The USDA Economics and Statistics System includes close to 2300 reports from the Economic Research Service, National Agricultural Statistics Service, World Agricultural Outlook Board, and the Agricultural Marketing Service. The frequency of the reports varies from daily to annual. The distribution dates of the reports are posted quarterly. The reports are available within three hours of their publication. You can also subscribe to the Reports Electronic Mailing List to receive the reports via electronic mail.

Most reports are in text and PDF format. Some might also be in ZIP format. PDF files require Adobe Acrobat in order to open them. The software is available for free download from Adobe at http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html

Zip files are archives that often contain more than one document. They require a ZIP compatible program in order to unpack them. Further information on ZIP files and where to find the software is available at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ZIP_file_format

If you want print copies of a report, they need to be ordered. All ERS, NASS and WAOB printed reports are available from the National Technical Information Service website at www.ntis.gov/products/specialty/usda/index.asp. Prices vary by report. The ERS-NASS Catalog is available on the Internet and in print. The printed version is published annually and is available from the ERS-NASS Order Desk by dialing 1-800-999-6779.