Scottish Farming Leader - June 2024

LEADER

Celebrating 10 years of the

Do you have land you would like to diversify or are you interested to hear about how renewable energy could work for you?

EDF Renewables UK is one of the country’s leading renewable energy developers in Scotland and we work hard to build lasting relationships with our trusted partners Our aim as a business is to accelerate to a net zero future where clean energy powers our lives.

Here are some of the benefits of working with EDF Renewables UK:

• By leasing land as part of an agreement, you are reaffirming your commitment to helping the country to meet net zero and playing your part in that.

• Through a partnership a long term lease can bring a stable income for over 30 years.

• We work closely with our partners and the communities around our sites; with dedicated project managers, our goal is to enable local communities to reap the benefits of renewable energy developments.

• Community benefits – our wind farms in Scotland currently plough millions into local projects and initiatives throughout the year – from education and skills; investment in local communities and to environmental projects as well as initiatives for the elderly.

Our team will be attending the Royal Highland Show on Friday 21 June at Ingliston as well as the Border Union Show on 26 and 27 July Please do reach out if you would like to discuss opportunities you may have with the project team or find out more information about working with us.

Contact Sarah Dooley, Principal Development Manager, EDF Renewables UK directly via: Sarah.dooley@edf-re.uk www.edf-re.uk

NFU Scotland, Rural Centre, West Mains

SCOTTISH FARMING

From the Editor Diana McGowan

From the Editor Diana McGowan

LEADER

Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8LT

NFU Scotland, Rural Centre, West Mains Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8LT

NFU Scotland, Rural Centre, West Mains

Ingliston, Edinburgh

Tel: 0131 472 4000

EH28 8LT

www.nfus.org.uk nfuscotland @NFUStweets

0131 472 4000 www.nfus.org.uk nfuscotland @NFUStweets @nfuscotland

Editor Diana McGowan editor@nfus.org.uk

HTel: 0131 472 4000 www.nfus.org.uk nfuscotland @NFUStweets

OW often do you see or learn about something and think ‘I’m up for that’, but then never actually realise that positive thought/ silent commitment? Possibly too often or not at all.

Design & Production

Editor Diana McGowan editor@nfus.org.uk

Mark Shreeve mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Managing Editor

HOW often do you see or learn about something and think ‘I’m up for that’, but then never actually realise that positive thought/ silent commitment? Possibly too often or not at all.

From the EDITOR

Andrew Hirst andrew.hirst@micropress.co.uk

Craig Gibson

Advertising Sales

Design & Production

Editor Diana McGowan editor@nfus.org.uk

Ryan Swinney

Danny Lewis 01502 725862 danny.lewis@micropress.co.uk

In this month’s magazine, our two features cover inspiring stories and highlight just how rewarding delivering on such thoughts can be both for the individual involved and others who may benefit along the way.

AAdvertising Sales

Diana McGowan

Managing Editor

Craig Gibson

Mark Tait 01502 725803 mark.tait@micropress.co.uk

Clare Stebbing clare@connect communications.co.uk

In this month’s magazine, our two features cover inspiring stories and highlight just how rewarding delivering on such thoughts can be both for the individual involved and others who may benefit along the way.

Design & Production

Tel: 0131 561 0024

Ryan Swinney

Published on behalf of NFU Scotland by COUNTRYWIDE PUBLICATIONS

lot has happened in the last month as you will be reminded of as you work your way through this issue of Scottish Farming Leader, but you’ll discover there’s equally a lot to happen on the horizon as we race towards the Royal Highland Show and the longest day!

Bruce Mackie’s farm (see pages 26-28) and what Brooke, our Comms Assistant, learned while out on-farm in Stirlingshire.

Advertising Sales

Clare Stebbing

Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6SZ 01502 725800

Published on behalf of NFU Scotland by Connect Publications (Scotland) Ltd.

Printed by MICROPRESS PRINTERS LTD

clare@connect communications.co.uk

Studio 2001, Mile End, 12 Seedhill Road, Paisley PA1 1JS

Tel: 0131 561 0024

Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6SZ 01502 725800

Published on behalf of NFU Scotland by Connect Publications (Scotland) Ltd.

Studio 2001, Mile End, 12 Seedhill Road, Paisley PA1 1JS

We’re only a few weeks away from the Royal Highland Show. Over the course of four days, thousands will flock to the show to compete, judge, exhibit, organise, educate and socialise. We’ll see the best of the best and relish the atmosphere. Among the highlights and away from the main show ring, this year will see the welcome return of the Golden Shears Sheep Shearing and Woolhandling World Championships. Taking place at the MacRobert Theatre, the 2023 Worlds will see more than 30 countries compete for the prestigious title and it promises to be an action packed showcase of the art, skill and techniques required to be a world champion.

We’re only a few weeks away from the Royal Highland Show. Over the course of four days, thousands will flock to the show to compete, judge, exhibit, organise, educate and socialise. We’ll see the best of the best and relish the atmosphere. Among the highlights and away from the main show ring, this year will see the welcome return of the Golden Shears Sheep Shearing and Woolhandling World Championships. Taking place at the MacRobert Theatre, the 2023 Worlds will see more than 30 countries compete for the prestigious title and it promises to be an action packed showcase of the art, skill and techniques required to be a world champion.

After the successful launch of our General Election manifesto, I ventured to London along with the Presidential and Political Affairs team. We were there to highlight the key asks of our manifesto document to Lords and MPs directly. While, at the time of going to print, we still don’t know when the General Election will be, it is inevitable, and you could sense that from within the bowels of the Houses of Parliament. It was great to see so many turn out to meet with us, listen to us and hear their support for Scottish agriculture, especially when there was so much going on in the House that day. We will continue to push hard to ensure these manifesto asks are understood and delivered upon. See page 14 for more. Looking forward, June marks the 10th anniversary of the Scottish Dairy Hub. We therefore are taking a look at how the Hub has evolved during its formative first ten years (see pages 31-32) and keeping on a dairy theme, we hear how genomic testing is having a positive impact on

Do you really understand the term ‘regenerative farming’? With Scottish Ministers tasked to prepare and publish a document providing guidance on sustainable and regenerative agriculture, Jonnie Hall, Director of Policy, explains why it is important to understand the complexities of defining both ‘sustainable’ and ‘regenerative’ agriculture (pages 23-24).

Perhaps a less well known event taking place at this year’s Highland is the final qualifying round of the 2023 Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition. Taking part in this event for the first time is Kyla Graham from Kirkcudbrightshire. Kyla first spotted the event at the Show last year and while watching it thought ‘I’m up for that’. Kyla knew however she couldn’t just enter there and then. Like any competition, she understood you need to be ready for it and without knowing if she would even enjoy it, she set her mind to it to finding out if she would. Kyla shares her journey from that moment to the present and highlights how she’s benefited already in so many ways both mentally and physically, and explains about the positive impact her preparation has had on her working life.

I mentioned earlier that we are racing towards the Royal Highland Show. You can read about what to expect at this year’s Highland along with where to find us on pages 4448. Do pop by the stand for a catch up and cuppa.

Finally, with the longer daylight and promises of some warmer weather on the horizon, I hope you’re remembering to dress appropriately for the heat and are wearing protective sunscreen and a hat when you’re out and about. You care about your crops and livestock, so please don’t forget to invest in yourself too. I know we’ve not seen much of it for months, but Scottish sun, even on an overcast day, can prove harmful to skin exposed without protection. (If you can’t find a baseball cap, don’t forget you can buy an NFU Scotland one! Visit the Members’ Benefits section of our website and place an order.)

The other feature looks at how a casual conversation during a Christmas lunch turned into the most rewarding and humbling experience for Next Generation Chair, Matthew Steel, one of the many volunteers who have recently delivered much needed 4x4 vehicles to Ukraine to support the war effort. Matthew explains his contribution to the ‘Pickups for Peace’ campaign and reflects on how the unexpected reception received from the Ukrainians has impacted him and those who were involved.

Finally, as we head towards the longest day, with the hope of some warmer weather on the horizon, I hope you’re remembering to dress for the weather and wear protective sunscreen and hat when you’re out and about. The strength of the sun even on a dull day can prove harmful if exposed without protection. If you need a new baseball cap, visit the NFU Scotland website and purchase one from the branded merchandise in the Members’ Benefits section.

Perhaps a less well known event taking place at this year’s Highland is the final qualifying round of the 2023 Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition. Taking part in this event for the first time is Kyla Graham from Kirkcudbrightshire. Kyla first spotted the event at the Show last year and while watching it thought ‘I’m up for that’. Kyla knew however she couldn’t just enter there and then. Like any competition, she

The other feature looks at how a casual conversation during a Christmas lunch turned into the most rewarding and humbling experience for Next Generation Chair, Matthew Steel, one of the many volunteers who have recently delivered much needed 4x4 vehicles to Ukraine to support the war effort. Matthew explains his contribution to the ‘Pickups for Peace’ campaign and reflects on how the unexpected reception received from the Ukrainians has impacted him and those who were involved.

@NFUStweets

“We’ll see the best of the best and relish the atmosphere”

Finally, as we head towards the longest day, with the hope of some warmer weather on the horizon, I hope you’re remembering to dress for the weather and wear protective sunscreen and hat when you’re out and about. The strength of the sun

From the PRESIDENT Martin Kennedy

They say a week’s a long time in politics.

As I write this month’s article the week that has just passed has proven yet again that as an industry we have to deal with a changing of the guard on numerous occasions. Once again, we have a change of leadership and First Minister in Holyrood. Next Tuesday I’m heading down to No.10 to the Farm-to-Fork summit with the Prime Minister and we can only guess how many more visits to London we will have before there may be a signifi cant change there to.

Something I consistently raise at our political meetings is, regardless of any change to Government, and despite any decisions they have made before, they have left or been forced out, we are the only constant that has to pick up the pieces and live with the consequences of the decisions that have been made. I have to say that some of the decisions that the previous First Minister, Humza Yousaf, made before he departed were the right ones, especially when it came to his commitment to maintaining direct support for Scottish agriculture. And, without

question the last decision he made around the termination of the Bute House Agreement (BHA) can only be viewed as a positive step if we are serious about delivering on food, climate, biodiversity and people.

