0227 - Reply to Public Comment from Jean Public

U nited States Department of Agriculture

National Agricultural Statistics Service

Dear Ms. Jean Public,

The mission of the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is to provide timely, reliable, and accurate agricultural information to industry, the public, and governmental sectors. NASS regularly reviews and evaluates programs based on industry and data user input. The Equine information collection package is created so that NASS can collect data for outside entities on a reimbursable basis so there is no annual cost to the Federal Government. During the last 3 years, only the state of Kentucky conducted an Equine survey. That project was funded through The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture.

Regarding your comments on the care and well being of animals, we cannot speak to as this is outside the scope of our authority or responsibility.

I trust this response helps address your concerns.

Best regards,

David Hancock

NASS OMB Clearance Officer

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.