Certified Organic Production Survey News Release

News Release For the Certified Organic Production Survey

Contact:

Krissy Young, (202) 690-8123

USDA to Wide-Scale Survey of Organic Agriculture

How It is Changing the Face of U.S. Agriculture

WASHINGTON, December X, 2011 – This winter, USDA will conduct a wide-scale survey of certified organic farming in the United States to find out how the growth of organic farming is changing the face of U.S. agriculture.

“The Certified Organic Production Survey is a direct response to the growing interest in organics among consumers, farmers, and businesses,” said Cynthia Clark, administrator of USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. “This is an opportunity for organic producers to share their voices and help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of organic farming in the United States.”

2007 Census of Agriculture counted more than 20,000 U.S. farms engaged in organic production. The survey will look at many aspects of certified organic farming during the 2011 calendar year – from production and marketing practices, to income and expenses.

The results will help shape future decisions regarding farm policy, funding allocations, availability of goods and services, community development and other key issues. In addition, the information can help producers make informed decisions about the future of their own farming operations.

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will mail the survey in early December to all known certified organic producers in the United States, who are asked to respond by December 20. NASS will publish results in fall of 2012.

Participants can mail back their forms or complete the survey online at www.nass.usda.gov. Survey participants are guaranteed by law (Title 7, U.S. Code) that their individual information will be kept confidential. NASS uses the information only for statistical purposes and publishes data only in tabulated totals.

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