Agricultural Research Service 
The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is USDA's principal intramural scientific research agency.

Welcome to the Pacific West Area

We have four major goals in the Pacific West Area:

1) conduct high-quality, relevant research with impact;

2) hire and retain a highly qualified, diverse workforce that strives for continual 

    improvement;

3) empower employees in their jobs and hold them accountable; and

4) understand and respond to internal and external customer needs. 

It is my vision that PWA be recognized for a spirit of innovation while embracing an environment of diversity, integrity, and transparency in pursuit of these goals.

Agricultural Research Service

Mission
Deliver scientific solutions to national and global agricultural challenges.

Vision
Global leadership in agricultural discoveries through scientific excellence.

Core Values
Scientific excellence, creativity, innovation, integrity, leadership, collaboration, accountability, transparency, diversity, respect, inclusiveness, and public service. 

These values underpin ARS' commitment to delivering cutting-edge, scientific tools and innovative solutions for American farmers, producers, industry, and communities to support the nourishment and well-being of all people; sustain our nation's agroecosystems and natural resources; and ensure the economic competitiveness and excellence of our agriculture.

Our Focus

•  Animal Production and Protection
• Crop Production and Protection
• Natural Resources and Sustainable Agricultural Systems
• Nutrition, Food Safety, and Quality

How We Get It Done

• 660 research projects
• 8,000 employees
• 90+ research locations
• $1.4 billion budget
• 1,535 international collaborations between
  ARS and foreign collaborators

FY 2019 Outputs

• 3,816 peer-reviewed journal articles
• 85 new patent applications filed
• 65 new patents issued
• 51 new licenses