That said, although the BHA has now gone, there will still be a political drive from across

which in turn provides a six-fold return on that investment, helps create that profi table industry which is the only way we can deliver what is asked of us. If one of the new First Minister’s ambitions is creating economic growth, then the best place to start is to listen to those who can drive that growth not those who’s

...as an industry we have to deal with a changing of the guard on numerous occasions. Once again, we have a change of leadership and First Minister in Holyrood.

the chamber to deliver more for the environment. However, we shouldn’t be frightened of that and indeed we should be driving this agenda as we are the only ones who understand how future options will integrate with a profi table business.

From our perspective I sincerely hope that John Swinney and his cabinet, which I recognise and welcome the stability of maintaining Cabinet Secretary Mairi Gougeon in post at this critical time, maintains that commitment to rural Scotland. Continuing to invest in agriculture

ideological views not only tie our hands behind our backs but stifl e our ability to be part of the solution.

The Royal Highland Show is nearly upon us. It’s an ideal opportunity to showcase the importance of a profi table industry and the thousands of downstream jobs and businesses that depend on us. Without us they simply would not exist, neither would our economy.

I look forward to catching up with as many of you as possible over the four days at the Highland this year.

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VICE-PRESIDENTS’ updates

IAndrew Connon Vice-President

(overseeing Food & Farming Policy)

t’s been another busy few months for all at NFU Scotland with a lot of activity being covered. This year I am overseeing the Combinable Crops, Potatoes, Horticulture, Livestock, Milk, Pigs and Poultry which all sit under the remit of the ‘Food and Farming’ policy team.

I’ve been part of numerous committee meetings recently that have covered a range of topics including future agricultural policy, Beef Calf Support Scheme, Bovine EID, milk contracts, digital grain passports, imported grain, issues with Red Tractor, potato trade, proposals to ban Mancozeb, RSPCA Assured standards withing our poultry sector, welfare labeling and the ongoing lack of import border controls – to name only a few!

YPylons and cables are also causing consternation especially in the North East and, whilst I continue to look at opportunities

move. These have included attending the Tory Party Conference in Aberdeen at which I chaired a fringe event, a visit to SRUC Craibstone as Chair of the Northern Advisory Group and of course a very rewarding trip to Westminster where we presented our General Election

a very rewarding trip to Westminster where we presented our General Election Manifesto asks to a cross-party representation of Lords and MPs.

for on-farm hydrogen production and ultimately green ammonia which would give our industry an exciting carbon free fertilizer, getting support funding remains the issue. We won’t let up.

Attending various events has also been keeping me on the

Alasdair Macnab Vice-President

(overseeing Climate, Land & Business Policy)

ou may be aware an important part of the Vice-President’s role is to oversee and support the Union’s policy work and committees. This year I am covering Climate, Land and Business policy and oversee the work of the Legal & Technical, Environment & Land Use, Less Favoured Areas, Next Generation and Crofting Committees as well as work on Utilities. Whilst these Committees don’t always attract the most attention from members, they do address the impacts of Government and stakeholder decisions and actions, and impact of those on our industry and communities.

Coming down the road over the next year are big-ticket items such as the Ag Bill, Land

Reform Bill, Natural Environment Bill, implementing a Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and a Scottish National Adaptation Plan. As the Cabinet Secretary,

Manifesto asks to a cross-party representation of Lords and MPs. Frustrations exist for myself and others with the talk down approach taken by some organisations and I am determined that such tactics are eliminated from our industry.

Outside of these issues we are also pressing for action on managing introduced species like white-tailed eagles and beavers, invasive non-native plants and a review of the Controlled Activity Regulations to allow more proactive management of waterways to reduce fl ood risk and damage.

As I write our opposition to any new National Parks in

Outside of these issues we are also pressing for action on managing introduced species like white-tailed eagles and beavers

Mairi Gougeon, noted at our AGM, there can be areas of overlap between Government policies. NFU Scotland is focused on identifying potential consequences and lobbying to mitigate them.

Scotland is high on my agenda alongside the Land Reform Bill and reviewing the proposed Biodiversity Strategy which runs to 147 proposed actions. Getting a semblance of sensibility into all this is the challenge.

News FROM THE UNION

Union writes to new First Minister

On the day John Swinney was appointed the newest First Minister for Scotland, NFU Scotland wrote to him to congratulate him on his appointment. In the letter we also took the opportunity to outline the key priorities for farmers and crofters and what is needed if we are to have a profitable and sustainable agricultural sector that underpins the future prosperity of Scotland. The Union also requested a meeting.

In our letter, we raised issues related to:

• Economic growth and the shared ambition to avoid a cliff edge for the sector.

• The Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill.

• Future multiannual funding and funding allocations.

• The agricultural budget and return of funds.

• Active farming and crofting and their role in delivering on biodiversity and climate change needs.

• Future flood risk management.

• National Park proposals.

President Martin Kennedy said: “I congratulate John Swinney MSP on his appointment. He is a politician that NFU Scotland has worked well with both nationally and locally over many years.

“The First Minister, coming from a rural constituency, is well aware that agriculture underpins rural communities across Scotland and is at the heart of flourishing environments. High-quality agricultural production is vital to the wider food and drink industry – a sector that is worth more than £16 billion to the Scottish economy, employs over 130,000 people, and supports Scotland’s national reputation on the world stage.” You can read more in the news section of our website.

Arable Scotland 2024

‘A

rable farming in a new era’ is the theme of this year’s Arable Scotland.

Now entering its sixth year, Arable Scotland is Scotland’s leading field event for knowledge exchange in arable farming. Taking place at Balruddery Farm, near Dundee on Tuesday 2 July, the event will bring together key players in the arable sector, from farmers to distillers and exporters.

The agenda as always is jam packed with seminars, workshops and interactive demonstrations. Of particular interest to our members will be the workshop on maximising the benefits of integrated management practices, which will be run in collaboration with SRUC and the Voluntary Initiative. There’s also a talk on how to can make soils resilient to extreme weather, which will is sure to draw the crowds, especially after the dry summers many have experienced over the past two years, and the floods of last Autumn.

There’ll also be a wide array of exhibitors and machinery demonstrations, as well as the chance to network with colleagues and make new connections. The event will also see the latest research and development relevant to the sector being shared and discussed. Arable Scotland is delivered in partnership between the James Hutton Institute and AHDB. It is completely free to attend and all you need to do is sign-up in advance via Eventbrite. Visit www.arablescotland.org.uk to register and find out more. We would encourage as many of our arable members as possible to attend this interesting and innovative event.

If anyone has any questions about the event, please do not hesitate to get in touch with events@hutton.ac.uk.

SLMS Facebook page

The Scottish Land Matching Service has launched its new Facebook page. SLMS is in its fi fth year of providing a link between new entrants and established farmers, and the service now extends to the crofting community too. Give them a follow for updates on SLMS news and events, as well as regular links to adverts posted on their website by both seekers and providers of land-based opportunities.

New

faces at

the top of SAYFC

Congratulations to Alistair (Ally) Brunton who has been elected as the latest Chair of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC). Ally (27years) from East Fife JAC was officially appointed at the Association’s recent AGM, stepping up from his position as National Vice. Ally inherits the position from Jane Strawhorn of Crossroads YFC. The newly appointed National Vice-Chair is Jillian Kennedy of Aberfeldy & District JAC. Jillian (28 years) has spent the last year guiding SAYFC’s work in the East Region.

Big Beef Roadshow 2024

SRUC’s Big Beef Roadshow 2024 is drawing to a close. Events taking place across the country in May and June are focussing on supporting beef farmers to improve practices and drive beef systems forward. Sessions on nutrition, feed effi ciency, some of the most important veterinary matters including bull fertility, current markets, and an update on cattle EID are also part of the roadshow. The last event will be at Knockenjig Farm, Sanquhar, DG4 6JX, Tuesday 11 June from 10.15am to 3:30pm and is free to attend. Lunch will be provided. To sign up visit https://shorturl.at/ceqPW or scan the QR code.

Farmers’ Choir ‘Stand by Me’ message

Scottish farming charity RSABI recently released a newly recorded song with the Farmers’ Choir to raise the community’s spirits. The song, a cover of “Stand by Me”, was recorded with around 100 members of the Farmers’ Choir.

The emotive lyrics sung beautifully by the choir is intended to remind farmers about all the people who are there to stand by them, with the video accompanying the music featuring some of the vast

number of people standing behind our farming industry.

Those featured in the music video range from farm supplies retail assistants to vets, auctioneers, consultants and milk tanker drivers as well as farmers from diff erent parts of the country, including Aberdeenshire, Lanarkshire and Perthshire. Visit rsabi.org.uk to watch and listen to the recording as well as fi nd out more about the charity and how you can support or be supported.

News FROM THE UNION

rural wellbeing Tuning in to

Favourite television presenter, Sarah Stephen, is host of the exciting, new Farmstrong Scotland podcast series called ‘Blether Together’.

Most people know Sarah from her work as a television presenter. Apart from the odd insight while working on the BBC’s rural affairs programme Landward, not everyone will be aware that Sarah - who many still refer to by her maiden name Sarah Mack - is married to a farmer.

“Although I’m not born and bred into farming - and if you ask me technicalities of cattle and sheep, I might look a wee bit perplexed - I am pleased to be actively involved in my husband David’s hill farm and am delighted to be able to support Farmstrong Scotland with this new venture,” said Sarah.

Podcasting continues to skyrocket in popularity, with people liking the flexibility of listening to the recordings at a time to suit themselves rather than being tied to catching a radio broadcast. ‘Blether Together’ is being backed by the NFU Mutual Charitable Trust, along with continued support from Farmstrong Scotland’s founding funders Movember and the Royal Highland Agricultural Society of Scotland. NFU Scotland are also supporting the 2024 series as media partners.

“For ‘Blether Together’ I will be travelling across Scotland to chat to farmers and crofters to learn more about them, their businesses, challenges and the positive steps they take to manage their wellbeing,” explains Sarah.

Podcasts will be released monthly, with each one lasting no longer than 30 minutes. They are available on all the usual channels, and can also be downloaded by visiting the Farmstrong Scotland website at www.farmstrongscotland.org.uk

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News FROM THE UNION

still time to apply Scottish Agricultural Awards 2024

The Scottish Farmer, AgriScot and the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) are looking for entries for this year’s Scottish Agriculture Awards.

