USDA data and analysis remain essential to agricultural markets, earning praise as the “gold standard” among global statistical agencies, according to comments submitted by the Renewable Fuels Association. In response to a USDA request for feedback, RFA Chief Economist Scott Richman emphasized the critical role USDA data plays in ensuring transparency and efficiency across commodity markets. He noted that the agency’s reports are widely used by industry stakeholders and policymakers, including the Environmental Protection Agency, when setting Renewable Fuel Standard requirements.
Richman urged maintaining adequate funding and staffing to preserve the quality and reliability of USDA data, even as other priorities are reviewed. He also encouraged continued modernization, including improved online access and periodic updates to data collection processes. Additionally, he called for ongoing engagement with stakeholders through annual data meetings and feedback opportunities, particularly before any major changes to longstanding reports or datasets are considered.
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