USDA TO Conduct 2010 Sheep and Goat Survey

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is gearing up for the Sheep and Goat Inventory Survey. Conducted each year in January and July, this survey provides critical inventory and production information for all states and the nation.

"During the first two weeks in January, producers will be contacted to participate in the Sheep and Goat Inventory Survey," said Carol House, deputy administrator of NASS. "This survey will provide the latest information on conditions and trends in the U.S. sheep and goat industry for 2010. Accurate data on sheep and goat inventory and production allow USDA and the industry to be more responsive to the American and international public, increase consumer understanding and awareness and establish an appreciation for the benefits of U.S. sheep and goats and their products."

When contacted by a NASS field office representative, producers will be asked to provide information on the number of breeding and market sheep and goats, lambs and kids born during the previous year, as well as mohair production, wool production and prices. For convenience, producers will have the option of responding to the survey by telephone, mail, during a personal interview or online.

"The NASS survey data are widely used by government and industry alike," commented Glen Fisher, president of the American Sheep Industry Association. "I encourage everyone who is contacted to take the time to respond as accurately as possible."

House noted that, as is the case with all NASS surveys, information provided by respondents is confidential by law. NASS safeguards the privacy of all survey responses ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified.

Results will be published in the Sheep and Goats report, scheduled for release on Jan. 29, 2010.