities that are related to the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission and that address problems of significance to food and agriculture in the United States (7 U.S.C. 3291).

(iv) Work with transitional and more advanced countries in food, agricultural, and related research, development, teaching, and extension activities related to the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (7 U.S.C. 3291).

(v) Enter into contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and cost reimbursable agreements to carry out the Department's agricultural research, extension, or teaching activities related to the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (7 U.S.C. 3318,3319a.

(vi) Determine amounts reimbursable for indirect costs under international agricultural programs and agreements (7 U.S.C. 3319).

(vii) Coordinate policy formulation for USDA international science and technology programs concerning the sanitary and phytosanitary standard-setting activities of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (7 U.S.C. 3291).

(b) The following authorities are reserved to the Secretary of Agriculture:

(1) Related to foreign agriculture. (i) Approving export controls with respect to any agricultural commodity, including fats and oils or animal hides or skins as provided for in the Export Administration Act of 1969, as amended (50 U.S.C. App. 2401 et seq.).

(ii) Advising the President that imports are having the effect on programs or operations of this Department required as a prerequisite for the imposition of import controls under section 22 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, as amended (7 U.S.C. 624a), recommending that the President cause an investigation to be made by the Tariff Commission of the facts so that a determination can be made whether import restrictions should be imposed under that Act, and determining under section 204(e) of the Andean Trade Preference Act (19 U.S.C. 3203(e)) that there exists a serious injury, or threat thereof and recommending to the President whether or not to take action.

(iii) Determining the agricultural commodities and the quantities thereof available for disposition under the Food for Peace Act (7 U.S.C. 1731).

(2) Approval of prize competitions that may result in the award of more than $1,000,000 in cash prizes under section 24(m)(4)(B) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719(m)(4)(B)).

[83 FR 22181, May 14, 2018, as amended at 85 FR 65512, Oct, 15, 2020. Redesignated and amended at 87 FR 44266, July 26, 2022]

§ 2.16 - Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

(a) The following delegations of authority are made by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation:

(1) Related to Farm Service Agency. (i) Formulate policies and administer programs authorized by the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1282 et seq.).

(ii) Formulate policies and administer programs authorized by the Agricultural Act of 1949, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1441 et seq.).

(iii) Coordinate and prevent duplication of aerial photographic work of the Department, including:

(A) Clearing photography projects;

(B) Assigning symbols for new aerial photography, maintaining symbol records, and furnishing symbol books;

(C) Recording departmental aerial photography flow and coordinating the issuance of aerial photography status maps of latest coverage;

(D) Promoting interchange of technical information and techniques to develop lower costs and better quality;

(E) Representing the Department on committees, task forces, work groups, and other similar groups concerned with aerial photography acquisition and reproduction, and serving as liaison with other governmental agencies on aerial photography but excluding mapping;

(F) Providing a Chairperson for the Photography Sales Committee of the Department;

(G) Coordinating development, preparation, and issuance of specifications for aerial photography for the Department;

(H) Coordinating and performing procurement, inspection, and application of specifications for USDA aerial photography;

(I) Providing for liaison with EROS Data Center to support USDA programs and research with satellite imagery reproductions; and

(J) Maintaining library and files of USDA aerial film and retrieving and supplying reproductions on request.

(iv) [Reserved]

(v) Administer the Emergency Conservation Program under the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978, as amended (16 U.S.C. 2201 et seq.).

(vi) Conduct fiscal, accounting and claims functions relating to Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) programs for which the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation has been delegated authority.

(vii) Conduct assigned activities under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stockpiling Act, as amended (50 U.S.C. 98 et seq.).

(viii) Supervise and direct Farm Service Agency State and county offices and delegate functions to be performed by Farm Service Agency State and county committees.

(ix) Administer the dairy indemnity program under the Act of August 13, 1968, as amended (7 U.S.C. 4551 et seq.).

(x) Administer procurement, processing, handling, distribution, disposition, transportation, payment, and related services with respect to surplus removal and supply operations which are carried out under section 210 of the Agricultural Act of 1956 (7 U.S.C. 1859), the Act of August 19, 1958, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1431 note), and section 709 of the Food and Agricultural Act of 1965, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1446a-1), except as delegated in paragraph (a)(3) of this section and to the Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services in § 2.19, and assist the Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services and the Assistant Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs in the procurement, handling, payment, and related services under section 32 of the Act of August 24, 1935, as amended (7 U.S.C. 612c), the Act of June 28, 1937, as amended (7 U.S.C. 713c), the National School Lunch Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 1751, et seq.), section 8 of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, as amended (42 U.S.C. 1777), section 311 of the Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3030a), section 4(a) of the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973, as amended (7 U.S.C. 612c note), and section 1114 of the Agriculture and Food Act of 1981 (7 U.S.C. 1431e).

(xi) Administer the Organic Certification Cost Share Programs authorized under the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 U.S.C. 1524(b)(4)(C)(ii), and under the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act, as amended by the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 6523). [Reserved]

(xii) Administer the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (7 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), except those functions delegated in § 2.21(a)(8)(xi).

(xiii) Administer energy management activities as assigned.

(xiv) Conduct producer referenda of commodity promotion programs under the Beef Research and Information Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 2901 et seq.), and the Agricultural Promotion Programs Act of 1990, as amended (7 U.S.C. 6001 et seq.).

(xv) Conduct field operations of diversion programs for fresh fruits and vegetables under section 32 of the Act of August 29, 1935.

(xvi) [Reserved]

(xvii) Collect, summarize, and publish data on the production, distribution, and stocks of sugar.

(xviii) Formulate and carry out the Conservation Reserve Program, including the implementation of technical assistance, under the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended (16 U.S.C. 3831 et seq.), and the functions of the Grassland Reserve Program transferred to the Conservation Reserve Program.

(xix) Carry out functions relating to highly erodible land and wetland conservation under sections 1211-1213 and 1221-1223 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended (16 U.S.C. 3811-3813 and 3821-3823).

(xx)-(xxii) [Reserved]

(xxiii) Formulate and administer regulations regarding program ineligibility resulting from convictions under Federal or State law of planting, cultivating, growing, producing, harvesting, or storing a controlled substance, as required under section 1764 of the Food Security Act of 1985 (21 U.S.C. 881a).

(xxiv) [Reserved]

(xxv) Administer all programs of the Commodity Credit Corporation that provide assistance with respect to the production of agricultural commodities or the income of producers, including disaster assistance and the domestic marketing of such commodities, except as may otherwise be reserved by the Secretary of Agriculture, and similar programs (including commodity quality development programs) consigned by statute to the Secretary of Agriculture unless otherwise delegated.

(xxvi) Administer the following provisions of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 with respect to functions otherwise delegated to the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation:

(A) The equitable relief provisions of section 1613 (7 U.S.C. 7996).

(B) The tracking of benefits under section 1614 (7 U.S.C. 7997).

