Agricultural Research Service
50th Anniversary

Downloads/Resources

Language For Use in Speeches and Collateral Media

Although the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) can trace its heritage back to the early 19th Century seed collection efforts of the U.S. Patent Office, as an agency ARS is only 50 years old.

In 1953, during a major reorganization, the Department of Agriculture consolidated most of its research activities into the newly named Agricultural Research Service.

November 2, 2003, marks the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of the Agricultural Research Service. ARS will celebrate this milestone throughout 2004 at its more than 100 locations and headquarters offices.

Various events will unfold throughout the next year following a kick-off celebration on November 3. On that day, all 100-plus ARS locations will simultaneously celebrate the 50th Anniversary with an agency-wide ceremony at 2 p.m. EST.

In recognition of our history of public service/partnerships/something like that, our 50th year will be a year of outreach. Throughout 2004, each location will host open houses and other public events celebrating the unique role and contributions of ARS.

As a public institution, ARS conducts agricultural research exclusively for the public good. ARS scientists and other employees serve the Nation in their capacity of public servants and are accountable to the American people.

Our research is often long-term and costly, and unlikely to be undertaken by the private sector. The work we do touches the lives of every American through the food we eat, the clothes we wear, and the environment in which we live.

All our employees and all Americans can be proud of the unique contributions ARS has made during the past 50 years and before. We have helped improved the quality of life for Americans and people everywhere. We have helped relieve hunger and malnutrition, increased food safety and quality, and improved the lives of farmers.

While we look back and celebrate our history and many achievements, we also look forward to an exciting future.