Back after a successful inaugural year in 2023, this year the Scottish Agricultural Awards are set to be an even bigger celebration of the best in Scottish agriculture, recognising excellence and innovation across a range of categories. The awards aim to showcase the

outstanding work of farmers, agricultural individuals, and businesses who are driving the industry forward and ensuring the sustainability and success of Scottish agriculture. Nominations close on Thursday 11 July.

New for 2024, will be an award to recognise a mixed farm which combines crops and livestock production. Judges will be looking for farms where complementary strategies are deployed to deliver an overall success for the farming enterprise

while balancing productivity with environmental stewardship, contributing to the resilience and prosperity of the operation. Other categories include: Adviser of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Farming’s Future Award (Sponsored by NFU Scotland), Arable Farm of the Year, ScotchBeef Farm of the Year, Dairy Farm of the Year, Sheep Farm of the Year and Diversified Farm of the Year, plus many more. You can find out more info by visiting https://newsquestscotlandevents. com/events/agriawards/

NFU Scotland’s Business Strategy

We have recently published our new Business Strategy document which is available to read on our website nfus.org.uk. Speaking about the document, John Davidson, the Union’s CEO, said;

“I was pleased to recently publish our new Business Strategy which will guide our organisation through the next three years. This is the first time the organisation has ever produced an overarching Business Strategy and it will be hugely beneficial to help us continue to provide outstanding industry leadership and support for all our members.

“Our Strategy is focused on six strategic objectives and each one is critically important to our effectiveness. At its heart are our members – our members continue to be heartbeat of our organisation. Everything we do will have our primary mission in mind – a sustainable and profi table future for our members.

“We will continue to do what we do best to influence and shape public policy but we will also have an increasing focus on the market and improving returns through more equitable supply chains.

“In order for us to do all this work, we need to focus more on our financial strength and the opportunities to raise more commercial revenue and also on our people, to ensure we recruit, nurture

and retain the best talent both within the organisation and across our member networks. Doing all this means we need to function as a highly professional and effective organisation, so we will ensure our governance processes are modern, robust and professional.

“With our Business Strategy providing a roadmap over the next three years we equally need to focus on the short-term and the priorities that we will pursue over the next 12 months to deliver against our objectives. As such, our new Operating Plan 2024 lays out the strategies and actions we will take forward this year. Our Plan will help us focus on the things that are most important to members and which will have the biggest positive impact for the industry. Clearly we will need a degree of flexibility as we navigate a very volatile political and economic environment but we are in good shape to do so and ensure that our members’ interests continue to be heard loudly across the political divide and wider society. “I look forward to getting out and about over the summer and discussing our new strategy in more detail with members.”

ROUND UP

Political WESTMINSTER EVENT

In April, NFU Scotland held a successful event at the House of Commons which was sponsored by Alistair Carmichael MSP for Orkney and Shetland. The Presidential team met with MPs, Lords and parliamentary researchers to highlight the key asks from our manifesto for the next UK Government which are:

• Deliver increased, ring-fenced and multi-annual funding.

• Improve producer margins to increase food security.

• Better access to skilled workers.

• Protect domestic food production in future trade deals.

• Increase fiscal incentives.

We also underlined the importance of Scottish agriculture to food production, helping to tackle climate change and enhance biodiversity and discussed supply chain spend. We provided an overview of just 12 farms from across Scotland that collectively spend £12.6million annually between 722 supply chain companies. As we continue to call for a multi-annual ring-fenced budget, we are also calling for at least an additional £1 billion.

Beatrice Morrice Political A airs Manager

Al Walker Political A airs Assistant

NEW FIRST MINISTER

Following the appointment of John Swinney MSP as the new SNP leader and First Minister, NFU Scotland wrote to him to underline our key issues including the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill and the return of the reallocated funds from 2022/23. The new First Minister represents Perthshire North and has a good understanding of the farming and crofting sector. NFU Scotland engaged with him often during his time as Deputy Fist Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Finance.

Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill

The Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill is still working its way through the Scottish Parliament.

During Stage 2, we engaged with many MSPs regarding proposed amendments to the legislation and we continue to work to ensure that the Bill will deliver for farmers and crofters. Examples of changes that we supported included:

• A multiannual funding commitment to provide certainty to the sector and enable farmers and crofters to invest, plan better and deliver on the required outcomes as set out within the Scottish Government’s Vision for Agriculture.

• Increased scrutiny of future regulations in certain parts of the Bill.

• ‘Relevant skills and experience’, rather than just ‘qualifications’, to be applicable for those providing continuing professional development (CPD) activities. This ensures that knowledge exchange and peer-to-peer learning will be relevant to any future CPD scheme should it be introduced in the future.

Pictured here is John Swinney MSP, now First Minister, looking at flood damage in October last year.

Policy & PRACTICE

Rhianna Montgomery Policy Advisor

Working with SSEN

There are many large-scale infrastructure projects happening across the country at the moment. One company planning signifi cant works is Scottish Southern Energy Networks(SSEN). We are working hard, in collaboration with SSEN, to ensure our members are as prepared as possible for the upcoming works.

Lisa Hislop Policy Advisor

SSEN are currently at alignment consultation stage, meaning members still have time to have their say. Pop along to your local consultation event to understand more about how the works will aff ect you, these are listed on the SSEN website. Utility companies work under the grantors charter, which gives guidance on the rights and

Methane Inhibitors

Amidst the new climate change policy package announced by Scottish Government in April there was a specific reference to introducing a pilot of methane inhibitors on-farm in Scotland. While we wait to see what this will entail, we are clear that methane suppressing feed products should not be viewed as a silver bullet to reduce emissions from livestock farming. We have underlined members’ concerns related to these products and included the need for ongoing research and trials to ensure there is no adverse impact on animal health and welfare as well as performance. However, it must also be noted that at time of writing

responsibilities of the company and the landowner/manager. We have also produced guidance to help support members during the process which covers the importance of professional advice, biosecurity and health and safety. You can fi nd these on the Legal and Technical section of the website.

We will continue to engage with SSEN throughout this process and help to ensure our members are well equipped and prepared for the works.

there is only one methane suppressing feed product authorised for use in reproductive cattle. There must be consideration given to the availability of product and supply chain infrastructure to meet any potential demand as well as a continued robust authorisation process by Food Standards Scotland as the body responsible. Furthermore, it is essential there is recognition for the marginal gains from on-farm improvements which will benefit the business itself as well as reducing the emissions intensity. We have underlined that any available support must prioritise and reward the on-farm management measures taken over subsidizing methane inhibitors.

Penny Middleton Policy Manager

In November 2023 RSPCA Assured (RSPCAA) launched new welfare standards for laying hens. The new standards introduced changes requiring sizable investments for scheme members, such as a requirement for windows in sheds and verandahs on sheds. The standards also outlined their direction of travel for future standards, such as stocking densities and beak trimming. These new standards were set to be in place by May 2024.

Producers were angered by the standards and the lack of communication from RSPCAA in developing these standards. We’ve

RSPCA ASSURED

been in communication with RSPCAA to convey the feelings of industry and the need to consult on standards development. Following initial discussions with ourselves RSPCAA have placed a hold on their new standards until 1 February 2025 to allow them to consult with industry.

In May RSPCAA attended our Poultry Working Group (PWG) to listen to members and discuss how they might work with industry to understand the impacts of their standards and how they can communicate better with industry. The PWG were clear that a pause until 1 February for introduction of new standards was insuffi cient time

and did not send the message that they are genuinely consulting on the new standards with an acceptance that they may need to make changes.

RSPCAA heard the message about the pause and will see if that could be reviewed. They agreed that our PWG was a good sounding board to discuss standards and future changes, either as a Scottish working group or through designated individuals on a wider forum. In the past we have criticised RSPCAA for not consulting with Scottish producers and this is a positive step forward in developing processes that will keep Scottish Producers in the heart of discussions.

GENETICS

Genomics are well used and deliver huge benefi ts to the dairy industry (read the feature on pages 26-30), and there is a lot that the suckler herd can learn.

The two tracks for genomic development, either via the maternal traits or terminal traits. While the former could focus on improving fertility or calving ease which could reap significant benefi t. On the other hand the terminal traits offer the opportunity to focus on growth rates or age at slaughter. On paper these are solid KPI’s, the possibly gains hinge though on the information being passed back throughout the various players in the supply chain. The industry needs a streamlined way of passing back data in order to optimise the system as a whole and ensuring genetic information is available to everyone. In addition, ensuring there are the tools in place to make the most from the data.

& PRACTICE Policy

ASarah Cowie Policy Manager

t the end of April, the Scottish Government’s consultation on the draft national adaptation plan closed. In our response, we called on the Government to take steps to support food production, as well as the environment, in the face of a changing climate. Farmers are currently dealing with periods of water scarcity and flooding, and as our climate changes, this will only intensify and get worse.

We need to see more investment in water storage and increase our ability to store water when it is in plentiful supply. We welcomed the most recent round of AECS, which had for the fi rst time a standalone option for irrigation

SECURING RESILIENCE

lagoons. We would like to see funds like this increase and widen in future years as there is clearly a demand. This would build resilience among the agricultural community as well as help Scotland, as a whole, adapt to climate change.

As well as this, farmers and land managers must have the fl exibility to manage their land in the way that works for them and their business. This is relevant to the periods of more intense rainfall we are seeing across Scotland, which is causing increased fl ooding.

Crops and Potatoes

The weather has improved greatly allowing much needed fi eld work to proceed. Ground conditions were pretty horrendous this Spring but things seem have been improving with a considerable amount of Spring Barley sown around the country in late April/ early May and some potato drills have also starting to appear in fi elds. There is however still a great sympathy for those in areas where ground is still not for going on and for those who have had to take out areas of Autumn-

sown cereals. Grain prices have risen recently which has been much needed boost - the Nov Wheat Futures were up £14/tonne between 2 April and 2 May .

In other news we have fi lled the position of Senior Crops Policy Manager and they will start in the early part of June. They will be participating in the summer meeting of the Combinable Crops meeting which will cover topics such as market prices, imported grain, digital grain passports, and glyphosate.

