It’s only conducted every five years, and it takes less than an hour to complete.
Yet, the USDA Census of Agriculture directly impacts farm policies, resources and services — from Washington, D.C., all the way to your orchard.
USDA began mailing the 2017 Census forms to growers and other industry members in December. Everyone receiving a Census is required by law to respond and to return their forms by mail or online by February 5, 2018. Respondents’ identifying information will be kept confidential.
The Census of Agriculture is a complete count of all U.S. farms, ranches and operators. It’s the single source of comprehensive and objective agriculture data for every state and county in the country.
And for specialty crops like almonds, it’s the only source of detailed production and sales data: valuable information about the state of the almond industry. Responding to the Census benefits almond growers because it helps protect the future of agriculture, strengthen farm and conservation programs, improve local infrastructure and create beginner grower programs.
Since so much can change in five years — from weather patterns to market demand — the Census can also reveal surprising trends.
The last Census, taken in 2012, showed marked shifts in California farming operations by county, including steady increases in almond and walnut orchards compared to declining fruit and cattle production. It also revealed a decline in pasturelands.
Growers and ranchers, trade associations, government, extension educators, researchers and many others rely on Census of Agriculture data when making decisions that shape American agriculture – from creating and funding farm programs to boosting services for communities and the industry.
“The Census of Agriculture is a crucial source of timely, informative data,” said Carissa Sauer, manager, Industry Communications, Almond Board of California. “At Almond Board, we use census data to inform our work and resources, from the Almond Almanac to industry presentations to potential sustainability priorities.”
This year’s Census will help capture a more detailed account of agriculture, with new questions about military veteran status and additional questions about food marketing practices. Other additions, related to farm decision-making, are designed to reflect the roles and contributions of beginning growers, women growers and others involved in running the business.
To help respondents save time, the USDA added drop-down menus and the option to skip sections that don’t apply. You will also be able to access Census forms on any electronic device and to save your responses and resume your session when time allows.
Considering the Census of Agriculture is a grower’s voice, future and opportunity, it’s well worth the 50 minutes it takes to complete.
Census results, in both electronic and print formats, will be available beginning February 2019 through local USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) offices and at many depository libraries, universities and other state government offices. It will also be available online at www.nass.usda.gov or www.agcensus.usda.gov.
For more information or help completing your Census of Agriculture form, call toll-free (888) 424-7828 or visit www.agcensus.usda.gov.
