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USDA launches survey to guide farm conservation

USDA launches survey to guide farm conservation


By Andi Anderson

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is preparing to survey farmers, ranchers, and agricultural landowners across the country, including many in Illinois, to gather essential data on conservation practices.

Nearly 12,000 operators nationwide will receive the 2024 Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) survey. This survey aims to build a comprehensive understanding of current conservation methods in American agriculture.

Mark Schleusener, the USDA’s Illinois statistician, highlighted the importance of this survey in supporting conservation efforts. “Almost all farmers are very attentive to conserving natural resources, including soil health,” Schleusener shared. “The USDA uses this data to design incentive programs that align well with farmers’ conservation techniques, making the information collected vital.”

The CEAP survey will collect information on production practices used on farms, such as chemical, fertilizer, and manure applications, along with tillage and irrigation practices.

These insights will help the USDA shape future programs that encourage sustainable practices and resource conservation across agricultural landscapes.

Confidentiality is a priority for the USDA in this data collection effort. Farmers are assured that the information provided is protected by law and exempt from the Freedom of Information Act. “All data collected remains confidential,” Schleusener emphasized, “and is only used in aggregate to analyze trends across regions.”

The survey will remain open through March 2025, allowing selected farmers time to participate. While participation is voluntary, the insights gained from this survey are crucial for the USDA’s National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

When the data is compiled, it provides a valuable overview of conservation efforts in Illinois and throughout the nation.

Farmers who engage in conservation practices may benefit from the insights and programs developed through this survey. By understanding and documenting these practices, the USDA can ensure that support programs are effective and well-aligned with farmers' methods, ultimately contributing to long-term agricultural sustainability.

Photo Credit: usda

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Categories: Illinois, Government & Policy

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