For somewhere like Chicago, as we learned earlier today, urban farming may come to represent an important and sustainable source of food that’s attractive to consumers. So make your voice heard and tell the Department of Agriculture to take urban farming seriously in the forthcoming Census of Agriculture. The Census is currently in the consultation stage, and they’re asking for your input.
The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is soliciting suggestions for changes for the 2012 Census of Agriculture. All submissions must be received by August 28, 2009.
Grist explains just how important this Census is, and that in the previous years the Census “has not really measured whether the foods consumers eat are produced close to their homes or not. With the emergence of the community-based food movement, the Census will need to devote more attention to food.” We need data to prove our points in the years to come, so let’s be sure they ask the right questions now. Submit your suggestions online before Friday.
via Tell the USDA to Include Urban Farming in Census (Sustainable Food – Change.org).