Feb. 27, 1998: Congressional Record publishes “AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1997”

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Volume 144, No. 17 covering the 2nd Session of the 105th Congress (1997 - 1998) was published by the Congressional Record.

The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.

“AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1997” mentioning the Environmental Protection Agency was published in the Senate section on pages S1135-S1147 on Feb. 27, 1998.

The publication is reproduced in full below:

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1997

Mr. ASHCROFT. Mr. President, I ask the Chair lay before the Senate a message from the House of Representatives on the bill (S. 1150) to ensure that federally funded agricultural research, extension, and education address high-priority concerns with national multistate significance, to reform, extend, and eliminate certain agricultural research programs, and for other purposes.

The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Gregg) laid before the Senate the following message from the House of Representatives:

Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. 1150) entitled

``An Act to ensure that federally funded agricultural research, extension, and education address high-priority concerns with national or multistate significance, to reform, extend, and eliminate certain agricultural research programs, and for other purposes'', do pass with the following amendment:

Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert:

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the

``Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reauthorization Act of 1997''.

(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents of this Act is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.

TITLE I--COORDINATION, PLANNING, AND DEFINITIONS REGARDING AGRICULTURAL

RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

Sec. 101. Priorities and management principles for federally supported and conducted agricultural research, education, and extension.

Sec. 102. Principal definitions regarding agricultural research, education, and extension.

Sec. 103. Consultation with National Agricultural Research, Extension,

Education, and Economics Advisory Board.

Sec. 104. Relevance and merit of federally funded agricultural research, extension, and education.

Sec. 105. Expansion of authority to enter into cost-reimbursable agreements.

Sec. 106. Evaluation and assessment of agricultural research, extension, and education programs.

TITLE II--REFORM OF EXISTING RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

AUTHORITIES

Subtitle A--Smith-Lever Act and Hatch Act of 1887

Sec. 201. Adoption of short titles for Smith-Lever Act and Hatch Act of

1887.

Sec. 202. Consistent matching funds requirements under Hatch Act of

1887 and Smith-Lever Act.

Sec. 203. Plans of work to address critical research and extension issues and use of protocols to measure success of plans.

Subtitle B--National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching

Policy Act of 1977

Sec. 211. Plans of work for 1890 land-grant colleges to address critical research and extension issues and use of protocols to measure success of plans.

Sec. 212. Matching funds requirement for research and extension activities at 1890 land-grant colleges, including

Tuskegee University.

Sec. 213. International research, extension, and teaching.

Sec. 214. Task force on 10-year strategic plan for agricultural research facilities.

Subtitle C--Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990

Sec. 231. Agricultural genome initiative.

Subtitle D--National Research Initiative

Sec. 241. Waiver of matching requirement for certain small colleges and universities.

Subtitle E--Other Existing Laws

Sec. 251. Findings, authorities, and competitive research grants under

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of

1978.

TITLE III--EXTENSION OR REPEAL OF RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

INITIATIVES

Subtitle A--Extensions

Sec. 301. National Research Initiative under Competitive, Special, and

Facilities Research Grant Act.

Sec. 302. Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994.

Sec. 303. Education grants programs for Hispanic-serving institutions.

Sec. 304. General authorization for agricultural research programs.

Sec. 305. General authorization for extension education.

Sec. 306. Grants and fellowships for food and agricultural sciences education.

Sec. 307. Grants for research on the production and marketing of alcohols and industrial hydrocarbons from agricultural commodities and forest products.

Sec. 308. Policy research centers.

Sec. 309. Human nutrition intervention and health promotion research program.

Sec. 310. Pilot research program to combine medical and agricultural research.

Sec. 311. Food and nutrition education program.

Sec. 312. Animal health and disease continuing research.

Sec. 313. Animal health and disease national or regional research.

Sec. 314. Grant program to upgrade agricultural and food sciences facilities at 1890 land-grant colleges.

Sec. 315. National research and training centennial centers.

Sec. 316. Supplemental and alternative crops research.

Sec. 317. Aquaculture research and extension.

Sec. 318. Rangeland research.

Sec. 319. Federal agricultural research facilities.

Sec. 320. Water quality research, education, and coordination.

Sec. 321. National genetics resources program.

Sec. 322. Agricultural telecommunications program.

Sec. 323. Assistive technology program for farmers with disabilities.

Sec. 324. National Rural Information Center Clearinghouse.

Sec. 325. Critical Agricultural Materials Act.

Subtitle B--Repeals

Sec. 341. Aquaculture research facilities.

Sec. 342. Agricultural research program under National Agricultural

Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act Amendments of 1981.

Sec. 343. Livestock product safety and inspection program.

Sec. 344. Generic authorization of appropriations.

TITLE IV--NEW RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION INITIATIVES

Subtitle A--Partnerships for High-Value Agricultural Product Quality

Research.

Sec. 401. Definitions.

Sec. 402. Establishment and characteristics of partnerships.

Sec. 403. Elements of grant making process.

Sec. 404. Authorization of appropriations and related provisions.

Subtitle B--Precision Agriculture

Sec. 411. Definitions.

Sec. 412. Competitive grants to promote precision agriculture.

Sec. 413. Reservation of funds for education and information dissemination projects.

Sec. 414. Precision agriculture partnerships.

Sec. 415. Miscellaneous provisions.

Sec. 416. Authorization of appropriations.

Subtitle C--Other Initiatives

Sec. 421. High-priority research and extension initiatives.

Sec. 422. Organic agriculture research and extension initiative.

Sec. 423. United States-Mexico joint agricultural research.

Sec. 424. Competitive grants for international agricultural science and education programs.

Sec. 425. Food animal residue avoidance database program.

Sec. 426. Development and commercialization of new biobased products.

Sec. 427. Thomas Jefferson Initiative for Crop Diversification.

Sec. 428. Integrated research, education, and extension competitive grants program.

Sec. 429. Research grants under Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status

Act of 1994.

TITLE V--MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Sec. 501. Role of Secretary of Agriculture regarding food and agricultural sciences research, education, and extension.

Sec. 502. Office of Pest Management Policy.

Sec. 503. Food Safety Research Information Office and national conference.

Sec. 504. Nutrient composition data.

Sec. 505. Availability of funds received or collected on behalf of

National Arboretum.

Sec. 506. Retention and use of Agricultural Research Service patent culture collection fees.

Sec. 507. Reimbursement of expenses incurred under Sheep Promotion,

Research, and Information Act of 1994.

Sec. 508. Designation of Kika de la Garza Subtropical Agricultural

Research Center, Weslaco, Texas.

Sec. 509. Sense of Congress regarding Agricultural Research Service emphasis on in field research regarding methyl bromide alternatives.

Sec. 510. Sense of Congress regarding importance of school-based agricultural education.

Sec. 511. Sense of Congress regarding designation of Department Crisis

Management Team. TITLE I--COORDINATION, PLANNING, AND DEFINITIONS REGARDING AGRICULTURAL

RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

SEC. 101. PRIORITIES AND MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES FOR FEDERALLY

SUPPORTED AND CONDUCTED AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH,

EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION.

(a) Priority Setting Process.--Section 1402 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3101) is amended--

(1) by inserting ``(a) Purposes.--'' before ``The purposes''; and

(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:

``(b) Priority Setting Process.--Consistent with subsection

(a), the Secretary shall establish priorities for agricultural research, extension, and education activities conducted or funded by the Department. In establishing such priorities, the Secretary shall solicit and consider input and recommendations from the Advisory Board and persons who conduct or use agricultural research, extension, or education.''.

(b) Management Principles.--Such section is further amended by adding after subsection (b), as added by subsection

(a)(2), the following new subsection:

``(c) Management Principles.--To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall ensure that agricultural research, education, and extension activities conducted or funded by the Department are accomplished in a manner that--

``(1) integrates agricultural research, education, and extension functions to better link research to technology transfer and information dissemination activities;

``(2) encourages multi-State and multi-institutional programs to address relevant issues of common concern and to better leverage scarce resources; and

``(3) achieves agricultural research, education, and extension objectives through multi-institutional and multifunctional approaches and by conducting research at facilities and institutions best equipped to achieve those objectives.''.

(c) Clerical Amendment.--The heading of such section is amended by inserting ``, PRIORITIES, AND MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES'' after ``PURPOSES''.

SEC. 102. PRINCIPAL DEFINITIONS REGARDING AGRICULTURAL

RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION.

(a) Food and Agricultural Sciences.--Paragraph (8) of section 1404 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3103) is amended to read as follows:

``(8) Food and agricultural sciences.--The term `food and agricultural sciences' means basic, applied, and developmental research, extension, and teaching activities in food and fiber, agricultural, renewable natural resources, forestry, and physical and social sciences, including (but not limited to) activities relating to the following:

``(A) Animal health, production, and well-being.

``(B) Plant health and production.

``(C) Animal and plant germ plasm collection and preservation.

``(D) Aquaculture.

``(E) Food safety.

``(F) Soil and water conservation and improvement.

``(G) Forestry, horticulture, and range management.

``(H) Nutritional sciences and promotion.

``(I) Farm enhancement, including financial management, input efficiency, and profitability.

``(J) Home economics.

``(K) Rural human ecology.

``(L) Youth development and agricultural education, including 4-H.

``(M) Expansion of domestic and international markets for agricultural commodities and products, including agricultural trade barrier identification and comprehension.

``(N) Information management and technology transfer related to agriculture.

``(O) Biotechnology related to agriculture.''.

(b) References to Teaching or Education.--Paragraph (14) of such section is amended by striking ``the term `teaching' means'' and inserting ``Teaching and education.--The terms

`teaching' and `education' mean''.

(c) Application of Definitions to Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education.--Such section is further amended by striking the section heading and all that follows through the matter preceding paragraph (1) and inserting the following:

``SEC. 1404. PRINCIPAL DEFINITIONS REGARDING AGRICULTURAL

RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION.

``When used in this title or any other law relating to any research, extension, or education activities of the Department of Agriculture regarding the food and agricultural sciences (unless the context requires otherwise):''.

(d) In-Kind Support.--Such section is further amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph:

``(18) In-kind support.--The term `in-kind support', with regard to a requirement that the recipient of funds provided by the Secretary match all or some portion of the amount of the funds, means contributions such as office space, equipment, and staff support.''.

(e) Conforming Amendments.--Such section is further amended--

(1) by striking ``the term'' in paragraphs (1), (2), (3),

(5), (6), (7), (10) through (13), and (15), (16), and (17) and inserting ``The term'';

(2) in paragraph (4), by striking ``the terms'' and inserting ``The terms'';

(3) in paragraph (9), by striking ``the term'' the first place it appears and inserting ``The term'';

(4) by striking the semicolon at the end of paragraphs (1) through (7) and (9) through (15) and inserting a period; and

(5) in paragraph (16)(F), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a period.

SEC. 103. CONSULTATION WITH NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH,

EXTENSION, EDUCATION, AND ECONOMICS ADVISORY

BOARD.

Subsection (d) of section 1408 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3123) is amended to read as follows:

``(d) Consultation.--

``(1) As affecting advisory board.--In carrying out this section, the Advisory Board shall solicit opinions and recommendations from persons who will benefit from and use federally funded agricultural research, extension, education, and economics.

