2026 Census of Agriculture - May 2026

In May 2026, farm operators across Canada will receive an invitation in the mail to complete the Census of Agriculture questionnaire. Respondents will be able to complete their questionnaire online using their Secure Access Code (SAC) included in the invitation letter. 

Why is participation important?

Filling out the Census of Agriculture questionnaire is important for supporting the agricultural industry and local farming communities across Canada. Since 1921, the Census of Agriculture has provided a detailed portrait of the agricultural industry across Canada.

The data produced are key to 

• supporting economic growth and sustainability for the businesses in this sector and can support decision-making around international trade, competitiveness and technological progress.
• ensuring that farm operators have the support they need to continue producing fresh, healthy food for Canadians.

What’s new?

Statistics Canada has been working hard to make it easier for farm operators to complete their 2026 questionnaire. It is now shorter, faster and easier to complete. Farm operators are now required to only answer questions relevant to their operation's activities.

Why is the Census of Agriculture important?

Key decision-makers – including farm businesses – use this information to act in the interest of farm operators, farming communities and agricultural associations across Canada.

Farm organizations are also heavy users of census data. They draw on this information to formulate:

• policy recommendations,
• develop communications and outreach work,
• conduct market research.

Policy advisors from all levels of government use Census of Agriculture data to

• develop strong farm support programs,
• evaluate the impacts of external events on the agricultural sector,
• provide rapid, effective assistance in times of natural disasters—such as floods, droughts, storms and wildfires.

The Census of Agriculture comes with other benefits:

• Census of Agriculture data can help identify trends and provide information on emerging economic and social issues, opportunities, and challenges within the agricultural community.
• The questionnaire covers a wide range of topics, such as
  • land use,
  • crops,  
  • livestock,  
  • agricultural labour,
  • machinery and equipment,
  • land management practices,
  • farm finances.
• Census data give all stakeholders in the agriculture sector an equally reliable source of information.

These invaluable data help inform research and policy across the Canadian agriculture sector.

For more information

Visit the Census of Agriculture website.