The census of agriculture conducted every 5 years is the only source of consistent, comparable agricultural data at the county, state, and national levels. It collects important information on the number and size of farms, land use, production expenses, value of production, land values, and crop and livestock production, as well as key demographic data on farm operators not available from any other source. These data are critical to the agricultural community, including local, state and federal governments, farmer organization, marketing associations, cooperatives, agricultural experiment stations, land-grant
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.