(xxvii) Formulate and carry out the Grassroots Source Water Protection Program authorized by the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-2).

(xxviii) Administer cooperative agreements authorized under 7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4) as follows:

(A) Administer cooperative agreements with respect to conservation programs;

(B) Administer cooperative agreements with Federal agencies, State, local, and tribal governments, nongovernmental organizations, and educational institutions related to outreach and technical assistance for programs carried out by the Farm Service Agency, and, where such cooperative agreements focus on outreach activities to beginning, underserved, or veteran producers, coordinate with the Director, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement to reduce potential duplication.

(xxix) Administer the feedstock flexibility program for bioenergy producers under section 9010 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8110) and the biomass crop assistance program under section 9011 of that Act (7 U.S.C. 8111).

(xxx-(xxxi) [Reserved]

(xxxii) Implement the authority in section 1241 of the Food Security Act of 1985 (16 U.S.C. 3841) to accept and use voluntary contributions of non-Federal funds in support of natural resources conservation programs under subtitle D of title XII of that Act with respect to authorities delegated to the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

(xxxiii) In coordination with the Director, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, issue receipts under section 2501A(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279-1(e)).

(xxxiv) Administer the following provisions of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008, Public Law 110-246:

(A) [Reserved]

(B) Section 1609 relating to the tracking of benefits.

(C)-(D) [Reserved]

(E) Section 1621 relating to direct reimbursement payments to geographically disadvantaged farmers or ranchers.

(F)-(G) [Reserved]

(H) Section 14212 relating to the closure or relocation of county or field offices of the Farm Service Agency.

(I) Section 15353(a) relating to information reporting for Commodity Credit Corporation transactions.

(xxxv) Implement the information disclosure authorities of section 1619(b)(3)(A) of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 8791(b)(3)(A)).

(xxxvi) Administer the following provisions of the Agricultural Act of 2014, Public Law 113-79, as amended:

(A) Sections 1401-1410 relating to a margin protection program for dairy producers (7 U.S.C. 9051-9060), and section 1431 relating to a dairy product donation program (7 U.S.C. 9071).

(B) Section 1612 relating to the tracking of benefits (7 U.S.C. 9095).

(D) Section 12315 relating to the Agriculture Wool Apparel Manufacturers Trust Fund (7 U.S.C. 7101 note).

(xxxvii) Administer the funds made available to the Office of the Secretary under Title I of Subdivision B, Further Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Requirements Act, 2018, Public Law 115-123.

(xxxviii) Determine the agricultural commodities acquired under price support programs which are available for export.

(xxxix) Administer the following provisions of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, Public Law 116-334:

(A) Section 5413 relating to reporting on farm loans (7 U.S.C. 2008x).

(B) Section 12304 relating to the National Beginning Farmer and Rancher Coordinator (7 U.S.C. 6934a).

(D) Section 12615 relating to the eligibility for farm operators on heirs' property to obtain a farm loan number (7 U.S.C. 2266b).

(2) Related to farm credit. (i) Administer the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921 et seq.), except for the authority contained in the following sections:

(A) [Reserved]

(B) Section 306 (7 U.S.C. 1926), relating to all programs in that section;

(C) Section 306A (7 U.S.C. 1926a) and section 306B (7 U.S.C. 1926b), relating to the emergency community water assistance grant programs, and section 306D (7 U.S.C. 1926d), relating to water systems for rural Alaskan Native Villages;

(D) Section 306C (7 U.S.C. 1926c) to administer the water and waste facility loans and grants to alleviate health risks;

(E) Sections 309 (7 U.S.C. 1929) and 309A (7 U.S.C. 1929a), regarding assets and programs related to rural development;

(F) Section 310A (7 U.S.C. 1931), relating to watershed and resource conservation and development loans;

(G) Section 310B (7 U.S.C. 1932), regarding various Rural Development programs;

(H) Section 310C (7 U.S.C. 1933), relating to housing program interest rates;

(I) Section 310G (7 U.S.C. 1936a), relating to the use of rural development loans and grants for other purposes, and section 353A (7 U.S.C. 2001a), relating to the servicing of community facilities loans;

(J) Section 364 (7 U.S.C. 2006f) and section 365 (7 U.S.C. 2008);

(K) Administrative provisions of subtitle D of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act related to Rural Utilities Service, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, and Rural Housing Service activities.

(L) Section 375 (7 U.S.C. 2008j), relating to the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center.

(M) Sections 379 (7 U.S.C. 2008n) through 379G (7 U.S.C. 2008u) and subtitles E through I (7 U.S.C. 2009-2009dd-7) relating to rural development programs and activities.

(ii) Collect, service, and liquidate loans made or insured by the Farm Service Agency, or its predecessor agencies.

(iii) Administer the Rural Rehabilitation Corporation Trust Liquidation Act (40 U.S.C. 440 et seq.), and trust, liquidation, and other agreements entered into pursuant thereto.

(iv) [Reserved]

(v) Administer Farmers Home Administration or any successor agency assets conveyed in trust under the Participation Sales Act of 1966 (12 U.S.C. 1717).

(vi) Administer the Emergency Loan and Guarantee Programs under sections 232, 234, 237, and 253 of the Disaster Relief Act of 1970 (Pub. L. No. 91-606), the Disaster Relief Act of 1969 (Pub. L. No. 91-79), Pub. L. No. 92-385, approved August 16, 1972, and the Emergency Livestock Credit Act of 1974 (Pub. L. No. 93-357), as amended.

(vii) Administer loans to homestead or desertland entrymen and purchasers of land in reclamation projects or to an entryman under the desertland law (7 U.S.C. 1006a and 1006b).

(viii) [Reserved]

(ix) Service, collect, settle, and liquidate:

(A) Deferred land purchase obligations of individuals under the Wheeler-Case Act of August 11, 1939, as amended (16 U.S.C. 590y), and under the item, “Water Conservation and Utilization projects” in the Department of the Interior Appropriation Act, 1940 (53 Stat. 719), as amended;

(B) Puerto Rican Hurricane Relief loans under the Act of July 11, 1956 (70 Stat. 525); and

(x) Administer loans to Indian tribes, tribal corporations, and purchasers of highly fractionated land (25 U.S.C. 488-492).

(xi) Administer the State Agricultural Loan Mediation Program under title 5 of the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 (7 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.)

(xii) Administer financial assistance programs relating to Economic Opportunity Loans to Cooperatives under part A of title III and part D of title I and the necessarily related functions in title VI of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. 2763-2768,2841,2942,2943,2961,delegated,1964,and,1968,respectively.

(xiii) Exercise all authority and discretion vested in the Secretary by section 331(c) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, as amended by section 2 of the Farmers Home Administration Improvement Act of 1994, Pub. L. 103-248 (7 U.S.C. 1981(c)), including the following:

(A) Determine, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, which actions are to be referred to the Department of Justice for the conduct of litigation, and refer such actions to the Department of Justice through the General Counsel;

(B) Determine, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, which actions are to be referred to the General Counsel, for the conduct of litigation and refer such actions; and

(xiv) Administer programs for Apple Loans and Emergency Loans for Seed Producers under sections 203(f) and 253, respectively, of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 (7 U.S.C. 1421 note, Pub. L. 106-224).