``(2) As affecting secretary.--To comply with a provision of this title or any other law that requires the Secretary to consult or cooperate with the Advisory Board or that authorizes the Advisory Board to submit recommendations to the Secretary, the Secretary shall--

``(A) solicit the written opinions and recommendations of the Advisory Board; and

``(B) provide a written response to the Advisory Board regarding the manner and extent to which the Secretary will implement recommendations submitted by the Advisory Board.''.

SEC. 104. RELEVANCE AND MERIT OF FEDERALLY FUNDED

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND

EDUCATION.

(a) Review of Relevance and Merit.--Subtitle K of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 is amended by inserting before section 1463 (7 U.S.C. 3311) the following new section:

``SEC. 1461. RELEVANCE AND MERIT OF FEDERALLY FUNDED

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND

EDUCATION.

``(a) Review of Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service.--

``(1) Peer review of research grants.--The Secretary shall establish procedures that provide for scientific peer review of each agricultural research grant administered, on a competitive basis, by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service of the Department.

``(2) Merit review of extension and education.--The Secretary shall establish procedures that provide for merit review of each agricultural extension or education grant administered, on a competitive basis, by the Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service. The Secretary shall consult with the Advisory Board in establishing such merit review procedures.

``(b) Requests for Proposals: Request and Consideration of Input.--When formulating a request for proposals involving an agricultural research, extension, or education activity to be funded by the Secretary on a competitive basis, the Secretary shall solicit and consider input from the Advisory Board and users of agricultural research, extension, and education regarding the request for proposals for the preceding year. If an agricultural research, extension, or education activity has not been the subject of a previous request for proposals, the Secretary shall solicit and consider input from the Advisory Board and users of agricultural research, extension, and education before publication of the first request for proposals regarding the activity.

``(c) Scientific Peer Review of Agricultural Research.--

``(1) Peer review procedures.--The Secretary shall establish procedures that ensure scientific peer review of all research activities conducted by the Department of Agriculture.

``(2) Review panel required.--As part of the procedures established under paragraph (1), a review panel shall verify, at least once every three years, that each research activity of the Department and research conducted under each research program of the Department have scientific merit and relevance. If the research activity or program to be reviewed is included in the research, educational, and economics mission area of the Department, the review panel shall consider--

``(A) the scientific merit and relevance of the activity or research in light of the priorities established pursuant to section 1402(b) ; and

``(B) the national or multi-State significance of the activity or research.

``(3) Composition of review panel.--A review panel shall be composed of individuals with scientific expertise, a majority of whom are not employees of the agency whose research is being reviewed. To the extent possible, the Secretary shall use scientists from colleges and universities to serve on the review panels.

``(4) Submission of results.--The results of the panel reviews shall be submitted to the Advisory Board.

``(5) Applicability of other laws.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) and title XVIII of this Act (7 U.S.C. 2281 et seq.) shall not apply to a review panel.

``(d) Merit Review of College and University Research and Extension Activities.--

``(1) Land-grant institutions.--Effective beginning October 1, 1998, to be eligible to obtain agricultural research or extension funds from the Secretary for an activity, a land-grant college or university shall--

``(A) establish a process for merit review of the activity; and

``(B) review the activity in accordance with the process.

``(2) 1994 institutions.--Effective beginning October 1, 1998, to obtain agricultural extension funds from the Secretary for an activity, each 1994 Institution (as defined in section 532 of the Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-382; 7 U.S.C. 301 note)) shall--

``(A) establish a process for merit review of the activity; and

``(B) review the activity in accordance with the process.''.

(b) Repeal of Provisions for Withholding Funds.--

(1) Smith-lever act.--Section 6 of the Smith-Lever Act (7 U.S.C. 346) is repealed.

(2) Hatch act of 1887.--Section 7 of the Hatch Act of 1887

(7 U.S.C. 361g) is amended by striking the last paragraph.

(3) National agricultural research, extension, and teaching policy act of 1977.--The National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 is amended--

(A) in section 1444 (7 U.S.C. 3221)--

(i) by striking subsection (f); and

(ii) by redesignating subsection (g) as subsection (f);

(B) in section 1445(g) (7 U.S.C. 3222(g)), by striking paragraph (3); and

SEC. 105. EXPANSION OF AUTHORITY TO ENTER INTO COST-

REIMBURSABLE AGREEMENTS.

Section 1473A of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3319a) is amended in the first sentence by inserting ``or other colleges and universities'' after ``institutions''.

SEC. 106. EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH,

EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

(a) Evaluation.--The Secretary shall conduct a performance evaluation to determine whether agricultural research, extension, and education programs conducted or funded by the Department of Agriculture result in public benefits that have national or multi-State significance.

(b) Guidelines for Performance Measurement.--The Secretary shall develop practical guidelines for measuring the performance of agricultural research, extension and education programs evaluated under subsection (a).

TITLE II--REFORM OF EXISTING RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

AUTHORITIES

Subtitle A--Smith-Lever Act and Hatch Act of 1887

SEC. 201. ADOPTION OF SHORT TITLES FOR SMITH-LEVER ACT AND

HATCH ACT OF 1887.

(a) Smith-Lever Act.--The Act of May 8, 1914 (commonly known as the Smith-Lever Act; 7 U.S.C. 341 et seq.), is amended by adding at the end the following new section:

``SEC. 11. SHORT TITLE.

``This Act may be cited as the `Smith-Lever Act'.''.

(b) Hatch Act of 1887.--The Act of March 2, 1887 (commonly known as the Hatch Act of 1887; 7 U.S.C. 361a et seq.), is amended by adding at the end the following new section:

``SEC. 10. SHORT TITLE.

``This Act may be cited as the `Hatch Act of 1887'.''.

(c) Coordination With Other Amendments.--For purposes of executing amendments made by provisions of this Act (other than this section), this section shall be treated as having been enacted immediately before the other provisions of this Act.

SEC. 202. CONSISTENT MATCHING FUNDS REQUIREMENTS UNDER HATCH

ACT OF 1887 AND SMITH-LEVER ACT.

(a) Hatch Act of 1887.--Subsection (d) of section 3 of the Hatch Act of 1887 (7 U.S.C. 361c) is amended to read as follows:

``(d) Matching Funds.--

``(1) Requirement.--Except as provided in paragraph (4), no allotment shall be made to a State under subsections (b) and

(c), and no payments of such allotment shall be made to a State, in excess of the amount which the State makes available out of non-Federal funds for agricultural research and for the establishment and maintenance of facilities for the performance of such research.

``(2) Failure to provide matching funds.--If a State fails to comply with the requirement to provide matching funds for a fiscal year under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Agriculture shall withhold from payment to the State for that fiscal year an amount equal to the difference between--

``(A) the amount that would be allotted and paid to the State under subsections (b) and (c) (if the full amount of matching funds were provided by the State); and

``(B) the amount of matching funds actually provided by the State.

``(3) Reapportionment.--The Secretary shall reapportion amounts withheld under paragraph (2) for a fiscal year among the States satisfying the matching requirement for that fiscal year. Any reapportionment of funds under this paragraph shall be subject to the matching requirement specified in paragraph (1).

``(4) Exception.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to funds provided to a State from the Regional research fund, State agricultural experiment stations.''.

(b) Smith-Lever Act.--Section 3 of the Smith-Lever Act (7 U.S.C. 343) is amended--

(1) in subsection (c)2, by striking ``That payments'' and all that follows through ``Provided further,''; and

(2) by striking subsections (e) and (f) and inserting the following new subsections:

``(e) Matching Funds.--

``(1) Requirement.--No allotment shall be made to a State under subsections (b) and (c), and no payments of such allotment shall be made to a State, in excess of the amount which the State makes available out of non-Federal funds for cooperative extension work.

``(A) the amount that would be allotted and paid to the State under subsections (b) and (c) (if the full amount of matching funds were provided by the State); and

``(B) the amount of matching funds actually provided by the State.

``(f) Matching Funds Exception for 1994 Institutions.--There shall be no matching requirement for funds made available to 1994 Institutions pursuant to subsection

(b)(3).''.

(1) Recognition of statehood of alaska and hawaii.--Section 1 of the Hatch Act of 1887 (7 U.S.C. 361a) is amended by striking ``Alaska, Hawaii,''.

(2) Role of secretary of agriculture.--Section 3 of the Smith-Lever Act (7 U.S.C. 343) is amended--

(A) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``Federal Extension Service'' and inserting ``Secretary of Agriculture'';

(B) in subsection (c)1, by striking ``Federal Extension Service'' and inserting ``Secretary of Agriculture'';

(D) in subsection (g)(1), by striking ``through the Federal Extension Service''.

(3) References to regional research fund.--The Hatch Act of 1887 is amended--

(A) in section 3 (7 U.S.C. 361c)--

(i) in subsection (b)(1), by striking ``subsection 3(c)(3)'' and inserting ``subsection (c)3''; and

(ii) in subsection (e), by striking ``subsection 3(c)3'' and inserting ``subsection (c)3''; and

(B) in section 5 (7 U.S.C. 361e), by striking ``regional research fund authorized by subsection 3(c)(3)'' and inserting ``Regional research fund, State agricultural experiment stations''.

SEC. 203. PLANS OF WORK TO ADDRESS CRITICAL RESEARCH AND

EXTENSION ISSUES AND USE OF PROTOCOLS TO

MEASURE SUCCESS OF PLANS.

(a) Smith-Lever Act.--Section 4 of the Smith-Lever Act (7 U.S.C. 344) is amended--

(1) by striking ``Sec. 4.'' and inserting the following:

``SEC. 4. ASCERTAINMENT OF ENTITLEMENT OF STATE TO FUNDS,

TIME AND MANNER OF PAYMENT, STATE REPORTING

REQUIREMENTS, AND PLANS FOR WORK.

``(a) Ascertainment of Entitlement.--'';

(2) in the last sentence, by striking ``Such sums'' and inserting the following:

``(b) Time and Manner of Payment; Related Reports.--The amount to which a State is entitled''; and

(3) by adding at the end the following new subsections:

``(c) Requirements Related to Plan of Work.--Each extension plan of work for a State required under subsection (a) shall contain descriptions of the following:

``(1) The critical short-term, intermediate, and long-term agricultural issues in the State and the current and planned extension programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(2) The process established to consult with extension users regarding the identification of critical agricultural issues in the State and the development of extension programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(3) The efforts made to identify and collaborate with other colleges and universities within the State and other States that have unique capacity to address the identified agricultural issues in the State and current and emerging efforts to work with these other institutions and States.

``(4) The manner in which research and extension, including research and extension activities funded other than through formula funds, will cooperate to address the critical issues in the State, including the activities to be carried out separately, the activities to be carried out sequentially, and the activities to be carried out jointly.

``(5) The education and outreach programs already underway to convey currently available research results that are pertinent to a critical agricultural issue, including efforts to encourage multi-county cooperation in the dissemination of research results.

``(d) Extension Protocols.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall develop protocols to be used to evaluate the success of multi-State, multi-institutional, and multidisciplinary extension activities and joint research and extension activities in addressing critical agricultural issues identified in the plans of work submitted under subsection

(a). The Secretary shall develop the protocols in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board and land-grant colleges and universities.

``(e) Treatment of Plans of Work for Other Purposes.--To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall consider plans of work submitted under subsection (a) to satisfy other appropriate Federal reporting requirements.''.

