Crofting

Are you a farmer who directly employs seasonal workers? Or a labour provider supplying labour to the agricultural sector in Scotland?

Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) has been commissioned by the Scottish Government to undertake research to improve understanding of the labour market in Scottish agriculture in the summer of 2017.

The British Farming Awards are open for nominations in 14 categories. The deadline for entering and making nominations has been extended until 21 July 2017.

These annual awards celebrate the creative thinking, innovation and dedication of Britain's farmers. The awards aim to showcase innovation and adaptability - no matter the size and scale of the business.

So if you know an outstanding Scottish farm, farmer or agricultural student why not nominate them for an award?

A summary report from the recent 'Digital Innovation Hubs: mainstreaming digital agriculture' seminar is now available.

The EIP-AGRI event took place in Kilkenny Ireland on 1-2 June 2017. Around 150 people from 25 countries across Europe got together to share experiences, discuss needs and identify priority actions for developing Digital Innovation Hubs for agriculture.

Inspired by the Scottish Crofting Federation, a group of Scottish smallholders has set up a new organisation to represent and support their community.

Scottish Smallholder Festival

The Scottish Smallholder Festival is Scotland’s largest smallholder event, celebrating the best of Scottish smallholding, growing and craft.

Organised by smallholders and growers, it is aimed at all those with an interest in the productive use of small land holdings. The next Festival will be held on Saturday 23rd September 2017 at Lanark Agricultural Centre.

Outer Hebrides LEADER are seeking applications for their October 2017 deadline.

The Outer Hebrides LEADER 2014-2020 Programme has supported a number of projects and the Local Action Group, who manage the funds, are seeking applications from businesses and community groups who would like to introduce and develop new and innovative ideas focussing around young people, crofting diversification, renewables and new activities for visitors and locals to enjoy and experience.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has announced a new group to ensure women are better represented in farming.

The Women in Agriculture taskforce will look at issues including better access to training and progression within the agricultural industry and better succession planning. The group will be co-chaired by Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Connectivity Fergus Ewing and Joyce Campbell, a farmer and entrepreneur based in North Sutherland.

A new funding round for the Agri-Environmental Climate Scheme (AECS) has been announced by Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham at the Royal Highland Show.

Agri-Environment, Diffuse Pollution and Organic schemes will open in January 2018, with a round for Improving Public Access expected to open in March.

The National Council of Rural Advisers has been annnounced by Rural Secretary Fergus Ewing.

The new Council will cover all aspects of future rural development, including appropriate financial support beyond 2022.

It will provide advice on the potential implications of Scotland leaving the European Union as part of the UK, and make recommendations on future policy and support, with the aim of ensuring a vibrant, sustainable and productive rural economy.

Announcing the new group ahead of the Royal Highland Show, Mr Ewing said:

LEADER information session at Royal Highland Show

Members from across the LEADER community are holding an information session during the Royal Highland Show.

Representation from across the 21 Local Action Groups as well as previous beneficiaries will be on hand to discuss how to access the substantial funding pot for rural Scotland. LEADER provides funding opportunities for farmers and a wide range of rural businesses.

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