(xv) Administer evaluations of direct and guaranteed loan programs under section 5301 of the Farm security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 1922 note).

(3) Related to natural resources conservation. (i) Provide national leadership in the conservation, development and productive use of the Nation's soil, water, and related resources. Such leadership encompasses soil, water, plant, and wildlife conservation; small watershed protection and flood prevention; and resource conservation and development. Integrated in these programs are erosion control, sediment reduction, pollution abatement, land use planning, multiple use, improvement of water quality, and several surveying and monitoring activities related to environmental improvement. All are designed to assure:

(A) Quality in the natural resource base for sustained use;

(B) Quality in the environment to provide attractive, convenient, and satisfying places to live, work, and play; and

(ii) Provide national leadership in and evaluate and coordinate land use policy, and administer the Farmland Protection Policy Act (7 U.S.C. 4201 et seq.), including the Farms for the Future Program authorized by sections 1465-1470 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990, as amended (7 U.S.C. 4201 note), except as otherwise delegated to the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics in § 2.21(a)(1)(lxii).

(iii) Administer the basic program of soil and water conservation under Public Law 74-46, and related laws (16 U.S.C. 590a-f,q,q-1; 42 U.S.C. 3271-3274; 7 U.S.C. 2201), including:

(A) Technical and financial assistance to land users in carrying out locally adapted soil and water conservation programs primarily through soil and water conservation districts in the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and Federally recognized Native American tribes, but also to communities, watershed groups, Federal and State agencies, and other cooperators. This authority includes such assistance as:

(1) Comprehensive planning assistance in nonmetropolitan districts;

(2) Assistance in the field of income-producing recreation on rural non-Federal lands;

(3) Forestry assistance, as part of total technical assistance to private land owners and land users when such services are an integral part of land management and such services are not available from a State agency; and forestry services in connection with windbreaks and shelter belts to prevent wind and water erosion of lands;

(4) Assistance in developing programs relating to natural beauty; and

(5) Assistance to other USDA agencies in connection with the administration of their programs, as follows:

(i) To the Farm Service Agency in the development and technical servicing of certain programs, such as the Agricultural Conservation Program and other such similar conservation programs;

(ii) To the Rural Housing Service in connection with their loan and land disposition programs;

(B) Soil Surveys, including:

(1) Providing leadership for the Federal part of the National Cooperative Soil Survey which includes conducting and publishing soil surveys;

(2) Conducting soil surveys for resource planning and development; and

(3) Performing the cartographic services essential to carrying out the functions of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, including furnishing photographs, mosaics, and maps;

(C) Conducting and coordinating snow surveys and making water supply forecasts pursuant to Reorganization Plan No. IV of 1940 (5 U.S.C. App.);

(D) Operating plant materials centers for the assembly and testing of plant species in conservation programs, including the use, administration, and disposition of lands under the administration of the Natural Resources Conservation Service for such purposes under title III of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act (7 U.S.C. 1010-1011); and

(E) Providing leadership in the inventorying and monitoring of soil, water, land, and related resources of the Nation.

(iv) Administer the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Programs, including:

(A) The eleven authorized watershed projects authorized under the Flood Control Act of 1944 (Pub. L. 78-534);

(B) The emergency flood control work under 33 U.S.C. 701b-1;

(D) The pilot watershed projects under 16 U.S.C. 590 a-f and 16 U.S.C. 1001-1009;

(E) The Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Program under 16 U.S.C. 1001-1010,including.S.C. 1012, except for responsibilities assigned to the Under Secretary for Rural Development.

(F) The joint investigations and surveys with the Department of the Army under 16 U.S.C. 1009; and

(G) The Emergency Conservation Program and the Emergency Watershed Protection Program under sections 401-405 of the Agricultural Credit Act of 1978, 16 U.S.C. 2201-2205.

(v) Administer the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program for Rural Lands and other responsibilities assigned under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.), except those responsibilities assigned to the Under Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment.

(vi) Administer the Resource Conservation and Development Program under 16 U.S.C. 590 a-f; 7 U.S.C. 1010-1011; and 16 U.S.C. 3451-3461,except.

(vii) Responsibility for entering into long-term contracts for carrying out conservation and environmental measures in watershed areas.

(viii) Provide national leadership for and administer the Soil and Water Resources Conservation Act of 1977 (16 U.S.C. 2001 et seq.).

(ix) Administer the Rural Clean Water Program and other responsibilities assigned under section 35 of the Clean Water Act of 1977 (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.).

(x) Monitor actions and progress of USDA in complying with Executive Order 11988, Flood Plain Management, 3 CFR, 1977 Comp., p. 117, and Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, 3 CFR, 1977 Comp., p. 121, regarding management of floodplains and protection of wetlands; monitor USDA efforts on protection of important agricultural, forest and rangelands; and provide staff assistance to the USDA Natural Resources and Environment Committee.

(xi) Administer the search and rescue operations authorized under 7 U.S.C. 2273.

(xii) Administer section 202(c) of the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Act, 43 U.S.C. 1592(c), including:

(A) Identify salt source areas and determine the salt load resulting from irrigation and watershed management practices;

(B) Conduct salinity control studies of irrigated salt source areas;

(C) Provide technical and financial assistance in the implementation of salinity control projects including the development of salinity control plans, technical services for application, and certification of practice applications;

(D) Develop plans for implementing measures that will reduce the salt load of the Colorado River;

(E) Develop and implement long-term monitoring and evaluation plans to measure and report progress and accomplishments in achieving program objectives; and

(F) Enter into and administer contracts with program participants and waive cost-sharing requirements when such cost-sharing requirements would result in a failure to proceed with needed on-farm measures.

(xiii) Except as otherwise delegated, administer natural resources conservation authorities, including authorities related to programs of the Commodity Credit Corporation that provide assistance with respect to natural resources conservation, under Title XII of the Food Security Act of 1985 (the Act), as amended (16 U.S.C. 3801 et seq.), including the following:

(A) Technical assistance related to the conservation of highly erodible lands and wetlands pursuant to sections 1211-1224 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3811-3824).

(B) Technical assistance related to the Conservation Reserve Program authorized by sections 1231-1235 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3831-3835).

(C) The Wetlands Reserve Program and the Emergency Wetlands Reserve Program authorized by sections 1237-1237F of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3837-3837f) prior to February 7, 2014, the transition authority under section 2703 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, and the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Relief from the Major, Widespread Flooding in the Midwest Act (Pub. L. 103-75).

(D) The Conservation Security Program authorized by sections 1238-1238C of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3838-3838c) and the Conservation Stewardship Program authorized by sections 1240I-1240L-1 (16 U.S.C. 3839aa-21—3839aa-25).

