Relocation of USDA agencies sparks criticism

Former USDA officials and farm groups are sounding the alarm over the USDA’s plans to move the Economic Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture out of Washington, D.C. The new locations have not yet been chosen. The move is slated to be complete by the end of 2019.The American Statistical Association has sent a letter to Congress, signed by 56 former USDA and federal statistical agency officials to warn of damage the move would cause, including: The loss of staff expertise due to employees not willing to move. Moving the ERS far from its clientele and collaborators who either are located in or visit Washington, D.C. Loss of visibility with policy makers. Puts ERS independence and credibility at risk.