What document does the USDA require to be used as the basis for the semi-annual evaluation?

The correct answer is the Animal Welfare Regulations (AWAR), which serve as the foundational document required by the USDA for conducting semi-annual evaluations of animal research programs. The AWAR outlines specific requirements and standards for the care and use of laboratory animals, and includes provisions for the semi-annual review to ensure compliance with these standards.

The semi-annual evaluation is a critical part of the oversight process, helping institutions assess their adherence to established policies regarding animal welfare. By utilizing the AWAR as the basis for these evaluations, institutions can ensure they are meeting federal guidelines and providing appropriate care for the animals involved in research.

While the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) establishes broader legal requirements for the humane treatment of animals, it is the AWAR that provides the detailed regulatory framework specifically relevant to the semi-annual evaluations, making it the appropriate response for this question. The PHS Policy and USDA Guidelines, although relevant in the context of animal welfare regulations, do not specifically serve as the foundational document for the USDA-required semi-annual evaluations.