A Potato Working Group Meeting,

By reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape, farmers can contribute to adapting to climate change. That is why we have publicly called for an urgent review of the existing Water Environment (Controlled Activities) (Scotland) Regulations 2011.

Even though the consultation has closed, we will continue to engage with Scottish Government, NatureScot and other stakeholders on the development of the fi nal plan and keep members updated as this progresses.

chaired by Aberdeenshire grower, Graham Twatt, was held in March. The meeting’s discussions focused on potato promotion initiatives at overseas trade events, NI trade resumption, seed export trade opportunities and the possibility of a resumption of EU trade, AHDB levy repatriation, water abstraction licenses and storage and the need for capital grants, market updates, virus and the potential impacts of a ban on Mancozeb. The next Potato Working Group Meeting is being planned for early June.

In recent months, the Union’s has participated in regular DEFRA meetings regarding seed potato trade to NI, fortnightly meetings of the UK Potato Stakeholder Group and in an industry meeting aimed at retaining Mancozeb.

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PRACTICE

TAKE PART IN A DIVERSITY DISCUSSION

Lucy McGillivray Policy Assistant

We’re embarking on research to explore how a wider cross-section of people from across Scotland can get involved with the Union and its work.

The NFU Scotland Board has made diversity and inclusion a key priority for 2024. Caroline Millar, who has just completed three years on the Board, is leading a research project to review this subject area and will present her recommendations in the Autumn.

I’ll be working alongside Caroline and support the work being undertaken.

Caroline Millar said “It would be great to listen to the views about diversity from as many people as possible over the coming months. The views of NFU Scotland members will be a core element, but this project reaches wider than this. We are keen to speak to people who are not NFU Scotland members and people in the wider rural economy about this important topic.”

The “Diversity Discussion” will include all types of diversity and will include;

• Interviews with other agricultural and non-agricultural organisations about their representation on Boards and Committees and their progress in making their organisation inclusive.

• Analysing existing engagement opportunities across NFU Scotland and levels of diversity.

• A survey aiming to gain the views of both farmers and non-farmers, members and non-members.

• A ‘Diversity Discussion’ roadshow across Scotland taking place from 8 July for a week, when anyone within an interest in this can come along in-person and take part in conversations and provide their ideas and feedback.

• Online meetings to gain views for anyone not able to meet in-person.

How do you get involved?

• Take part in the online survey by scanning to below QR code

or go to: www.surveymonkey.com/ r/2MRFXRV

• Sign up to one of the ten in-person meetings taking place across Scotland or one of the two online meetings. The links for each meeting can be found on the ‘Diversity Discussion’ page of our website.

Open to all - Regional meetings

Monday 8 July 10am-11.30am East Central Green Hotel (2 The Muirs, Kinross, Perth And Kinross, KY13 8AS)

Monday 8 July 2pm-4pm Forth & Clyde

United Auctions (Stirling Agricultural Centre, Stirling, FK9 4RN)

Monday 8 July 7.15pm-8.45pm Lothian & Borders Carfraemill (Carfraemill, Berwickshire, TD2 6RA)

Tuesday 9 July 10am-11.30am

Dumfries & Galloway

Tuesday 9 July 3.15pm-4.45pm Ayrshire

Wednesday 10 July 10am-11.30am

Holiday Inn Dumfries (The Crichton, Bankend Road, Dumfries & Galloway, Dumfries, Scotland, DG1 4UQ)

The Park Hotel (Rugby Park, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 1UR)

Argyll & the Islands Bridge Cafe (3 Soroba Lane Town Centre, Oban, Scotland, PA34 4HX)

Wednesday 10 July 7.15pm-8.45pm Highlands

Thursday 11 July 10am-11.30am North East

Thursday 11 July 7.15pm-8.45pm Shetland

Friday 12 July 3.15pm-4.45pm Orkney

Open to all - Regional meetings

For anyone that can’t manage along in person, please join one of the following online meetings.

For more information email diversity@nfuscotland.org.uk

Dingwall Mart (Humberston Bailechaul Road, Dingwall, Scotland, IV15 9TP)

Kinellar Community Hall (Fintray Road, Blackburn, Cairnpark, Aberdeenshire, AB21 0JQ)

The Lerwick Hotel (15 South Road Lerwick, Shetland, Shetland Islands, ZE1 0RB)

The Pickaquoy Centre (Muddisdale Road, Kirkwall, Orkney, KW15 1LR)

Monday 1 July 1pm-2.30pm Zoom

Wednesday 24 July 7pm-8.30pm Zoom

& PRACTICE

Jonnie Hall Director of Policy

TUnderstanding the complexities is crucial

he Scottish Government’s Vision for Agriculture, published in March 2022, states “We will transform how we support farming and food production in Scotland to become a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture.”

agriculture, no defi nitions are contained in the Bill.

So what?

When it comes to agriculture, the words ‘sustainable’ and ‘regenerative’ are often used interchangeably. Sustainable practices and regenerative systems do have signifi cant overlaps, but they are not the same.

transitioning to a ‘sustainable and regenerative agriculture’ in Scotland will require significant investment and support.

The Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill then details that Scottish Ministers must prepare and publish a document providing guidance on sustainable and regenerative agriculture. This is to be called the ‘Code of Practice on Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture’.

The intention is that the Code will help ensure a balance between producing food and doing so in a sustainable way. A fi rst draft of the Code is being developed by the Scottish Government ahead of a public consultation exercise later this summer. As the Code is to set out what the Scottish Ministers consider to be sustainable and regenerative

Sustainable agricultural practices aim to sustain the economic, environmental and social dimensions (the ‘three-legged stool’) of farming with the goal of making agricultural activity and production future-proofed and resilient in the (very) long-term. Sustainable practices seek to maintain farming systems without degrading them.

Regenerative agriculture does not have one single defi nition, which means that perceptions of what regenerative agriculture is often diff er.

Signifi cantly, the Explanatory Notes accompanying the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill simply state that “regenerative farming is broadly

any form of farming activity which both generates production and improves the environment.”

For many advocates, regenerative practices recognise how natural systems are currently impacted by agricultural practices and apply techniques to restore systems to improve productivity and contribute to climate and biodiversity goals.

Regenerative and sustainable actions overlap and essentially incorporate many of the same practices.

For some, regenerative agriculture is often associated with principles around soil health, such as maintaining soil cover and minimising soil disturbance. But these principles are primarily relevant to arable enterprises. Grassland systems already have continual year-round cover and livestock are an integral part, while soils remain largely undisturbedparticularly in upland grazing systems. Consequently, taking a narrow view would reduce relevance to many of Scotland’s farming systems - i.e. 80 percent of Scottish agricultural land is grassland and more than 85 percent of the land used to claim BPS is either permanent grass or rough grazing.

There is a signifi cant risk that linking regenerative agriculture to a set of prescriptive management practices would also create a stark division – a binary choice between regenerative and non-regenerative. Such an interpretation would be very divisive and counterproductive. That justifi es

continued on p24

Policy

&

PRACTICE

the need to avoid definitions that could become means of verification under future support mechanisms. Definitions in this context would be yet more hostages to fortune.

Equally, regenerative agriculture must not simply prompt a return to low input farming practices which in some instances could decrease yields, outputs and profitability – potentially impacting on food security.

If Scottish agriculture is to deliver on food, climate and biodiversity, as well as underpinning rural communities, it must embrace innovation, science and technology rather than revert back to ‘traditional’ practices.

Nor must Scottish agricultural production be unduly compromised in the pursuit of ‘regenerative’ aspirations, otherwise we run the risk of simply offshoring emissions and biodiversity loss to other countries. Regenerative agriculture in Scotland must be sustainable in Scotland.

As a result, a wider interpretation of regenerative agriculture is required within the Code. A flexible, farmercentred approach that is underpinned by the farmer’s knowledge of their land and their system/enterprises is required.

The Code should then become a toolkit of management actions that work with ecosystem functions and reduced inputs but without compromising output. In a nutshell, that’s called ‘efficiency’.

All farms and crofts will fall somewhere on the continuum between ‘regenerative’ and ‘conventional’ agriculture. The Code should set out guidance to enable an integrated approach to farm management that focuses on restoring and enhancing the environment to underpin agricultural production through regenerative practices.

At the same time the Code should also include wider aspects which are integral in building resilience in agricultural businesses to help sustain the rural economy – such as shorter supply chains, fairer pricing, etc.

In addition, transitioning to a ‘sustainable and regenerative agriculture’ in Scotland will require

significant investment and support. Hence the need for a future support package to enable active farmers and crofters to deliver the Scottish Government’s Vision for Agriculture –the justification for the future support framework.

Agricultural businesses, regardless of size, type or location, will need the financial capacity to buffer the economic costs of transitioning. The importance of direct, albeit conditional, support in both Tiers 1 and 2 of the future support framework will become even more critical in that respect.

Equally, a move to more regenerative practices will need farmers and crofters to develop their knowledge. The role of the new Whole Farm Plan as part of Tier 1 and complementary support in Tier 4, such as peer-to-peer learning and demonstration farms, will be critical in baselining and informing management choices.

With increasing uncertainty in weather patterns, input costs and markets, building resilience into our food production systems through investment opportunities in Tier 3 will also be key to the future of Scottish agriculture.

For all farmers and crofters to help reconcile food production, climate, and biodiversity goals, it will be vital that actions are guided and steered by a Code of Practice for Sustainable and Regenerative Agriculture – rather than be driven by ideology that does not recognise Scotland’s agricultural profile and landscape.

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BE MORE BRAD P

T“The best book I have read on cattle breeding in a long time is ‘Moneyball’ by Michael Lewis,” said Bruce Mackie, NFU Scotland’s Milk Committee Chair. “It doesn’t even mention cows but it got me thinking about what we’re doing. We’ve got to think differently to achieve success.”

For those readers who are unfamiliar with the book ‘Moneyball – the art of winning an unfair game’, it was published in 2003, and is based on a true story about the Oakland Athletics baseball team and its general manager Billy Beane. It describes

‘the team’s approach using data that’s relevant to assembling a competitive baseball team on a small budget. If you haven’t read the book then you may well have seen the 2011 movie adaptation of it which stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane who rips up the traditional approach to successful management with surprising and inspiring results.

