01/23/08 Stand up and be counted

The US Department of Agriculture says the work of America's farmers and ranchers doesn't go unnoticed. Farmers can help to shape the future of agriculture and the rural communities they live in by filling out the Census of Agriculture forms says National Agricultural Statistics Service deputy administrator Carol House. HOUSE "Their feedback will provide government organizations, lawmakers, town planners, county extension agents and actually individual farm owners with the information they need to help plan for future facilities, services and community growth." The ag census is only taken every five years and House says that's why it's so important for all producers, no matter how large or small their operation is, to file their forms. HOUSE "And there's going to be a lot of decisions made with this information and if they're not counted now it's going to be five more years before they'll have an opportunity to do that." And while the Census of Agriculture is required by law - House says it is also protected by law. HOUSE "Their individual reports are completely confidential. They will never be released to anyone at any time." February fourth is the deadline to file your census papers and if you need more information go to www.agcensus.usda.gov. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott