Which agency provides leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, and nutrition in the U.S.?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the agency responsible for overseeing and providing leadership on matters related to food, agriculture, natural resources, and nutrition in the United States. USDA's mission encompasses a wide range of areas including supporting farmers, ensuring food safety, promoting nutrition, and managing natural resources effectively.

Specifically, the USDA plays a critical role in developing and implementing policies that affect agriculture, food production, and nutrition programs. It administers important programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and guidelines for dietary recommendations. The agency also conducts research and provides resources to help improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.

While other agencies mentioned have overlapping responsibilities—such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focusing on environmental protection, the FDA regulating food safety and drug approval, and the CDC concentrating on public health—none have the broad mandate that encompasses both agriculture and nutrition as comprehensively as the USDA. This distinction makes the USDA the correct answer for leadership in these areas.