05/28/08 Ag Census

The national Census of Agriculture has some farmers squirming and uncomfortable, worrying about "Big Brother" watching. But the Census of Agriculture has been in place for years to help in determining subsidies and similar programs. The ag census numbers are supposed to be anonymous and are needed to provide important information in ascertaining the types of farm products and livestock being produced locally and nationally. Several farmers and animal owners, however, worry that in providing census information they will be unwillingly registering for the more controversial National Animal Identification System which microchips livestock in order to track and prevent disease and protect the nation's food supply. One farmer stated, "This is one more method of keeping tabs on everyone, and I think we've got enough of that already." But do we, with tainted beef ending up in school lunch programs? We all want the same thing, a safe and secure national food supply. Let's work together toward that end.