(b) Hatch Act of 1887.--Section 7 of the Hatch Act of 1887

(7 U.S.C. 361g), as amended by section 104(b), is further amended--

(1) by striking ``Sec. 7.'' and inserting the following:

``SEC. 7. DUTIES OF SECRETARY, ASCERTAINMENT OF ENTITLEMENT

OF STATE TO FUNDS, AND PLANS FOR WORK.

``(a) Duties of Secretary.--'';

(2) by striking ``On or before'' and inserting the following:

``(b) Ascertainment of Entitlement.--On or before'';

(3) by striking ``Whenever it shall appear'' and inserting the following:

``(c) Effect of Failure to Expend Full Allotment.--Whenever it shall appear''; and

(4) by adding at the end the following new subsections:

``(d) Plan of Work Required.--Before funds may be provided to a State under this Act for any fiscal year, plans for the work to be carried on under this Act shall be submitted by the proper officials of the State and approved by the Secretary of Agriculture.

``(e) Requirements Related to Plan of Work.--Each research plan of work for a State required under subsection (d) shall contain descriptions of the following:

``(1) The critical short-term, intermediate, and long-term agricultural issues in the State and the current and planned research programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(2) The process established to consult with users of agricultural research regarding the identification of critical agricultural issues in the State and the development of research programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(f) Research Protocols.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall develop protocols to be used to evaluate the success of multi-State, multi-institutional, and multidisciplinary research activities and joint research and extension activities in addressing critical agricultural issues identified in the plans of work submitted under subsection

(d). The Secretary shall develop the protocols in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board and land-grant colleges and universities.

``(g) Treatment of Plans of Work for Other Purposes.--To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall consider plans of work submitted under subsection (d) to satisfy other appropriate Federal reporting requirements.''.

(1) In general.--The amendments made by this section shall take effect on October 1, 1998.

(2) Delayed applicability.--With respect to a particular State, the Secretary of Agriculture may delay the applicability of the requirements imposed by the amendments made by this section until not later than October 1, 1999, if the Secretary finds that the State will be unable to meet such requirements by October 1, 1998, despite the good faith efforts of the State.

Subtitle B--National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching

Policy Act of 1977

SEC. 211. PLANS OF WORK FOR 1890 LAND-GRANT COLLEGES TO

ADDRESS CRITICAL RESEARCH AND EXTENSION ISSUES

AND USE OF PROTOCOLS TO MEASURE SUCCESS OF

PLANS.

(a) Extension At 1890 Institutions.--Section 1444(d) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3221(d)) is amended--

(1) by striking ``(d)'' and inserting the following:

``(d) Ascertainment of Entitlement to Funds; Time and Manner of Payment; State Reporting Requirements; and Plans for Work.--

``(1) Ascertainment of entitlement.--'';

(2) in the last sentence, by striking ``Such sums'' and inserting the following:

``(2) Time and manner of payment; related reports.--The amount to which an eligible institution is entitled''; and

(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:

``(3) Requirements related to plan of work.--Each extension plan of work for an eligible institution required under this section shall contain descriptions of the following:

``(A) The critical short-term, intermediate, and long-term agricultural issues in the State in which the eligible institution is located and the current and planned extension programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(B) The process established to consult with extension users regarding the identification of critical agricultural issues in the State and the development of extension programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(C) The efforts made to identify and collaborate with other colleges and universities within the State and other States that have unique capacity to address the identified agricultural issues in the State and current and emerging efforts (including regional research efforts) to work with these other institutions and States.

``(D) The manner in which research and extension, including research and extension activities funded other than through formula funds, will cooperate to address the critical issues in the State, including the activities to be carried out separately, the activities to be carried out sequentially, and the activities to be carried out jointly.

``(E) The education and outreach programs already underway to convey currently available research results that are pertinent to a critical agricultural issue, including efforts to encourage multi-county cooperation in the dissemination of research results.

``(4) Extension protocols.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall develop protocols to be used to evaluate the success of multi-State, multi-institutional, and multidisciplinary extension activities and joint research and extension activities in addressing critical agricultural issues identified in the plans of work submitted under this section. The Secretary shall develop the protocols in consultation with the Advisory Board and land-grant colleges and universities.

``(5) Treatment of plans of work for other purposes.--To the extent practicable, the Secretary shall consider plans of work submitted under this section to satisfy other appropriate Federal reporting requirements.''.

(b) Agricultural Research At 1890 Institutions.--Section 1445(c) of such Act (7 U.S.C. 3222(c)) is amended--

(1) by striking ``(c)'' and inserting the following:

``(c) Program and Plans for Work.--

``(1) Initial comprehensive program of agricultural research.--''; and

(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraphs:

``(2) Plan of work required.--Before funds may be provided to an eligible institution under this section for any fiscal year, plans for the work to be carried on under this section shall be submitted by the research director specified in subsection (d) and approved by the Secretary of Agriculture.

``(3) Requirements related to plan of work.--Each research plan of work required under paragraph (2) shall contain descriptions of the following:

``(A) The critical short-term, intermediate, and long-term agricultural issues in the State in which the eligible institution is located and the current and planned research programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(B) The process established to consult with users of agricultural research regarding the identification of critical agricultural issues in the State and the development of research programs and projects targeted to address such issues.

``(C) Other colleges and universities in the State and other States that have unique capacity to address the identified agricultural issues in the State.

``(D) The current and emerging efforts to work with these other institutions and States to build on each other's experience and take advantage of each institution's unique capacities.

``(E) The manner in which research and extension, including research and extension activities funded other than through formula funds, will cooperate to address the critical issues in the State, including the activities to be carried out separately, the activities to be carried out sequentially, and the activities to be carried out jointly.

``(4) Research protocols.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall develop protocols to be used to evaluate the success of multi-State, multi-institutional, and multidisciplinary research activities and joint research and extension activities in addressing critical agricultural issues identified in the plans of work submitted under paragraph

(2). The Secretary shall develop the protocols in consultation with the Advisory Board and land-grant colleges and universities.''.

(1) In general.--The amendments made by this section shall take effect on October 1, 1998.

(2) Delayed applicability.--With respect to a particular eligible institution (as described in sections 1444(a) and 1445(a) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3221(a), 3222(a))), the Secretary of Agriculture may delay the applicability of the requirements imposed by the amendments made by this section until not later than October 1, 1999, if the Secretary finds that the eligible institution will be unable to meet such requirements by October 1, 1998, despite the good faith efforts of the eligible institution.

SEC. 212. MATCHING FUNDS REQUIREMENT FOR RESEARCH AND

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES AT 1890 LAND-GRANT

COLLEGES, INCLUDING TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY.

(a) Imposition of Requirement.--Subtitle G of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 is amended by inserting after section 1448 (7 U.S.C. 3222c) the following new section:

``SEC. 1449. MATCHING FUNDS REQUIREMENT FOR RESEARCH AND

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES AT ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS.

``(a) Definitions.--In this section:

``(1) Eligible institution.--The term `eligible institution' means a college eligible to receive funds under the Act of August 30, 1890 (7 U.S.C. 321 et seq.) (commonly known as the Second Morrill Act), including Tuskegee University.

``(2) Formula funds.--The term `formula funds' means the formula allocation funds distributed to eligible institutions under sections 1444 and 1445.

``(b) Determination of Non-Federal Sources of Funds.--Not later than September 30, 1999, each eligible institution shall submit to the Secretary a report describing for fiscal year 1999 the sources of non-Federal funds available to the eligible institution and the amount of funds generally available from each such source.

``(c) Matching Formula.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this subtitle, the distribution of formula funds to an eligible institution shall be subject to the following matching requirements:

``(1) In fiscal year 2000, the institution shall provide matching funds from non-Federal sources in an amount equal to not less than 30 percent of the formula funds to be distributed to the eligible institution.

``(2) In fiscal year 2001, the institution shall provide matching funds from non-Federal sources in an amount equal to not less than 45 percent of the formula funds to be distributed to the eligible institution.

``(3) In fiscal year 2002, and each fiscal year thereafter, the institution shall provide matching funds from non-Federal sources in an amount equal to not less than 50 percent of the formula funds to be distributed to the eligible institution.

``(d) Limited Waiver Authority.--Notwithstanding subsection

(f), the Secretary may waive the matching funds requirement under subsection (c)(1) for fiscal year 2000 if the Secretary determines with regard to a particular eligible institution, based on the report received under subsection (b), that the eligible institution will be unlikely to satisfy the matching requirement. The waiver of the matching requirements for subsequent fiscal years is not permitted.

``(e) Use of Matching Funds.--Under terms and conditions established by the Secretary, matching funds provided as required by subsection (c) may be used by an eligible institution for research, education, and extension activities.

``(f) Redistribution of Funds.--Federal funds that are not matched by an eligible institution in accordance with subsection (c) for a fiscal year shall be redistributed by the Secretary to eligible institutions satisfying the matching funds requirement for that fiscal year. Any redistribution of funds under this subsection shall be subject to the applicable matching requirement specified in subsection (c) and shall be made in a manner consistent with sections 1444 and 1445, as determined by the Secretary.''.

(b) Conforming Amendment.--Section 1445(g) of such Act (7 U.S.C. 3222(g)) is amended--

(1) by striking paragraph (2); and

(2) by redesignating paragraph (4) as paragraph (2).

(1) in section 1404 (7 U.S.C. 3103), by striking ``Tuskegee Institute'' in paragraphs (10) and (16)(B) and inserting

``Tuskegee University'';

(2) in section 1444 (7 U.S.C. 3221)--

(A) by striking the section heading and ``Sec. 1444.'' and inserting the following:

``SEC. 1444. EXTENSION AT 1890 LAND-GRANT COLLEGES, INCLUDING

TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY.''; AND

(B) in subsections (a) and (b), by striking ``Tuskegee Institute'' both places it appears and inserting ``Tuskegee University''; and

(3) in section 1445 (7 U.S.C. 3222)--

(A) by striking the section heading and ``Sec. 1445.'' and inserting the following:

``SEC. 1445. AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AT 1890 LAND-GRANT

COLLEGES, INCLUDING TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY.''; AND

(B) in subsections (a) and (b)(2)(B), by striking

``Tuskegee Institute'' both places it appears and inserting

``Tuskegee University''.

SEC. 213. INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND TEACHING.

(a) Inclusion of Teaching.--Section 1458 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3291) is amended--

(1) in the section heading, by striking ``RESEARCH AND EXTENSION'' and inserting ``RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND TEACHING'';

(2) in subsection (a)--

(A) in paragraph (1)--

(i) by striking ``related research and extension'' and inserting ``related research, extension, and teaching''; and

(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``research and extension on'' and inserting ``research, extension, and teaching activities addressing'';

(B) in paragraphs (2) and (6), by striking ``education'' and inserting ``teaching'';

(D) in paragraph (5), by inserting ``teaching,'' after

``development,'';

(E) in paragraph (7), by striking ``research and extension that is'' and inserting ``research, extension, and teaching programs''; and

(F) in paragraph (8), by striking ``research capabilities'' and inserting ``research, extension, and teaching capabilities''; and

(3) in subsection (b), by striking ``counterpart agencies'' and inserting ``counterpart research, extension, and teaching agencies''.

(b) Full Payment of Funds Made Available for Certain Binational Project.--Such section is further amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:

``(d) Full Payment of Funds Made Available for Certain Binational Projects.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the full amount of any funds appropriated or otherwise made available to carry out cooperative projects under the arrangement entered into between the Secretary and the Government of Israel to support the Israel-United States Binational Agricultural Research and Development Fund shall be paid directly to the Fund.''.

