USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is conducting a survey of certified organic farming to gather production and marketing information on organic farming in the U.S.  The survey runs from December 2011 to April 2012, and focuses on crop and livestock production.  The USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) will use the results to improve federal crop insurance for organic crops, as required by the 2008 Farm Bill.

In addition to improving organic crop insurance options, USDA plans to use the survey results to improve programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program for organic producers.  Additionally, USDA plans to use the results to evaluate whether to expand the Market Access Program to allow for more exports of organic products.  The survey results will also be used more generally to inform policies, funding allocations, and availability of services for organic growers.

Organic producers should be receiving the survey by mail and can respond by mail, internet, or phone, or by contacting a NASS representative.  To complete the survey online, producers should go to www.agcounts.usda.gov and enter the ID number printed on the mailing.  Responses are kept confidential.

To view USDA’s information sheet on the survey, click here.