Producers are closely watching stocking levels
There was increasing pressure on factories over the past ten days to accept cattle from producers who are operating close to the line on the higher limits of stocking, with speculation that the second census date is imminent or may indeed have just been passed last weekend.
The first census date for 2003 took livestock farmers by surprise when it was announced for Sunday January 19, compared to the second week in March for each of the past two years. In 2001 and 2002 the second census date was May 13 and May 19 respectively, but the first being much earlier than previously the odds are more on April for the second in 2003.
The date is usually announced retrospectively by about two weeks. This year there has been no necessity for farmers to choose between the census or the simplified systems - with the Department to determine which is the most favourable to each producer. Neither is it necessary to make returns for each of the census dates. The information in respect of each applicant farmer will be read off the CMMS and a statement of the CMMS data issued to each farmer is to be reconciled with the Herd Register.
The use of the CMMS will reduce form filling, but producers are reminded that it does not in any way change the necessity for each livestock farmer to keep the Herd Register up to date. Indeed failure to do so remains a serious offence rendering the farmer liable for a substantial penalty on premia payments.
There is also to be an increase in the level of inspections at marts which will have implications for both marts and farmers selling livestock to ensure that compliance in all respects is up to date at all times.
