The first Crofting Census has been launched to gather detailed information on what is happening on Scotland's crofts and common grazings.
Most agree it is long overdue because of the hitherto chronic dearth of accurate data.
The Crofting Commission, with its majority of elected crofters, emphasises that the census will aid crofters who find it difficult to honour their duty to live on or near their crofts, and not to neglect them.
The unique system of land tenure was created in the late 19th century, to help people who had suffered in the age of the Highland Clearances. It provided the security against eviction that allowed them to continue to live on the land.
It did its job. That there are still lights in many glens early in the 21st century and that people still live and work in the peerless landscapes of the Highlands and Islands is crofting's achievement.
Now the census, with its direct involvement of individual crofters, can only help ensure that its contribution remains of value to Scotland in the future.
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