Sample Cover Letter for reimbursable survey

United States Department of Agriculture

National Agricultural Statistics Service

Maryland Field Office

[Date]

Dear Reporter:

I am writing to request your participation in the enclosed Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA)/USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (NASS) – Maryland Field Office 20xx Pesticide Usage Survey. This survey will be the only comprehensive measure of pesticide use in Maryland and helps MDA develop the most appropriate programs for Maryland farmers.

Please take time to complete the enclosed survey and return it to NASS according to the instructions provided. Pesticides are a major input in the production of agricultural commodities; however, to keep the cost of using pesticides from exceeding the benefits, knowledge of the extent of their application is of utmost importance.

With your cooperation, this survey will also provide information necessary for rational decisions regarding pesticide usage, laws, and regulations. The survey results provide a reliable source of public information for all members of our industry, as well as for industry representatives working with policy makers at the State and national levels.

Your participation is crucial and your survey responses will be kept completely confidential. By law, NASS safeguards the confidentiality of all survey responses ensuring that no individual operation or grower will be identified.

Thank you in advance for your support of our programs and Maryland agriculture. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at (410) 841-5740.

Sincerely,

[State Statistician’s Name]

Maryland State Statistician

U.S. Department of Agriculture

National Agricultural Statistics Service

Enclosure

50 Harry S Truman Parkway · Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 841-5740 · (410) 841-5755 FAX · www.nass.usda.gov

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.