Significant reductions in employee training at the agency also are a concern, watchdog finds.

Last year one such provision cut EPA staffing to the lowest levels since 1989.

Service could instead rely on retirements and fewer enlistments.

NSA leaker defended his decision to participate in the conversation in a Guardian op-ed.

Overall spending was down 11 percent last year, but seven agencies bucked the trend.

Drug users, credit card cheats also received performance awards.