Globalization: The globalization of all aspects of the food

and fiber system is having a sudden and surprising impact on

American agriculture. Profound changes are seen worldwide

from competitive markets around the world, from diseases

not limited to national boundaries, to population growth and

evolving diets. These changes have led to a dramatically new

trade environment, threats of exotic diseases and pests to

domestic production, and international controversies over the

use of biotechnology. To remain competitive, the food and

agriculture sector needs to take these developments into

consideration.

Information Access and Communication: The explosion of

information technology, the worldwide use of the Internet,

and the major advancements of cyberspace communications

are changing the way private industry, government, and

individuals conduct daily business. Vast amounts of

information soon will be available in “real time,” more

people from around the world will be able to retrieve the

information, and advanced computer software will make the

information more useful and meaningful. Advancements in

communication technology offer benefits and opportunities

for everyone involved in the American food and agriculture

sector.

Workforce: A very important employment issue is the need

to recruit and retain a highly skilled and technically well

trained Federal workforce. The relatively low U.S.

unemployment rate makes recruitment highly

competitive. This competitive environment is expected to

require more employer emphasis on recruitment, retention,

student employment, upward mobility, and training/retraining

programs. The public sector will need to recruit a diversity of

people and to maintain a highly qualified and technically

competent workforce. Expanding job opportunities for

women and minorities in science and engineering will help to

tap the Nation’s human potential.

Technology: Advances in technology — such as

bioengineering, precision agriculture, remote sensing, and

decision modeling — can enable agricultural production to

enhance nutrition, protect the environment, and continue to

make the food supply safe. Biotechnology offers great

promise for increasing production efficiency, improving food

quality, and enhancing nutritional value. However, concerns

about genetically modified organisms (GMO) have had a

marked impact on international exports of affected

commodities, and prompted questions about the potential

benefits and risks. Precision agriculture, remote sensing, and

decision modeling will increase production efficiency and

mitigate adverse environmental impacts on agriculture.

Public concern about food safety has led to new rapid

detection technologies that, when fully implemented, will

make the food supply increasingly safer.

Internet: http://www.ars.usda.gov/aboutus/docs.htm?docid=1800 (with adaptations)