By Jamie Martin
USDA surveys, essential for agricultural data collection, have helped shape the U.S. agricultural economy for over 150 years. These surveys provide crucial information used by farmers, researchers, and policymakers globally to inform decisions about crop production, labor, and livestock. Unfortunately, the response rates to these surveys have dropped significantly over the years.
The USDA's Crop Production report, Cattle on Feed survey, and Farm Labor survey are particularly vulnerable, with participation falling from 80-85% in the 1990s to just 46% in 2024. This decline in responses has made it harder for USDA to ensure that the data it collects accurately represents the agriculture sector.
Farmers’ busy schedules contribute to low response rates, especially when surveys coincide with critical planting and harvesting periods. For example, the survey on planted acreage occurs at the end of planting season, making it a challenge for farmers to participate.
The consequences of falling survey responses are profound. Lower participation weakens the data's reliability, which in turn affects price discovery, market forecasts, and the setting of policies. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to biased conclusions that affect the entire agricultural economy.
The USDA has introduced digital surveys, using emails and text messages to reach farmers more efficiently. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of survey responses, ensuring that the data remains useful for making critical decisions.
Photo Credit: istock-azmanjaka
Categories: National