(E) The Farmland Protection Program authorized by sections 1238H-1238I of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3838h-3838i) prior to February 7, 2014, and the transition authority under section 2704 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(F) The Farm Viability Program authorized by section 1238J of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3838j) prior to February 7, 2014, and the transition authority under section 2704 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(G) The Environmental Quality Incentives Program authorized by sections 1240-1240H of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839aa-3839aa-8), the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program authorized by section 1240H of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839aa-9) prior to February 7, 2014, and section 2706 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(H) The conservation of private grazing lands authorized by section 1240M of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839bb).

(I) The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program authorized by section 1240N of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-1) prior to February 7, 2014 and Section 2707 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(J) The program for soil erosion and sedimentation control in the Great Lakes basin authorized by section 1240P of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-3) prior to February 7, 2014, and section 2708 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(K) The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Program authorized by section 1240Q of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-4) prior to February 7, 2014, and section 2709 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(L) The delivery of technical assistance under section 1242 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3842), including the approval of persons or entities outside of USDA to provide technical services.

(M) The authority for partnerships and cooperation provided by section 1243 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3843) prior to February 7, 2014, and section 2710 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(N) The incentives for certain farmers and ranchers and Indian tribes and the protection of certain proprietary information related to natural resources conservation programs as provided by section 1244 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3844).

(O) The Agriculture Conservation Experienced Services Program authorized by section 1252 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3851).

(P) The authority under sections 1261-1262 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3861-3862) to establish and utilize State Technical Committees.

(Q) The Grassland Reserve Program under sections 1238N-1238Q of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3838n-3838q) prior to February 7, 2014, and section 2705 of the Agricultural Act of 2014.

(R) The authority in section 1241 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3841) to accept and use voluntary contributions of non-Federal funds in support of natural resources conservation programs under subtitle D of title XII of the Act with respect to authorities delegated to the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation.

(S) The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program authorized by sections 1265-1265D of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3865-3865d).

(T) The Regional Conservation Partnership Program authorized by sections 1271-1271F of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3871-3871f).

(U) The Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program authorized by section 1240R of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-5).

(V) A wetlands mitigation banking program authorized by section 1222(k) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 3822(k)).

(xiv) Approve and transmit to the Congress comprehensive river basin reports.

(xv) Provide representation on the Water Resources Council and river basin commissions created by 42 U.S.C. 1962,and.

(xvii) Administer the Water Bank Program under the Water Bank Act (16 U.S.C. 1301 et seq.).

(xviii) Enter into cooperative agreements, which may provide for the acquisition of goods or services, including personal services, as authorized by Public Law 106-387 (7 U.S.C. 6962a).

(xix) Coordinate USDA input and assistance to the Department of Commerce and other Federal agencies consistent with section 307 of the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 U.S.C. 1456), and coordinate USDA review of qualifying state and local government coastal management plans or programs prepared under such Act and submitted to the Secretary of Commerce, consistent with section 306(a) and (c) of such Act (16 U.S.C. 1455(a) and (c)).

(xx) Administer the Healthy Forests Reserve Program authorized by sections 501-508, Title V of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. 6571-6578).

(xxi) Implement the information disclosure authorities of section 1619(b)(3)(A) of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 8791(b)(3)(A)).

(xxii) In coordination with the Director, Office of Advocacy and Outreach, issue receipts under section 2501A(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279-1(e)).

(xxiii) Authorize employees of the Natural Resources Conservation Service to carry and use firearms for personal protection while conducting field work in remote locations in the performance of their official duties (7 U.S.C. 2274a).

(xxiv) Conduct activities that assist the Chief Economist in developing guidelines regarding the development of environmental services markets.

(xxv) Administer the Terminal Lakes assistance program authorized by section 2507 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (16 U.S.C. 3839bb-6).

(xxvi) Administer the state and private forest landscape-scale restoration program (16 U.S.C. 2109a).

(xxvii) Administer the following provisions of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 116-334):

(A) Section 1704 (7 U.S.C. 1308-3a), authorizing waivers of the adjusted gross income limitation.

(B) In consultation with the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Section 2707 (16 U.S.C. 1531 note), relating to wildlife management.

(C) In coordination with the Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, Section 2408 (7 U.S.C. 8351 note), relating to the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program.

(D) Section 8628, relating to the purchase of Natural Resources Conservation Service property in Riverside County, California.

(E) Section 12302, relating to the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production.

(4) Related to risk management. (i) Exercise general supervision of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation.

(ii) Appoint such officers and employees as may be necessary for the transaction of the business of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation and the Risk Management Agency.

(iii) Conduct pilot programs involving revenue insurance, risk management savings accounts, or the use of futures markets to manage risk and support farm income.

(iv) Provide education in management of the financial risks inherent in the production and marketing of agricultural commodities.

(v) Conduct a study and issue a report on the efficacy and accuracy of the application of pack factors regarding the measurement of farm-stored production for purposes of providing policies or plans of insurance under the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).

(vi) Carry out functions relating to highly erodible land and wetland conservation under sections 1211-1213 and 1221-1223 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended (16 U.S.C. 3811-3813 and 3821-3823).

(vii) Prepare cropland reports as required by section 11014(c) of the Agricultural Act of 2013, Public Law 113-79.

(viii) Assist the Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics with implementing section 10016 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 regarding locally or regionally produced agricultural food products (7 U.S.C. 2204h).

(ix) Administer the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 U.S.C. 1501, et seq.), except for sections 524(a)(1)(B), (a)(3), and (b) (7 U.S.C. 1524(a)(1)(B), (a)(3), (b)) and 531 (7 U.S.C. 1531).

(x) Coordinate between agencies of the Department on the type and format of data received under the noninsured crop disaster assistance program as authorized by Sec. 196 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996, (Pub. L. 104-127, as amended) (7 U.S.C. 7333).

(5) Related to committee management. Establish and reestablish regional, state, and local advisory committees for activities under his or her authority. This authority may not be redelegated.

(6) Related to defense and emergency preparedness. (i) Administer responsibilities and functions assigned under the Defense Production Act of 1950 (50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.), and title VI of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5195 et seq.), concerning agricultural production; food processing, storage, and distribution; distribution of farm equipment and fertilizer; rehabilitation and use of food, agricultural, and related agribusiness facilities; CCC resources; and farm credit and financial assistance.

(ii) Administer functions delegated by the President to the Secretary under Executive Order 13603, “National Defense Resources Preparedness” (3 CFR, 2012 Comp., p. 225), and Executive Order 12742, “National Security Industrial Responsiveness” (3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 309), including administration of an Agriculture Priorities and Allocations System.

