The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is requesting a substantive change to the 2027 June Area Survey and Agricultural Coverage Evaluation Survey (ACES) data-collection instruments. NASS is requesting a substantive change to increase the area frame for the 2027 ACES. ACES is conducted only during the Census of Agriculture reference year, which occurs every five years. The proposed sample increase represents the minimum expansion necessary to achieve the survey's required precision targets and to ensure the continued production of statistically valid estimates consistent with agency program and stakeholder needs.
NASS is requesting revisions to the race and ethnicity questions for both the June Area Survey and ACES. In light of OMBâs March 27, 2026 announcement of a one-year extension to submit an Action Plan for compliance with the updates to Statistical Policy Directive No. 15, Standards for Maintaining, Collecting, and Presenting Federal Data on Race and Ethnicity, NASS will use the 1997 standards in Agricultural Surveys Program and will use the delayed deadline to continue developing implementation plans for the 2024 standards.
NASS is increasing the sample of the 2027 Agricultural Coverage Evaluation Survey (ACES). For the 2027 ACES, the area frame is being increased. The proposed increase represents the minimum expansion necessary to achieve the survey's required precision targets and to ensure the continued production of statistically valid estimates consistent with agency program and stakeholder needs.
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.
Agricultural Surveys Program