Crapo reminds Farmers of AG Cenus

Washington, DC â?? Idaho Senator Mike Crapo reminds Idaho farmers that time is running out to be counted in the 2002 Census of Agriculture. The census, which is conducted every five years by the USDAâ??s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), puts together comprehensive information on agriculture production, inventories, sales and expenses for all states and counties.â??It is vital that Idahoâ??s agricultural producers participate in the census,â?? Crapo explained. â??It is used to help farmers and ranchers spot trends and make decisions about which crops to grow or livestock to raise. Congress and many farm organizations use the results to determine farm policies and programs. The census has been an invaluable resource, and I encourage all those who qualify to complete the forms. Every response counts in providing accurate information about the state of agriculture today.â?? Crapo has just been re-appointed to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee, and is presently the only member of the Idaho congressional delegation to be serving on a congressional agriculture committee. Completed 2002 Census of Agriculture report forms are due February 3, 2003. If you are in need of forms or have questions about the Census, you may call 1-888-4AG-STAT. All responses are kept confidential and are used only for statistical purposes. The final results will be released next year on February 3, 2004. More information can be found at http://www.usda.gov/nass/. # # #