The Rural Roundup

Policy Update

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 08:45:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie get a policy update from SRUC Professor Steven Thomson.

Timestamps

03:05 EFA Management for 2026

04:48 Entitlement transfer & SAF 2026

09:47 Steven Thomson

09:50 Main policy changes for 2026.

12:40 Why are we having policy changes?

23:40 Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme

25:30 Future Farm Investment Scheme

26:05 Rural Support Plan

33:00 LFASS

37:10 Future Farm Investment Scheme

40:00 Other capital grants

42:20 Continued Professional Development

FAS Resources

FAS Events

https://www.fas.scot/events/

Other Resources

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Spotlight: Crofting Through The Seasons - Autumn & Winter

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:30:00 +0000

In this special two-part edition of Crofting Matters, “Crofting Through the Seasons”, we take you back to Autumn & Winter last year, where Kieron Sim visited both the Isle of Skye and the Shetland Isles, to speak with four local crofters about their enterprises, the challenges and benefits of Island Living, and how Seasonality uniquely impacts their businesses throughout Autumn and Winter.

On the Isle of Skye, Kieron visits Crofter Phil Knott to talk about his Orchards, and how agroforestry has brought not only biodiversity benefits but also economic benefits to his croft, Kieron also speaks to Aiofe Gould & Jake Sayles about their Croft in Skye, where they finish their own Pork, Hebridean Mutton, use their wool for felt accessories, and utilise seasonal fruit and berries.

Kieron then visits the Shetland Isles in Winter, first speaking with Brendon Smith a Crofter from the Southern part of Shetland who breeds, trains and sells sheepdogs, runs a system of Shetland Sheep, produces Mussels and also ensures every sheep that comes to Shetland is run through the community dip. Finally Kieron heads to the Northernmost Isle of Unst in Shetland, to speak with Richard Spence who has Crofted in Unst for his whole life and tells us how the new Saxavord Space Port has changed how he Crofts.

Thanks for listening to this special two-part edition, Crofting through The Seasons, Autumn & Winter. You can find part 1 of Crofting Through The Seasons, Spring & Summer right now. wherever you normally listen.

This episode was hosted by Kerry Hammond and was produced and edited by Kieron Sim as part of Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service, in association with the Scottish Government.

FAS Resources

Crofting Matters - Crofting Through the Seasons: Spring/Summer | FAS

https://www.fas.scot/podcast/crofting-matters-crofting-through-the-seasons-spring-summer/

Other Resources

SaxaVord - The Place for Space

https://saxavord.com/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Spotlight: Crofting Through The Seasons - Spring & Summer

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this special two-part edition of Crofting Matters, “Crofting Through the Seasons”, we take you back to Spring/Summer last year, where Ross Mackenzie visited the Staffin Sheepdog Trials, a hugely popular event in Trotternish, on the Isle of Skye. Sheepdog trials are deeply rooted in crofting culture, normally held during the summer months, these trials are a significant part of the identity of crofting over the last century. Also in this episode, Ross joins a group of 30 Crofters who travelled to Wicklow, (south of Dublin) in Ireland last Spring, on the second trip of a Scottish Farm Advisory Service Learning Journey, funded by the Scottish Government, which supported 55 Scottish Crofters (over two trips) to learn about Irish systems, and how Irish farmers make a living from small units.

Thanks for listening to this special two-part edition, Crofting Through the Seasons, Spring & Summer. You can find part 2 of Crofting Through The Seasons, Autumn & Winter right now. wherever you normally listen.

This episode was hosted and produced by Kerry Hammond and was edited by Kieron Sim as part of Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service, in association with the Scottish Government.

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Farm Insurance

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie discuss all things Farm Insurance with NFU Mutual’s Douglas Schreiber.

Time Stamps

03:56 Deadlines and Grant updates

07:35 Introduction to Douglas Schreiber

08:25 Starting point for insurance renewal discussions

09:51 Things farmers should think about ahead of renewal?

12:19 The impact of staff qualifications on premiums?

14:50 What are the factors which really impact the price of a policy?

18:23 Anything people can do to reasonably do to reduce premiums related to storm damage?

21:56 How important is it to get your farm valued?

24:14 Cyber Security on insurance policies

26:31 Trackers and dashcams

30:32 What to do in the event of an accident on the road?

31:37 Areas of policies which often get overlooked?

FAS Resources

FAS Events

https://www.fas.scot/events/

Agritourism Investment Scheme

https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/agritourism-investment-scheme--ais-/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Conferences, Updates & Reminders

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie discuss the upcoming FAS Women in Agriculture Conference, which takes place on the 11th February. They are also joined by Siobhan Macdonald to discuss the agenda for the upcoming FAS Conference, which takes place on the 19th February.

Time Stamps:

05:45 NVZ reminder

12:54 PSF reminder

15:25 AECS reminder

16:03 Inheritance tax update

19:12 Women In Agriculture conference

24:52 FAS Conference

FAS Resources

FAS Events

https://www.fas.scot/events/

NVZ Rules Refresher

https://www.fas.scot/publication/nvz-rules-refresher/

NFUS: Summary of IHT changes (23rd Dec 2025) https://www.nfus.org.uk/policy/campaigns/inheritance-tax-iht.aspx#:~:text=After%2014%20months%20of%20relentless,and%20business%20property%20per%20individual.

