The Census of Agriculture, conducted once every five years, looks at land use and ownership, producer characteristics, production practices, income, and expenditures. The Census is a complete count of U.S. farms and ranches and the people who operate them. Even small plots of land – whether rural or urban – count if $1,000 or more of agricultural products were produced and sold, or normally would have been sold, during the census year. It is the only source of uniform, comprehensive, and impartial agriculture data for every state and county in the nation.
Through the ag census, producers can show the nation the value and importance of U.S. agriculture and influence decisions that will shape the future of their industries. Census of Agriculture data are used by those who serve farmers and rural communities — federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, researchers, trade associations, and many others.
Ag producers can use Census of Agriculture data to make informed decisions about their own operations, from production practices to marketing.
Companies and cooperatives use the data to determine where to locate facilities that will serve agricultural producers.
Community planners use the information to target needed services to rural residents.
Legislators use census data when shaping farm policies and programs.
Students, educators, and researchers use the data as part of their ongoing studies, education, and research initiatives
NASS will mail the 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaires to ag producers in November/December to collect data for the 2022 calendar year. Producers can respond online or return their completed questionnaires by mail. Responses are due by February 6, 2023. NASS will release 2022 Census of Agriculture results in 2024.
If your farm meets this benchmark and you have never received NASS surveys or censuses, you can sign up to be counted online.
