Ensuring producers comply with program regulations and requirements has always been a priority for the Farm Service Agency.

Early compliance consisted of measuring acreage with a chain and stakes. Chains were then replaced by aerial compliance, which used an airplane to take pictures when then were developed into slides that could be measured for acreage by a planimeter.

In recent years digital imagery from a satellite has been used to measure acres. This method has proven to be accurate within a few feet. FSA also has the capability to measure acreage with a GPS backpack unit. Although there is a farm visit required and it takes more time, GPS is accurate to less than 5 feet.

Now as a result of an OIG audit, FSA is adopting a new compliance plan for 2007.

OIG found that FSA completed too many spot checks and compliance reviews. As a result, FSA determined 2007 compliance will be a more efficient and effective process than previous years.

All FSA programs will be subject to the new compliance procedures. The national office will now make the selections for spot checks; the local agency offices will not make any selections for compliance spot checks.

This is a big change from previous years. The following information was provided by the national office to further explain the process.

FSA Review

FSA is committed to delivering accurate program payments to America's agricultural producers. The accuracy of payments not only benefits farmers and ranchers, but also maximizes taxpayer dollars and government efficiency.

As part of the 2007 National Compliance Review, FSA's national office is requiring its local county offices to conduct compliance reviews and spot checks of certain producers selected by the national office through a statistical sampling method.

A statistical sample of agency employees, county committee and state committee members have also been selected for review using this same process.

FSA may review a producer's operations in multiple states and counties, depending on the scope of the producer's operations. The agency will review both the accuracy of the representations made by the selected producers in connection with participation in FSA programs as well as the producer's compliance with applicable program requirements.

The reviews may need to be conducted at various times throughout the year depending on the FSA programs in which the producer is participating. The agency appreciates the cooperation of its customers as it continues to enhance its operations.

FSA's goal is to ensure that program dollars are delivered effectively and efficiently so America's farmers and ranchers can provide safe and abundant food, fiber, and fuel for consumers at home and abroad.

Luke Fritz is executive director of the Butler County Farm Service Agency.