NRCS UNVEILS WEB-BASED REGISTRY FOR TECHNICAL EXPERTS

Sylvia Rainford (202) 720-3210

WASHINGTON, March 3, 2003—The U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service today unveiled a web-based registry of technical experts that will make it easier for landowners to meet conservation goals by finding service providers online.

"NRCS is committed to improving the environment by helping landowners meet their conservation goals,” said NRCS Chief Bruce Knight.  “This online registry will build a new industry of certified conservation professionals from the private sector, nonprofit organizations and public agencies to provide direct technical assistance and deliver conservation services to landowners and others.”

TechReg—the technical service provider registry—will allow interested individuals and organizations to apply and request certification on the Internet.  Users of TechReg will be able to list their services, credentials, accomplishments and progress.  In addition, farmers and ranchers will be able to locate and choose technical service providers authorized to provide services to their area. 

“TechReg is a good example of the Bush Administration’s commitment to e-government to deliver programs more effectively and efficiently through electronic means,” Knight said. 

The 2002 Farm Bill expanded the availability of technical assistance to landowners by encouraging the use of technical services providers to assist USDA in delivering conservation services. 

Information on services available from USDA Service Centers is online at http://www.sc.egov.usda.gov. 

Additional information on TechReg is available at http://techreg.usda.gov.

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