Bruce, who runs an organic dairy farm at Middleton for Rora, North East Aberdeenshire, in partnership with his wife Jane, is determined to use science and data evidence to make some smart and effective decisions on how they enhance and maintain a highly productive and healthy herd. In some way he’s challenging the system like Beane did, moving away from the ‘traditional approach’ to breeding in an endeavour to improve results and gain much more. In April 2020 they started doing genomic testing and are already seeing postive outcomes as a result.

“We were watching the fi lm and I compared how we were using genomic data to improve our breeding in the same way as Billy Beane used meaningful data to improve his team. Jane asked if I was like Brad Pitt and then couldn’t stop laughing – which I thought was a bit harsh!

“I think every cattle farmer needs to be ‘more Brad Pitt’ – let the analysts give you the data that’s useful and then use that to improve the traits you want

The Farm:

“My wife and I, farm at Middleton Farm is located in the North-East of Aberdeenshire. It’s 560 acres that we own but we also rent 175 acres.” said Bruce. “We’ve got 260 Holstein Friesian cows and grow a bit of wheat and barley. This year we’re also growing some winter beans in an effort to grow some homegrown protein and alternative to expensive organic soya. While the bulk of the organic milk we produce is for contract, we use around 10 percent of it on-farm to produce yogurt under our ‘Rora Dairy’ brand.”

Genomic kit, testing & results – what’s involved?

The kit for the system Bruce is using is very simple and easy to use. You get a handheld device which you use to take an ear tissue sample for the animal you wish to test. In Bruce’s case he is testing all his calves. It is very simple and quick to use and most importantly can be done when it’s convenient for the farmer, and less likely to cause any stress to the animal.

on breeding for longevity and increased health traits such as reducing mastitis.

“With the standard information as well as additional health attributes that the system I use flags, I can easily select which animals we’ll therefore breed our replacements from - and a few at the other end of the search which we will sell into the store cattle ring.

Bruce Mackie

We were watching the film and I compared how we were using genomic data to improve our breeding in the same way as Billy Beane used meaningful data to improve his team.

in your herd,” said Bruce. “It’s all about gaining better data and understanding of the herd, and then making targeted, informed decisions about breeding. Among the extensive list of benefi ts, I believe genomics will help increase effi ciency, improve the health of the cows, improve farm safety (cattle temperment), extend lifespan of cows, reduce inputs, reduce costs, reduce methane through less cows volume/ turnover, and drive profi tability – all while reducing our carbon footprint. It’s about using numbers and statistics to maximise delivery. All of this is better for the health of the livestock, business and farmer.”

Once done, the tests samples are sent off for analyisis and results made available directly through the computer software system. How and what information an individual decides to use is up to them – it really depends on what’s important to each farm business but the flexibility is there to interrogate and gleen as much or as little information as desired.

The cost of each test is circa £30 for which you will get standard data but for an extra £8 you are rewarded with a comprehensive set of additional analysis which in Bruce’s eyes are invaluable and money well spent. “It’s a test you do with calves and never have to repeat in their lifetime. So relatively little investment for a significant amount of positive return and saving.” explained Bruce.

“The system is really flexible and you can, at leisure, systematically go through the projected traits and make some fairly robust decisions. In my case I’m focusing

“One of the great things we’re noticing already is that the effect is cumulative with successive generations. The way that I look at genomic testing is that it changes the reliability from c.35 percent for parent average (on average you will lose) to c.58 percent for genomic testing (on average you win)!

“In looking already at genomic figures against three cumulative lactations within my own herd figures - I think the correlation is pretty good. Equally the cow that has never treated with antibiotics other than a dry cow tube in 11 lactations scores well on health traits.

“I’d say we are in the early stages of our genomic breeding. It will be another couple of years before we truly see the impact on what we are doing as the first cohort of heifers we bred using the data reach their fourth and fifth lactations. Then I think we will really see the value in health and fertility traits we have selected using genomics. It’ll be exciting to see what results will show.”

Why every cattle farmer should consider selecting cattle this way

Genomics

allows farmers to identify traits that are critical to their operation such as fertility

“I do believe that stocksmanship, judging cattle by eye and measuring physical attributes is important but genomics allows farmers to see the traits that can’t be seen. If you have 10 good heifers but only need fi ve replacements how do you pick between them? Genomics allows farmers to identify traits that are critical to their operation such as fertility and this will become increasingly important as subsidies such as the Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme demand calving intervals for payment. And if you are going to have to calve that cow, why would you not want to select an animal with better temperment? Plus using the science will help reduce the carbon footprint of ruminant agriculture while putting money in farmers’ pockets.

“It’s a technology, as an industry, we can’t ignore.”

Some background about Moneyball

The central premise of the book ‘Moneyball’ is that the collective wisdom of baseball insiders (including players, managers, coaches, scouts, and the front office) over the past century is outdated, subjective, and often flawed. That the statistics traditionally used to gauge players, such as stolen bases, runs batted in, and batting average, are relics of a 19th-century view of the game. Sabermetrics and statistical analysis had demonstrated, for example, that on-base percentage and slugging percentage are better measures of batting. The Oakland A’s began seeking players who were “undervalued in the market”—that is, who were receiving lower salaries relative to their ability to contribute to winning, as measured by these advanced statistics.

By re-evaluating their strategy in this way, the 2002 Athletics, with a budget of $44 million for player salaries, were competitive with larger-market teams such as the New York Yankees, whose payroll exceeded $125 million that season. The approach brought the A’s to the playoff s in 2002 and 2003.

Lewis, the author, explored several themes in the book, such as insiders vs. outsiders (established traditionalists vs. upstart proponents of sabermetrics), the democratisation of information causing a flattening of hierarchies, and “the ruthless drive for efficiency that capitalism demands”.

The art of playing ‘Moneyball’ and using statistical analysis changed the way many major league front offices do business. It has also influenced and been influenced by other professional sports teams including many professional football clubs and their managers – e.g. Arsenal’s former manager Arsène Wenger, former Manchester United F.C. manager Alex Ferguson, and Liverpool F.C. owner John W. Henry. It had a bearing on the selection of manager Jürgen Klopp and players essential for Liverpool’s win in the 2018–19 UEFA Champions League.

GLOBAL DAIRY G E C PROJECT SU S

South west dairy farmer, Rory Christie, has successfully played a part in a global dairy project put in place by the Gates Foundation. Entitled ‘Better Cows lead to Better Grades’, the worldwide project started at Scotland’s Rural College, in Edinburgh. There, Raphael Mrode, a Nigerian scientist and expert in the genetics of dairy and meat cattle, and Mike Coffey, a UK scientist, were studying ways to breed smaller cows that would require less feed, and therefore less land to graze on, and also produce more milk than larger cows. Their team was able to identify the genetic traits that led to healthier cows with higher milk production. They bred cows with those traits and monitored their off spring to see how they reproduced. Through using the matchmaking service on his herd, Rory has added 1000 litres per cow. The dairy genetics programme has now been rolled out in Kenya, where more milk from smaller cows is ensuring high quality milk from small herds is playing a vital role in improving health and nutrition.

SCOTTISH DAIRY HUB

TCELEBRATES TEN YEARS OF SUPPORTING THE SCOTTISH DAIRY SECTOR

his month, the Scottish Dairy Hub is celebrating ten years supporting Scottish dairy farmers and the nation’s dairy sector.

The organisation has come a long way since it was established in June 2014 as an initiative based on the Scottish Dairy Review Ambition 2025 report, which was commissioned by the Scottish Government.

The Hub has handled thousands of enquiries from the dairy sector over the past decade. It continues to off er a free one-stop, confi dential, information service to all dairy farmers and service providers. By identifying the best sources of advice to improve dairy farm competitiveness, technical effi ciency and sustainability, it acts as a signposting service connecting the dairy sector throughout Scotland.

Farmers can place their questions to the Scottish Dairy Hub using the various channels listed on opposite page.

This summer, the Dairy Hub will be off ering a drop-in service at the following summer agricultural shows.

ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW

Thursday 21 June

STRANRAER SHOW

Wednesday 31 July

DUMFRIES AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Saturday 3 August

WIGTOWN SHOW

Wednesday 7 August

One key event the Scottish Dairy Hub runs is the popular seminar at AgriScot. Started in 2016 and cohosted with Kite Consultancy, this event brings together a panel of key speakers in the dairy sector. The seminar aims to provide an insight to the short and long-term outlook, opportunities, and obstacles for Scottish dairy farmers. (AgriScot is taking place on Wednesday 13 November 2024)

The Hub’s model is very simple. If you have a question on any topic aff ecting your farm, get in touch, and we will do the research and direct you to the answer. Over the last ten years, thanks massively to the eff orts of my predecessor, Stuart Martin, we have built up a wide range of contacts, from technical consultants and vets to academics –we have direct access to specialist knowledge and resources.

For dairy farmers working at the grassroots, this not only frees up time, as the Hub will do the research work for you, but it will also connect you directly to the various public and private sector companies that could add value to your farm and business.

For all the service providers feeding into the dairy industry, we can eliminate the marketing scattergun approach and pinpoint you to farm businesses that seek their specifi c services.

The Hub website has proven to be very popular. Its events and noticeboard pages are updated daily and offer dairy farmers an easily accessible snapshot of

events, workshops and conferences (all currently online) that might be of interest.

The noticeboard section is used to buy and sell products and look for staff.

Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, said

“I’m pleased to congratulate the Scottish Dairy Hub on its 10th anniversary. We can be particularly proud of our dairy sector; one which is globally recognised and resilient.

“That resilience is in part thanks to the Scottish Dairy Hub, which helps share knowledge with farmers in an age where we not only have to play our part in meeting climate change goals, but also in dealing with the various challenges that farmers can face –such as supply chain issues, input costs, labour shortages and changing markets for our products.

“Having been a farmer, I understand the value of that resource and the importance of Scottish Government support, and I look forward to continuing to work with NFU Scotland and the Scottish dairy sector.”

