The National Land Service is calling on farmers to report any inappropriate use of state-owned land
The National Land Service (NŽT) is calling on farmers and rural communities to play a more active role in ensuring the transparent use of state-owned land. The Service urges people to report any suspected cases of improper use of leased state-owned land so that it can respond promptly to violations and ensure that state-owned land is used for its intended purpose.
State-owned land designated for agricultural use is leased for the purpose of carrying out agricultural activities. This procedure aims to create fair conditions for farmers who work the land, invest in their farms and create value in their regions. However, in practice, there are cases where leased state-owned plots of land are not used for the purpose specified in the contract or are not used at all.
The state land lease system is based on the responsibility of the tenants. Tenants undertake to preserve soil quality, maintain the land properly, comply with the terms set out in the contract and use the plot for its intended purpose. If these obligations are not met, the National Land Service (NŽT) has the right to initiate the termination of the lease agreement.
“Farmers and local communities are best placed to see how land is being used in their area, so the information they provide is very important. We invite you to report any instances where leased state-owned land may be used in a manner inconsistent with the terms set out in the lease agreement. This helps the National Land Service to respond promptly to potential breaches and ensure that state-owned land is used in accordance with the commitments made“,” – says Gabrielė Valentaitė, Head of the Land Management and Administration Coordination Division at the NŽT.
The Agency asks that particular attention be paid to cases where state-owned land is not being cultivated, or where other activities are being carried out on plots designated for agricultural use, such as storage or commercial activities, where structures or facilities are erected without authorisation, the soil is degraded, the environment is polluted, mineral resources are extracted, or the condition of the land is otherwise impaired. Special conditions for land use, easements or other contractual obligations are also being breached.
Upon receiving information, the National Land Service assesses each case individually. Where there is substantiated evidence, an inspection is initiated. If it transpires that state-owned land is being used improperly or not in accordance with the terms of the contract, proceedings to terminate the land lease agreement may be initiated.
Residents and farmers are encouraged to report any suspected cases of unlawful use of leased state-owned land via the email address set up specifically for this purpose: informuok@nzt.lt.
