About WASDE
The WASDE report is a comprehensive compilation of data from various statistical reports produced by USDA and other government agencies. It is widely regarded as the benchmark which all other agricultural forecasts, both private and public, are measured. This essential report serves as a key resource for farmers, agribusinesses, private analysts, commodity research groups, and brokerage firms, providing critical insights for market analysis and forecasting. The estimates are disseminated through financial wire services, radio stations, and farm press publications, and are relied upon by government decision-makers at USDA, other federal agencies, and Congress to inform policy and budget decisions.
Known for its objectivity, reliability, and consistency, the WASDE report helps to reduce the information asymmetry often present in agricultural markets and is highly valued by both internal and external stakeholders. In 2023, it averaged over 2 million downloads a month. Given the importance of integrity and transparency in the WASDE process, WAOB staff routinely interact with the public via social media, phone calls, conferences, and other events.
Additionally, WAOB’s meteorologists play a vital role by providing real-time weather assessments and yield intelligence for U.S. and global crop conditions, supporting USDA officials and the WASDE report. They are also responsible for the Weekly Weather and Crop Bulletin and contribute to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Secretarial Directives
- ICEC Creation (PDF, 864 KB)
- WAOB Creation (PDF, 482 KB)
- ICEC Reaffirmation
