The success of the census of agriculture is directly dependent upon the participation of America’s farmers
and ranchers, and we are grateful for every agricultural operator who furnished the information requested.
Their cooperation and support helped make the 2007 Census of Agriculture the most successful count in
history. It was their future, their voice, and their responsibility and they spoke out for their farms and their
industry.
The 2007 census was the most comprehensive effort to date to reach all agriculture operations, regardless
of size. We appreciate our relationship with the American Indian community and the many community
based organizations across the country that helped educate their constituents about the importance of the
census. Their support aided greatly in our efforts.
Additionally, there were many organizations and partners who recognize the importance of good data and
helped encourage producers to respond. The farm organizations, stakeholder groups, and agricultural
media were instrumental in building awareness of the census and encouraging farmers and ranchers to
participate. They truly were effective partners driving the message that the census is every producer’s
voice, future, and responsibility.
Other USDA agencies and representatives from State departments of agriculture offered invaluable advice
during the planning, data collection, and processing phases of the census. They also provided critical
assistance at the local level to farmers and ranchers completing census forms. Special thanks are extended
to the enumerators who collect data locally through NASS’s cooperative agreement with the National
Association of State Departments of Agriculture. By helping NASS build and maintain quality
relationships with our primary stakeholders, the enumerators are important contributors to quality
statistics.
Members of the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics and representatives of both public and
private organizations offered recommendations on census content. NASS appreciates their strong and
consistent support for our programs.
Finally, NASS acknowledges the services provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National
Processing Center in Jeffersonville, IN.