The Agricultural Engineering Group is concerned with all aspects of farm power (human, animal and mechanical), farm tools, farm machinery and equipment, and farm structures. Its role and functions embrace technical, policy and strategy issues concerning the selection, supply, utilization and management of tools, implements, machines and equipment for agricultural land development, crop production, harvesting, preparation for storage, on-farm processing, farm structures, as well as the small-scale production, distribution, repair and maintenance of engineering inputs.

More specifically, the following tasks are undertaken:

• To analyze and define the role and function of farm power, tools, machinery and equipment as well as farm structures in development, and advises on the formulation of policies and strategies in the agricultural engineering sector.

• To serve as an international focal point and forum on topics, actions and issues which fall within the role and function of the Group.

• To address social, economic, environmental and energy issues relating to farm power, tools, machinery and equipment, and farm structures.

• To advise and assist FAO Members on:

• the selection, availability, repair and maintenance, utilization and management of appropriate hand tools, animal draught implements and powered machines and equipment used in agriculture;

• issues concerning the supply chain for agricultural engineering inputs particularly with regard to the development of the private sector and the role and function of government;

• testing and evaluation programmes;

• training and education programmes; and,

• the functional and environmental aspects of farm structures.

• To provide technical support to units in FAO Headquarters, UN Agencies and other organizations particularly with regard to normative aspects of agricultural engineering programmes and projects;

• To provide and assist with the dissemination of technical information and human resource development activities related to the role and functions of the Group.