Utah Department of Agriculture and Food

**About UDAF** With roots dating to 1921, the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is one of the State’s oldest agencies. It oversees dozens of legislatively mandated programs that promote the healthy growth of Utah agriculture, the conservation of our natural resources and the protection of our food supply. Two important programs are the Utah Grazing Improvement Program and the Invasive Weeds Mitigation Program. Both work to improve the health of our rangelands and watersheds. In the area of food safety, the Department inspects the state’s 4,000 retail stores and the many food processing plants for food quality and safety and correct item pricing. The Department’s Utah’s Own Program works to reconnect consumers with their food supply and promotes the benefits of Utah’s locally grown and processed foods which represent 15 percent of Utah’s economy. The Department also protects animal health and the state’s $1 billion livestock industry, as well as guards against invasive insects. **UDAF Vision, Mission and Values:** **Vision:** The vision of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is to lead Utah towards self-reliance by promoting, preserving, and protecting all forms of agricultural production and processing to ensure a safe and abundant supply of locally produced foods for all Utahns. **Mission:** The mission of the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food is to support the development of Utah’s agriculture and food industries, serve as a steward of our natural resources, safeguard public health, protect consumers, and ensure a quality food supply. **Values:** Accountability: We value the fulfillment of our statutory duties as a service-based agency with regulatory responsibilities. Customer Service: We value the continual improvement of our services through processes and technologies that are innovative and practical, as well as employees who are committed resources for those we serve. Guardianship: We value our role in consumer protection, safeguarding public health, and the development and effective distribution of a safe, abundant, and secure food supply. Leadership: We value an organizational system with leaders who coach, motivate, and support a work environment where employees can develop and achieve their highest potential by setting clear expectations, supporting employees in accomplishing their objectives, and recognizing their unique strengths. Professionalism: We value employees who maintain high professional and ethical standards and who are accountable for their actions. Relationships: We value healthy working relationships with local, state, and federal government agencies, stakeholders, and all customers and industries we serve. Stewardship: We value the conservation, protection, and enhancement of Utah’s lands and natural resources.