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Have your say on the future of agriculture
Thursday 16 July 2015 - 17:04
The Future of Scottish Agriculture discussion document was launched by Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead at the Royal Highland Show recently.
To compliment the document, Scottish Government's Rural Payments and Inspections Division have produced five short films, featuring interviews with some of the people who are taking Scotland towards an innovative and prosperous future.
The Rural Affairs Secretary said, "Scottish agriculture underpins our booming food and drink industry and is the essential glue that holds together our rural communities. Our farmers and crofters are also the custodians of Scotland’s magnificent natural environment.
"We are now at an advanced stage of implementing these latest Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms. This makes it the ideal time to take stock and consider what we want the future of Scottish farming to look like and how our hardworking farmers and crofters can best use our land to produce more food for the nation, both now and in the future.
"This document details my vision for a more productive, prosperous and profitable Scottish agriculture – a future where producers are able to respond swiftly to market opportunities and challenges to reap the benefits of the global demand for Scotland’s premium and greener produce, and where their contribution to Scottish society is valued by all.
"The purpose of this document is begin a conversation on these issues – not just at industry meetings and the like, but around kitchen tables and over the farm gate – and I look forward to hearing what people have to say over the coming weeks and months."
If you would like to register an interest in the discussion or to submit your views email: agriculturevision@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
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What is farming for? And where should farming be going?
Time: The event will run from 11.00am to 13.30 and will be followed by a light lunch
Join Nourish Scotland to reflect on, discuss and influence the future of farming in Scotland. This summer the Scottish Government produced a discussion document setting out their vision for the future of farming in Scotland.
This event is a chance for you to add your ideas and share your perspectives on the direction agriculture should be going. Everyone who eats food is invited to participate – whether or not you are involved in farming.
This partnership event is one of a series throughout Scotland. Booking is essential.
What is farming for? And where should farming be going? To feed us well? To sustain rural communities and livelihoods? To generate profits and boost our exports? To look after our land and to protect and enhance our environment?
We can’t envision the future of farming in Scotland without reflecting on what farming is for in the first place. And it’s important to ask this question now.
Our farmers are facing tough times economically. At the same time we are also facing environmental challenges. Meeting these challenges may mean changes to how we farm today – and will influence what will be on our plates tomorrow. Time to take a step back, and to consider the relationship between farmers, society and the land.
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Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead kicked off a national discussion on the future of farming at the Turriff Show.
