Conducted every five years by the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the Census of Agriculture is a complete count of all U.S. farms andranches and those who operate them.The Census is the only source of uniform, comprehensive agricultural data for every county in the nation. It’s a critical tool that gives farmers a voice to influence decisions that will shape the future of their community, industry and operation. The Census looks at land use and ownership, operator characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures and other topics. This information is used by all those who serve farmers and rural communities from federal, state and local governments to agribusinesses and trade associations. For example, legislators use the data when shaping farm policy and agribusinesses factor it into their planning efforts.
For information about the latest census results about Maryland, click here.
For more information, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov
.For an FAQ sheet about the Census. Or watch the NASS Census Video
50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401