The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the federal agency responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, and food. The USDA provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on sound public policy, the best available science, and efficient management. The USDA has about 100,000 employees and a budget of over $140 billion. The agency is responsible for enforcing laws related to food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection.