Ag census data submission deadline set Monday, Feb. 6

Franklin County farmers and forest landowners have about a month remaining to participate in the 2022 Census of Agriculture, which — when combined with data from interests from around the country — shapes future federal farm policies.

The deadline to be counted in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service tally is Monday, Feb. 6.

While it is too late to sign up for the latest farm census, codes to participate in the current survey were mailed to existing farm interests during November.

Those participants, who received this information from NASS, are now being encouraged to respond online.

Taken every five years, the ag census is a complete count of U.S. farms, ranches and the people who operate them.

As mandated by law, all responses — that include data on demographics, economics and land use — are confidential with safeguards put into place that ensure the privacy of all participants.

It is the only source of comprehensive and impartial data on agriculture for every county and state, and participation is required by law.

Dr. Steve Martin, who serves as interim director of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, said agriculture is Mississippi’s No. 1 industry, providing 17.4 percent of the state’s jobs and more than $16 billion in added value to Mississippi’s economy annually.

“Proper representation of all of our farmers and ranchers is critical to this important industry in our state,” Martin said. “Census data drives decisions about policy, farm and conservation programs, infrastructure and rural development, research, education and more.

“I encourage all Mississippi farmers to submit their data, as the Census of Agriculture is your opportunity to have a voice in the future of U.S. agriculture.”

Initial data sets from the national report are slated to be released by summer 2024.

Those who received a 2022 Census of Agriculture survey code in the mail can start the reporting process by visiting www.agcounts.usda.gov.

Those requiring assistance with the process can contact NASS Customer Support by calling 1-888-424-7828 and participants should have their survey name and code available to receive help.