The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced that it is set to undertake its first ever wide-scale survey of organic farming in the US, in a bid to find out how its growth is changing agriculture in the country.
The report, entitled 'The Organic Production Survey', will look back at different aspects of organic farming during 2008, including production, marketing, income and expenses.
Included in the survey will be both companies with established organic production and those currently making the transition to organic methods.
'The Organic Production Survey is a direct response to the growing interest in organics among consumers,' said USDA agriculture secretary Tom Vilsack. 'This is an opportunity for organic producers to share their voices and help ensure the continued growth and sustainability of organic farming in the United States.'
Data gathered from the study will help shape decisions regarding farm policy, funding, good availability and community development, according to the USDA, as well as helping producers make informed decisions about their own future operations.
The survey will be mailed to all known US organic producers in May, with the results to be collected no later than 17 June and then published during winter 2009.
