USDA irrigation surveys due Feb. 10

The 2013 Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey is a supplement to the 2012 Census of Agriculture. This survey provides the only comprehensive information on irrigation activities and water use across American farms, ranches, and horticultural operations. Producers will provide information on water sources and amount of water used, acres irrigated by type of system, irrigation and yield by crop, and system investments and energy costs.

2. How is the Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey conducted?

Just as with the 2012 Census of Agriculture, Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey is conducted once every five years. NASS will survey a sample of all farmers who indicated on their 2012 census form that they use irrigation on their operation. Approximately 35,000 producers across the United States will participate in the survey. All participants need to complete and return their survey by February 10, 2014.

3. Why are nursery and horticulture operations included in this survey?

Nursery and horticulture operations account for a large portion of the American agricultural industry.  As you know, water use is vital to nursery and horticulture operations. To ensure that this important sector is accurately represented in agriculture water use reports, NASS made an extra effort to include nursery and horticulture producers in the Farm and Ranch Irrigation Survey.

4. I just completed the 2012 Census of Agriculture, which included irrigation questions. Why do I need to complete another survey?

NASS is committed to providing timely, accurate and useful statistics in service to U.S. agriculture. While the 2012 Census of Agriculture included questions about irrigation, it did not go into in-depth details. A survey specific to irrigation will allow NASS to publish more comprehensive information on this important practice. The results of this survey will aid in efforts to develop and promote efficient irrigation practices and ensure long-term sustainability of water resources. Therefore, your participation in this survey is vitally important.

Read more here.