(c) Conforming Amendment.--The subtitle heading of subtitle I of title XIV of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3291 et seq.) is amended to read as follows:

``Subtitle I--International Research, Extension, and Teaching''.

SEC. 214. TASK FORCE ON 10-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN FOR

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FACILITIES.

(a) Transfer of Existing Provision.--Section 4 of the Research Facilities Act (7 U.S.C. 390b)--

(1) is transferred to the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.);

(2) is redesignated as section 1473B;

(3) is inserted after section 1473A of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3319a); and

(4) is amended in subsection (f), by striking

``Notwithstanding section 2(1), in'' and inserting ``In''.

(b) Conforming Repeal.--The Research Facilities Act (7 U.S.C. 390 et seq.) is repealed.

Subtitle C--Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990

SEC. 231. AGRICULTURAL GENOME INITIATIVE.

(a) Establishment and Purpose of Initiative.--Section 1671 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990

(7 U.S.C. 5924) is amended by striking the section heading and subsection (a) and inserting the following:

``SEC. 1671. AGRICULTURAL GENOME INITIATIVE.

``(a) Program Required.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall conduct a research initiative for the purpose of--

``(1) supporting basic and applied research and technology development in the area of genome structure and function in support of agriculturally important species, with a particular focus on research projects that will yield scientifically important results that will enhance the usefulness of many agriculturally important species;

``(2) studying and mapping agriculturally significant genes to achieve sustainable and secure agricultural production;

``(3) ensuring that current gaps in existing agricultural genetics knowledge are filled;

``(4) identifying and developing a functional understanding of genes responsible for economically important traits in agriculturally important species, including emerging plant and animal diseases causing economic hardship;

``(5) ensuring the future genetic improvement of agriculturally important species;

``(6) supporting the preservation of diverse germplasm; and

``(7) ensuring the preservation of biodiversity to maintain access to genes that may be of importance in the future.''.

(b) Competitive Grants.--Subsection (b) of such section is amended by striking ``subsection (c)'' and inserting

``subsection (a)''.

``(c) Grant Types and Process; Prohibition on Construction.--Paragraphs (6), (7), and (11) of subsection

(b) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act (7 U.S.C. 450i) shall apply with respect to the making of grants under this section.''.

(d) Matching Funds.--Subsection (d) of such section is amended to read as follows:

``(d) Matching of Funds.--

``(1) General requirement.--If a grant under this section is to the particular benefit of a specific agricultural commodity, the Secretary shall require the recipient of the grant to provide funds or in-kind support to match the amount of funds provided by the Secretary in the grant.

``(2) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the matching funds requirement specified in paragraph (1) with respect to a research project if the Secretary determines that--

``(A) the results of the project, while of particular benefit to a specific agricultural commodity, are likely to be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or

``(B) the project involves a minor commodity, deals with scientifically important research, and the grant recipient would be unable to satisfy the matching funds requirement.''.

(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--Subsection (g) of such section is amended by striking ``fiscal years 1996 and 1997'' and inserting ``fiscal years 1998 through 2002''.

Subtitle D--National Research Initiative

SEC. 241. WAIVER OF MATCHING REQUIREMENT FOR CERTAIN SMALL

COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES.

Subsection (b)(8)(B) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act (7 U.S.C. 450i) is amended--

(1) by striking ``the cost'' and inserting ``the cost of''; and

(2) by adding at the end the following new sentence: ``The Secretary may waive all or a portion of the matching requirement under this subparagraph in the case of a smaller college or university (as described in subsection

(c)(2)(C)(ii) of section 793 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (7 U.S.C. 2204f)) if the equipment to be acquired costs not more than $25,000 and has multiple uses within a single research project or is usable in more than one research project.''.

Subtitle E--Other Existing Laws

SEC. 251. FINDINGS, AUTHORITIES, AND COMPETITIVE RESEARCH

GRANTS UNDER FOREST AND RANGELAND RENEWABLE

RESOURCES RESEARCH ACT OF 1978.

(a) Findings.--Section 2 of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 1641) is amended by striking ``Sec. 2.'' and subsection (a) and inserting the following:

``SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.

``(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:

``(1) Forests and rangelands, and the resources of forests and rangelands, are of strategic economic and ecological importance to the United States, and the Federal Government has an important and substantial role in ensuring the continued health, productivity, and sustainability of the Nation's forests and rangelands.

``(2) Over 75 percent of the productive commercial forest land in the United States is in private ownership, with some 60 percent owned by small nonindustrial private owners. These 10,000,000 nonindustrial private owners are critical to providing both commodity and noncommodity values to the citizens of the United States.

``(3) The National Forest System manages only 17 percent of the Nation's commercial timberlands, with over half of the standing softwoods inventory located on those lands. Dramatic changes in Federal agency policy during the early 1990's have significantly curtailed the management of this vast timber resource, causing abrupt shifts in the supply of timber from public to private ownership. As a result of these shifts in supply, some 60 percent of total wood production in the United States is now coming from private forest lands in the southern United States.

``(4) At the same time that pressures are building for the removal of even more land from commercial production, the Federal Government is significantly reducing its commitment to productivity-related research regarding forests and rangelands, which is critically needed by the private sector for the sustained management of remaining available timber and forage resources for the benefit of all species.

``(5) Uncertainty over the availability of the United States timber supply, increasing regulatory burdens, and the lack of Federal Government support for research is causing domestic wood and paper producers to move outside the United States to find reliable sources of wood supplies, which in turns results in a worsening of the United States trade balance, the loss of employment and infrastructure investments, and an increased risk of infestations of exotic pests and diseases from imported wood products.

``(6) Wood and paper producers in the United States are being challenged not only by shifts in Government policy, but also by international competition from tropical countries where growth rates of trees far exceed those in the United States. Wood production per acre will need to quadruple from 1996 levels for the United States forestry sector to remain internationally competitive on an ever decreasing forest land base.

``(7) Better and more frequent forest inventorying and analysis is necessary to identify productivity-related forestry research needs and to provide forest managers with the current data necessary to make timely and effective management decisions.''.

(b) High Priority Forestry Research and Education.--Subsection (d) of section 3 of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 1642) is amended to read as follows:

``(d) High Priority Forestry and Rangelands Research and Education.--The Secretary may conduct, support, and cooperate in forestry and rangelands research and education that is of the highest priority to the United States and to users of public and private forest lands and rangelands in the United States. Such research and education priorities include the following:

``(1) The biology of forest organisms and rangeland organisms.

``(2) Functional characteristics and cost-effective management of forest and rangeland ecosystems.

``(3) Interactions between humans and forests and rangelands.

``(4) Wood and forage as a raw material.

``(5) International trade, competition, and cooperation.''.

(c) Forest Inventory and Analysis.--Section 3 of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 1642) is amended by adding at the end the following new subsection:

``(e) Forest Inventory and Analysis.--

``(1) Program required.--In compliance with existing statutory authority, the Secretary shall establish a program to inventory and analyze, in a timely manner, public and private forests and their resources in the United States.

``(2) Annual state inventory.--Not later than the end of each full fiscal year beginning after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall prepare for each State, in cooperation with the State forester for the State, an inventory of forests and their resources in the State. For purposes of preparing the inventory for a State, the Secretary shall measure annually 20 percent of all sample plots that are included in the inventory program for that State. Upon completion of the inventory for a year, the Secretary shall make available to the public a compilation of all data collected for that year from measurements of sample plots as well as any analysis made of such samples.

``(3) Five-year reports.--At intervals not greater than every five full fiscal years after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall prepare, publish, and make available to the public a report, prepared in cooperation with State foresters, that--

``(A) contains a description of each State inventory of forests and their resources, incorporating all sample plot measurements conducted during the five years covered by the report;

``(B) displays and analyzes on a nationwide basis the results of the annual reports required by paragraph (2); and

``(C) contains an analysis of forest health conditions and trends over the previous two decades, with an emphasis on such conditions and trends during the period subsequent to the immediately preceding report under this paragraph.

``(4) National standards and definitions.--To ensure uniform and consistent data collection for all public and private forest ownerships and each State, the Secretary shall develop, in consultation with State foresters and Federal land management agencies not under the jurisdiction of the Secretary, and publish national standards and definitions to be applied in inventorying and analyzing forests and their resources under this subsection. The standards shall include a core set of variables to be measured on all sample plots under paragraph (2) and a standard set of tables to be included in the reports under paragraph (3).

``(5) Protection for private property rights.--The Secretary shall obtain written authorization from property owners prior to collecting data from sample plots located on private property pursuant to paragraphs (2) and (3).

``(6) Strategic plan.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this subsection, the Secretary shall prepare and submit to Congress a strategic plan to implement and carry out this subsection, including the annual updates required by paragraph (2) and the reports require by paragraph (3), that shall describe in detail--

``(A) the financial resources required to implement and carry out this subsection, including the identification of any resources required in excess of the amounts provided for forest inventorying and analysis in recent appropriations Acts;

``(B) the personnel necessary to implement and carry out this subsection, including any personnel in addition to personnel currently performing inventorying and analysis functions;

``(C) the organization and procedures necessary to implement and carry out this subsection, including proposed coordination with Federal land management agencies and State foresters;

``(D) the schedules for annual sample plot measurements in each State inventory required by paragraph (2) within the first five-year interval after the date of the enactment of this subsection;

``(E) the core set of variables to be measured in each sample plot under paragraph (2) and the standard set of tables to be used in each State and national report under paragraph (3); and

``(F) the process for employing, in coordination with the Department of Energy and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, remote sensing, global positioning systems, and other advanced technologies to carry out this subsection, and the subsequent use of such technologies.''.

(d) Forestry and Rangelands Competitive Research Grants.--Section 5 of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Research Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 16442) is amended--

(1) by striking the section heading and ``Sec. 5.'' and inserting the following:

``SEC. 5. FORESTRY AND RANGELANDS COMPETITIVE RESEARCH

GRANTS.

``(a) Competitive Grant Authority.--''; and

(2) by adding at the end the following new subsections:

``(b) Emphasis on Certain High Priority Forestry Research.--The Secretary may use up to five percent of the amounts made available for research under section 3 to make competitive grants regarding forestry research in the high priority research areas identified in section 3(d).

``(c) Emphasis on Certain High Priority Rangelands Research.--The Secretary may use up to five percent of the amounts made available for research under section 3 to make competitive grants regarding rangelands research in the high priority research areas identified in section 3(d).

``(d) Priorities.--In making grants under subsections (b) and (c), the Secretary shall give priority to research proposals in which--

``(1) the proposed research will be collaborative research organized through a center of scientific excellence;

``(2) the applicant agrees to provide matching funds (in the form of direct funding or in-kind support) in an amount equal to not less than 50 percent of the grant amount; and

``(3) the proposed research will be conducted as part of an existing private and public partnership or cooperative research effort and involves several interested research partners.''.

TITLE III--EXTENSION OR REPEAL OF RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION

INITIATIVES

Subtitle A--Extensions

SEC. 301. NATIONAL RESEARCH INITIATIVE UNDER COMPETITIVE,

SPECIAL, AND FACILITIES RESEARCH GRANT ACT.

Subsection (b)(10) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act (7 U.S.C. 450i(b)(10)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 302. EQUITY IN EDUCATIONAL LAND-GRANT STATUS ACT OF

1994.

