Producers and rural residents across the nation are receiving surveys in their mailboxes as the first step toward conducting the 2012 Census of Agriculture. What is the Census of Agriculture? Every five years, the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service takes a count of all active farms and ranches. The information provided helps the government plan and create policies that support agriculture and rural America.
This initial survey asks landowners whether they are currently farming and other basic information. Responses will help USDA obtain the best possible coverage for the 2012 Census of Agriculture and also help build a list that will identify producers who will take the actual survey, which begins in December. Those who received the survey can respond by mail or online. After the first few questions, those not considered a producer will not need to continue. Learn more or view the FAQs.
