To support the mission of the Farm Service Agency by ensuring the equitable delivery of benefits and services to improve and promote the economic stability of agriculture.

Assignment of Functions

Formulate and prepare dockets for CCC Board consideration and/or Federal Register publication for administration and operational aspects of assigned programs.

Formulate and recommend operating policies, procedures, and regulations for carrying out the marketing assistance loan program for wheat, feed grains, cotton, oilseeds, and farm stored peanut loans.

Formulate and recommend policies and procedures relating to approval of cooperative marketing associations for participation in authorized loan programs. Review applications of cooperatives to determine eligibility for program participation and recommend overall approval or disapproval. Review operations of approved cooperatives to ensure compliance with representations made in their applications and with program regulations. Request audits and investigations and recommend course of action based upon findings.

Provide focal point for handling requests for interpretations, changes, and modifications in assigned program provisions. Develop recommendations for adjustments in policies, procedures, and reporting requirements as needed. Provide technical advice and information on legislative or policy changes affecting assigned programs, including drafting legislative proposals.

Provide direction and assistance to State and county offices with respect to assigned program operations and procedures. Review and evaluate operating policies, programs and participation trends, and develop report and recommendations for program improvements. Analyze audit and investigation reports pertaining to assigned programs, draft responses, and take corrective action as necessary.

Participate in or conduct meetings and serve as liaison with FSA, interagency, and trade groups to provide technical guidance and information covering program policies, procedures and operations, and to obtain information and advice on program effectiveness.

Formulate and recommend policies, regulations, and instructions for use by State and County FSA offices for the dairy indemnification program and others which may be authorized. Determine standards for eligibility for indemnity payments and conduct final review of requests for payments in unusual cases.

When such programs may be authorized, administer and conduct direct payment and purchase programs for fresh fruits, vegetables, and other assigned commodities.