In a move aimed at streamlining data collection and reducing redundancy, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has announced the discontinuation of the Mink Survey and the Agricultural Labor Survey, detailing this in a press release yesterday. As described in the release, the decision was determined under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) to "improve efficiency and eliminate unnecessary burdens" within the realm of agricultural data gathering exercises.
The Mink Survey, officially known as OMB Control Number 0535-0212, along with the Agricultural Labor Survey, under OMB Control Number 0535-0109, have been identified as surplus to NASS's requirements, and official communication states that their removal is in the interest of avoiding duplication and streamlining processes that are considered to be outdated and unnecessary; their need has dissipated as the department evolves in tandem with the changing face of the agricultural industry. The Mink Survey previously gathered data pertinent to mink farm operations, while the Agricultural Labor Survey collected information on agriculture-based employment statistics, wages, and other related labor costs.
Individuals looking for further details on these discontinued information collections can find the notice in the Federal Register via the link provided in the NASS's announcement. A notice of discontinuance marks a definite cessation of these surveys, nullifying any previous requirements for data submission from stakeholders previously mandated to partake. NASS emphasized that this action aligns with their mandate to provide "timely, accurate and useful statistics in service to U.S. agriculture," as clearly stated in their press release.
As the federal statistical agency responsible for agriculture in the U.S., NASS's commitment remains steadfast despite these changes, with the agency's chief intent on maintaining a high standard of agricultural data and statistics. The USDA mentioned in their press release that it is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender; further, any discrimination complaints should be directed to the USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and they provided contact details for such matters.
