It’s not too late to make sure you and your farm are counted!
If you received a Census of Agriculture form, you’re required by law to complete the census, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
The cool thing about this year’s Ag Census: it’s focusing on smaller farms.
This is your way to help influence decisions related to the future of American agriculture.
How Does the Ag Census Data Help?
Some of the ways the data is used:
- Companies and cooperatives use it to determine locations of facilities that will serve agricultural producers.
- Organizations use it to help make decisions about grants and funding allocations.
- Community planners use it to target needed services to rural residents.
- Legislators use it when shaping farm policies and programs.
- Farmers and ranchers can use the data to help make informed decisions about the future of their operations.
What’s On the Ag Census
The Census is described as the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every county in the nation. It’s conducted every five years.
Census questions cover topics like:
- How farmers use their land.
- Characteristics of the people who operate the farm.
- Production practices and trends.
- Income and expenditures.
Past Ag Census Data
Curious about past data? Find results from 2002, 1997, 1992 and more at the Ag Census website, left side.
This year, you can submit your census form online. Completed forms may also returned by mail using the envelope you received with your form. Data from the Census will be compiled and reports releases beginning in February 2009. “More than two million responses have already been received,” says Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer. “I thank those who have … However, a good number of producers have not been heard from, so I’m encouraging everyone to help make this the most accurate Census of Agriculture on record.” More Information |