Tracey Roan Policy Manager

Jim Fairlie MSP,

STUART MARTIN

Paul Grant, Chair of the Scottish Dairy Growth Board, shared his thoughts on the Hub saying,

“The Dairy Hub is an excellent initiative. In its 10 years, it’s become an important stakeholder in the dairy sector in Scotland and I look forward for this to continue. One of the key features of the Hub is that it is a free service and the information and contacts it has built up over the years are highly impressive and therefore I would encourage all dairy farmers to use it.”

Bruce Mackie, our NFU Scotland Milk Committee Chair commented on the success of the Scottish Dairy Hub during its fi rst decade saying;

“The Hub has given those within the Scottish dairy sector a ‘goto’ resource for reliable, accurate and relevant information since it was established. It helps signpost and connect users to appropriate information, suppliers, experts, events and training opportunities which has helped many improve their on-farm practices and drive competitiveness, technical effi ciency, sustainability and growth forward.

“The past decade has seen many

challenges face those working in Scotland’s rural sector and the Dairy Hub has proved to be an invaluable asset which has seen us rise and address those by being better informed and more able to cope. We have ever more political and environmental ‘asks’ of us as an industry and I am sure that Scottish Dairy Hub it will continue to be regarded with high regard as a resource we can all use to help us thrive and deliver on those ‘asks’.”

Learning on-farm about innovations within the dairy sector

Brooke Harwood Communications & Social Media Assistant

Together with the Union’s Policy Team, I recently visited Claylands Farm, Balfron, to learn all things dairy production. Having not stepped foot in a parlour prior, I arrived at Claylands with some naivety of what to expect.

Husband and wife farming duo, Rona and Alasdair Nicolson, manage the impressive unit with help from family and staff. Wellies on in the typical Scottish springtime rain, the pair kindly led us round Claylands, explaining each stage of dairy production on the way.

As we began walking towards the fi rst cow shed, I was impressed by the scale. Farmstead buildings cover around 16 acres, not to mention the extensive surrounding grazing land for fi nishing beef cattle. There is a total farm livestock count of 1,800 and a milking herd of 700 Holsteins that supply Claylands’ Graham’s Dairy contract. Not only this, to secure its constant production cycle, the Forth and Clyde

farm calf’s new additions each day with two more arriving just an hour before we all arrived on site.

Aside from the herd however it’s Claylands’ extensive renewable systems that set it apart from many other dairy producers.

To the right-side of the farm, the Nicolson’s secured multiple tenant contractors for their surplus units, including Strathendrick Biogas Ltd. Claylands supplies slurry, silage and slurry fibre to Strathendrick’s on-site Anaerobic Digester (AD Plant) which ultimately converts produced gas into electricity.

Rona explained that the system has multiple benefi ts for all stakeholders. She said: “The plant produces 1.5MW of power but is only able to export 1.1MW of that to the national grid due to

FACTS ON THE DAIRY HUB

Most popular topics

• Sta ng

• Courses – A.I. / hoof trimming

• Slurry Regulations

Queries come in from dairy farms of all sizes & from across Scotland, from Shetland to Stranraer.

#AskTheHub

connection restrictions. The farm and onsite businesses run on electricity from the digester to use up the excess power.

“Like anything though, moderation is the key.

“In Germany, they have too many AD plants. It pays better to produce feed for the plants rather than producing food, meaning food for humans and animals has become scarce.”

After inspecting and discussing the topic of AD, we moved on to the final part of our tour to watch milking in the parlour.

A particular highlight for those of us unfamiliar to dairy farming, we overlooked as farm staff directed Holsteins into position like traffi c control. It amazed me how expert the cattle were to the process, maintaining a strict hierarchical order throughout.

Having witnessed each stage of the dairy process, my appreciation and interest in the industry has grown ten-fold. We all thank the Nicolson’s for welcoming us to Claylands. I can’t wait to get back out on farm again soon!

Regional ACTIVITY

REGIONAL MANAGER

Ian Wilson

07775 915 988

ian.wilson @nfus.org.uk

As always anything that you think NFU Scotland can be of assistance to you please get in touch.

PLAYING CATCH-UP

With what was a fairly challenging Spring behind us, we can all hope that a good growing season corrects the late sowing of Spring crops and the diffi culties most winter crops went through, so that yields catch up and turns into a good season for growing crops. The lambs and calves in many cases had a pretty diffi cult start to their lives but a good summer will also soon catch this up by the time of the Autumn sales. With fi nished hoggs hitting

some fairly remarkable prices this Spring we have to hope that those buying store lambs in the Highland sales in the Autumn remember to bid strongly for this year’s lamb crop to get some confi dence back into Highland and Upland farming.

Any of you heading to the Highland Show at Ingliston 20-23 June please do call in past the NFU Scotland and NFU Mutual stand for a cuppa and the opportunity to chat with the Union’s office holders, staff and NFU Mutual agents.

Beyond Net Zero meeting – 6 June

As a Region we are, along with Highland Grain and SAC Consulting supported by AHDA, hosting a meeting on climate change and the role of carbon and agriculture in this. We’re pleased that Professor John Gilliland from Belfast University will be speaking at the meeting. He has some really interesting takes on the whole net zero subject and how agriculture is getting a poor deal in the wider discussions on the subject. We are part of the solution not the problem.

We will also have Professor Steven Thomson

from SAC speaking during the evening on future support for agriculture and how he sees it developing/ changing. Steven is a leading Agricultural Economist and advises Scottish Government through a lot of their Agricultural and Rural based committees and groups including ARIOB.

“Beyond Net Zero”, takes place on Thursday 6 June, at Kingsmills, Inverness, from 18.30 to 21.00hrs. Please look out for booking details and get registered (invites will be from NFUS, SAC Consulting and Highland Grain). It is sure to be a very good evening.

REGIONAL MANAGER Mhairi Dawson

07718 425 053

mhairi.dawson @nfus.org.uk

REGIONAL MANAGER Sheena Foster

07789 796 582

sheena.foster @nfus.org.uk

RHET Festival of Farming

Mhairi and Sheena both helped at the ‘Festival of Farming’ at Dumfries House. This initiative was jointly run by The King’s Foundation and the Royal Highland Education Trust (RHET) Ayrshire and Arran. Around 600 P4 and P5 pupils from 18 schools across Ayrshire took part learning about 17 different aspects of agriculture and rural life! It was an incredibly valuable event for both pupils and the teachers who brought them.

‘What to Expect’ meetings a great success

Earlier this year we held a series of ‘What to Expect at Inspections’ meetings with the team from Ayr RPID office focusing on sheep, cattle and land inspections. Feedback has been very positive with members feeling more confident, reassured, and comfortable with both inspections and inspectors. Thanks to everyone who attended, the RPID team from Ayr and Hamilton and to local RSABI case officer Mary Anne MacWilliam for her contributions. You should have received a follow up email with a list of resources but if not, please get in touch and we will make sure you get a copy.

National Park update

AAYRSHIRE RURAL CRIME

Sheena joined members of the Ayrshire Partnership Against Rural Crime (APARC) at Craig Wilson LTD. This session was to allow members to engage with the Police and representatives from the local authority on topics including Livestock worrying, Fly tipping, Fuel Theft and theft of Machinery/equipment. We hope to have more of these engagement sessions in the future.

t the time of writing this, we do not know what the breakdown of The Bute House agreement will mean for the National Park proposals but for local activity, Mhairi Dawson and Stewart Wyllie (D&G Regional Chair) wrote to several Ayrshire councillors, MSPs and MPs to sharing concerns on the proposed Galloway National Park which includes

some of South and East Ayrshire. MSPs Sharon Dowey and Elena Whitham both took the time to speak with us and are making plans to visit members who are potentially within the boundary.

LOTHIAN & BORDERS

REGIONAL MANAGER

Lindsay Brown

07780 441 750 lindsay.brown @nfus.org.uk

Open Farm Sunday

Preston Hall Farm, Pathhead will be hosting an Open Farm event on Sunday 9 June. Following the overwhelming success of last year, they will be ready for a far greater number of visitors. With tractors and machinery on show, sheep, cattle to see and tractor rides to take. This is an opportunity to highlight the hard work of farmers, what goes on in the countryside and where food comes from.

The Drift Farmers’ Sauna Escape

On a glorious evening at Drift Cafe, North Berwick, Jo and Stuart McNicoll, in collaboration with Farmstrong Scotland, invited members of the local rural community to share with others the diff erent ways they each take time out to relax and boost their wellbeing. Participants then had the opportunity to brave the plunge pool and relax in a sauna. There was plenty time for everyone to relax, eat and chat about everything and anything. Looking to the future it is hoped Sauna Escape can become a regular event.

Regional ACTIVITY Return after 23-month secondment

ARGYLL

At the end of April, I returned as Regional Manager for Argyll & the Islands, having been on a 23-month secondment with Scottish Government. As the saying goes “doesn’t time fl y when you are enjoying yourself”?!

07787 434 104

lucy.sumsion @nfus.org.uk

Join us at NSA Scotsheep

We’re delighted to have NSA ScotSheep taking place at Aikengall Farm, Innerwick, Dunbar on Wednesday 5 June. Home to the Hamilton family, Aikengall Farm is set in a fantastic location in the foothills of the Lammermuirs, and visitors will be able see their impressive livestock, and extensive renewables and environmental schemes along with all the exhibitors stands, talks and much more. It’ll be a fantastic day out. Please buy your tickets in advance for ease via scotsheep.org.uk. Please come and visit us at the NFU Scotland stand where you can speak to the presidential team and regional staff who will be there providing some refreshment.

be following this up with the Planning Department and the new ruling executive at the Council. It would be useful to know how widespread a problem this is, so if any members want to contact either their Group Secretary or myself to highlight their own case please do. Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Lauren Worrell, who has been Regional Manager for the last two years and who so ably dealt with members queries, regional issues and stakeholder engagement. Lauren returns to the NFU Mutual offi ce in Oban, and I am sure we will continue to see her involved in Union activity. REGIONAL

It seems incredible that two years have gone by so quickly and while some things have changed, many of the issues that members face in the region are still causing signifi cant concern. As Regional Chair, Duncan Macalister highlighted in last month’s update, ferries, White-tailed Eagles and the Rest-and- Be-Thankful continue to be hot issues.