Sections 533(b) and 535 of the Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-382; 7 U.S.C. 301 note) are amended by striking ``2000'' each place it appears and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 303. EDUCATION GRANTS PROGRAMS FOR HISPANIC-SERVING

INSTITUTIONS.

Section 1455(c) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3241(c)) is amended by striking ``fiscal year 1997'' and inserting

``each of the fiscal years 1997 through 2002''.

SEC. 304. GENERAL AUTHORIZATION FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

PROGRAMS.

Section 1463 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3311) is amended in subsections (a) and (b) by striking ``1997'' each place it appears and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 305. GENERAL AUTHORIZATION FOR EXTENSION EDUCATION.

Section 1464 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3312) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 306. GRANTS AND FELLOWSHIPS FOR FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL

SCIENCES EDUCATION.

Section 1417(j) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3152(j)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 307. GRANTS FOR RESEARCH ON THE PRODUCTION AND MARKETING

OF ALCOHOLS AND INDUSTRIAL HYDROCARBONS FROM

AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES AND FOREST PRODUCTS.

Section 1419(d) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3154(d)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 308. POLICY RESEARCH CENTERS.

Section 1419A(d) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3155(d)) is amended by striking ``fiscal years 1996 and 1997'' and inserting ``each of fiscal years 1996 through 2002''.

SEC. 309. HUMAN NUTRITION INTERVENTION AND HEALTH PROMOTION

RESEARCH PROGRAM.

Section 1424(d) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3174(d)) is amended by striking ``fiscal years 1996 and 1997'' and inserting ``each of fiscal years 1996 through 2002''.

SEC. 310. PILOT RESEARCH PROGRAM TO COMBINE MEDICAL AND

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH.

Section 1424A(d) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3174a(d)) is amended by striking ``fiscal year 1997'' and inserting ``each of fiscal years 1997 through 2002''.

SEC. 311. FOOD AND NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAM.

Section 1425(c)(3) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3175(c)(3)) is amended by striking ``and 1997'' and inserting

``through 2002''.

SEC. 312. ANIMAL HEALTH AND DISEASE CONTINUING RESEARCH.

Section 1433(a) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3195(a)) is amended in the first sentence by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 313. ANIMAL HEALTH AND DISEASE NATIONAL OR REGIONAL

RESEARCH.

Section 1434(a) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3196(a)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 314. GRANT PROGRAM TO UPGRADE AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD

SCIENCES FACILITIES AT 1890 LAND-GRANT

COLLEGES.

Section 1447(b) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3222b(b)) is amended by striking ``and 1997'' and inserting

``through 2002''.

SEC. 315. NATIONAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING CENTENNIAL CENTERS.

Section 1448 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3222c) is amended--

(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``and 1997'' and inserting ``through 2002''; and

(2) in subsection (f), by striking ``1997'' and inserting

``2002''.

SEC. 316. SUPPLEMENTAL AND ALTERNATIVE CROPS RESEARCH.

Section 1473D(a) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3319d(a)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting

``2002''.

SEC. 317. AQUACULTURE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION.

Section 1477 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3324) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 318. RANGELAND RESEARCH.

Section 1483(a) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3336(a)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 319. FEDERAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FACILITIES.

Section 1431 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act Amendments of 1985 (Public Law 99-198; 99 Stat. 1566) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 320. WATER QUALITY RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND

COORDINATION.

Section 1481(d) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5501(d)) is amended by striking

``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 321. NATIONAL GENETICS RESOURCES PROGRAM.

Section 1635(b) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5844(b)) is amended by striking

``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 322. AGRICULTURAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM.

Section 1673(h) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5926(h)) is amended by striking

``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 323. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM FOR FARMERS WITH

DISABILITIES.

Section 1680 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5933) is amended--

(1) in subsection (a)(6)(B), by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''; and

(2) in subsection (b)(2), by striking ``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 324. NATIONAL RURAL INFORMATION CENTER CLEARINGHOUSE.

Section 2381(e) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 3125b(e)) is amended by striking

``1997'' and inserting ``2002''.

SEC. 325. CRITICAL AGRICULTURAL MATERIALS ACT.

Section 16(a) of the Critical Agricultural Materials Act (7 U.S.C. 178n(a)) is amended by striking ``1997'' and inserting

``2002''.

Subtitle B--Repeals

SEC. 341. AQUACULTURE RESEARCH FACILITIES.

Section 1476 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3323) is repealed.

SEC. 342. AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH PROGRAM UNDER NATIONAL

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND TEACHING

POLICY ACT AMENDMENTS OF 1981.

Subsection (b) of section 1432 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act Amendments of 1981 (Public Law 97-98; 7 U.S.C. 3222 note) is repealed.

SEC. 343. LIVESTOCK PRODUCT SAFETY AND INSPECTION PROGRAM.

Section 1670 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5923) is repealed.

SEC. 344. GENERIC AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

Sections 897 and 898 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-127; 110 Stat. 1184) are repealed.

TITLE IV--NEW RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION INITIATIVES

Subtitle A--Partnerships for High-Value Agricultural Product Quality

Research

SEC. 401. DEFINITIONS.

For the purposes of this subtitle:

(1) Eligible partnership.--The term ``eligible partnership'' means a partnership consisting of a land-grant college or university and other entities specified in paragraph (1) of subsection (b) of section 402 that satisfies the eligibility criteria contained in such subsection.

(2) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary of Agriculture.

SEC. 402. ESTABLISHMENT AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PARTNERSHIPS.

(a) Establishment by Grant.--

(1) In general.--The Secretary may make grants to an eligible partnership to coordinate and manage research and extension activities to enhance the quality of high-value agricultural products.

(2) Awarding of grants.--Grants under paragraph (1) shall be awarded on a competitive basis.

(b) Criteria for an Eligible Partnership.--

(1) Primary institutions in partnership.--The primary institution involved in an eligible partnership shall be a land-grant college or university, acting in partnership with other colleges or universities, nonprofit research and development entities, and Federal laboratories.

(2) Prioritization of research activities.--An eligible partnership shall prioritize research and extension activities in order to--

(A) enhance the competitiveness of United States agricultural products;

(B) increase exports of such products; and

(3) Coordination.--An eligible partnership shall coordinate among the entities comprising the partnership the activities supported by the eligible partnership, including the provision of mechanisms for sharing resources between institutions and laboratories and the coordination of public and private sector partners to maximize cost-effectiveness.

(c) Types of Research and Extension Activities.--Research or extension supported by an eligible partnership may address the full spectrum of production, processing, packaging, transportation, and marketing issues related to a high-value agricultural product. Such issues include--

(1) environmentally responsible--

(A) pest management alternatives and biotechnology;

(B) sustainable farming methods; and

(2) genetic research to develop improved agricultural-based products;

(3) refinement of field production practices and technology to improve quality, yield, and production efficiencies;

(4) processing and package technology to improve product quality, stability, or flavor intensity;

(5) marketing research regarding consumer perceptions and preferences;

(6) economic research, including industry characteristics, growth, competitive analysis; and

(7) research to facilitate diversified, value-added enterprises in rural areas.

SEC. 403. ELEMENTS OF GRANT MAKING PROCESS.

(a) Period of Grant.--The Secretary may award a grant under this subtitle for a period not to exceed five years.

(b) Preferences.--In making grants under this subtitle, the Secretary shall give preference to proposals that--

(1) demonstrate linkages with--

(A) agencies of the Department of Agriculture;

(B) other related Federal research laboratories and agencies;

(D) private industry; and

(2) guarantee matching funds in excess of the amounts required by subsection (c).

(c) Matching Funds.--An eligible partnership shall contribute an amount of non-Federal funds for the operation of the partnership that is at least equal to the amount of grant funds received under this subtitle.

(d) Limitation on Use of Grant Funds.--Funds provided under this subtitle may not be used for the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of a building or facility.

SEC. 404. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS AND RELATED

PROVISIONS.

(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such funds as may be necessary to carry out this subtitle for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002.

(b) Limitation on Administrative Costs.--Not more than four percent of the funds appropriated to carry out this subtitle may be retained by the Secretary to pay administrative costs incurred by the Secretary to carry out this subtitle.

Subtitle B--Precision Agriculture

SEC. 411. DEFINITIONS.

For purposes of this subtitle:

(1) Precision agriculture.--The term ``precision agriculture'' means an integrated information- and production-based farming system that is designed to increase long-term, site specific and whole farm production efficiencies, productivity, and profitability while minimizing unintended impacts on wildlife and the environment by--

(A) combining agricultural sciences, agricultural inputs and practices, agronomic production databases, and precision agriculture technologies to efficiently manage agronomic and livestock production systems;

(B) gathering on-farm information pertaining to the variation and interaction of site-specific spatial and temporal factors affecting crop and livestock production;

(C) integrating such information with appropriate data derived from field scouting, remote sensing, and other precision agriculture technologies in a timely manner in order to facilitate on-farm decisionmaking; or

(D) using such information to prescribe and deliver site-specific application of agricultural inputs and management practices in agricultural production systems.

(2) Precision agriculture technologies.--The term

``precision agriculture technologies'' includes--

(A) instrumentation and techniques ranging from sophisticated sensors and software systems to manual sampling and data collection tools that measure, record, and manage spatial and temporal data;

(B) technologies for searching out and assembling information necessary for sound agricultural production decision making;

(C) open systems technologies for data networking and processing that produce valued systems for farm management decisionmaking; or

(D) machines that deliver information based management practices.

(3) Advisory board.--The term ``Advisory Board'' means the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board established under section 1408 of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3123).

(4) Agricultural inputs.--The term ``agricultural inputs'' includes all farm management, agronomic, and field applied agricultural production inputs, such as machinery, labor, time, fuel, irrigation water, commercial nutrients, feed stuffs, veterinary drugs and vaccines, livestock waste, crop protection chemicals, agronomic data and information, application and management services, seed, and other inputs used in agriculture production.

(5) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible entity'' means--

(A) a State agricultural experiment station;

(B) a college or university;

(D) a Federal or State government entity or agency;

(E) a national laboratory;

(F) a private organization or corporation;

(G) an agricultural producer or other land manager; or

(H) a precision agriculture partnership referred to in section 414.

(6) Systems research.--The term ``systems research'' means an integrated, coordinated, and iterative investigative process, which considers the multiple interacting components and aspects of precision agriculture systems, including synthesis of new knowledge regarding the physical-chemical-biological processes and complex interactions with cropping, livestock production practices, and natural resource systems, precision agriculture technologies development and implementation, data and information collection and interpretation, production scale planning, production-scale implementation, and farm production efficiencies, productivity, and profitability.

SEC. 412. COMPETITIVE GRANTS TO PROMOTE PRECISION

AGRICULTURE.

(a) Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Agriculture may make competitive grants, for periods not to exceed five years, to eligible entities to conduct research, education, or information dissemination projects for the development and advancement of precision agriculture. Such grants shall be limited to those projects that the Secretary determines are unlikely to be financed by the private sector in the absence of a grant under this section. The Secretary shall make such grants in consultation with the Advisory Board.

(b) Purpose of Projects.--Research, education, or information dissemination projects supported by a grant under subsection (a) shall address one or more of the following:

(1) The study and promotion of components of precision agriculture technologies using a systems research approach that would increase long-term, site-specified and whole farm production efficiencies, productivity, profitability.

