§ 2004.
(a)
Data
In recognition of the importance of and need for obtaining and maintaining information on the current status of soil, water, and related resources, the Secretary is authorized and directed to carry out a continuing appraisal of the soil, water, and related resources of the Nation. The appraisal shall include, but not be limited to—
(1)
data on the quality and quantity of soil, water, and related resources, including fish and wildlife habitats;
(2)
data on the capability and limitations of those resources for meeting current and projected demands on the resource base;
(3)
data on the changes that have occurred in the status and condition of those resources resulting from various past uses, including the impact of farming technologies, techniques, and practices;
(4)
data on current Federal, State, and tribal laws, policies, programs, rights, regulations, ownerships, and their trends and other considerations relating to the use, development, and conservation of soil, water, and related resources;
(5)
data on the costs and benefits of alternative soil and water conservation practices;
(6)
data on alternative irrigation techniques regarding their costs, benefits, and impact on soil and water conservation, crop production, and environmental factors; and
(7)
data on conservation plans, conservation practices planned or implemented, environmental outcomes, economic costs, and related matters under conservation programs administered by the Secretary.
([Pub. L. 95–192, § 5], Nov. 18, 1977, [91 Stat. 1408]; [Pub. L. 99–198, title XII, § 1252(a)], Dec. 23, 1985, [99 Stat. 1516]; [Pub. L. 110–234, title II, § 2804(b)], May 22, 2008, [122 Stat. 1086]; [Pub. L. 110–246, § 4(a)], title II, § 2804(b), June 18, 2008, [122 Stat. 1664], 1814; [Pub. L. 113–79, title II, § 2508(b)], Feb. 7, 2014, [128 Stat. 756]; [Pub. L. 115–334, title II, § 2402(1)], Dec. 20, 2018, [132 Stat. 4570].)