Technology Development

Updated 09/09/2004

Each NTSC is staffed with core technical disciplines and three teams assigned to lead NRCS’ acquisition and/or development of science-based technology for prescribed special emphasis areas in natural resources conservation. These strategically located teams include:

• West – air quality/atmospheric change, bioenergy; and water quality/quantity;
• Central – grazing lands, wetlands, and wildlife; and
• East – animal waste utilization, social sciences, and soil quality.

Each of these nine teams performs the following technology acquisition and/or development functions for their respective emphasis areas:

• Develops and enhances NRCS relationships with academia, non-governmental organizations, and other Federal agencies to improve support of locally based natural resources activities.
• Works closely with the States, other National Technology Support Centers, National Centers, National Headquarters, and others to identify and communicate technology development and research needs, and help develop strategies for addressing priority needs.
• Acquires technology from other natural resource entities, when necessary, to meet customer needs.
• Provides assistance in the development and review of technical materials, such as practice standards, handbooks, and manuals.