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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. The U.S. Department of
Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reminds
farmers, even small farmers with limited production, their voices are
important and need to be heard. As a result, Census responses are still
being accepted.
"We
sincerely appreciate the dedication and effort of the thousands of
Alabama farmers and producers who have sent us their Census forms,"
said Bill Weaver, director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s
National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) Alabama Field Office.
"But if you missed the original due date, 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 report
form."
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.
"By
responding to the Census, the nation’s agricultural producers are
sowing seeds that will reap benefits far into the future," Weaver
said. "That’s why we are committed to ensuring every farm and
ranch operation in the U.S. is counted."
The
deadline for submitting the Census forms passed on February 4, 2008, and
many Alabama farmers have responded. However, it’s not too late for
those who have not sent theirs in to be able to speak up for their
communities, their industry and their future. 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 no one is left out," Weaver
added. "The Census really is every producer’s opportunity to be a
voice for their own business, their community and their industry.
Accurate and comprehensive information from all farmers is important, so
it can provide a true picture of where U.S. agriculture is today and
help people plan appropriately for its needs in the future. This
information is only gathered every five years, so we need the
participation of every farmer to ensure they receive a planning tool
that will provide them with the most benefit and value."
Census
responses are required and protected by law. This law safeguards the
privacy of individual responses. Farmers can return their forms by mail
or, for the first time, they have the convenient option of responding
online. For more information about the Census, or for assistance with
completing the 2007 Census of Agriculture, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov
or call toll-free (888) 4AG-STAT or (888) 424-7828. The Census is your
voice, your future and your responsibility. |
