New farmers and ranchers, and those not previously contacted by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), have until the end of June to ensure they are represented in this year’s Census of Agriculture. To receive a census questionnaire this December, these producers are asked to visit the Census of Agriculture website at www.agcensus.usda.gov and click on the ‘Make Sure You Are Counted’ button today.
While on the website, producers can watch the census introduction video, access frequently asked questions, explore past and current data, and try the improved online census questionnaire demo. The updated online questionnaire, which will go live late fall, is now accessible on any electronic device. New features save time by calculating totals automatically and skipping questions that do not pertain to the respondent’s operation.
Producers who are uncertain whether they classify as a farm should note that the census definition is any place from which $1,000 or more of agricultural products were produced and sold, or normally would have been sold, during the census year (2017).
At 177 years old, the Census of Agriculture tells the story of U.S. agriculture. It provides the only source of uniform, comprehensive and impartial agricultural data for every county in the nation. The data are valuable to those who serve farmers and rural communities, including federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, extension educators, researchers, even farmers and ranchers themselves. Census results help shape farm programs and boost services for communities and the industry. The Census of Agriculture is a farmer or rancher’s voice, future, and opportunity. For more information about the 2017 Census of Agriculture, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call (800) 727-9540.
