WASHINGTON, Feb. 6, 2013 – The Agriculture Department issued a reminder today to farmers and ranchers that it is not too late to participate in the 2012 Census of Agriculture.

USDA said it has received 1.4 million census forms and that it is still accepting forms.

“Information from the Census of Agriculture helps USDA monitor trends and better understand the needs in agriculture,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Providing industry stakeholders, community leaders, lawmakers and individual farm operators with the most comprehensive and accurate U.S. agricultural reports, we all help ensure the tools are available to make informed, sound decisions to protect the future of American agriculture.”

Conducted every five years by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, the census provides detailed data covering nearly every facet of U.S. agriculture. It looks at land use and ownership, production practices, expenditures and other factors that affect the way farmers and ranchers do business.

The deadline was Feb. 4. However, those who did not respond by the original due date will receive another copy of the form in the mail to give them another opportunity. No new deadline was given.

 

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