Sample Cover Letter

OMB No. 0535-0243 Exp. Date 8/31/2023

USDA/NASS Letterhead
[Date]
Dear Sir/Madam,
The United States Department of Agriculture is conducting a critical test on the updated content
of the 2022 Census of Agriculture. The changes to this once-every-five-year questionnaire will
mean a more complete picture of all U.S. agriculture. This test will help determine whether the
updates are easy to understand, and if response remains a smooth process before the new form is
mailed across the nation.
You are part of a small group that has been selected to test this questionnaire. Your participation
is vital in our efforts to improve the upcoming census. We appreciate your time and assistance.
Please complete the test questionnaire by [date] either:

 Online – Fast and secure. Go to www.agcounts.usda.gov, enter your 17-digit survey
code, then click “Continue” to begin.
 By mail – Complete the census form and return it in the prepaid envelope provided.
If you do not have information available for 2020, estimates are acceptable for this test. If you
are not currently farming, the online questionnaire will take you through a few quick questions
then straight to the end. If you’re responding by mail, please make a note on the front of the
questionnaire and mail it back to us. We will update our records accordingly. Please respond
promptly to avoid follow-up contacts.
All information you provide is confidential, protected by federal law (Title V, Subtitle A, Public
Law 107–347). If you need assistance completing the test, call toll-free (888) 424-7828. For
more information about the Census of Agriculture, visit www.nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.
The Census of Agriculture is the only source of comprehensive agricultural data for every state
and county in the nation. The data are widely used to inform decisions that benefit you and your
community – from decisions guiding succession planning and new and beginning farmer
programs to decisions impacting agriculture practices, land stewardship, and sustainability.
The Census of Agriculture is Your Voice. Your Future. Your Opportunity. Thank you for
participating.
Sincerely,
Hubert Hamer
Administrator, National Agricultural Statistics Service
United States Department of Agriculture
Enclosures
According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays
a valid OMB control number. The valid OMB number is 0535-0243. The time required to complete this information collection is estimated to average 50 minutes, including the time
for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information.