New issues, that have emerged while I’ve been away, are the National Park proposals for Loch Awe and Lochaber. Rightly members in these areas are signifi cantly concerned about the proposals and we have been lobbying local and national politicians, highlighting members’ concerns, and will continue to do so.

I’m looking forward to getting back out into the region, meeting members and dealing with the many varied strands of being a Regional Manager. One of the main topics that dropped into my inbox relates to the lengthy delays that members are facing with planning applications to Argyll and Bute Council. I will

Farm Waste Recycling

We are a farm waste management company, based near Dundee and have been trading for 14 years.

The types of waste we accept includes: Silage Wrap, Fertiliser Bags, Chemical Drums, Cardboard and Feed Buckets. Mixed loads of waste are accepted to make it as easy and affordable as possible for farmers to dispose of their waste.

Skips also available for scrap metal.

Give us a call to discuss your requirements.

DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY

REGIONAL MANAGER

Mhairi Dawson

07718 425 053

mhairi.dawson @nfus.org.uk

Practical, financial and emotional support

It is such a relief to see the sunshine! The days are long, crops are growing, cattle are out and lambs are doing whacky races up the fi elds. Sights to lift the spirits. However, if you are still feeling the impact of the weather or anything else, consider reaching out to someone like local RSABI case offi ce MaryAnne McWilliam. She can be contacted on 07796 987188 or call the national helpline on 0808 1234 555. RSABI can off er practical, fi nancial, and emotional support and they have trained counsellors who understand agriculture. They can often refer much quicker than via traditional health service routes meaning you get more help more quickly. You can fi nd out more at www.rsabi.org.uk

Mental Health is a massive issue facing our rural community and there are a huge range of services available in our region. Please do reach out as we can put you in touch with someone who can support you, be it for general advice or for something specifi c like bereavement or alcohol dependency.

National Park focus during on-farm MSP visits

At the time of writing this, the Bute House agreement had only just ended, and we don’t know how this would impact on the Galloway National Park proposal. As such, we have continued to share our concerns with local politicians across Dumfries and Galloway and the areas of Ayrshire included in the bid. We have had good engagement with local councillors and MSPs and we thank them for their time. I even heard from a member who had no idea their farm was in the middle of the bid, if you would like to see the map and details of the bid, it can be found here: www.gallowaynationalpark.org/bid.

Pictured here (right) is Emma Harper MSP on-farm with Regional Chair, Stewart Wyllie, and (above) of John Locke (Regional Vice-Chair), Stewart Wyllie and Finlay Cason MSP on-farm with host Hamish Campbell (Stewartry Branch Chair) and John Cooper. During both these farm visits we discussed National Park concerns, our key asks for the Ag Bill and touched on Land Reform Bill too.

A year at NFUS

As June rolls round once more, I celebrate my 1-year anniversary with NFU Scotland on the 12th and would like to thank everyone who has helped me in the past year. It has been a steep learning curve, but an enjoyable one and I look forward to many more years working together for a brighter agricultural economy in D&G and beyond.

REGIONAL MANAGER

Sheena Foster 07789 796 582

sheena.foster @nfus.org.uk

Lanarkshire Partnership Against Crime Launch

The Lanarkshire Partnership Against Rural Crime (LPARC) has been up and running for a number of years and has become a successful information sharing platform.

LPARC will be hosting a relaunch of the PARC on Wednesday 10 July at the National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride and would like to invite NFU Scotland members along to attend. This launch will highlight the key priorities of the group, safety and security in the rural environment and the opportunity to engage with Police Scotland and other partners.

If you would like more info regarding this, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

REGIONAL POLICY ADVISOR

John Laughton

01856 872 048

john_laughton @nfus.org.uk

Fraser wows at West Region Talent Spot

Well done to Bearsden Locum Agent, Fraser Russell who took his bagpipes to the stage at the Clyde Auditorium in Glasgow at the West Region Talent Spot competition alongside fellow members of Lesmahagow Young Farmers. They performed an outstanding and powerful

rendition of ‘Leave a Light On’ in support and promotion of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers (SAYFC), ‘Are Ewe Okay’ mental health campaign. I must also note congratulations to Lesmahagow and SSS Young Farmers for being placed second and third in the overall competition. Great to see the Forth and Clyde Clubs thriving.

LET’S KEEP YOU IN THE LOOP

There is lots going on these days and we want you to make sure you are not missing out on anything.

Remember if you change your communication details – email, mailing or mobile number, let me know so we can update and please also let me know if you

are not receiving any information from us too and I can make sure your details are all up-to-date.

Just a reminder that we also have a Regional Facebook page NFU Scotland – Forth and Clyde Region if you aren’t already following us.

What a difference a week makes!

As we exited April with a final blast of winter weather, resulting in high lamb losses, the weather turned for the better as we staggered into May. The land started to dry up, the grass started to grow, cattle were starting to be turned-out and the sheep enjoyed a bit of sun on their backs. As we reflect on what has been a shocker of a winter and spring, we must also acknowledge the positives. The strong cattle and sheep trade has been a welcome boost to farm bank balances. It can only be hoped this continues into the back end as costs of production remain high and these high prices are just reward for the work and effort that goes into

producing top quality livestock. With calving and lambing pretty much done and fieldwork progressing, not only do we reflect on what has past, we also start to look forward. The Highland Show is just around the corner and gives the industry the chance to have a ‘breather’ from the daily grind. There will no doubt be the usual exodus from Orkney in what is a very sociable event! Silage season will be upon us shortly and it is hoped that a good high-quality crop is secured to limit the amount of bought-in feed throughout winter.

From a local NFU Scotland perspective, there is never a dull moment with the proposed abattoir, Greylag Goose control, the Good

Food Nation Act, Orkney Woodland Group, Orkney Islands Council farm diversification grant, Islands Centre For Net Zero, Developing The Young workforce farm career event and the Ag Bill islands impact assessment project all very much to the fore during the past two months.

REGIONAL MANAGER

Lorna Paterson

07786 860 453

lorna.paterson

@nfus.org.uk

Open Farm Sunday

Our Vice-Chair, David Greer has honourably agreed to host ‘Open Farm Sunday’ at Seafi eld Estates on Sunday 9 June. This will be an arable-focused event and will be one not to be missed. It’s vital we all support David and off er to help before and on the day. The event is a great way of helping to educate and inform non-farming folk about our industry.

MENTAL HEALTH TRAINING

STAYING POSITIVE DESPITE POOR SPRING

Members have been diligently navigating the dreadful and depressing weather, and those on lighter land have defi nitely benefi tted. It’s incredible how positive some farmers manage to remain, despite the constant onslaught of rain,

Kevin Gilbert, Alan Simpson and Bob Hay have been working with SAMH to ensure we start getting some of our FarmTalk volunteers trained up. A very successful

hail, snow, more rain and sometimes wind and sunshine. New Deer Branch member, David Delday exclaimed after one hail and snow fall: “we have all seen this before, but we are luckier than some and will get our crops established”. He is, of course, correct.

Welcome Alana and Ashley

Richard and Rosslyn at Keith and Turriff Offices are always striving for supreme customer service, and at the start of April, Alana Smith and Ashley Lakin permanently moved into the Turriff Office to develop business and support our members. Both are experienced and extremely helpful staff colleagues with a wealth of knowledge about the Union and Mutual. We wish them luck in their roles.

suicide awareness session was hosted in Thainstone in April. Anyone who would like to become involved, should contact any of us to find out more.

Better together

British farmers raise sheep to the highest welfare, sustainability and environmental standards. Yet we know that you face challenges like never before.

As a farmer co-operative, British Wool collects, grades and markets wool on behalf of our farmer members. We promote the benefits of wool and develop new markets for this incredible natural resource. Everything we do is about adding value to British wool to maximise value for you, our farmers, to enable you to continue doing what you do best – producing high quality, sustainable fibre that customers can rely on.

To find out more call us on 01274 688666 or visit our website at britishwool.org.uk

Together we’re growing something special.

Monitor Farm Events book your space now

The Monitor Farm Scotland programme is gearing up for a jam-packed season of events, aimed at sharing knowledge and innovation within the industry. Scheduled across various regions, these gatherings are farmer-led and farmer-driven, reflecting the dynamic nature of Scotland’s agricultural landscape.

Mark your calendars and take note of the following dates:

Strathspey: 3rd June

Banff and Buchan: 7th June

East Lothian: 11th June

Stirlingshire: 12th June

South Ayrshire: 26th June

Deeside: 16th July

Roxburgh: 18th July

Argyllshire: 25th July

Dumfries: 30th July

Future-Proofing Your Business

Preparing and Planning Productivity

Carbon from a Science, Farmer, Measuring and Policy Point of View

Increasing the Sustainability of Your Livestock Farm

Save the dates and stay tuned for more information on speakers and locations. Keep an eye out for updates and be sure to pencil in these events for exciting insights and discussions!

Head to the website monitorfarms.co.uk for more information on the programme and follow Monitor Farm Scotland on Facebook and on Instagram @monitorfarmscotland.

Regional ACTIVITY

SHETLAND

REGIONAL POLICY ADVISOR

Lee Smith

07554 741 030 lee.smith@nfus.org.uk

SHOW DATES

Looking ahead, local shows have confirmed dates as follows:

3 August - Voe Show

7 August - Cunningsburgh Show

10 August - Waas Show

31 August - Yell Show

7 September - Unst Show

REGIONAL MANAGER Kate Maitland

07919 001 23 kate.maitland@ nfus.org.uk

LOOKING FOR BETTER WEATHER

As I write this, we are going through the yearly lambing season in Shetland and, as predicted, the weather has not held its end of the bargain. With a horrendous winter, affecting scanning percentages and more recently, driving rain, sleet, snow and wild wind during lambing, you wonder if the weather will improve one year for us hardy Shetlanders. We have had the occasional sunny, yet blustery day to allow for lambs to go out. I can honestly say the Shetland sheep breed

NEW REGIONAL CHAIR

It gives me great pleasure to introduce myself as the new East Central Chair.

I am a third-generation farmer, farming north of the M90 overlooking the views of Loch Leven. We have a family-run farm with each of my three children having a vital role within the business.

