With the window to respond to the 2012 Census of
Agriculture officially closing on May 31, the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) is urging farmers and ranchers not to miss this opportunity to be counted
and help determine the future of farming in America. USDA has already received
more than 2 million completed Census forms.
"Our nation needs your help to ensure that decisions about U.S. agriculture
accurately represent you, your communities, and your industry," said Agriculture
Secretary Tom Vilsack. "For every 158 people in America there is one farm. I
urge you to take action today and respond to the Census -- your country is
counting on the information to help ensure a continued supply of food, fiber and
fuel for generations to come."
The Census of Agriculture, conducted only once every five years, is the only
source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and
county in the nation. It looks at farms, value of land, market value of
agricultural production, farm practices, expenditures, and other factors that
affect the way farmers and ranchers do business. The information is used by
agribusinesses, town planners, local governments, and policy makers, as well as
farmers, ranchers, growers and others to shape farm programs, boost rural
services and grow the future of farming.
"Agriculture in America is an industry built on tradition, honor and pride,"
said Vilsack. "We have heard this from the farmers and ranchers who completed
their Census of Agriculture form. It's not too late for those who have not yet
responded to join the generations of producers who participated in the
Agriculture Census since it was first conducted in 1840. Only you can continue
to provide the facts straight from the farm."
The 2012 Census will provide a complete picture of agriculture that will be used
to shape the future of agriculture, rural America, and the lives of those USDA
serves for years to come. The deadline to respond to the Census of Agriculture
is only a few weeks away on May 31. USDA's National Agricultural Statistics
Service (NASS) may contact producers by phone or in person to collect Census
information since time is running out.
Farmers and ranchers can also return their forms by mail or online by visiting a
secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires a response from
everyone who receives the Census form and requires NASS to keep all individual
information confidential.
For more information about the Census, including helpful tips on completing your
Census form, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1-888-4AG-STAT
(1-888-424-7828).
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