Farmers reminded to submit Ag census info

WASHINGTON, May 12 (UPI) -- U.S. Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer Monday reminded America's farmers to respond to the 2007 Census of Agriculture either by mail or the Internet.

"More than 2 million responses have already been received," Schafer said in a statement. "I sincerely thank those who have fulfilled their responsibility by completing and returning their census forms."

The agricultural census, conducted every five years, is the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation.

The information is used by town planners, policy makers, agribusinesses and others to make important growth-generating decisions that will shape rural communities for future generations, the release said.

"We need to hear from everyone, no matter how big or small their operation is, and no matter what they farm, where they farm or how they farm," Schafer said. "As we say, it's your voice, your future and your responsibility."