4.0: Participation
Increase opportunities for the public to contribute ideas and expertise in shaping the policies and services USDA provides. Other Information:
“We think in America that it is necessary to introduce the people into every department of government as far as they are capable
of exercising it, and that this is the only way to insure a long-continued and honest administration of its powers." – Thomas
Jefferson Participation “allows members of the public to contribute ideas and expertise so that their government can make
policies with the benefit of information that is widely dispersed in society.” Citizen participation is an integral component
of USDA’s work. Through public participation, the Department becomes more aware of what issues most interest the American
public. With that in mind, USDA can then frame its policies and programs around those issues so that it can provide better
customer service. As a part of open government, the Department will increase opportunities for the public to contribute ideas
and expertise in shaping the policies and services USDA provides. USDA has a number of channels currently available that offer
real, concrete opportunities for committed and engaged citizens to participate in its decision-making processes. Many of these
opportunities may not be as robust or widely understood as they can be. More fundamentally, public expectations are changing.
Today’s near-universal availability of interactive social media and real-time data feeds and communication have revolutionized
private-sector business and the institutions of civil society. This technological advancement poses a challenge to USDA and
other Federal agencies. The Department will step up and harness new technologies and new interest in 24-7 government to deepen
public participation by pursuing the following objectives. Outcomes – Active Engagement of the Public: Increased participation
opportunities allows citizens to assist USDA in making decisions for more prosperous and vibrant rural communities, safer
and more secure food supplies, healthier natural resources, and improved nutrition for America’s youth. Improved participation
brings the Department closer to citizens. It also optimizes other Federal and private partner investments so that USDA can
create policies and services that better serve the American people.
Objective(s):
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