(7) Related to environmental response. With respect to land and facilities under his or her authority, exercise the functions delegated to the Secretary by Executive Order 12580, 3 CFR, 1987 Comp., p. 193, under the following provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (“the Act”), as amended:

(i) Sections 104 (a), (b), and (c)(4) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604 (a), (b), and (c)(4)), with respect to removal and remedial actions in the event of release or threatened release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant into the environment;

(ii) Sections 104(e)-(h) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(e)-(h)), with respect to information gathering and access requests and orders; compliance with Federal health and safety standards and wage and labor standards applicable to covered work; and emergency procurement powers;

(iii) Section 104(i)(11) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(i)(11)), with respect to the reduction of exposure to significant risk to human health;

(iv) Section 104(j) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(j)), with respect to the acquisition of real property and interests in real property required to conduct a remedial action;

(v) The first two sentences of section 105(d) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9605(d)), with respect to petition for preliminary assessment of a release or threatened release;

(vi) Section 105(f) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9605(f)), with respect to consideration of the availability of qualified minority firms in awarding contracts, but excluding that portion of section 105(f) pertaining to the annual report to Congress;

(vii) Section 109 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9609), with respect to the assessment of civil penalties for violations of section 122 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9622), and the granting of awards to individuals providing information;

(viii) Section 111(f) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9611(f)), with respect to the designation of officials who may obligate money in the Hazardous Substances Superfund;

(ix) Section 113(k) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9613(k)), with respect to establishing an administrative record upon which to base the selection of a response action and identifying and notifying potentially responsible parties;

(x) Section 116(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9616(a)), with respect to preliminary assessment and site inspection of facilities;

(xi) Sections 117(a) and (c) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9617(a) and (c)), with respect to public participation in the preparation of any plan for remedial action and explanation of variances from the final remedial action plan for any remedial action or enforcement action, including any settlement or consent decree entered into;

(xii) Section 119 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9119), with respect to indemnifying response action contractors;

(xiii) Section 121 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9621), with respect to cleanup standards; and

(xiv) Section 122 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9622), with respect to settlements, but excluding section 122(b)(1) of the Act.

(8) Related to compliance with environmental laws. With respect to facilities and activities under his or her authority, to exercise the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to section 1-102 related to compliance with applicable pollution control standards and section 1-601 of Executive Order 12088, 3 CFR, 1978 Comp., p. 243, to enter into an inter-agency agreement with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or an administrative consent order or a consent judgment in an appropriate State, interstate, or local agency, containing a plan and schedule to achieve and maintain compliance with applicable pollution control standards established pursuant to the following:

(i) Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, as further amended by the Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments, and the Federal Facility Compliance Act (42 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.);

(ii) Federal Water Pollution Prevention and Control Act, as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);

(iii) Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.);

(iv) Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.);

(v) Noise Control Act of 1972, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4901 et seq.);

(vi) Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended (15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.);

(vii) Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 136 et seq.); and

(viii) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).

(9) Related to hazardous materials management. (i) Serve on the USDA Hazardous Materials Policy Council.

(ii) Recommend actions and policies that enable USDA agencies under his or her authority to comply with the intent, purposes, and standards of environmental laws for pollution prevention, control, and abatement.

(iii) Consult with the United States Environmental Protection Agency and other appropriate Federal agencies in developing pollution prevention, control, and abatement policies and programs relating to agencies under his or her authority.

(iv) Recommend actions and policies of the loan and grant programs under his or her authority concerning compliance with the Asset Conservation, Lender Liability, and Deposit Insurance Protection Act of 1996, Subtitle E of Public Law No. 104-208.

(10) Carry out prize competition authorities in section 24 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719) related to functions otherwise delegated to the Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, except for authorities delegated to the Chief Financial Officer in § 2.28(a)(29) and authorities reserved to the Secretary in paragraph (b)(4) of this section.

(11) Administer a Century Farms Program as authorized by section 12508 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (7 U.S.C. 2266a).

(12) Establish programs with any bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), or with other agencies within USDA, in support of the Service First initiative for the purpose of promoting customer service and efficiency, including delegating to employees of DOI and other USDA agencies the authorities of the agencies in the Farm Production and Conservation mission area necessary to carry out projects on behalf of USDA (43 U.S.C. 1703).

(b) The following authorities are reserved to the Secretary of Agriculture:

(1) Related to farm service. (i) Appointment of Farm Service Agency State committeemen.

(ii) Final approval of regulations relating to the selection and exercise of the functions of committees promulgated under section 8(b) of the Soil Conservation and Domestic Allotment Act, as amended (16 U.S.C. 590h(b)).

(iii) Final approval of allocations orders issued by the Department pursuant to authorities delegated by the President to the Secretary under Executive Order 13603, “National Defense Resources Preparedness” (3 CFR, 2012 Comp., p. 225).

(2) Related to natural resources conservation. Designation of new project areas in which the resource conservation and development program assistance will be provided.

(3) Related to risk management. (i) Appointment of those members of the Board of Directors of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation who are not already otherwise employed by the Department of Agriculture, and as authorized in 7 U.S.C. 1505(a) designating an Under Secretary of Agriculture to be a member of the Board in addition to the Under Secretary responsible for the Federal crop insurance program who is a Board member pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 1505(a).

(ii) Appointment of the Administrator of the Risk Management Agency who also shall serve as the Manager of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation.

(4) Approval of prize competitions that may result in the award of more than $1,000,000 in cash prizes under section 24(m)(4)(B) of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719(m)(4)(B)).

[60 FR 56393, Nov. 8, 1995, as amended at 61 FR 25775, May 23, 1996; 61 FR 37552, July 18, 1996; 62 FR 1031, Jan. 8, 1997; 62 FR 19900, Apr. 24, 1997; 62 FR 40253, July 28, 1997; 65 FR 12427, Mar. 9, 2000; 68 FR 27435, May 20, 2003; 71 FR 35491, June 21, 2006; 71 FR 51421, Aug. 30, 2006; 74 FR 3401, Jan. 21, 2009; 75 FR 43368, July 23, 2010; 78 FR 40937, July 9, 2013; 79 FR 44106, July 30, 2014; 80 FR 58336, Sept. 29, 2015; 83 FR 22179, May 14, 2018; 83 FR 61311, Nov. 29. 2018; 85 FR 65504, Oct. 15, 2020; 87 FR 44267, July 26, 2022]

§ 2.17 - Under Secretary for Rural Development.

(a) The following delegations of authority are made by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Rural Development:

(1) Provide leadership and coordination within the executive branch of a Nationwide Rural Development Program utilizing the services of executive branch departments and agencies and the agencies, bureaus, offices, and services of the Department of Agriculture in coordination with rural development programs of State and local governments (7 U.S.C. 2204).

(2) Coordinate activities relative to rural development among agencies reporting to the Under Secretary for Rural Development and, through appropriate channels, serve as the coordinating official for other departmental agencies having primary responsibilities for specific titles of the Rural Development Act of 1972, and allied legislation.

(3) Administer a national program of economic, social, and environmental research and analysis, statistical programs, and associated service work related to rural people and the communities in which they live including rural industrialization; rural population and manpower; local government finance; income development strategies; housing; social services and utilization; adjustments to changing economic and technical forces; and other related matters.

