The Department of Agriculture Can Minimize the Risk of Potential Crop Failures
CED-81-75
Published: Apr 10, 1981. Publicly Released: Apr 10, 1981.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the need for improved management of plant genetic resources to minimize crop damage due to disease, insects, or adverse weather conditions. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a number of programs meant to reduce the risks resulting from the vulnerability of crops.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Agriculture | The Secretary of Agriculture should direct that the National Plant Germplasm System's first priority be development of a comprehensive, long-range plan addressing: (1) assessment of the genetic vulnerability of major crops; (2) determination of the gaps in current germplasm collections in terms of availability and evaluation; and (3) assurance that stored germplasm is available by ensuring that the stock is evaluated, that an information system is in place so that the information can be disseminated, and that, when necessary, prebreeding is done so that desirable genetic characteristics from otherwise undesirable types are transferred into a more suitable genetic background. |
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
|
| Department of Agriculture | The Secretary of Agriculture should centralize authority over the federal portion of the National Plant Germplasm System with that central authority having responsibility for all USDA-funded germplasm activities. GAO is not recommending that program activities be collapsed, but that management authority for planning, budget, and personnel be centralized, possibly within the Science and Education Administration. Until such action is taken, the major issues of genetic vulnerability and variability cannot be effectively addressed. |
Closed
Please call 202/512-6100 for additional information.
|
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Agricultural pestsAgricultural programsAgricultural researchFood supplyGeneticsPlant diseasesGrain and grain productsSpeciesConservationFederal employee restrictions