Farm bureau federation offers survey on USDA programs

A survey launched by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) focuses on farmer and rancher feedback on 10 specific United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs. 

One does not need to be an American Farm Bureau member to participate, as all farmers and ranchers are encouraged to take the short survey.

"Farmers and ranchers sometimes find it confusing and complex to participate in USDA programs," AFBF President Bob Stallman said. "At the same time, USDA staff are concerned that farmers and ranchers who could benefit from a number of different programs frequently do not apply."

The USDA programs the survey focuses on are from the Farm Service Agency; Natural Resources Conservation Service; Rural Development: Environmental Quality Incentives Program; Conservation Stewardship Program; Conservation Reserve Program; Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program; Value-Added Agricultural Producer Grants; Rural Energy for America Program; Farmers' Marketing and Local Food Promotion Program; Direct Farm Ownership Loans; Direct Farm Operating Loans; and Guaranteed Farm Loans (farm operating and farm ownership).

The survey is open through March 15, and the AFBF will use the results to make recommendations to the USDA on how to enhance its programs to be more helpful to farmers and ranchers. 

The survey can be found at http://usdaprograms.questionpro.com/