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New Initiative to Strengthen Farmer Knowledge-Sharing Networks Across Scotland
A national programme to grow Scotland’s crofter and farmer-led learning networks opens to new members.
A new national programme is helping connect farmers and crofters across Scotland through a coordinated network of local learning groups focused on sustainable and regenerative agriculture. Farmer Cluster Connections will bring together eight regional hubs, creating opportunities for crofters and farmers to share knowledge, skills and innovative approaches to food production.
Developed by Propagate’s Regenerative Farming Network and supported through the Knowledge Transfer Innovation Fund, the programme aims to strengthen existing farmer groups through skilled facilitation and farmer-led learning tailored to local needs. It will also support greater collaboration between facilitators, helping to spread good practice and avoid duplication across the sector.
The initiative will make it easier for crofters and farmers to learn from one another through farm visits, events, webinars, podcasts and the sharing of real-life experiences from farming and crofting communities across the country. A key objective is to build long-term capacity by working with trusted local organisations already embedded in rural and island communities.
Regional clusters will be coordinated by local partners including Southern Uplands Partnership, Carse of Stirling Partnership, East Lothian Climate Hub, Highland Good Food Partnership and Propagate. The network includes groups covering areas such as the Highlands, East Lothian, the Borders, Clydesdale, Cowal, Mull and the Upper Forth.
All clusters are currently open to new members, offering farmers and crofters the opportunity to connect with others in their area through farm walks, meetings and online discussions. Participation is free.
Find out more about Farmer Cluster Connections and how to get involved.
Main image: Farmer Debbie McGowan of Incheoch Farm on a quad bike. Copyright Scottish Government.
