The House Committee on Agriculture has general jurisdiction over federal agriculture policy and oversight of some federal agencies, and it can recommend funding appropriations for various governmental agencies, programs, and activities, as defined by House rules.

The Agriculture Committee was created on May 3, 1820, after Lewis Williams of North Carolina sponsored a resolution to create the committee and give agricultural issues equal weight with commercial and manufacturing interests.

The committee originally consisted of seven members, from the states of Maryland, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Vermont, and Virginia.

The Agriculture Committee remained a seven-member body until 1835, when two more members were added.

However, it is an important committee to be on for Representatives from many rural areas where agriculture is the main industry.

The committee has jurisdiction over agriculture, forestry, nutrition, water conservation, and other agriculture-related fields.

As prescribed by House Rules, the Committee on Agriculture's jurisdiction includes the following: Resolutions electing members: H.Res.