Farming

Over the next six weeks, a series of events will take place around Scotland aimed at combining the serious business of advice and support to help farmers prepare for the future, with a chance for a pre-lambing social over a bite to eat. 

Farmers and crofters will be able to continue to access payments to carry out soil analysis, carbon audits, and animal health and welfare interventions for an extra year, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon has confirmed.

So far, more than 8,500 claims have been received since 2022.

Orkney’s farmers, crofters and producers could benefit from a new local abattoir which will help them bring their produce to market, benefit the island’s economy and support high-welfare meat production.

First Minister John Swinney visited Orkney Auction Mart, which has received a £15,000 grant as a lead partner to help build the business case for a new, fit-for-purpose processing plant.

Farmers and crofters will benefit from £20 million additional capital support this year and £26 million next year, First Minister John Swinney has confirmed.

Speaking at the NFU Scotland annual conference he outlined how at least £14 million of the funding will deliver a Future Farming Investment Scheme, providing flexible capital grants.

Farmer-led groups are recommending the Whole Farm Plan to support farmers and crofters in taking a holistic view of their businesses.

By establishing their current performance and activities, farmers and crofters can identify opportunities for improvement and work towards greater productivity and profitability, positioning their business to contribute to meeting Scotland’s climate and nature targets.

Scottish agricultural charity RSABI has announced the appointment of Jane Mitchell and Stephen Young as its new Chair and Vice-Chair.

Ms Mitchell takes over the reins as chair from Jimmy McLean who has completed his two-year term at the helm and remains a trustee for a further year.