Did it feel like just yesterday we completed the last Census of Agriculture? Well, it has been five years and the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will be mailing forms in the next few weeks where America's farmers and ranchers will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on their communities by taking part in the Census of Agriculture.
Why do we need the Census? Conducted every five years, the Census captures a complete count of all U.S. farms, ranches and those who operate them. The Census is the leading source of facts and figures about American agriculture. It provides a detailed picture of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. It is the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the United States.
The 2012 Census of Agriculture will collect information concerning all areas of farming and ranching operations, including production expenses, market value of products, and operator characteristics. This information is used by everyone who provides services to farmers and rural communities - including federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, and many others. Census data is used to make decisions about many things that directly impact farmers, including:
- community planning
- store/company locations
- availability of operational loans and other funding
- location and staffing of service centers
- farm programs and policies
Participation in the Census is required by law, and that same law protects the confidentiality of all individual responses.Responses are due by February 4, 2013.
Producers also have the option to complete their forms online. After all, the Census is your voice, your future and your responsibility. For more information about the Census, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1.800.4AG.STAT (1.888.424.7828).
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