(2) The improvement in the understanding of agronomic systems, including, soil, water, land cover (including grazing lands), pest management systems, and meteorological variability.

(3) The provision of training and educational programs for State cooperative extension services agents, and other professionals involved in the agricultural production and transfer of integrated precision agriculture technology.

(4) The development, demonstration, and dissemination of information regarding precision agriculture technologies and systems and the potential benefits of precision agriculture as it relates to increased long-term farm production efficiencies, productivity, profitability, and the maintenance of the environment, and improvements in international trade into an integrated program to educate agricultural producers and consumers, including family owned and operated farms.

(c) Grant Priorities.--In making grants to eligible entities under subsection (a), the Secretary, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall give priority to research, education, or information dissemination projects designed to accomplish the following:

(1) Evaluate the use of precision agriculture technologies using a systems research approach to increase long-term site-specific and whole farm production efficiencies, productivity, profitability.

(2) Integrate research, education, and information dissemination components in a practical and readily available manner so that the findings of the project will be made readily usable by farmers.

(3) Demonstrate the efficient use of agricultural inputs, rather than the uniform reduction in the use of agricultural inputs.

(4) Maximize the involvement and cooperation of precision agriculture producers, certified crop advisers, State cooperative extension services agents, agricultural input machinery, product and service providers, nonprofit organizations, agribusiness, veterinarians, land-grant colleges and universities, and Federal agencies in precision agriculture systems research projects involving on-farm research, education, and information dissemination of precision agriculture.

(5) Maximize collaboration with multiple agencies and other partners that include leveraging of funds and resources.

(d) Matching Funds.--The amount of a grant under this section to an eligible entity (other than a Federal agency) may not exceed the amount which the eligible entity makes available out of non-Federal funds for precision agriculture research and for the establishment and maintenance of facilities necessary for conducting precision agriculture research.

SEC. 413. RESERVATION OF FUNDS FOR EDUCATION AND INFORMATION

DISSEMINATION PROJECTS.

Of the funds made available for grants under section 412, the Secretary of Agriculture shall reserve a portion of such funds for grants for projects regarding precision agriculture related to education or information dissemination.

SEC. 414. PRECISION AGRICULTURE PARTNERSHIPS.

In carrying out this subtitle, the Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the Advisory Board, shall encourage the establishment of appropriate multi-state and national partnerships or consortia between--

(1) land-grant colleges and universities, State agricultural experiment stations, State cooperative extension services, other colleges and universities with demonstrable expertise regarding precision agriculture, agencies of the Department of Agriculture, national laboratories, agribusinesses, agricultural equipment and input manufacturers and retailers, certified crop advisers, commodity organizations, veterinaries, other Federal or State government entities and agencies, or nonagricultural industries and nonprofit organizations with demonstrable expertise regarding precision agriculture; and

(2) agricultural producers or other land managers.

SEC. 415. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS.

(a) Prohibition on Use of Funds for Certain Purposes.--The Secretary of Agriculture may not make a grant under section 412 for the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of a building or facility.

(b) Application of Other Laws.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) and title XVIII of the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2281 et seq.) shall not apply to a panel or board created for the purpose of reviewing applications or proposals submitted under this subtitle.

SEC. 416. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.

(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are hereby authorized to be appropriated to carry out this subtitle

$40,000,000 for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002.

(b) Administrative Costs.--Not more than 3 percent of the amount appropriated under this subtitle may be retained by the Secretary to pay the administrative costs incurred by the Secretary in carrying out this subtitle.

(c) Availability of Funds.--Funds made available under paragraph (a) shall be available for obligation for a two-year period beginning on October 1 of the fiscal year for which the funds are made available.

Subtitle C--Other Initiatives

SEC. 421. HIGH-PRIORITY RESEARCH AND EXTENSION INITIATIVES.

Section 1672 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5925) is amended to read as follows:

``SEC. 1672. HIGH-PRIORITY RESEARCH AND EXTENSION

INITIATIVES.

``(a) Competitive Specialized Research and Extension Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Education, Extension, and Economics Advisory Board, may make competitive grants to support research and extension activities in the high-priority research and extension areas specified in subsection (e).

``(b) Grant Types and Process; Prohibition on Construction.--Paragraphs (6), (7), and (11) of subsection

(b) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act (7 U.S.C. 450i) shall apply with respect to the making of grants under this section.

``(c) Matching Funds Required.--

``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall require the recipient of a grant under this section to provide funds or in-kind support from non-Federal sources in an amount at least equal to the amount provided by the Federal Government.

``(2) Waiver authority.--The Secretary may waive the matching funds requirement specified in paragraph (1) with respect to a research project if the Secretary determines that--

``(A) the results of the project, while of particular benefit to a specific agricultural commodity, are likely to be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or

``(B) the project involves a minor commodity, deals with scientifically important research, and the grant recipient would be unable to satisfy the matching funds requirement.

``(d) Partnerships Encouraged.--Following the completion of a peer review process for grant proposals received under this section, the Secretary may give priority to those grant proposals found to be scientifically meritorious that involve the cooperation of multiple institutions.

``(e) High-Priority Research and Extension Areas.--

``(1) Brown citrus aphid and citrus tristeza virus research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of--

``(A) developing methods to control or eradicate the brown citrus aphid and the citrus tristeza virus from citrus crops grown in the United States; or

``(B) adapting citrus crops grown in the United States to the brown citrus aphid and the citrus tristeza virus.

``(2) Ethanol research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of carrying on or enhancing research on ethanol derived from agricultural crops as an alternative fuel source.

``(3) Aflatoxin research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of identifying and controlling aflatoxin in the food and feed chains.

``(4) Mesquite research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing enhanced production methods and commercial uses of mesquite.

``(5) Prickly pear research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of investigating enhanced genetic selection and processing techniques of prickly pears.

``(6) Deer tick ecology research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of studying the population ecology of deer ticks and other insects and pests which transmit Lyme disease.

``(7) Red meat safety research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing--

``(A) intervention strategies that reduce microbial contamination on carcass surfaces;

``(B) microbiological mapping of carcass surfaces; and

``(C) model hazard analysis and critical control point plans.

``(8) Grain sorghum ergot research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing techniques for the eradication of sorghum ergot.

``(9) Animal waste and odor management research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of--

``(A) identifying, evaluating, and demonstrating innovative technologies for animal waste management and odor control; and

``(B) conducting information workshops to disseminate the results of such research.

``(10) Fire ant research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of control, management, and eradication of fire ants.

``(11) Wheat scab research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section to a consortium of land-grant colleges and universities for the purpose of understanding and combating diseases of wheat and barley caused by Fusarium graminearum and related fungi

(commonly known as wheat scab).

``(12) Peanut market enhancement research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of evaluating the economics of applying innovative technologies for peanut processing in a commercial environment.

``(13) Dairy financial risk management research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of providing research, development, or education materials, information, and outreach programs regarding risk management strategies for dairy producers and for dairy cooperatives and other processors and marketers of milk.

``(14) Cotton research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of improving pest management, fiber quality enhancement, economic assessment, textile production, and optimized production systems for short staple cotton.

``(15) Methyl bromide research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of--

``(A) developing and evaluating chemical and nonchemical alternatives, and use and emission reduction strategies, for pre-planting and post-harvest uses of methyl bromide; and

``(B) transferring the results of such research for agricultural producer use.

``(16) Water quality and aquatic ecosystem research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of investigating the impact on aquatic food webs, especially commercially important aquatic species and their habitats, of microorganisms of the genus Pfiesteria and other microorganisms that are a threat to human or animal health.

``(17) Potato research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing and evaluating new strains of potatoes which are resistant to blight and other diseases, as well as insects. Emphasis may be placed on developing potato varieties that lend themselves to innovative marketing approaches.

``(18) Wood utilization research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing new uses for wood from underutilized tree species as well as investigating methods of modifying wood and wood fibers to produce better building materials.

``(19) Low-bush blueberry research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of evaluating methods of propagating and developing low-bush blueberry as a marketable crop.

``(20) Formosan termite eradication research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of--

``(A) conducting research for the control, management, and possible eradication of Formosan termites in the United States; and

``(B) collecting data on the effectiveness of research projects conducted under this paragraph.

``(21) Swine waste management and odor control research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of investigating the microbiology of swine waste and developing improved methods to effectively manage air and water quality in animal husbandry.

``(22) Wetlands utilization research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of better utilizing wetlands in diverse ways to provide various economic, agricultural, and environmental benefits.

``(23) Wild pampas grass control and eradication research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of control, management, and eradication of wild pampas grass.

``(24) Pathogen detection and limitation research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of identifying advanced detection and processing methods to limit the presence of pathogens, including hepatitis A and E. coli 0157:H7, in domestic and imported foods.

``(25) Financial risk management research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of providing research, development, or education materials, information, and outreach programs regarding financial risk management strategies for agricultural producers and for cooperatives and other processors and marketers of any agricultural commodity.

``(26) Ornamental tropical fish research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of meeting the needs of commercial producers of ornamental tropical fish and aquatic plants for improvements in the areas of fish reproduction, health, nutrition, predator control, water use, water quality control, and farming technology.

``(27) Sheep scrapie research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of investigating the genetic aspects of scrapie in sheep.

``(28) Animal waste management at rural/urban interfaces.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of identifying, evaluating, and demonstrating innovative technologies to be used for animal waste management (including odor control) in rural areas adjacent to urban or suburban areas in connection with waste management activities undertaken in urban or suburban areas.

``(29) Gypsy moth research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of developing biological control, management, and eradication methods against nonnative insects, including Lymantria dispar (commonly known as the Gypsy Moth), that contribute to significant agricultural, economical, or environmental harm.

``(30) Dairy efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of improving the efficiency, profitability, and competitiveness of dairy production on farms that are heavily dependent on manufacturing uses of milk.

``(31) Animal feed research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section for the purpose of maximizing nutrition management for livestock, while limiting risks, such as mineral bypass, associated with livestock feeding practices.

``(32) Forestry research and extension.--Research and extension grants may be made under this section to develop and distribute new, high-quality, science-based information for the purpose of improving the long-term productivity of forest resources and contributing to forest-based economic development by addressing such issues as forest land use policies, multiple-use forest management, including wildlife habitat development, improved forest regeneration systems, and timber supply, and improved development, manufacturing, and marketing of forest products.

``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002 such sums as may be necessary to make grants under this section in each of the high-priority research and extension areas specified in subsection (e).

``(g) Use of Task Forces.--

``(1) Establishment.--To facilitate the making of research and extension grants under this section in a high-priority research and extension area specified in subsection (e), the Secretary may appoint a task force to make recommendations to the Secretary.

``(2) Limitation on costs.--The Secretary may not incur costs in excess of $1,000 in any fiscal year in connection with each task force established under this subsection.

``(3) Application of other laws.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) and title XVIII of the Food and Agriculture Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2281 et seq.) shall not apply to a task force established under this subsection.''.

SEC. 422. ORGANIC AGRICULTURE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION

INITIATIVE.

The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 is amended by inserting after section 1672 (7 U.S.C. 5925) the following new section:

``SEC. 1672A. ORGANIC AGRICULTURE RESEARCH AND EXTENSION

INITIATIVE.

``(a) Competitive Specialized Research and Extension Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Education, Extension, and Economics Advisory Board, may make competitive grants to support research and extension activities regarding organically grown and processed agricultural commodities for the purpose of--

``(1) facilitating the development of organic agriculture production and processing methods;

``(2) evaluating the potential economic benefits to producers and processors who use organic methods; and

``(3) exploring international trade opportunities for organically grown and processed agricultural commodities.

