In accordance
with the Paperwork Reduction Act and its implementing regulation, 5
CFR 1320, the "Public Response Form for USDA National Conservation
Program Update" is disapproved. The practical utility of the data
collection as proposed has not been clearly demonstrated. The
questions do not provide a useful basis for the program evaluation
as called for in P.L. 95-192. Yet, even if the questions did
support this or related uses, the proposed sampling process would
result in highly suspect results. The proposal by SCS has
insufficient controls to assure the validity of the sample. The 40%
response rate with inadequate follow-up is unacceptable and may
even be over-estimated due to the timing of the survey in
conjunction with planting season and the collection of Agricultural
Census.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
05/01/1982
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TO MAKE FINAL DECISIONS ON NATIONAL
CONSERVATION PROGRAM, THE SECRETAR OF AGRICULTURE NEEDS THE
PUBLIC'S VIEWS ON PROGRAM FEATURES. PUBLIC ANTICIPATES OPPORTUNITY
AROUND OCTOBER 15, 1981, REACT TO RECOMMENDED PROGRAM BEFORE ITS
ADOPTION. FORM WILL FOCUS THE PUBLIC'S RESPONSE ON SALIENT ISSUES,
BE COST-EFFECTIVE FOR GOVERNMENT, AT NO COST TO
RESPONDENT.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.