The Pacific West Area (PWA) is one of eight ARS Areas located in the major farm and rangeland ecosystems throughout the United States and overseas.

The PWA consists of 21 research locations and various work sites distributed among eight states, Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Of about 1,625 employees in the PWA, one-fourth are scientists and engineers; the rest provide critical support. The Area Director has responsibility for scientific and administrative management of the PWA and provides leadership for scientific quality, relevance and impact of research programs.