2012 Census of Agriculture Heading To Mailboxes Soon

The 2012 Census of Agriculture forms will be mailed out soon.

The Census of Agriculture is the leading source of facts and figures about American agriculture. This census is taken every five years and it provides a detailed picture of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Participation by every farmer and rancher, regardless of the size or type of operation, is important and is required by law.

The census will collect information concerning all areas of farming and ranching operations, including production expenses, market value of products and operator characteristics. Lawmakers, government organizations, businesses, town planners and individual farm operations use this valuable information to help shape farm programs, boost rural services, and grow their farm futures.

Farmers will be asked to return the forms by Feb. 4.