The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service recently announced a strategic plan for 2024-2029, a roadmap for growth and success going into the future. This comprehensive plan outlines significant initiatives, including a new management structure, a performance-based pay system, enhanced training programs and operational efficiencies. The initiatives are based largely on feedback from both NASDA and NASS staff. The restructuring will begin with pilot regions in the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest in January 2025 and expand nationwide by January 2026.

Through our longstanding NASDA-NASS partnership, NASDA employs about 2,400 part-time enumerators who conduct NASS surveys and gather statistical data that supports the agricultural community and fosters a robust agricultural economy. The new plan provides employees with more resources, including dedicated managers, coaches and trainers, to support their important work. Enhanced training will focus on why NASS data is important and how farmers and ranchers benefit.

By working together, we will continue to strengthen the NASDA-NASS partnership and ensure a thriving future for American agriculture.