Supply Chains for the Production of Agricultural Commodities and Food Products

Dr. Melissa R. Bailey 
Agricultural Marketing Service 
United States Department of Agriculture 
1400 Independence Avenue SW 
Room 2055-S, STOP 0201 
Washington, DC 20250 

Submitted electronically via Federal eRulemaking Portal 

RE: Request for Comments: Supply Chains for the Production of Agricultural Commodities and Food Products (Docket # AMS-TM-21-0034, 86 FR 20652) 

Dear Dr. Bailey, 

CropLife America (CLA) represents the manufacturers, formulators, and distributors of pesticides in the United States. Our member companies produce, sell, and distribute virtually all the vital and necessary crop protection products used by farmers, ranchers, and landowners in every state. We appreciate the opportunity to comment regarding the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Supply Chains for the Production of Agricultural Commodities and Food Products as the agency prepares their report required by the Executive Order on “America's Supply Chains.” 

Pesticidal chemicals are crucial to many American industries. American farmers depend on them to grow healthy and safe row crops, tree nuts, fruits, and vegetables that are used as food, as well as other farm products, including fibers, lumber, and fuel for Americans and consumers around the world. Without modern crop protection technology, insect pests, weeds, and crop diseases would reduce crop yields and quality and substantially reduce the availability of American-grown farm and food products. Similarly, without pesticide products, American plant nurseries would suffer, as would turf protection for areas such as sports fields, golf courses, and even everyday Americans’ lawns. Further, pesticidal chemicals prevent public health problems by controlling harmful insects such as mosquitos and ticks. As we discuss below, a functioning supply chain is crucial to ensure these innovative tools are available to combat diseases and pests. 

Read the complete comments.