Legal Definitions - National Agricultural Statistics Service

The National Agricultural Statistics Service, commonly known by its acronym NASS, is a principal agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Its core mission is to collect, analyze, and disseminate comprehensive statistical information about American agriculture. NASS provides objective and reliable data on a vast array of agricultural topics, including forecasts for crop production, inventories of livestock, agricultural prices, farm income and expenses, chemical use, and various other economic and environmental statistics. This information serves as a critical resource for farmers, agribusinesses, policymakers, and the public, enabling them to make informed decisions that impact the agricultural sector and the broader economy.

• Example 1: Guiding Planting Decisions for Farmers

  A wheat farmer in Kansas is planning their planting strategy for the upcoming season. To make an informed decision about which varieties to plant and how much acreage to dedicate, they consult the latest NASS reports. These reports provide estimates for national wheat acreage, expected yields based on current conditions, and historical price trends. This data helps the farmer anticipate market supply and demand, influencing their choices to optimize potential returns.

  How this illustrates NASS: This example demonstrates NASS's role in compiling and estimating agricultural production (acreage, yields) and market prices, which directly aids individual farmers in making strategic business decisions.

• Example 2: Informing Food Industry Supply Chain Management

  A major dairy product manufacturer needs to ensure a consistent supply of milk for its processing plants. The company regularly reviews NASS reports on dairy cow inventories, milk production volumes, and feed prices across key agricultural regions. If NASS data indicates a potential decline in milk production due to factors like increased feed costs or herd reductions, the manufacturer can proactively adjust its purchasing contracts or explore new sourcing options to maintain production levels and avoid shortages.

  How this illustrates NASS: Here, NASS's function in providing statistical information on livestock inventories, production volumes, and input costs (feed prices) helps agribusinesses manage their supply chains and mitigate risks in the food sector.

• Example 3: Supporting Government Policy and Disaster Relief

  Following a severe drought in a particular region, government agencies are assessing the need for agricultural disaster relief. They rely heavily on NASS data to understand the extent of crop losses, the number of affected farms, and the economic impact on the local agricultural community. NASS provides detailed statistics on crop conditions, yield reductions, and farm financial health, which are crucial for policymakers to allocate aid effectively and develop targeted recovery programs.

  How this illustrates NASS: This scenario highlights how NASS's comprehensive statistical information (crop conditions, yield reductions, farm financial data) is essential for government agencies in evaluating agricultural crises and formulating appropriate policy responses and relief efforts.