Revised:  05/22/2008

	Contact: Troy Joshua 609-292-6385

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 16, 2008

FARMERS STILL HAVE TIME TO BE COUNTED

Census of Agriculture Forms Still Being Accepted

            Trenton, NJ – The deadline for returning completed Census of Agriculture forms has been extended so New Jersey farmers can speak up for their communities, their industry, and their future. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) reminds farmers that returning their completed Census form is an important way to tell about the value of the Garden State’s agriculture.

            “A strong agricultural industry is important for new Jersey’s economy,” says Troy Joshua, Director of the NASS New Jersey Field Office. “By providing community leaders, lawmakers, farm operators, and agriculture’s advocates with the most comprehensive and accurate agricultural data, they have the resources to make informed, sound decisions to ensure agriculture has a solid future.”

            Most farmers have already responded to the Census. The remaining farmers who have not mailed in their form were recently sent another copy. Those who do not respond in the next couple of weeks will be phoned or visited by NASS’s enumerators to provide any needed assistance.

            “Accurate and comprehensive information from all farmers is important, so it can provide a true picture of where agriculture is today and help people plan appropriately for its needs in the future,” says Joshua. “This detailed information is only gathered every five years, so we need the participation of every farmer.”

            Census responses are required and protected by law. This law safeguards the privacy of individual responses. Farmers can return their forms by mail or fill out the Census online. For more information about the Census, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call toll-free (888) 4AG-STAT or (888) 424-7828.