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National Agricultural Statistics Service
Research and Development Division
Office
of the Director
Census and Survey Research Branch
Data Quality | Statistical Methodology
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Statistical Methodology Research Section - Staff Listing

Develops and evaluates applications of sampling, estimation, and forecasting methodologies for the agency's operating program.

Overview of Current Activities: During 1999 the Statistical Methodology Research Section (SMRS) is focusing its attention primarily on objective yield research, research to evaluate the procedures used for the 1997 Census of Agriculture to recommend process improvements for 2002, and consulting with the Farm Service Agency and Rural Development on estimating subsidy rates for their loan programs. A brief summary of some of the projects in these areas is provided in the following pages.