Alternative Dispute Resolution
The NRCS Outreach and Advocacy Division, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
offers an informal process to help the Agency manage conflict more effectively.
ADR refers to a variety of conflict resolution techniques used to assist people in
resolving disputes. Mediation, the most popular ADR technique, employs the
use of a mediator (neutral third party) to help individuals who are in conflict
reach a resolution. Other ADR techniques include the following:
Conciliation |
Conciliation involves a third party who provides assistance in building positive relationships between parties in a dispute. |
Facilitation |
Facilitation is useful in improving the flow of information in a meeting between parties in a conflict. This technique may be applied to decision-making meetings where a specific outcome is desired. |
Negotiation |
Negotiation is a process by which two or more individuals discuss an issue, including differences over an issue, and attempt to reach a resolution. |
Arbitration |
Arbitration is a process in which a neutral third-party conducts an exchange of information between parties and renders a decision. |
Fact-Finding |
Fact-Finding involves the use of impartial expert or group with the authority to determine what the "facts" are in a conflict. |
ADR is available to all employees, customers, and partners with the grievance
appeals and Equal Employment Opportunity complaint processes.
USDA, NRCS, George Washington Carver Center
5601 Sunnyside Ave., Room 1-2134
Beltsville, MD 20705