Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): A Guide for New Government Contractors

Understanding APHIS

What is APHIS?

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) responsible for protecting the health of American agriculture and natural resources. APHIS works to prevent the introduction and spread of animal and plant diseases, safeguard animal welfare, and support trade by ensuring agricultural products meet international health standards.

Key Areas of Focus:

  • Animal Health: Monitoring and controlling livestock diseases such as avian influenza and foot-and-mouth disease.
  • Plant Protection & Quarantine (PPQ): Preventing the spread of invasive pests and plant diseases.
  • Wildlife Damage Management: Managing wildlife populations that threaten agriculture and public safety.
  • Biotechnology Regulation: Overseeing genetically engineered organisms to ensure environmental safety.
  • Agricultural Trade Support: Ensuring U.S. agricultural exports comply with international health regulations.
  • Animal Welfare Compliance: Enforcing the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) for research facilities, breeders, and exhibitors.
  • Emergency Preparedness & Response: Managing responses to agricultural disease outbreaks and natural disasters affecting farming.

Mission and Goals

APHIS is dedicated to protecting U.S. agriculture, trade, and ecosystems from pests and diseases while promoting animal welfare and sustainable farming practices. The agency collaborates with federal, state, and international partners to ensure the safety of the nation’s food supply and economy.

APHIS Organization

APHIS operates through several key program areas, each specializing in a critical aspect of agricultural health and security:

  1. Veterinary Services (VS): Prevents and controls livestock and poultry diseases.
  2. Plant Protection & Quarantine (PPQ): Manages plant health regulations and pest control programs.
  3. Wildlife Services (WS): Addresses wildlife conflicts affecting agriculture, aviation, and public safety.
  4. Biotechnology Regulatory Services (BRS): Ensures safe development of genetically modified crops.
  5. Animal Care (AC): Oversees the welfare of animals used in research, exhibition, and commercial breeding.
  6. International Services (IS): Facilitates global trade by ensuring U.S. agricultural exports meet foreign regulations.
  7. Policy & Program Development (PPD): Provides economic analysis and regulatory oversight for APHIS programs.

APHIS has field offices across the U.S. and international locations supporting agricultural trade and disease prevention efforts.

Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with APHIS

Helpful Tips for IT Professionals and Consultants:

  • Understand APHIS’s Mission & Regulations: Contractors must comply with animal health laws, plant quarantine regulations, and biotechnology oversight policies.
  • Stay Current with Federal Compliance Standards: APHIS operates under FISMA (cybersecurity), HIPAA (for animal health data), and USDA procurement policies.
  • Master APHIS IT & Data Systems: Key APHIS systems include:
    • Emergency Management Response System (EMRS) – Tracks disease outbreaks and response efforts.
    • APHIS eFile – Manages permits for animal and plant imports.
    • Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD) – Supports international trade compliance for plant products.
  • Enhance Security & Bioinformatics Solutions: Expertise in data encryption, geospatial analysis, and AI-driven pest monitoring can be valuable.
  • Engage in APHIS Industry Events & Training: Attend USDA contracting workshops, APHIS stakeholder meetings, and federal IT summits to learn about business opportunities.
  • Prioritize Data Management & Compliance: Ensure accurate recordkeeping, cybersecurity protections, and compliance with federal research guidelines.

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