We’ve a herd of suckler cows mainly Aberdeen Angus and Simmental Cross sired with Simmental bulls. We also have a fl ock of 650 ewes with a mix of 300 Texel Cross and Cheviot mules tupped with Texel Cross Beltex rams and 350 cheviots.

is a hardy and mighty lamb, finding shelter in nooks and crannies provided by the ever-changing landscape, hills and peatland. Which leads me to wonder how Peatland restoration will change our landscape? Let’s hope all the hours of work local farmers and crofters across Scotland put into providing a sustainable food industry is rewarded come sale time.

Moving forward, hay, silage and winter feed is next on the agenda for local crofters, let’s hope the weather improves for us.

Put to traditional Bluefaced Leicester rams to provide us with Cheviot mule lambs for keeping and selling on as ewe lambs and most of our wether lambs are sold store.

I’ve been heavily involved with Kinross Show for many years and was recently Chair for Kinross and West Fife Branch of NFU Scotland before taking on the role as Regional Chair.

I am looking forward to meeting as many members as possible, by visiting all branches. With a new Ag Bill being implemented in the near future we all need to work together

to make sure the Union has a voice and is heard. We also need to safeguard the future for the next generation to come. I feel it is important to have open communication at all levels so please feel free to contact me at any time.

The 2024 Royal Highland Show in its 202nd year is, according to the organisers, promising to be an unforgettable event for all attendees, set to surprise and delight show-goers with ‘acres of epicness’. Highlighting what might be perceived as the more unexpected elements of the show, from mountain biking displays to the interactive and immersive Honey Marquee, the organisers have created a buzz around the 2024 event with the launch its new creative campaign –The Royal Highland Ohh! Captivating audiences with the delightfully surprising array of attractions and activities on offer at the show, some of the elements featured in the campaign include:

FOR THE FOODIES:

Stuffed full of food and drink, the show offers boundless opportunities to sample Scotland’s finest produce including cookery demos with top chefs and a huge choice of food vendors serving everything from haggis neeps and tatties (The Haggis Box), freshly prepared fish and chips and lobster rolls (Alandas) to crisp hot churros (Jordan Events) and Greek gyros. A treasure trove of culinary delights, visitors can also explore Scotland’s Larder which brings together hundreds of brands offering cheeses, fruits, oils, chocolates, spirits and more.

FOR FAMILIES:

A key attraction for families, the RHET Discovery Centre is the perfect entertaining and educational base for younger visitors to the show. With a full programme of drop-in and bookable activities, kids can try their hand at milking Mabel the (fiberglass) cow, learn how to cook with lamb, take part in guided sessions such as honey tasting, candle making and viewing bees, and so much more. With a dedicated kid zone located in the

Countryside Area, there is plenty of fun for all the family to enjoy including hands on skills training with Tree-ditions Woodland Crafts School, live Sealpin Gundogs demonstrations, Elite Falconry’s birds of prey flying demonstrations, and the opportunity to get involved with creating a large willow lantern with Wild Rose Escapes.

Tickets to the show for children aged 15 years and under are free of charge.

Going to the Royal Highland Show?

Pop in and have a chat with us in our marquee at anytime during the show (usual place on Avenue O right behind the main grandstand).

Representatives from across all the services we offer will be on hand and look forward to seeing you.

Not going to the show? Visit our website for full details of our offices and contacts. We look forward to catching up with you either before, during or after the show.

Offices across Scotland & Northern England n galbraithgroup.com

Dunbia Highland Meats will be attending the Royal Highland Show from the 20th – 23rd of June

Members of our Highland Meats livestock procurement team will be on hand to meet with current and potential livestock partners, as well as providing updates on a number of agricultural projects ongoing across the group.

We have an ongoing requirement for all Scotch Cattle, Aberdeen Angus and Cows as well as top quality Scotch Lamb.

George Brown 07971 147775

Liam Bruce 07970 460947

Jean Mackay 07795 831200

Bill McKinnon 07799 887146

Alasdair McSporran 07974 751489

Procurement Office 01294 475583

FOR MUSIC LOVERS:

For those wearing their dancing shoes, the West Stage line-up is not to be missed. Performances to suit all music tastes from folk rock and swing to reggae and opera will take place in addition to daily ceilidh sessions.

FOR THE THRILL SEEKERS:

Delivering the action and drama, sparks will fly in the heat of Farriery competition, equine entrants will be saddled up for show jumping and the daredevil BMX riders will be showing off their flips and tricks. Over in the forestry arena, visitors will be on the edge of their seats as they are entertained by axe throwers, live chainsaw carving, and pole climbers.

FOR THE SHOPAHOLIC:

For the avid shoppers, a vast range of retail opportunities await spread across numerous shopping villages, off ering clothing, shoes, crafts, gifts, pet supplies, art, toys and a range of premium shopping outlets which can be found at the Countryside Village. Event attendees also might be surprised to fi nd the Renewable Village, off ering a variety of sustainable products and services including wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, tidal, biomass companies and more.

This year the Home and Gift Hall has had a layout revamp and now includes the Scottish Handcrafts Championships.

NOT GOING IN-PERSON? WATCH ON TV

The Royal Highland Show has revitalised the format of RHS TV for 2024, which will now be produced as a one-hour daily programme featuring key event highlights, interviews, and stories.

The programme will broadcast on Freeview channel and will also be available to watch on demand on the Royal Highland Show Website.

FOR THE TRADITIONALISTS:

The many traditional aspects of the show will continue to provide weekend-long entertainment. Watch as the country’s top shearers battle it out for the esteemed title of Scottish National Champion or head to the main ring to see the Heavy Horse Turnouts. The spectacle of the Sixes taking place on Sunday is another one not to be missed.

Additionally, tickets are available to purchase for the Royal Highland Hoolie presented with Farmers Bash which is back with eight live folk and country music acts performing on the evenings of Friday 21 and Saturday 22 June, including headline acts Tide Lines and Derek Ryan.

David Tennant, head of show for RHASS said:

“While tradition remains at the heart of the show, the event is far from conventional. Each year we build and grow on the last with an ever-increasing focus on sustainability while ensuring we continue to elevate the visitor experience.

“The show is renowned for its historic and traditional aspects, namely the livestock competitions and parades, however, over the years the show has developed so far beyond that, and we are excited to put a spotlight on some of the elements that visitors might not expect to find over the weekend.

“Last year, we were delighted to welcome 217,000 people to the Royal Highland Show and we look forward to building on the events success as we welcome even more visitors, both retuning patrons and newcomers, to the venue for 2024.”

Royal news

The Royal Family’s commitment to championing Scottish agriculture and rural life is set to continue. King Charles III is the new patron of RHASS (Royal Highland Agricultural Society of Scotland).

The late Queen Elizabeth II was a patron of RHASS for 70 years, with her dedication to many aspects of rural Scotland, from equestrianism to agriculture and livestock, invaluable to the society and communities across Scotland, the UK and the Commonwealth.

The Royal Family’s association with RHASS can be traced to 1787 when the society was granted its fi rst royal charter. The Royal Highland Show, which is run by the society, also has a long history with the Royal Family and members attending the show. It was during the 1948 show held in Inverness that the royal title was bestowed on the event by King George VI.

Royal Highland Show

NFU Scotland staff, presidential team and Board members are looking forward to meeting members at the NFU Scotland and NFU Mutual marquee throughout the four days of the Show (20-23 June).

We are again located in a prime position east of the main show ring. You’ll fi nd us on Avenue O, beside SAYFC and opposite the RHASS members’ pavilion. We

hope you will drop in for a cup of tea/coff ee, sweet treat and chat.

Representatives from the Scottish Dairy Hub will be on stand on Thursday between 10am to 12noon and again from 2pm to 4pm. The Scottish Land Matching Service will be available on both Thursday and Friday afternoons between 2pm and 3pm. Please note that there are no toilet facilities within the marquee.

Important Ticket information - ACTION required

No more paper tickets, no more buying tickets at the gate. All tickets, including car parking for the 2024 Royal Highland Show must be bought online and through the official ticket provider. You will need to bring your digital ticket with you which will be scanned on entry to the showground.

NO TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE GATE so please plan ahead of time and purchase the tickets for the day you wish to attend the show. Visit www.royalhighlandshow.org for more information and to book.

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STIRLING: (01786) 430387 Falleninch Farm, Dumbarton Road, Stirling FK8 3AB

ENRICH YOUR SOIL AND BOOST CROPS FOR FREE WHILST REMOVING CO

We spread crushed basalt rock on agricultural land, enriching soil fertility, supporting healthy crop growth and stabilising soil pH. This locally-sourced rock also removes CO2 from the atmosphere through a natural process known as enhanced rock weathering. It’s a win-win for your land and the environment.

WHAT IS BASALT ROCK?

Basalt is a mineral-rich volcanic rock that has been applied as a soil amendment for hundreds of years. It’s a product of the Scottish aggregate industry which is screened to ensure it's safe for agricultural use. Our basalt is suitable for all crops, including pasture, and has been approved for use in certified organic farming systems.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS FOR FARMERS?

Our basalt is supplied and spread free of charge or heavily subsidised, using local contractors who know the roads and the land. Farmers can expect to see the following benefits:

Nutrient uptake: Crushed basalt releases magnesium, calcium, potassium and other nutrients, boosting soil health and making your crops more pest-resistant.

Improved soil pH: As basalt weathers, it helps maintain the target pH of the soil. Basalt delivers a slow release of alkalinity to stabilise soil pH at optimum levels for longer.

Higher crop yield: An initial trial with The University of Newcastle showed crop yield was on average 15% higher (9.3% and 20.5% between ploughed and direct drill amended plots) following the application of crushed basalt.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Farmers and landowners in the central belt of Scotland and North East Scotland.

WHY?

With the help of farmers like you, our mission is to remove 1 billion tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere to make the planet livable for future generations.

If you are interested in enriching your soils whilst removing CO2, contact Joe Ritchie on 07400 858 333, email joe@un-do.com or visit us at the Royal Highland Show on Avenue Q, Stand 306.

Supplied in strips of 10 SET Tags or ‘drums’ of 20 SET Tags

& EID for Sheep & Goats Excellent Retention SET Tag Colours: Breeding Pairs from