(4) Work with Federal agencies in encouraging the creation of rural community development organizations.

(5) Assist other Federal agencies in making rural community development organizations aware of the Federal programs available to them.

(6) Advise rural community development organizations of the availability of Federal assistance programs.

(7) Advise other Federal agencies of the need for particular Federal programs.

(8) Assist rural community development organizations in making contact with Federal agencies whose assistance may be of benefit to them.

(9) Assist other Federal agencies and national organizations in developing means for extending their services effectively to rural areas.

(10) Assist other Federal agencies in designating pilot projects in rural areas.

(11) Conduct studies to determine how programs of the Department can be brought to bear on the economic development problems of the country and assure that local groups are receiving adequate technical assistance from Federal agencies or from local and State governments in formulating development programs and in carrying out planned development activities.

(12) Assist other Federal agencies in formulating manpower development and training policies.

(13) Related to committee management. Establish and reestablish regional, state, and local advisory committees for activities under his or her authority. This authority may not be re-delegated.

(14) Related to defense and emergency preparedness. Administer responsibilities and functions assigned under the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.), and title VI of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5195 et seq.), concerning rural development credit and financial assistance.

(15) Related to energy. (i) Provide Department-wide operational support and coordination for loan and grant programs to foster and encourage the production of fuels from agricultural and forestry products or by-products.

(ii) Participate as a Department representative at conferences, meetings and other contacts including liaison with the Department of Energy and other government agencies and departments with respect to implementation of established Department energy policy.

(iii) Serve as Co-Chairperson of the Energy Coordinating Committee of the Department.

(16) Collect, service, and liquidate loans made, insured, or guaranteed by the Rural Utilities Service, the Rural Housing Service, the Rural Business-Cooperative Service, or their predecessor agencies.

(17) [Reserved]

(18) With respect to land and facilities under his or her authority, exercise the functions delegated to the Secretary by Executive Order 12580, 3 CFR, 1987 Comp., p. 193, under the following provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (“the Act”), as amended:

(i) Sections 104(a), (b), and (c)(4) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(a), (b), and (c)(4)), with respect to removal and remedial actions in the event of release or threatened release of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant into the environment;

(iii) Section 104(i)(11) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(i)(11)), with respect to the reduction of exposure to significant risk to human health;

(iv) Section 104(j) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9604(j)), with respect to the acquisition of real property and interests in real property required to conduct a remedial action;

(v) The first two sentences of section 105(d) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9605(d)), with respect to petitions for preliminary assessment of a release or threatened release;

(viii) Section 111(f) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9611(f)), with respect to the designation of officials who may obligate money in the Hazardous Substances Superfund;

(x) Section 116(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9616(a)), with respect to preliminary assessment and site inspection of facilities;

(xii) Section 119 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9119), with respect to indemnifying response action contractors;

(xiii) Section 121 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9621), with respect to cleanup standards; and

(xiv) Section 122 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9622), with respect to settlements, but excluding section 122(b)(1) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 9622(b)(1)), related to mixed funding agreements.

(19) With respect to facilities and activities under his or her authority, to exercise the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to section 1-102 related to compliance with applicable pollution control standards and section 1-601 of Executive Order 12088, 3 CFR, 1978 Comp., p. 243, to enter into an inter-agency agreement with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or an administrative consent order or a consent judgment in an appropriate State, interstate, or local agency, containing a plan and schedule to achieve and maintain compliance with applicable pollution control standards established pursuant to the following:

(ii) Federal Water Pollution Prevention and Control Act, as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);

(iii) Safe Drinking Water Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 300f et seq.);

(iv) Clean Air Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.);

(v) Noise Control Act of 1972, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4901 et seq.);

(vi) Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended (15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq.);

(vii) Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, as amended (7 U.S.C. 136 et seq.); and

(viii) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.).

(20) Related to rural utilities service. (i) Administer the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, as amended (7 U.S.C. 901 et seq.) except for rural economic development loan and grant programs; (7 U.S.C. 940c and 950aa et seq.): Provided, however, that the Under Secretary may utilize consultants and attorneys for the provision of legal services pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 918,with.

(ii) Administer the Rural Electrification Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 903 note).

(iii) Designate the chief executive officer of the Rural Telephone Bank.

(iv) Administer the following sections of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921, et seq.):

(A) Section 306 (7 U.S.C. 1926), related to water and waste facilities.

(B) Section 306A (7 U.S.C. 1926a).

(D) Section 306C (7 U.S.C. 1926c).

(E) Section 306D (7 U.S.C. 1926d).

(F) Section 306E (7 U.S.C. 1926e).

(G) Section 309 (7 U.S.C. 1929) and 309A (7 U.S.C. 1929a), relating to assets and programs related to watershed facilities, resource and conservation facilities, and water and waste facilities.

(H) Section 310A (7 U.S.C. 1931), relating to watershed and resource conservation and development

(I) Section 310B(b) (7 U.S.C. 1932(b)).

(J) [Reserved]

(K) Administrative Provisions of subtitle D of the consolidated Farm and Rural Development act relating to rural utility activities.

(L) Section 379B (7 U.S.C. 2008p).

(v) Administer section 8, and those functions with respect to repayment of obligations under section 4 of the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act (16 U.S.C. 1006a,1004.S.C. 1011(e)).

(vi) Administer the Water and Waste Loan Program (7 U.S.C. 1926-1).

(vii) Administer the Rural Wastewater Treatment Circuit Rider Program (7 U.S.C. 1926 note).

(viii) Administer the Distance Learning and Medical Link Programs (7 U.S.C. 950aaa et seq.).

(ix) Administer Water and Waste Facility Programs and activities (7 U.S.C. 1926-1).

(x) Consult with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information to assist in the verification of eligibility of the broadband loan and grant programs of the Department of Agriculture (7 U.S.C. 950bb-6).

(xi) In coordination with the Director, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, issue receipts under section 2501A(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279-1(e)).

(xii) Administer section 6407 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8107a), relating to a rural energy savings program.

(xiii) Administer section 6210 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, Public Law 113-79, relating to funding of pending rural development loan and grant applications.

(xiv) Administer the authority under section 746 of Division A of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (Pub. L. 115-141), and any successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts, to issue waivers to the U.S. iron and steel requirements for the construction, alteration, maintenance, or repair of a public water or wastewater system.

(xv) In coordination with the Federal Communications Commission, administer Section 12511 of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-334) relating to the precision agriculture connectivity task force.

(21) Related to rural business-cooperative. (i) Administer the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Programs under the Rural Electrification Act (7 U.S.C. 940c and 950aa et seq.).

(ii) Administer the following sections of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921 et seq.):

(A) Section 306(a)(110(A) (7 U.S.C. 1926(a)(11)(A)), relating to grants for business technical assistance and planning.

