The Missouri Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service is reminding Texas County farmers that the deadline for submitting their completed Census of Agriculture forms has come and gone. But it is not too late for producers to speak up for their communities, their industry and their futures. Census reports are still being accepted without penalty.
“A strong agricultural industry is a critical component in having a strong U.S. economy,” said Gene Danekas, director of the NASS Missouri Field Office. “By providing community planners and leaders, lawmakers and policymakers as well as individual farm operators with the most comprehensive and accurate U.S. agricultural information, they have the resources to make informed, sound decisions to ensure a solid future.”
The deadline for submitting the forms was Feb. 4, 2008 and many Missouri producers have responded. However, the remainder of those farmers who did not turn in their information by the due date will receive another copy of the form in the mail to give them another opportunity to respond.
“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,” said Danekas. “This information is only gathered every five years, so we need the participation of every farmer to ensure they and their representatives receive a planning tool that will provide them with the most benefits 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 complete it online at www.agcensus.usda.gov. If you have misplaced your initial form and did not have an opportunity to be counted, contact 888-424-7828 for assistance.