Census coming for area farmers

Collection of data for the next Census of Agriculture, through which the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service counts farms, ranches and their operators every five years, is about to begin. Local farmers and ranchers can expect to get forms in the mail before the end of the year.

Renee Picanso, director for the service’s Census and Survey Division, said, “The census remains the only source of uniform, comprehensive agriculture data for every county in the nation. It’s a critical tool that gives farmers a voice to influence decisions that will shape the future of their community, industry and operation.” 

The census examines land use and ownership, operator demographics, production practices and income and expenditures. The information is used by a variety of organizations serving farmers and ranchers.

Forms are due by Feb. 4. They can be completed online, through a secure website at www.agcensus.usda.gov,or done on paper for mailing.

Federal law requires all agriculture producers to participate in the census. It also ensures that the service keep individual information confidential. 

COMMISSION VACANCIES

The state of Oregon is seeking nominations for open positions on several of the state’s agricultural commodity commissions.

Groups representing dairy producers, alfalfa seed growers, Dungeness crab fishermen, raspberry and blackberry growers, sheep producers and potato farmers all have openings. Details and qualifications can be accessed at www.oregon.gov/ODA/ADMS/Pages/cc_applications.aspx.

Appointments will be made by Katy Coba, director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture. The application deadline is Jan. 9.

For more information, contact Kris Anderson, manager of the commodity commission program, at 503-872-6600. 

REAL ESTATE ACTIVITY

Pending Yamhill County real estate sales for November 2012 are down 5.1 percent from November 2011, according to information compiled by the Regional Multiple Listing Service. However, for the year to date, they are up 16.9 percent.

In November, 645 listings were active and 60 sales were closed. The average sales price was $208,900.

Year to date, the average sales price is $210,300 with the median price $178,000. 

GREETERS

The McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce has a greeters set to run from 8 to 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21, at You’re Invited Party Rentals, 828 S.E. First St.

Newberg’s Chehalem Valley Chamber has one scheduled for 8 to 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21, at Guardian Tax & Accounting, 1124 N. Springbrook Road.

Molly Walker, the News-Register’s business editor, can be reached at mwalker@newsregister.com or 503-687-1272.