NFU Scotland is reminding all keepers of sheep and goats in Scotland to return their annual inventory before the end of January deadline.

Since 2006, all sheep and goat keepers have been required to carry out an annual head count of the sheep and goats on each holding that they use.

The Scottish Government contacts all registered sheep and goat keepers by letter each year to ask how many sheep and goats were on their holdings on January 1 of that year.  This year’s form is due to be returned in the pre-paid envelopes provided by 31 January 2014.

NFU Scotland Livestock Policy Manager John Sleigh said:

“Those who keep sheep and goats in Scotland have had a number of years now to get used to having to complete the annual inventory but it is always a task that can easily slip the mind.

“However, its completion is statutory and the forms carry the warning that failure to return your annual inventory can increase your chances of being selected for a sheep and goat inspection and carries the risk of a cross compliance penalty.  

“We would urge all farmers to avoid that if possible and get these simple forms completed and sent back as promptly as they can.

“To help that process, we would remind producers that if you have not received your inventory request, or have misplaced your copy, contact your local RPID office to obtain another copy.”

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Contact Bob Carruth on 0131 472 4006