``(b) Grant Types and Process, Prohibition on Construction.--Paragraphs (6), (7), and (11) of subsection

(b) of the Competitive, Special, and Facilities Research Grant Act (7 U.S.C. 450i) shall apply with respect to the making of grants under this section.

``(c) Matching Funds Required.--

``(2) Waiver authority.--The Secretary may waive the matching funds requirement specified in paragraph (1) with respect to a research project if the Secretary determines that--

``(A) the results of the project, while of particular benefit to a specified agricultural commodity, are likely to be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or

``(B) the project involves a minor commodity, deals with scientifically important research, and grant recipient would be unable to satisfy the matching funds requirement.

``(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002 such sums as may be necessary to make grants under this section.''.

SEC. 423. UNITED STATES-MEXICO JOINT AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH.

Subtitle I of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 is amended by inserting after section 1458 (7 U.S.C. 3291) the following new section:

``SEC. 1459. UNITED STATES-MEXICO JOINT AGRICULTURAL

RESEARCH.

``(a) Research and Development Program.--The Secretary may provide for an agricultural research and development program with the United States/Mexico Foundation for Science, which will focus on binational problems facing agricultural producers and consumers in the two countries, in particular pressing problems in the areas of food safety, plant and animal pest control, and the natural resources base on which agriculture depends.

``(b) Administration.--Grants under the research and development program shall be awarded competitively through the Foundation.

``(c) Matching Requirements.--The provision of funds to the Foundation by the United States Government shall be subject to the condition that the Government of Mexico match, on at least an equal ratio, any funds provided by the United States Government.

``(d) Limitation on Use of Funds.--Funds provided under this section may not be used for the planning, repair, rehabilitation, acquisition, or construction of a building or facility.''.

SEC. 424. COMPETITIVE GRANTS FOR INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURAL

SCIENCE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

Subtitle I of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3291 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 1459, as added by section 423, the following new section:

``SEC. 1459A. COMPETITIVE GRANTS FOR INTERNATIONAL

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS.

``(a) Competitive Grants Authorized.--The Secretary may make competitive grants to colleges and universities in order to strengthen United States economic competitiveness and to promote international market development.

``(b) Purpose of Grants.--Grants under this section shall be directed to agricultural research, extension, and teaching activities that will--

``(1) enhance the international content of the curricula in colleges and universities so as to ensure that United States students acquire an understanding of the international dimensions and trade implications of their studies;

``(2) ensure that United States scientists, extension agents, and educators involved in agricultural research and development activities outside of the United States have the opportunity to convey the implications of their activities and findings to their peers and students in the United States and to the users of agricultural research, extension, and teaching;

``(3) enhance the capabilities of colleges and universities to do collaborative research with other countries, in cooperation with other Federal agencies, on issues relevant to United States agricultural competitiveness;

``(4) enhance the capabilities of colleges and universities to provide cooperative extension education to promote the application of new technology developed in foreign countries to United States agriculture; and

``(5) enhance the capability of United States colleges and universities, in cooperation with other Federal agencies, to provide leadership and educational programs that will assist United States natural resources and food production, processing, and distribution businesses and industries to compete internationally, including product market identification, international policies limiting or enhancing market production, development of new or enhancement of existing markets, and production efficiencies.

``(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.''.

SEC. 425. FOOD ANIMAL RESIDUE AVOIDANCE DATABASE PROGRAM.

(a) Continuation of Program.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall continue operation of the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Database program (referred to in this section as the ``FARAD program'') through appropriate colleges or universities.

(b) Activities.--In carrying out the FARAD program, the Secretary of Agriculture shall--

(1) provide livestock producers, extension specialists, scientists, and veterinarians with information to prevent drug, pesticide, and environmental contaminant residues in food animal products;

(2) maintain up-to-date information concerning--

(A) withdrawal times on FDA-approved food animal drugs and appropriate withdrawal intervals for drugs used in food animals in the United States, as established under section 512(a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 360b(a));

(B) official tolerances for drugs and pesticides in tissues, eggs, and milk;

(D) data on the distribution and fate of chemicals in food animals;

(3) publish periodically a compilation of food animal drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration;

(4) make information on food animal drugs available to the public through handbooks and other literature, computer software, a telephone hotline, and the Internet;

(5) furnish producer quality-assurance programs with up-to-date data on approved drugs;

(6) maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date, residue avoidance database;

(7) provide professional advice for determining the withdrawal times necessary for food safety in the use of drugs in food animals; and

(8) engage in other activities designed to promote food safety.

(c) Grants.--The Secretary of Agriculture, in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Education, Extension, and Economics Advisory Board, may make grants to colleges and universities to operate the FARAD program. The term of a grant shall be three years, with options to extend the term of the grant triennially.

SEC. 426. DEVELOPMENT AND COMMERCIALIZATION OF NEW BIOBASED

PRODUCTS.

(a) Biobased Product Defined.--For purposes of this section, the term ``biobased product'' means a product suitable for food or nonfood use that is derived in whole or in part from renewable agricultural and forestry materials.

(b) Cooperative Agreements for Biobased Products.--The Secretary of Agriculture may enter into cooperative agreements with private entities described in subsection (c), under which the facilities and technical expertise of the Agricultural Research Service may be made available to operate pilot plants and other large-scale preparative facilities for the purpose of bringing technologies necessary for the development and commercialization of new biobased products to the point of practical application. Cooperative activities may include research on potential environmental impacts of a biobased product, methods to reduce the cost of manufacturing a biobased product, and other appropriate research.

(c) Eligible Partners.--The following entities shall be eligible to enter into a cooperative agreement under this section:

(1) A party that has entered into a cooperative research and development agreement with the Secretary under section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a).

(2) A recipient of funding from the Alternative Agricultural Research and Commercialization Corporation established under section 1658 of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (7 U.S.C. 5902).

(3) A recipient of funding from the Biotechnology Research and Development Corporation.

(4) A recipient of funding from the Secretary under a Small Business Innovation Research Program established under section 9 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638).

(d) Source of Funds.--To carry out this section, the Secretary may use--

(1) funds appropriated to carry out this section; and

(2) funds available for cooperative research and development agreements (as described in subsection (b)).

(e) Sale of Developed Products.--The Secretary shall authorize the private partner or partners in a cooperative agreement consistent with this section to sell new biobased products produced at a pilot plant under the agreement for the purpose of determining the market potential for the products.

(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.

SEC. 427. THOMAS JEFFERSON INITIATIVE FOR CROP

DIVERSIFICATION.

(a) Initiative Required.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall provide for a research initiative (to be known as the

``Thomas Jefferson Initiative for Crop Diversification'') for the purpose of conducting research and development, in cooperation with other public and private entities, on the production and marketing of new and nontraditional crops needed to strengthen and diversify the agricultural production base of the United States. The initiative shall include research and education efforts regarding new and nontraditional crops designed--

(1) to identify and overcome agronomic barriers to profitable production;

(2) to identify and overcome other production and marketing barriers; and

(3) to develop processing and utilization technologies for new and nontraditional crops.

(b) Purposes.--The initiative is established--

(1) to develop a focused program of research and development at the regional and national level to overcome barriers to development of new crop opportunities for farmers and related value-added enterprise development in rural communities; and

(2) to ensure a broad-based effort encompassing research, education, market development, and support of entrepreneurial activity leading to increased agricultural diversification.

(c) Establishment of Initiative.--The Secretary shall coordinate the initiative through a nonprofit center or institute that will coordinate research and education programs in cooperation with other public and private entities. The Secretary shall administer research and education grants made under this section.

(d) Regional Emphasis.--The Secretary shall support development of multi-State regional efforts in crop diversification. Of funding made available to carry out the initiative, 50 percent shall be used for regional efforts centered at land-grant colleges and universities in order to facilitate site-specific crop development efforts.

(e) Eligible Grantee.--The Secretary may award funds under this section to colleges or universities, nonprofit organizations, or public agencies.

(f) Administration.--

(1) Grants and contracts.--Grants awarded through the initiative shall be selected on a competitive basis. The recipient of a grant may use a portion of the grant funds for standard contracts with private businesses, such as for test processing of a new or nontraditional crop.

(2) Terms.--The term of a grant awarded through the initiative may not exceed five years.

(3) Matching funds.--The Secretary shall require the recipient of a grant awarded through the initiative to contribute an amount of funds from non-Federal sources at least equal to the amount provided by the Federal Government.

(g) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.

SEC. 428. INTEGRATED RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION

COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM.

(a) Purpose.--It is the purpose of this section to authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to establish an integrated research, education, and extension competitive grant program to provide funding for integrated, multi-functional research, education, and extension activities.

(b) Competitive Grants Authorized.--Subject to the appropriation of funds to carry out this section, the Secretary may award grants to colleges and universities (as defined in section 1404(4) of the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 3103(4))) on a competitive basis for integrated research, education, and extension projects in accordance with the provisions of this section.

(c) Criteria for Grants.--Grants under this section shall be awarded to address priorities in United States agriculture, determined by the Secretary in consultation with the National Agricultural Research, Extension, Education, and Economics Advisory Board, which involve integrated research, education, and extension activities.

(d) Matching of Funds.--

(1) General requirement.--If a grant under this section is to the particular benefit of a specific agricultural commodity, the Secretary shall require the recipient of the grant to provide funds or in-kind support to match the amount of funds provided by the Secretary in the grant.

(2) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the matching funds requirement specified in paragraph (1) with respect to a grant if the Secretary determines that--

(A) the results of the project, while of particular benefit to a specific agricultural commodity, are likely to be applicable to agricultural commodities generally; or

(B) the project involves a minor commodity, deals with scientifically important research, and the grant recipient would be unable to satisfy the matching funds requirement.

(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002 to carry out this section.

SEC. 429. RESEARCH GRANTS UNDER EQUITY IN EDUCATIONAL LAND-

GRANT STATUS ACT OF 1994.

The Equity in Educational Land-Grant Status Act of 1994

(Public Law 103-382; 7 U.S.C. 301 note) is amended by adding at the end the following new section--

``SEC. 536. RESEARCH GRANTS.

``(a) Research Grants Authorized.--The Secretary of Agriculture may make grants under this section on the basis of a competitive application process (and in accordance with such regulations that the Secretary may promulgate) to a 1994 Institution to assist the 1995 Institution to conduct agricultural research that addresses high priority concerns of tribal, national, or multi-state significance.

``(b) Requirements.--Grant applications submitted under this section shall certify that the research to be conducted will be performed under a cooperative agreement with at least one other land-grant college or university (exclusive of another 1994 Institution).

``(c) Authorization of Appropriation.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section for each of the fiscal years 1998 through 2002. Amounts appropriated shall remain available until expended.''.

TITLE V--MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

SEC. 501. ROLE OF SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE REGARDING FOOD AND

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND

EXTENSION.

The Secretary of Agriculture shall be the principal official in the executive branch responsible for coordinating all Federal research and extension activities related to food and agricultural sciences.

SEC. 502. OFFICE OF PEST MANAGEMENT POLICY.

(a) Objective.--The establishment of an Office of Pest Management Policy pursuant to this section is intended to provide for the effective coordination of agricultural policies and activities within the Department of Agriculture related to pesticides and of the development and use of pest management tools, while taking into account the effects of regulatory actions of other government agencies.

