; or (ii) in the case of farmland identified under subsection (a)(2), to avoid conversion of the farmland to nonagricultural uses; (C) to provide to the Secretary notice regarding actions described in subparagraphs (A) and (B); and (D) that the Secretary shall use to make determinations under subsection (d). (2) Use required Each department, agency, independent commission, and other unit of the Federal Government shall use the process and criteria developed under paragraph (1) in carrying out a Federal program. (d) Exemption (1) In general Subsection (a)(2) shall not apply if the Secretary determines, based on the process and criteria developed under subsection (c)(1), that converting farmland to nonagricultural uses cannot be avoided. (2) Minimization of conversion In a case in which the Secretary makes a determination under paragraph (1), the Federal program shall minimize the conversion of farmland described in subsection (a)(2) to the maximum extent practicable. (e) Information The Secretary may make available to States, units of local government, individuals, organizations, and other units of the Federal Government information— (1) useful in restoring, maintaining, and improving the quantity and quality of farmland; and (2) concerning the location of permanently protected farmland. (f) Assistance The Secretary shall provide assistance to departments, agencies, independent commissions, and other units of the Federal Government, on request, in using the process and criteria developed under subsection (c)(1). . 404. Agricultural conservation easement program Section 1265B of the Food Security Act of 1985 ( 16 U.S.C. 3865b ) is amended— (1) in subsection (b)— (A) in paragraph (4)(C)(iv), by striking only