Statistic Canada announced on January 9, 2026 that coming 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.
What to expect for the 2026 Census of Agriculture
In the coming months, the Census of Agriculture Program will reach out to the farming community with materials they can use to help promote the census. Along with shareable materials, there will be a media campaign detailing what’s new in the upcoming census and why the census is important.
In accordance with the Statistics Act, farm operators are required to participate in the Census of Agriculture. By the same law, Statistics Canada is required to protect the information provided in Census of Agriculture questionnaires. We place the highest priority on protecting your privacy and your information.
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.
Farm organizations are also heavy users of census data and draw on this information to formulate policy recommendations, develop communications and outreach activities, and conduct market research.
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.
Consulting users to get it right
In fall 2022, Statistics Canada conducted a national consultation to assess the information needs of agricultural stakeholders. The agency received 847 comments and suggestions from diverse groups—including farming organizations and businesses, federal government departments and agencies, provincial government, and academics—to help improve the Census of Agriculture. Statistics Canada is grateful to the Canadian agricultural community for its ongoing feedback and support.
For more information, please visit the census website.