The annual farm census is underway. Local Land Services (LLS) is urging landholders to keep an eye out for the Annual Land and Stock Returns landing in mailboxes this week.

Annual Land and Stock Returns are a snapshot in time, much like a census and landholders should fill in the details as they were recorded at June 30.

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LLS executive director Rob Kelly said annual returns are a statutory requirement and the data provided ensures LLS customers get the help they need when emergencies or disasters strike.

Mr Kelly said the livestock figure landholders provide on their return does not affect the amount they pay in rates.

“LLS rates are calculated on a property’s Notional Carrying Capacity,” he said.

“It is vital Local Land Services has accurate, up-to date information so it can best deliver services.

“It may not be top of every landholder’s to-do list right now, but we need all returns so we can understand what’s happening on the ground across the state.

“In an emergency situation like last summer’s fires, our team will be supporting landholders as well as other agencies and suppliers to roll out an enormous amount of practical help, as well as information and advice.

LLS emergency services business partner Dr Steve Eastwood said completing the annual return online is the quickest way to do it and it should be lodged no later than August 31.

“The information gathered builds a picture of agricultural land use and livestock numbers across NSW and assists in monitoring flocks and herds for emergency animal diseases,” he said. 

“We understand circumstances change over a 12 month period, and after a hard few years, reporting livestock figures can be confronting, especially when landholders have destocked due to drought, fire or flood.”

To lodge a return, visit http://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/alsr and follow the links to the dedicated portal.

The online process can be done in three simple steps and helps reduce face to face contact with Local Land Services and mail service staff, although postal lodgement is still available.