The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently mailed an invitation to all known agriculture producers across North Carolina and the nation to respond online to the 2022 Census of Agriculture at agcounts.usda.gov.

Sampson County Extension Director Brad Hardison explained the purpose of the census. “The ag census is a vital tool that is used by many in the ag industry to get a snapshot of agriculture at a specific time. This ‘snapshot’ compiles data about livestock, row crops, vegetables, farm size, acres farmed, expenditures, and many other topics within the ag industry. This information can help ag professionals see trends within the industry and prepare for them. The ag census is also used by a host of lawmakers, local, state, and federal to help shape laws pertaining to agriculture policies, farm programs, and ag commerce.”  

The hope that farmers will participate is shared across counties.
Cumberland County Extension Director Lisa Childers shared about the importance of this data collection. “The census helps show the value and importance of the agricultural industry, and of course, we are especially interested in seeing its impact right here in Cumberland County” said Childers. “Farmers in Cumberland County are encouraged to complete the census survey as it provides us with valuable information that can be used really at the local, state and national levels to help plan for the future of agriculture.”

The 2022 Census of Agriculture will be mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in December. Producers need only respond once, whether online or by mail. The online option offers timesaving features.

“I believe they have done a great job of trying to assist folks with [their submissions]. And so I would encourage folks if they have any concerns or questions in submitting, if cooperative extension can assist them in any way we would be happy to do that” remarked Childers.

Whether submitting online or via mail, individuals with questions are welcome to reach out to Lisa Childers by calling  910-321-6880 or by sending an email to lisa_childers@ncsu.edu.

Responses are due Feb. 6, 2023. Farm operations of all sizes, urban and rural, which produced and sold, or normally would have sold, $1,000 or more of agricultural products in 2022, are included in the ag census.  

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service conducts the Census of Agriculture every five years. This year new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production and hair sheep have been added. Updates have also been made to internet access questions.    

Responding to the Census of Agriculture is required by law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113. The same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential, to use the data only for statistical purposes and only publish in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation.

Results of the ag census are expected to be released in early 2024.