Agricultural Survey

The first part of the survey project dealt with the farm/agriculture resources.  It involved developing a survey form and mailing it to the farmers.  I partnered with Clay County ISU Extension and the USDA FSA to assist with mailing.  Approximately 1500 surveys were mailed, less than 5% were returned.  However those that were returned were completed in their entirety with photos.  This part of the survey project was added after applying for the Clay County Community Foundation grant funds.  I realized the importance of including the agricultural land in a county survey that is so heavily rural and concentrated on farming.

Even though approximately 1500 farm surveys were mailed and only 78 were returned this is the first time that a survey of this type has been conducted in Clay County for the farm/agricultural buildings.  While the returned percentage of survey does not speak to the successfulness of the project, the stories, history and learning opportunities are evidence of the projects’ success.  Through the process I had many phone conversations with property owners, who learned a great deal about their farm; some of them even  researched the roof types for their buildings!
 

Top photo is the Lois P. Larsen Farm in Riverton Township; bottom photo is the Ken & Sharon Emmert Farm in Clay Township.