Federal Agricultural Research Facilities Are Underused
RCED-83-20
Published: Jan 14, 1983. Publicly Released: Jan 14, 1983.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the underuse of Federal agricultural research facilities operated by the Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and its effect on ongoing research.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Congress should not consider authorizing or providing funds for additional research facilities until ARS has completed its planning process and Congress has had an opportunity to study those plans given the currently underused research facilities, the unlikely prospects for personnel ceiling increases for ARS, and the congressional mandate to conduct a long-range needs assessment and determine the research necessary to meet those needs. |
Closed – Not Implemented
|
USDA has developed a long-range plan for in-house agricultural research which consists of a strategic plan and a 6-year implementation and operation support plan for the period 1984-1990. Laboratory needs, including suggested consolidations and closures, were considered as part of the overall plans and submitted to Congress, making the recommendation invalid. |
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Agriculture | The Secretary of Agriculture should develop a plan to consolidate agricultural research activities at fewer locations, thereby allowing greater scientist interaction and more efficient use of equipment, facilities, and administrative resources. The plan also needs to address research priorities, personal and career plans of ARS employees, the costs of relocating employees, and the potential sales values of unneeded laboratories. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
| Department of Agriculture | The Secretary of Agriculture should submit the plan to the appropriate committees of Congress for their review and comments. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
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Topics
Agricultural programsAgricultural researchFacility constructionStaff utilizationResearch and development facilitiesResearch program managementScientistsHearingsNutrition researchPersonnel ceilings