(B) [Reserved]

(C) Sections 309 (7 U.S.C. 1929) and 309A (7 U.S.C. 1929a), relating to assets and programs related to rural development.

(D) Section 310B (7 U.S.C. 1932), relating to various Rural Development programs, except for subsection (b) of that section.

(E) Section 310H (7 U.S.C. 1936b), relating to an intermediary relending program.

(F) Administrative Provisions of subtitle D of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act relating to rural business-cooperative activities.

(G) Section 378 (7 U.S.C. 2008m) relating to the National Rural Development Partnership;

(H) Section 379E (7 U.S.C. 2008s) relating to the Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program.

(I) Section 379F (7 U.S.C. 2000t) relating to the Expansion of Employment Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities in Rural Areas Program.

(J) Section 379G (7 U.S.C. 2008u) relating to Health Care Services.

(K) Section 382A et seq. (7 U.S.C. 2009aa et seq.) relating to the Delta Regional Authority.

(L) Section 383A et seq. (7 U.S.C. 2009bb et seq.) relating to the Northern Great Plains Regional Authority.

(M) Section 384A et seq. (7 U.S.C. 2009cc et seq.) relating to the Rural Business Investment Program;

(N) Section 385A et seq. (7 U.S.C. 2009dd et seq.) relating to the Rural Collaborative Investment Program.

(iii) Administer Alcohol Fuels Credit Guarantee Program Account (Pub. L. 102-341, 106 Stat. 895).

(iv) [Reserved]

(v) Administer loan programs in the Appalachian region under sections 203 and 204 of the Appalachian Regional Development Act of 1965 (40 U.S.C. App. 204).

(vi) Administer section 601 of the Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978 (Pub. L. 95-620).

(vii) Administer the Drought and Disaster Guaranteed Loan Program under section 331 of the Disaster Assistance Act of 1988 (7 U.S.C. 1929a note).

(viii) Administer the Disaster Assistance for Rural Business Enterprises Guaranteed Loan Program under section 401 of the Disaster Assistance Act of 1989 (7 U.S.C. 1929a note).

(ix) Administer the Rural Economic Development Demonstration Grant Program (7 U.S.C. 2662a).

(x) Administer the Economically Disadvantaged Rural Community Loan Program (7 U.S.C. 6616).

(xi) Administer the assets of the Alternative Agricultural Research and Commercialization Corporation and the funds in the Alternative Agricultural Research and Commercialization Fund in accordance with section 6201 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2000 (note to 7 U.S.C. 5901 (repealed)).

(xii) Administer programs authorized by the Cooperative Marketing Act of 1926 (7 U.S.C. 451-457).

(xiii) Carry out the responsibilities of the Secretary of Agriculture relating to the marketing aspects of cooperatives, including economic research and analysis, the application of economic research findings, technical assistance to existing and developing cooperatives, education on cooperatives, and statistical information pertaining to cooperatives as authorized by the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1621-1627).

(xiv) Work with institutions and international organizations throughout the world on subjects related to the development and operation of agricultural cooperatives. Such work may be carried out by:

(A) Exchanging materials and results with such institutions or organizations;

(B) Engaging in joint or coordinated activities; or

(xv) Administer in rural areas the process of designation, provision of monitoring and oversight, and provision of technical assistance for Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities pursuant to section 13301 of Public Law 103-66, Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 (26 U.S.C. 1391 et seq.)

(xvi) Work with Federal agencies in encouraging the creation of local rural community development organizations. Within a State, assist other Federal agencies in developing means for extending their services effectively to rural areas and in designating pilot projects in rural areas (7 U.S.C. 2204).

(xvii) Conduct assessments to determine how programs of the Department can be brought to bear on the economic development problems of a State or local area and assure that local groups are receiving adequate and effective technical assistance from Federal agencies or from local and State governments in formulating development programs and in carrying out planned development activities (7 U.S.C. 2204b).

(xviii) Develop a process through which State, sub-state and local rural development needs, goals, objectives, plans, and recommendations can be received and assessed on a continuing basis (7 U.S.C. 2204b).

(xix) Prepare local or area-wide rural development strategies based on the needs, goals, objectives, plans and recommendations of local communities, sub-state areas and States (7 U.S.C. 2204b).

(xx) Develop a system of outreach in the State or local area to promote rural development and provide for the publication and dissemination of information, through multi-media methods, relating to rural development. Advise local rural development organizations of availability of Federal programs and the type of assistance available, and assist in making contact with Federal program (7 U.S.C. 2204; 7 U.S.C. 2204b).

(xxi) In coordination with the Under Secretary of Marketing and Regulatory Programs, administer the value-added producer grants program and farmers' markets and local food promotion program (7 U.S.C. 1627c(d)(5)-(6)).

(xxii) Administer the Agriculture Innovation Center Demonstration program (7 U.S.C. 1632b).

(xxiii) Administer the renewable energy programs authorized in sections 9003, 9004, 9005, 9007, and 9009 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8103,8104,8105,8107,and.

(xxiv) Implement the information disclosure authorities of section 1619(b)(3)(A) of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 8791(b)(3)(A)).

(xxv) In coordination with the Director, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, issue receipts under section 2501A(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279-1(e)).

(xxvi) Administer the Healthy Food Financing Initiative under section 243 of the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 6953).

(xxvii) Administer section 6209 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 2207b), relating to the collection and reporting of program metrics.

(xxviii) Implementation of a program for the Federal procurement of biobased products and of a voluntary “USDA Certified Biobased product” labeling program (7 U.S.C. 8102).

(xxix) Entering into cooperative agreements to further research programs in the food and agricultural sciences, related to establishing and implementing Federal biobased procurement and voluntary biobased labeling programs (7 U.S.C. 3318).

(22) Related to rural housing. (i) Administer the following under the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (7 U.S.C. 1921 et seq.):

(A) Section 306 (7 U.S.C. 1926), except with respect to financing for water and waste disposal facilities; or loans for rural electrification or telephone systems or facilities other than hydroelectric generating and related distribution systems and supplemental and supporting structures if they are eligible for Rural Utilities Service financing; and financing for grazing facilities and irrigation and drainage facilities; and subsection 306(a)(11).

(B) Section 309A (7 U.S.C. 1929a), regarding assets and programs relating to community facilities.

(C) Administrative Provisions of subtitle D of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act relating to rural housing activities.

(D) Section 379 (7 U.S.C. 2008n) relating to the Rural Telework program;

(E) Section 379A (7 U.S.C. 2008o) relating to the Historic Barn Preservation program; and

(F) Section 379C (7 U.S.C. 2008q) relating to the Farm Workers Training Grant program.

(ii) Administer title V of the Housing Act of 1949 (42 U.S.C. 1471 et seq.), except those functions pertaining to research.

(iii) In consultation with the Department of Justice, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and Secretary of Health and Human Services, administer the emergency and transitional pet shelter and housing assistance grant program (34 U.S.C. 20127).

