By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
The deadline for the 2017 Census of Agriculture is less than a week away.
The agricultural census, conducted every five years by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), is due Monday, Feb. 5. This year’s responses can be submitted online at www.agcensus.usda.gov or by mail.
The Census of Agriculture provides the USDA with a complete account of the industry, from changes to emerging trends. Data are often used in developing the farm bill and when making decisions about disaster relief, technology development, community planning and more.
“We are asking producers to help show our nation the value and importance of America agriculture,” U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue said. “We need to hear from all of our farmers and ranchers, no matter how big or small their part of agriculture. The census is their voice, their future, their opportunity. Please respond now.”
The USDA is asking everyone who received a questionnaire to complete and return it, regardless of current farming status. To avoid follow-up mailings, e-mails, phone calls and personal appointments after the Feb. 5 deadline, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to submit their responses as soon as possible.
“It is important that every producer respond to the Census of Agriculture so that they are represented and reflected in the data,” Huber Hamer, NASS administrator, said. “These statistics can directly impact producers for years. Without their input, our hardworking farmers and ranchers risk being underserved.”
For more information about the 2017 Census of Agriculture, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1-800- 727-9540.