By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is aiming to gather crucial data on 2023's agricultural season by reaching out to producers nationwide and surveying grain facility operators about on-farm storage of grains and oilseeds, as well as commercial stocks.
Nicholas Streff, Northern Plains Director of NASS, highlights the significance of these surveys. They are not only the largest but also the most crucial year-end surveys conducted by NASS. These surveys form the foundation of the USDA's official estimates on production, harvested acres, and supplies of major agricultural commodities in the U.S., including grains and oilseeds.
The data collected is more than just numbers. It plays a crucial role in guiding farmers and processors as they make important business decisions and plan for the upcoming growing and marketing season. These surveys are also instrumental in calculating county-level yields, which directly impact farmers. This data is crucial for the USDA's Farm Service Agency to administer various producer programs and calculate disaster assistance.
Streff emphasizes the importance of producer participation. The accuracy and publication of county yields depend heavily on sufficient survey responses. He recalls that in 2022, NASS couldn't publish data for several large producing counties due to inadequate responses.
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of these surveys. As mandated by Federal law, all responses are kept strictly confidential, with the privacy of respondents safeguarded. Individual responses are protected from identification and are exempt from the Freedom of Information Act.
The survey results will be made public in key reports, including the Crop Production Annual Summary and the quarterly Grain Stocks report, set for release on January 12, 2024.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Nebraska, Government & Policy