0227-equine-07-SSB

Supporting Statement B Part B

EQUINE SURVEYS

OMB No. 0535-0227

B. COLLECTION OF INFORMATION EMPLOYING STATISTICAL METHODS

1. Describe (including a numerical estimate) the potential respondent universe and any sampling or other respondent selection method to be used. Data on the number of entities (e.g., establishments, State and local government units, households, or persons) in the universe covered by the collection and in the corresponding sample are to be provided in tabular form for the universe as a whole and for each of the strata in the proposed sample. Indicate expected response rates for the collection as a whole. If the collection has been conducted previously, include the actual response rate achieved during the last collection.

These surveys will be censuses, conducted on all known equine-related individuals and/or operations (i.e., owners, breeders, boarders, trainers, etc.) on the respective State list sampling frames. Initial contact will be by mail, with telephone follow-up on some or all non-respondents. Where funding allows, this will be supplemented with an area frame sample. Response rates for a new population are difficult to predict, although the goal is a response rate of 80 percent; survey response rates for previous surveys ranged from 45 to 85 percent for list frame and usually 100 percent for the area frame. Survey response is voluntary.

2. Describe the procedures for the collection of information.

There will be multiple methods used for data collection. The list sample (census) initial contact will be a mail questionnaire. Non-respondents will be mailed a second copy of the questionnaire. Some or all (depending on State) of those who do not respond by mail will be followed up with either telephone or personal interview. Where used, area frame samples will be personally enumerated.

3. Describe methods to maximize response rates and to deal with issues of non-response. The accuracy and reliability of information collected must be shown to be adequate for intended uses.

A complete enumeration of the list frame is planned in most States to ensure that the information collected will provide an accurate representation of the equine industry in each State. Telephone or personal enumeration follow-ups are conducted as funds permit.

4. Describe any tests of procedures or methods to be undertaken.

A pretest of the data collection instrument will be conducted prior to the actual survey in each State to ensure the adequacy of the data collection instrument. State Offices routinely share information about improving the questionnaire and data collection procedures.

5. Provide the name and telephone number of individuals consulted on statistical aspects of the design and the name of the agency unit, contractor(s), grantee(s), or other person(s) who will actually collect and/or analyze the information for the agency.

Questionnaire design NASS Field Offices in co-operation with State Departments of Agriculture, from master

Survey design NASS Field Offices in co-operation with State

Departments of Agriculture

Data collection Field Offices

Keying and editing of data Field Offices

Summarization Field Offices

Publication of report NASS Field Offices in co-operation with State

Departments of Agriculture

The Washington, D.C. Headquarters Deputy Administrator for Field Offices is Marshall Dantzler, 202-720-3638.

October 2006

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