May 4, 2009

The USDA will conduct the first-ever, wide-scale survey of organic farming in the US this spring, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.

The survey aims to find out how the growth of organic farming is changing the face of US agriculture.

The Organic Production Survey is a direct response to growing interest in organic products among consumers, farmers and businesses, said Vilsack, adding that the survey is a chance for organic producers to help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of organic farming in the US.

The 2007 Census of Agriculture showed more than 20,000 US farms were engaged in organic production.

The survey will look at many aspects of organic farming during the 2008 calendar year, from production and market practices to income and expenses. It will focus on operations that are currently engaged in organic production and those that are making the transition to organic agriculture.

The results are expected to help shape future decisions regarding farm policy, funding allocations, availability of goods and services, community development and other key issues. The information can also help producers make informed decisions about the future of their own farming operations.

The survey will be mailed in early May to all known organic producers in the US, and results will be published in winter 2009.