The department oversees school meal programs, distributes surplus food from federal programs, oversees soil and water resources, maintains farmland for agricultural uses, assists in development of overseas markets for New Jersey products from its farms and fisheries, and administers agricultural education programs.

The State Board of Agriculture, an eight-member body created by statute in 1887, serves as the policy-making and general head of the department.

The board is charged with setting policies which direct the secretary and the department in carrying out its duties and responsibilities.

By law, at least four of the members must represent the top four commodity groups in the state based on a two-year average of the gross value of production.

The Division works closely with seven commodity councils to help them publicize their products and bring the benefits of grower-sponsored research to consumers.