Hi. I am Dr. Robert Kluson, the Extension agriculture agent of Sarasota County. I’m joining all my colleagues at UF/IFAS and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to encourage every producer in Sarasota County to respond to the 2017 Census of Agriculture.

Collected every five years, the census is the only source of comprehensive and impartial agriculture data for every county in the nation. Those who serve farmers, ranchers and rural communities — including researchers, agribusinesses, extension educators, and others — rely upon the results. So whether you’re rural or urban, working thousands of acres or just a few plots, your information matters. Remember, the Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, your opportunity.

Very importantly, your response aids in the funding and development of farm programs and the boosting of support services; among many other benefits, your response helps show the entire nation the value of agriculture to our country and the world. With an improved online questionnaire for this census, responding is easier and more convenient than ever. As always, all responses are secure and confidential, as required by law.

Remember, the Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, and your opportunity. Help rural America. Be counted. Respond now at www.agcensus.usda.gov/.

For further information, you can watch a short video: youtube.com/watch?v=q2vJheOGjlE&feature=youtu.be.

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