(b) Establishment of Office; Principal Responsibilities.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall establish in the Department of Agriculture an Office of Pest Management Policy, which shall be responsible for--

(1) the development and coordination of Department of Agriculture policy on pest management and pesticides;

(2) the coordination of activities and services of the Department, including research, extension, and education activities, regarding the development, availability, and use of economically and environmentally sound pest management tools and practices;

(3) assisting the Department in fulfilling its responsibilities related to pest management or pesticides under the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 (Public Law 104-170; 110 Stat. 1489), the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136 et seq.), the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.), or other law; and

(4) performing such other functions as may be required by law or prescribed by the Secretary.

(c) Interagency Coordination.--In support of its responsibilities under subsection (a), the Office of Pest Management Policy shall provide leadership to ensure coordination of interagency activities with the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food and Drug Administration, and other Federal and State agencies.

(d) Outreach.--The Office of Pest Management Policy shall consult with agricultural producers that may be affected by pest management or pesticide-related activities or actions of the Department or other agencies as necessary in carrying out the Office's responsibilities under this section.

(e) Director.--The Office of Pest Management Policy shall be under the direction of a Director appointed by the Secretary who shall report directly to the Secretary or a designee of the Secretary.

(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out this section.

SEC. 503. FOOD SAFETY RESEARCH INFORMATION OFFICE AND

NATIONAL CONFERENCE.

(a) Food Safety Research Information Office.--

(1) Establishment and purpose.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall establish a Food Safety Research Information Office at the National Agricultural Library. The Office shall provide to the research community and the general public information on publicly funded, and to the extent possible, privately funded food safety research initiatives for the purpose of--

(A) preventing unintended duplication of food safety research; and

(B) assisting the executive and legislative branches of the Government and private research entities to assess food safety research needs and priorities.

(2) Cooperation.--The Office shall carry out paragraph (1) in cooperation with the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, public institutions, and on a voluntary basis, private research interests.

(b) National Conference.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall sponsor a conference to be known as the ``National Conference on Food Safety Research'', for the purpose of beginning the task of food safety research prioritization. The Secretary shall sponsor annual workshops in each of the subsequent four years after the conference so that priorities can be updated or adjusted to reflect changing food safety concerns.

(c) Food Safety Report.--With regard to the study and report to be prepared by the National Academy of Sciences on the scientific and organizational needs for an effective food safety system, the study shall include recommendations to ensure that the food safety inspection system, within the resources traditionally available to existing food safety agencies, protects the public health.

SEC. 504. NUTRIENT COMPOSITION DATA.

(a) In General.--The Secretary of Agriculture shall update, on a periodic basis, nutrient composition data.

(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report that describes--

(1) the method the Secretary will use to update nutrient composition data, including the quality assurance criteria that will be used and the method for generating the data; and

(2) the timing for updating the data.

SEC. 505. AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS RECEIVED OR COLLECTED ON

BEHALF OF NATIONAL ARBORETUM.

Section 6(b) of the Act of March 4, 1927 (20 U.S.C. 196(b)), is amended by striking ``Treasury'' and inserting

``Treasury. Amounts in the special fund shall be available to the Secretary of Agriculture, without further appropriation,''.

SEC. 506. RETENTION AND USE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICE

PATENT CULTURE COLLECTION FEES.

All funds collected by the Agricultural Research Service of the Department of Agriculture in connection with the acceptance of microorganisms for deposit in, or the distribution of microorganisms from, the Patent Culture Collection maintained and operated by the Agricultural Research Service shall be credited to the appropriation supporting the maintenance and operation of the Patent Culture Collection. The collected funds shall be available to the Agricultural Research Service, without further appropriation or fiscal-year limitation, to carry out its responsibilities under law (including international treaty) with respect to the Patent Culture Collection.

SEC. 507. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES INCURRED UNDER SHEEP

PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ACT OF

1994.

Using funds available to the Agricultural Marketing Service, the Service may reimburse the American Sheep Industry Association for expenses incurred by American Sheep Industry Association between February 6, 1996, and May 17, 1996, in preparation for the implementation of a sheep and wool promotion, research, education, and information order under the Sheep Promotion, Research, and Information Act of 1994 (7 U.S.C. 7101 et seq.).

SEC. 508. DESIGNATION OF KIKA DE LA GARZA SUBTROPICAL

AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH CENTER, WESLACO, TEXAS.

(a) Designation.--The Federal facilities located at 2413 East Highway 83, and 2301 South International Boulevard, in Weslaco, Texas, and known as the Subtropical Agricultural Research Center, shall be known and designated as the ``Kika de la Garza Subtropical Agricultural Research Center''.

(b) References.--Any reference in a law, map, regulation, document, paper, or other record of the United States to the Federal facilities referred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the ``Kika de la Garza Subtropical Agricultural Research Center''.

SEC. 509. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH

SERVICE EMPHASIS ON IN FIELD RESEARCH REGARDING

METHYL BROMIDE ALTERNATIVES.

It is the sense of Congress that, of the Agricultural Research Service funds made available for a fiscal year for research regarding the development for agricultural use of alternatives to methyl bromide, the Secretary of Agriculture should use a substantial portion of such funds for research to be conducted in real field conditions, in particular pre-planting and post-harvest conditions, so as to expedite the development and commercial use of methyl bromide alternatives.

SEC. 510. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING IMPORTANCE OF SCHOOL-

BASED AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION.

It is the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of Education should collaborate and cooperate in providing both instructional and technical support for school-based agricultural education.

SEC. 511. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING DESIGNATION OF

DEPARTMENT CRISIS MANAGEMENT TEAM.

(a) Findings.--Congress finds the following:

(1) The Department of Agriculture plays a crucial role in ensuring that the United States is a world leader in maintaining the most affordable, abundant, wholesome, and safe food supply for its citizens.

(2) It is in the best interest of consumers, producers, processors, retailers, government officials, and other interested parties to ensure that any crisis that may affect the operation of the Department or the production of a safe and wholesome food supply is addressed in an effective manner.

(3) Unforeseen circumstances, including natural disaster, personnel management problems, threats to public health, and trade disruptions, have the potential to undermine the operation of the Department and the Nation's ability to efficiently provide a safe, affordable, abundant, and wholesome food supply.

(4) Department of Agriculture employees, consumer confidence, and the food production sector have been adversely impacted as a result of the challenges associated with Federal agencies' ability to respond to incidents in a coordinated and timely fashion.

(5) An effective response to crises, emergencies, and similar situations depends upon the timely and efficient coordination of Federal, State, and local government agencies.

(6) It is in the best interests of the Nation to ensure that whenever a crisis occurs the appropriate Federal agencies coordinate their activities.

(7) The Department of Agriculture should take the lead in ensuring a safe and wholesome supply of food for the Nation because of its broad and diverse relationship with consumers and the food production sector.

(b) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the Secretary of Agriculture should--

(1) designate a Crisis Management Team within the Department of Agriculture, which would be composed of senior departmental personnel with strong subject matter expertise selected from each relevant agency of the Department and would be headed by a team leader with strong management and communications skills;

(2) upon establishment of such a Crisis Management Team, direct that the Crisis Management Team--

(A) develop a department-wide crisis management plan, taking into account similar plans developed by other government agencies and other large organizations;

(B) develop detailed written procedures for implementing the crisis management plan;

(D) ensure compliance with crisis management procedures by departmental personnel;

(E) coordinate the Department's information gathering and dissemination activities concerning issues managed by the Crisis Management Team;

(F) ensure that all employees of the Department are familiar with the crisis management plan and procedures and are encouraged to bring information regarding crises or potential crises to the attention of team members;

(G) ensure that departmental spokespersons convey accurate, timely, and scientifically sound information that is easily understood by the target audience; and

(H) cooperate and coordinate with other Federal agencies, States, local governments, industry, and public interest groups; and

(3) seek to enter into cooperative agreements with other Federal departments and agencies that have related programs or activities to help ensure consistent, accurate, and coordinated dissemination of information throughout the executive branch in the event of a crisis.

Mr. McCAIN. Mr. President, Senator Hollings and I would like to engage the chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Lugar, as well as the ranking member of that Committee, Senator Harkin, in a colloquy on certain provisions of S. 1150, the Agriculture Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1997.

Mr. LUGAR. I would be pleased to join the Senators in a colloquy on this subject.

Mr. HARKIN. I would be happy to participate in the colloquy as well.

Mr. McCAIN. The Commerce Committee has expressed serious concerns about sections of the Senate version of S. 1150 which deal with aquaculture and weather activities. These provisions make changes to existing law relating to marine and estuarine aquaculture as well as federal weather activities, subjects that are within the jurisdiction of the Commerce Committee. The Commerce Committee believes that these changes are significant and need to be thoroughly reviewed in the Commerce Committee before they are enacted. We have therefore requested that the Senate Agriculture Committee conferees agree to drop these provisions during the conference on S. 1150. I would now like to defer to the Commerce Committee's ranking Democrat, Senator Hollings, for his comments on this matter.

Mr. HOLLINGS. I concur with the chairman of the Commerce Committee. The provisions on aquaculture and weather activities in the Senate-

passed version of S. 1150 substantially affect important issues within the Commerce Committee's jurisdiction and we need to examine and formally consider the provisions in our committee before we can agree to their enactment.

Mr. McCAIN. Mr. President, our two committees have discussed this matter and I understand that based on the concern expressed by the Commerce Committee Senator Lugar and Senator Harkin have agreed to drop the provisions of concern to our Committee during conference, and to substitute in place of these provisions straight reauthorizations of the National Aquaculture Act of 1980 and the National Agricultural Weather Information System Act of 1990. I understand further that these substitute provisions will simply extend the authorization of appropriations at current levels through fiscal year 2002 for each of the acts, but will otherwise not change existing law. Is my understanding of the agreement correct?

Mr. LUGAR. Senator McCain is correct in his understanding of the agreement reached by our two Committees. While the Agriculture Committee has an interest in both agricultural weather research and freshwater aquaculture, Senator Harkin and I acknowledge the Commerce Committee's concerns and will accommodate them. We will propose during the conference that section 230 and section 211 of the Senate-passed version of S. 1150 be stricken, and that language be inserted in lieu of these sections which only extends the authorization of appropriations for the two statutes through fiscal year 2002, without other changes to the existing laws.

Mr. HARKIN. I concur with the foregoing description of our understanding as well. As Senator Lugar described, we will propose to drop the existing Senate provisions on aquaculture and weather activities, and to substitute in their place straight reauthorizations of the two acts that Senator McCain mentioned.

Mr. McCAIN. I thank the Senator very much for their cooperation on this matter.

Mr. HOLLINGS. I also extend my thanks to Senator Lugar and Senator Harkin for addressing our concerns.

Mr. ASHCROFT. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate disagree to the amendment of the House, agree to the request for a conference, and the Chair be authorized to appoint conferees on the part of the Senate.

The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

The Presiding Officer appointed Mr. Lugar, Mr. Cochran, Mr. Coverdell, Mr. Harkin, and Mr. Leahy conferees on the part of the Senate.

Mr. ASHCROFT. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

____________________

SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 144, No. 17

Feb. 27, 1998: Congressional Record publishes “AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH, EXTENSION, AND EDUCATION REFORM ACT OF 1997”

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