Jul 5, 2018Last chance to complete the 2017 Census of Agriculture
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is wrapping up data collection for the 2017 Census of Agriculture. Farmers and producers have until the end of July to complete the Census online.
“The Census is the only source of comprehensive agricultural data highlighting the impact agriculture has on every county in Michigan,” said Gordon Wenk, director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. “I am asking Michigan’s farmers and producers to complete their census to help us really get a true picture of the growth of agriculture in our state.”
USDA NASS Michigan Office State Statistician Marlo Johnson reminds farmers and ranchers that the questionnaire needs to be completed by everyone who received a form, including landowners who lease land to producers, those involved in conservation programs, even those who may have received the Census and do not farm. Every response matters.
“Our mission at NASS is to provide data in service to U.S. agriculture,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “We extended the original Census deadline because many producers weren’t counted – and if they aren’t represented in these critical data, they risk being underserved in farm programs, disaster assistance, agricultural research, education, local policies, and business; this is why it is imperative that we hear from everyone.”
Federal law, Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113, requires NASS to keep all information confidential, to use the data only for statistical purposes, and to only publish in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation.
For more information about the 2017 Census of Agriculture or to respond online, visit http://www.agcensus.usda.gov . Improved in 2017, the online form is faster and more convenient than ever. For questions about or assistance with filling out the Census, call toll-free (888) 424-7828.
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