By Andi Anderson
Starting in January, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will conduct the Tenure, Ownership, and Transition of Agricultural Land (TOTAL) survey. This survey aims to collect detailed information from landowners across the country, including over 1,500 in Ohio. Data gathered will cover land ownership, income, expenses, debt, assets, demographics, and other characteristics of agricultural landlords.
TOTAL is a collaborative effort between NASS and the USDA’s Economic Research Service, designed to influence agricultural policies at national, state, and local levels. It also plays a role in calculating the farm sector's contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
“TOTAL will measure the state of farmland ownership,” said Ben Torrance, State Statistician of the USDA NASS, representing Ohio. “The results of this survey help shape federal, state and local farm policies, and will help farmers and landowners to plan out Ohio farmland rental agreements.”
The survey will gather insights into farm and household finances, production costs, and conservation practices, along with off-farm employment. Between January and April, NASS will contact over 40,000 producers nationwide, using mail, online responses, and follow-up interviews to ensure comprehensive data collection.
Producers’ participation is critical to producing accurate and impactful reports. NASS ensures the confidentiality of all responses, publishing only aggregated data so no individual or operation is identifiable.
The data collected will be featured in the Farm Production Expenditures report, set for release on July 25, 2025. This report, along with others derived from the TOTAL survey, will provide valuable insights to support agricultural decision-making and planning. Farmers are encouraged to complete the survey, as their input will shape future policies and strategies for the agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: Ohio, Government & Policy