By Phillip Brasher

Alabama farmers are encouraged to complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture surveys, sent out Tuesday from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Ag Census, which is conducted every five years, provides detailed data on U.S. agriculture down to the county level. All farm operations with sales of at least $1,000 in agricultural products in 2022 are included in the census. 

Paper questionnaires will be sent to producers in December. Farmers and ranchers can fill out the survey online or return the questionnaire by email. Both online and mail responses are due by Feb. 6. 

The online version includes timesaving features, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The 2022 survey has new questions about the use of precision agriculture, hemp production, hair sheep and internet access. 

“(The census) is a powerful voice for American agriculture,” said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “The information gathered through the ag census influences policy decisions that will have a tremendous impact on ag producers and their communities for years to come.”

The results are due to be released in early 2024. 

Producers are actually required by law to respond to the survey, and NASS must keep the information they provide confidential.