The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the primary research agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. ARS scientists conduct research into the applications of technology and basic knowledge concerning food and agricultural enterprises. Area offices and national staff evaluate these scientists' proposals for in-house research through a system of peer review. An ARS committee was appointed to examine the peer review system and to recommend possible improvements. This report presents the committee's findings and recommendations as well as background information to serve as an introduction. Appendices are listed under the following headings: (1) "Research Project Peer Review Form (ARS-415)"; (2) "The Six Major Objectives of the ARS Program Plan"; (3) "Other ARS Review Systems"; (4) "In-house Review in Other Federal Laboratories"; and (5) "In-house Review in Private Industry." (CW)