(iv) Administer the Rural Housing Disaster Program under sections 232, 234, and 253 of the Disaster Relief Act of 1970 (Pub. L. No. 91-606).

(v) Exercise all authority and discretion vested in the Secretary by section 510(d) of the Housing Act of 1949, as amended by section 1045 of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Amendments Act of 1988, Pub. L. 100-628 (42 U.S.C. 1480(d)), including the following:

(B) Determine, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, which actions are to be referred to the General Counsel for the conduct of litigation and refer such actions; and

(C) Enter into contracts with private sector attorneys for the conduct of litigation, with the concurrence of the General Counsel, after determining that the attorneys will provide competent and cost effective representation for the Rural Housing Service and representation by the attorney will either accelerate the process by which a family or person eligible for assistance under section 502 of the Housing Act of 1949 will be able to purchase and occupy the housing involved, or preserve the quality of the housing involved.

(vi) Administer the Rural Firefighters and Emergency Personnel Grant program (7 U.S.C. 2655).

(vii) Implement the information disclosure authorities of section 1619(b)(3)(A) of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 8791(b)(3)(A)).

(viii) In coordination with the Director, Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement, issue receipts under section 2501A(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 2279-1(e)).

(23) Related to hazardous materials management. (i) Serve on the USDA Hazardous Materials Policy Council.

(24)-(25) [Reserved]

(26) Related cooperative agreements. Enter into cooperative agreements with other Federal agencies, State and local governments, and any other organizations or individuals to improve the coordination and effectiveness of Federal programs, services, and actions affecting rural areas, including the establishment and financing of interagency groups, as long as the objectives of the agreement will serve the mutual interest of the parties in rural development activities (7 U.S.C. 2204b(b)(4)).

(27) Exercise the authority in section 10101 of the Disaster Relief and Recovery Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008, Public Law 110-329, div. B., regarding the Rural Development Disaster Assistance Fund.

(28) In coordination with the Office of Tribal Relations, provide technical assistance to improve access by Tribal entities to rural development programs funded by the Department of Agriculture through available cooperative agreement authorities (7 U.S.C. 2671).

(29) Implement section 14218 of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 6941a).

(30) Related to biomass research and development.

Administer section 9008 of FSRIA (7 U.S.C. 8108) with respect to biomass research and development, including administration of the Biomass Research and Development Board and Biomass Research and Development Technical Advisory Committee, and submission of reports to Congress, except for the authority delegated to the Under Secretary for REE in § 2.21(a)(1)(cci) to carry out the Biomass Research and Development Initiative; consult and coordinate, as appropriate, with the Under Secretary for REE and other mission areas within the Department as deemed necessary in carrying out the authorities delegated herein; and serve as the designated point of contact referenced in 7 U.S.C. 8108 for the Department, except for purposes of administering the Biomass Research and Development Initiative as provided in § 2.21(a)(1)(cci).

(31) Carry out prize competition authorities in section 24 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3719) related to functions otherwise delegated to the Under Secretary for Rural Development, except for authorities delegated to the Chief Financial Officer in § 2.28(a)(29) and authorities reserved to the Secretary in paragraph (b)(2) of this section.

(32) Oversee the Rural Health Liaison (7 U.S.C. 6946).

(b) The following authority is reserved to the Secretary of Agriculture:

(1) Related to rural business-cooperative. Submission to the Congress of the report required pursuant to section 1469 of Pub. L. No. 101-624.

[60 FR 56393, Nov. 8, 1995, as amended at 65 FR 12427, Mar. 9, 2000; 66 FR 31107, June 11, 2001; 68 FR 27436, May 20, 2003; 74 FR 3402, Jan. 21, 2009; 75 FR 43368, July 23, 2010; 76 FR 52851, Aug. 24, 2011; 78 FR 40937, July 9, 2013; 79 FR 44106, July 30, 2014; 80 FR 58336, Sept. 29, 2015; 83 FR 22181, May 14, 2018; 83 FR 61311, Nov. 29, 2018; 85 FR 65506, Oct. 15, 2020]

§ 2.18 - Under Secretary for Food Safety.

(a) The following delegations of authority are made by the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Food Safety:

(1) Related to food safety and inspection. (i) Exercise the functions of the Secretary of Agriculture contained in the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1621-1627), relating to voluntary inspection of poultry and edible products thereof; voluntary inspection and certification of technical animal fat; certified products for dogs, cats, and other carnivora; voluntary inspection of rabbits and edible products thereof; and voluntary inspection and certification of edible meat and other products.

(ii) Exercise the functions of the Secretary of Agriculture contained in the following legislation:

(A) Poultry Products Inspection Act, as amended (21 U.S.C. 451-470,472;

(B) Federal Meat Inspection Act, as amended, and related legislation, excluding so much of section 18 as pertains to issuance of certificates of condition of live animals intended and offered for export (21 U.S.C. 601-613,615,641,661,671,683,691,694;

(C) Egg Products Inspection Act, except for the Shell Egg Surveillance Program, voluntary laboratory analyses of egg products, and the Voluntary Egg Grading Program (21 U.S.C. 1031-1056);

(D) Talmadge-Aiken Act (7 U.S.C. 450) with respect to cooperation with States in administration of the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act;

(E) Humane Slaughter Act (7 U.S.C. 1901-1906);

(F) National Laboratory Accreditation Program (7 U.S.C. 138-138i) with respect to laboratories accredited only for pesticide residue analysis in meat and poultry products;

(G) Administer and conduct a Food Safety Research Program (7 U.S.C. 427); and

(H) Conduct an education program regarding the availability and safety of processes and treatments that eliminate or substantially reduce the level of pathogens on meat, meat food products, poultry, and poultry products (21 U.S.C. 679b).

(iii) Coordinate with the Assistant Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs the administration of programs relating to human pathogen reduction (such as salmonella enteritidis) pursuant to section 2 of the Act of February 2, 1903, as amended (21 U.S.C. 111), and sections 4 and 5 of the Act of May 29, 1884, as amended (21 U.S.C. 120).

(iv) Enter into contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements to further research programs in the agricultural sciences (7 U.S.C. 3318).

(2) Related to committee management. Establish and reestablish regional, State, and local advisory committees for activities under his or her authority. This authority may not be redelegated.

(3) Related to defense and emergency preparedness. Administer responsibilities and functions assigned under the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (50 U.S.C. App. 2061 et seq.), and title VI of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5195 et seq.), concerning the wholesomeness of meat and poultry and products thereof and inspection of eggs and egg products.

(4) Related to biotechnology. Coordinate the development and carrying out by Department agencies of all matters and functions pertaining to the Department's regulation of biotechnology as they may affect the safety of meat, poultry or egg products.

(5) Related to environmental response. With respect to land and facilities under his or her authority, exercise the functions delegated to the Secretary by Executive Order 12580, 3 CFR, 1987 Comp., p. 193, under the following provisions of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (“the Act”), as amended: