Acknowledgments

This is the first census of agriculture report prepared under the direction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Many people deserve recognition for their contributions to the census program.

NASS pays special tribute to two million farmers and ranchers who provided the information requested. Only through their cooperation and support was it possible to collect and publish these data. Other USDA agencies and representatives from State departments of agriculture offered significant advice during the planning, data collection, and processing phases of the census. They provided invaluable assistance at the local level to farmers and ranchers completing census report forms.

The U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census worked cooperatively with NASS during the program transfer and transition period. Their support of activities and the use of their National Processing Center in Jeffersonville, IN provided invaluable services.

Members of the Advisory Committee on Agriculture Statistics and representatives of both public and private organizations made significant recommendations that helped establish data content. NASS appreciates the group's strong and consistent support for census programs.

NASS expresses gratitude to the press, farm magazines, radio and television stations, farm organizations, and State departments of agriculture for publicizing the census and encouraging cooperation of farmers and ranchers.

If you would like to learn more about the statistics available from NASS or have questions concerning this report, visit our website at www.usda.gov/nass, send e-mail to nass@nass.usda.gov, or call:

301-763-8557 Census Division Director 1-800-523-3215 General Census Information 301-763-8309 Commodities Section 301-763-8514 Farm Economics Section 301-763-8571 Statistical Methodology

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (such as Braille, large print, audiotape) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).

To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.