USDA asks farmers to track water usage

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture is asking Virginia farmers to help it figure out ways to conserve water and improve irrigation systems.

The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service plans to mail 415 surveys across the state Monday.

Recipients will be asked to share information about their irrigation water use during 2008, including application methods, equipment, facilities, expenditures, crop acreage and yield.

Herman Ellison, director of the NASS Virginia Field Office, says the data will further efforts to promote efficient irrigation practices and ensure the long-term sustainability of available water resources.

The irrigation survey is a supplement to the 2007 agriculture census.