USDA plays a critical role in protecting and sustaining our Nation's water supply by providing innovative solutions to the complex problems that affect this valuable natural resource. We provide expert research and science-based knowledge, tools and resources to farmers, ranchers, consumers, educators and others working on and affected by water issues, by:
conducting research and scientific analysis to develop comprehensive, integrated information needed to make sound decisions, implement solutions and educate the public;
developing policies, tools and technologies to protect and conserve water, while meeting the growing demand for food, fiber and other agricultural goods and services;
informing and encouraging conservation management practices to protect and improve water quality;
protecting our Nation's rivers, streams, watersheds, groundwater, forests and fish and wildlife that benefit and support healthy water ecosystems;
supporting public drinking and waste water systems for urban, suburban and rural communities; and
ensuring the American public has clean and abundant drinking water.