Washinton, DC
April 24, 2009
This spring,
USDA will conduct the
first-ever, wide-scale survey of organic farming in the United
States, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said today, to find
out how the growth of organic farming is changing the face of
U.S. agriculture.
“The Organic Production Survey is a direct response to the
growing interest in organics among consumers, farmers, and
businesses,” said Vilsack. “This is an opportunity for organic
producers to share their voices and help ensure the continued
growth and sustainability of organic farming in the United
States.”
2007 Census of Agriculture counted more than 20,000 U.S. farms
engaged in organic production.
The survey will look at many aspects of organic farming during
the 2008 calendar year – from production and marketing
practices, to income and expenses. It will focus not only on
operations that are currently engaged in organic production, but
also on those making the transition to organic agriculture.
The results will help shape future decisions regarding farm
policy, funding allocations, availability of goods and services,
community development and other key issues. In addition, the
information can help producers make informed decisions about the
future of their own farming operations.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will mail
the survey in early May to all known organic producers in the
United States, who are asked to respond by June 17. NASS will
publish results in winter 2009.
Participants can mail back their forms or complete the survey
online at www.agcensus.usda.gov. Survey participants are
guaranteed by law (Title 7, U.S. Code) that their individual
information will be kept confidential. NASS uses the information
only for statistical purposes and publishes data only in
tabulated totals.
For more information about the Organic Production Survey, visit
www.agcensus.usda.gov
or call (800) 727-9540. |
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