With U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley
Q: What is the USDA’s Census of Agriculture?
A: Since 1840, the Census of Agriculture has collected and compiled data provided by the nation’s farmers, ranchers and food producers to get an accurate snapshot of American agriculture. The information is used to shape public policy, plan economic development and identify infrastructure needs in rural America. Conducted every five years, it is important for farm families, producers and landowners to participate in the survey conducted by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service so that your farm and your voice counts. In fact, farm operations of all sizes are canvassed and individuals are required by law to fill out and submit census forms via postal mail or by completing the online survey by the February 5, 2018 deadline. As Iowa’s U.S. Senator, I make every effort to listen and address concerns of family farmers and independent producers. As a lifelong family farmer, I bring unique perspective to the policymaking tables about the risks and rewards of earning a living off the land. From my leadership platforms in the U.S. Senate, I serve as an outspoken advocate for Rural America and production agriculture. From strengthening risk management tools, to negotiating global trade agreements vital to farm exports, seeking proper enforcement of anti-trust laws, fostering competition in the marketplace and expanding homegrown renewable energy, I also shape health care, tax and spending policies that matter to the quality and way of life in Rural America. As Iowa’s elected representative, your voice matters to me and I want to make sure it counts in the Census of Agriculture. So, it’s very important that every Iowa farming operation is counted. The census informs policymakers and private enterprise when making decisions affecting rural development, such as broadband technology, lending and transportation services available in your neck of the woods. From beginning farmers to fourth-generation landowners, the census counts those who plant, grow, harvest and market the food, fuel, feed and fiber essential to America’s food, energy and national security. As fewer Americans have a direct link to those who grow the food that graces our tables and produces the biofuels we pump into our vehicles, the Census of Agriculture produces data-rich content to help raise awareness about the contributions American agriculture makes to our economy and society. More than three million farm operations in the United States should have received the census in the mail in December. The questionnaire comes with a 17-digit survey code (needed for online access) and a return envelope for completing the census in writing. All information is kept confidential, protected by federal law. The USDA encourages respondents to take advantage of the user-friendly online survey to save time and ensure data quality. To complete the survey online, go to www.agcounts.usda.gov.
Q: What kind of information is collected?
A: The Census of Agriculture collects comprehensive information from farming operations of all sizes, crops and commodities, in every state and county in the country. From ranches with livestock and dairy herds, to row crops and horticulture, including fruits, vegetables and flowers, the census counts all U.S. farms and ranches and those who operate them. Gathering information every five years gives an accurate baseline of America’s farm management practices, productivity and financial health. Remember, the census documents this data to help shape public policies important to the future of American agriculture and livelihoods for farm families for years to come. For example, data is used to help determine how federal dollars are spent in farm programs, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) administered by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. EQIP provides financial assistance for farmers to implement voluntary conservation practices on their land that help improve soil, water and air quality. The data insights provided by the census will help both row crop and livestock farmers. In addition to government and community planners, the agriculture supply chain uses the updated information to make strategic business decisions that affect producers and consumers. For more information, or to track down a lost or misplaced form, call the USDA toll free (888) 424-7828.
Senator Grassley serves on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee that will write the new farm bill in 2018.
