Contact: Krissy Young, (202) 690-8123
Plant A Seed For Your Future With the 2007 Census of Agriculture
WASHINGTON, Feb. 28, 2008 – With planting season just around the corner, U.S. farmers and ranchers still have a chance to sow a seed for their future by standing up and being counted in the 2007 Census of Agriculture.
“We’ve already received nearly 1.7 million completed Census forms, and we sincerely appreciate the dedication and effort of the many farmers and ranchers who have responded,” said Carol House, deputy administrator of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). “But for those whom we have not yet heard from, there is good news – there is still time to be counted. So before you jump back on that tractor, take a moment to complete and return your Census.”
The Census of Agriculture, conducted every five years, is the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation. That information is used by town planners, policy makers, agribusinesses and others to make important growth-generating decisions.
“So really, by responding to the Census, the nation’s agricultural producers are sowing seeds that will reap benefits far into the future,” House said. “That’s why we are committed to ensuring that ever every farm and ranch operation in the United States is counted.”
NASS recently mailed a second copy of the Census to those who have not yet responded. “And as we move into spring, we’ll be following up with additional mailings and phone calls in order to ensure that no one is left out,” House added.
“The Census really is every producer’s opportunity to be a voice for their own business, their community and their industry,” she added.
Producers can return their Census forms by mail or, for the first time, they have the convenient option of responding online. For more information, or for assistance with completing the 2007 Census of Agriculture, call toll-free (888) 424-7828 or visit www.agcensus.usda.gov.
