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Every five years the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) surveys all farmers and ranchers for production, sales, labor, land use and other information to inform national and state programs that benefit U.S. agriculture.  The aquaculture community has been very fortunate that USDA has conducted a follow-up survey specific to U.S. aquaculture that includes information specific to aquaculture like water sources, production systems, or submerged land leases for shellfish production.

Last conducted in 2013, the 2018 Census of Aquaculture will yield current industry-specific data. This information is used by federal, state and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, and producers to make decisions impacting the sustainability and growth of U.S. aquaculture.  The data also are used to support and justify federal and state research, education, extension, aquatic animal health programs and opportunities for farmer participation in demonstration projects and efforts to reform regulations.

There is also a unique feature to the Census in that they offer a one-click summary of agriculture, and aquaculture, for each of the 435 House of Representatives Districts.  This a wonderful means to be able to speak to House members and impress upon them the importance of aquaculture to their District.

Participation in the census helps to document the need for U.S. aquaculture to be included in agriculture programs. Federal and state agencies and program managers often lack an understanding of the scope and breadth of our industry. By taking the time to complete your census form, the data collected will more completely convey the national importance of U.S. aquaculture. National aquaculture associations such as the NAA as well as state associations that advocate for industry concerns with regulatory agencies and with elected officials use these data to justify the types of reforms and changes that are necessary. Please do your part to assist our industry by participating in the 2018 Census of Aquaculture.

The 2018 Census of Aquaculture survey forms will be mailed December 17, 2018. Farmers that participated in the 2018 Census of Agriculture will receive an aquaculture census form. For those aquafarmers who did not participate in the nationwide agricultural census, they should contact USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service at 1-800-727-9540, to receive a Census of Aquaculture survey.

NASS holds individual farm data confidential and it is not shared with the public or federal or state agencies.  Collected data is only made available as compiled data. NASS employees are subject to criminal penalty if they mis-use collected data.  The final day to respond to the 2018 Census of Aquaculture is January 14, 2019.

For 2013 Census of Aquaculture data, please visit: https://www.nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2012/Online_Resources/Aquaculture/. For more information about the 2018 Census of Aquaculture, please visit: https://www.nass.usda.gov/Surveys/Guide_to_NASS_Surveys/Census_of_Aquaculture/ index.php.