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It’s our voice, future and responsibility ... please respond
1.01.2008
(Editor”s Note: The following open letter to their respective states’ agricultural communities was co-written by Roger Richardson, Maryland secretary of agriculture; Michael Scuse, Delaware secretary of agriculture; and Robert S. Bloxom, Virginia secretary of agriculture and forestry.)
The history of collecting data on U.S. agriculture dates back to President George Washington, who was known for keeping meticulous statistical records describing his and other farms.
Such information was essential during this time when nine out of every 10 Americans lived on a farm.
They needed to know what crops they should produce to ensure a plentiful bounty for the people to eat.
While much has changed since then, the importance of accurate agricultural data to today’s farmers is no different.
As a highly technical industry, American agriculture relies heavily on statistical information to feed, fuel and clothe a growing world.
From selecting inputs to determining when to sell our goods, we need detailed, unbiased information to effectively run our businesses.
Thankfully, there are tools like the Census of Agriculture that help in this regard.
Taken every five years, the Census of Agriculture is a survey of America’s farms and the people who operate them.
It is the most complete agricultural data resource available, providing the only source of uniform, comprehensive information for every county in the nation.
In light of this, we are pleased to report that the 2007 Census of Agriculture will soon be under way.
Around the first of the year, census forms will be arriving in our farm mailboxes, giving us a voice in the future of our industry and community.
Not only does the census give our states’ farmers the chance to be heard, but it also gives us the valuable opportunity to influence key decisions that will shape the direction of agriculture in general and our community in particular for years to come.
Your census response can help determine federal support for crucial services that aid local, rural communities.
Community planners use the census information when developing local programs and services.
Companies factor census data into decisions concerning where to locate their operations.
And farmers rely on census data when making critical decisions about their businesses.
The census offers a tremendous value to rural stakeholders, and the time it takes to complete the form pales in comparison to what they get in return.
Responding will be even easier this year as producers may fill out the form online via a secure web site.
So if you receive a Census report form, please fill it out accurately and return it by Feb. 4.
Your responses are required by law and held strictly confidential.
But, more importantly, your participation provides us all with a voice in shaping the future of agriculture and our communities.
Best wishes for a happy and prosperous new year, and thank you very much for your time.