WASHINGTON, DC – USDA crop forecasting methods are undergoing an independent review by land-grant university policy centers as the department continues a broader modernization of its agricultural data system.
USDA Chief Economist Justin Benavidez said policy research centers associated with Missouri, Texas A&M and North Dakota State are examining methods used in National Agricultural Statistics Service crop production reports, WASDE and other USDA data processes.
USDA says the centers are conducting the review independently and are expected to evaluate whether current methods remain useful, understandable and effective for producers and other users.
The review comes as USDA expands the use of satellite information, administrative data and new analytical tools while also trying to reduce producer survey burden and improve transparency.
Undersecretary Scott Hutchins said USDA expects recommendations from the policy centers to help guide continued modernization efforts.