Source: USDA, 2/17/17

What is on the horizon for North Carolina farmers in 2017 as they finalize plans for planting this spring? The March Agricultural Survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will survey nearly 2,000 farmers in North Carolina, and approximately 84,000 nationwide, to determine their plans for the upcoming growing season. 

“Each year, USDA’s Prospective Plantings report provides the first survey-based estimates of farmers’ planting intentions for the year,” said Dee Webb, North Carolina state statistician. “The March Agricultural Survey provides the factual data that underpins these projections, making it one of the most important surveys we conduct each year. When growers respond, they provide essential information that helps determine prospective production and the potential supply of major commodities in the U.S. for 2017. We recognize that farmers are very busy, but the information they provide helps U.S. agriculture remain viable and capable. I urge them to respond and thank them for their cooperation.” 

The survey is asking producers to provide information about the types of crops they intend to plant in 2017, how many acres they intend to plant, and the amounts of grain and oilseed they store on their farms. NASS encourages producers to respond online or by mail. Those producers who do not respond by the deadline may be contacted for a telephone or personal interview.  

NASS will compile and analyze the survey information and publish the results in the annual Prospective Plantings report and quarterly Grain Stocks report, both to be released on March 31, 2017.

As with all NASS surveys, the results of this survey will be available in aggregate form only, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified. For more information about North Carolina surveys and reports, call the NASS North Carolina Field Office at (800) 437-8451, or visit https://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/North_Carolina/.