MURRAY Local Land Services general manager Gary Rodd says the annual land and stock returns play a key role in the management and control of disease.
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Landholders will receive their 2016 returns through the mail next week.
“NSW produce is free of many of the pests and diseases found in other parts of the world,” Mr Rodda said.
“That is why Local Land Services works with land managers to monitor herds and flocks and share up-to-date advice and information to increase productivity.
“This information helps us go directly to the people whose land or stock may be affected in an emergency in our region.”
Almost 8000 land managers across the Murray region who pay Local Land Services rates or have a Property Identification Code are among 150,000 across NSW to receive forms in a bid to build a statewide picture of agricultural use and livestock numbers.
NSW produce is free of many of the pests and diseases found in other parts of the world. That is why Local Land Services works with land managers to monitor herds and flocks and share up-to-date advice and information.
- Gary Rodda, Murray LLS
The annual livestock census includes all stock six months of age or older, regardless of whether it belongs to the landholder, is agisted or on the property for any other reason.
Pigs of any age should be counted, as well as flocks of 100 or more poultry.
Mr Rodda said it was important to complete a return, even if land managers had no stock.
“If the annual return isn’t lodged by 31 August, an animal health rate and meat industry levy will automatically be applied to next year’s rates notice,” he said.
Along with the stock identification, the information is invaluable in the event of an emergency disease outbreak, such as avian influenza or Hendra virus.
For more information contact LLS on 1300 795 299 or visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au
