R -- AGRICULTURAL & CONSUMER INTERACTIONS, CONSULTING SERVICES

The contract awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service engages Dr. Robert J. Wright to provide expert advice and leadership related to the assessment and evaluation of economic impacts stemming from ARS research and technology transfer activities, particularly focused on water quality at both regional and national levels. Dr. Wright's role includes developing an Action Plan for National Program 214, centered on Agricultural Waste and Byproduct Utilization, and National Program 212, which addresses Soil and Air Resource Management. His responsibilities extend to overseeing issues relating to agricultural and consumer interactions, encompassing both established and emerging challenges in these domains. The contract is a sole source award, recognizing Dr. Wright's specialized and comprehensive expertise critical for guiding ARS programs. The period of performance is from March 22, 2008, through September 30, 2008. The consulting services fall under the NAICS code 541612, which pertains to administrative management and general management consulting services. The designated point of contact for this contract is Douglas J. Joyner, a purchasing agent at ARS, who manages procurement communications. This arrangement underscores the USDA's commitment to leveraging specialized knowledge to enhance the economic assessment and strategic direction of key agricultural and environmental research programs.