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

6. Unsung Heroes - Agriculture’s Position in the Climate Change Conversation

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. In this episode Calum Johnston sits down one on one with James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems. In the previous five episodes we heard from Farmers from five different beef and dairy farms in South West Scotland about their “Unsung Heroes”. Technology, Data, Biodiversity, Machinery and Efficiency. These Farmers and their Farms evidence that livestock farming in Scotland, has been constantly evolving, improving their practices not only for better profitability, better resilience, better output and better lives, but by doing these things, and making changes big or small, they are reducing their impact on the planet day, by day.

James is going to tell us more about some of his other “Unsung Heroes” not just for Beef & Dairy Farms, but applicable to any agricultural system, and also give us his view on Agriculture’s current position in the climate change conversation.

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Climate Change resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service

Farming for a Better Climate | Helping farmers in Scotland

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

5. Unsung Heroes – Haggs Farm – Machinery (Slurry Separator)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. In this episode Calum Johnston visits Alex Marshall and Heather Dyet at Haggs Farm where 3 generations of the family are currently farming, including Heather’s grandmother, Mother Janice, brother Alex, and her father Alex, who also joins us on this episode. They tell us about their recent upgrade to a slurry separator. Through speaking to both Heather and dad Alex it was clear that on their family dairy farm, their unsung hero is machinery. Their slurry separator has improved farm efficiencies, grass and soil health, so much so they call it “liquid gold”. One of the efficiencies is applying two thirds less fertiliser which has a massive carbon footprint reduction.

Later in the episode James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems, will tell us more about this Unsung Hero, the benefits, the things to know if you’re considering it, and the positive impact it could have on your farm or croft, and on the planet!

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Applicability of Slurry Separation and Acidification | Farm Scotland

Milk Manager News July 2022 – Why Invest in a Slurry Separator? | Helping farmers in Scotland

Slurry Lagoon Storage and Construction | Helping farmers in Scotland

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

4. Unsung Heroes – Birks Farm - Efficiency (Calving at Two)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. In this episode Calum Johnston visits Douglas Frame at Birks Farm where they discussed Calving at two. Through speaking to Douglas it was clear that on his family beef farm, their unsung hero is efficiency and despite climate change not being his primary driver, Douglas talks about the reduction he’s seen in his carbon audits.

Later in the episode James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems will tell us more about this Unsung Hero, the benefits, the things to know if you’re considering it, and the positive impact it could have on your farm or croft, and on the planet!

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Calving Heifers Vlog Series | Helping farmers in Scotland

Calving Heifers at 2 Case Study | Helping farmers in Scotland

Optimising Livestock Productivity | Helping farmers in Scotland

A Guide to Calving Heifers | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

For more information, visit 

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

3. Unsung Heroes – Park Farm - Dairy Technology (Robots & Solar PV)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. On this episode Calum Johnston visits Glen Neilson at Park Farm Dairy where they discussed introduction of Solar PV. Through speaking to Glen it was clear to me that on his family’s dairy farm, their unsung hero is technology – whilst introducing solar PV was a substantial upfront investment, the ability to run the dairy, the bottling plant, and in future make a good financial return by selling into the grid- from a shed roof that otherwise wasn’t doing anything, is a benefit to the farm, the business, and the environment.

Later in the episode James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems tells us more about this Unsung Hero, the benefits, the things to know if you’re considering it, and the positive impact it could have on your farm or croft, and on the planet!

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Technical Note (TN682): Solar Photovoltaics (PV)

Renewables FAQ's | Helping farmers in Scotland

Farm Scale Renewables Energy Guide

Improving Energy Efficiency on the Dairy Farm | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Robotics: An Insiders Guide to Starting out with AMS Webinar

For more information, visit 

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

2. Unsung Heroes - Temples Farm – Data (Genomics)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. In this episode Calum Johnston visits James Strang at Temples Farm where they discussed Genomics. Through speaking to James Strang, it was clear that on his dairy farm, their unsung hero is data. Data is allowing them to input into their mating programme – selecting best performing cattle for the job from the best part of the herd.

Later in the episode, James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems, will tell us more about this Unsung Hero, the benefits, the things to know if you’re considering it, and the positive impact it could have on your farm or croft, and on the planet!

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Stock Talk: Dairy Genomics | FAS

Dairy Herd Management | Helping farmers in Scotland

MMN January 2025 - Should You be Using Genomic Testing? | Helping farmers in Scotland

For more information, visit 

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

1. Unsung Heroes – Littleton Farm - Biodiversity (Weeds)

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome to this special episode of the Rural Roundup, one of a six-part series called “Unsung Heroes”. In this episode Calum Johnston visits Heather Close at Littleton farm where they discussed outwintering and rotational grazing. Through speaking to Heather, it was clear that on her beef farm, their unsung hero is biodiversity – many farmers would be aghast at the thought of weeds on their farm, but thistles and nettles are the unsung heroes for Littleton Farm.

Later in the episode James Orr an Agricultural Advisor with a special interest in the carbon footprint of livestock systems will tell us more about this Unsung Hero of biodiversity, the benefits, things to know if you’re considering it, and the positive impact it could have on your farm, croft, and on the planet!

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of the Rural Roundup. Check out the other five episodes of the Unsung Heroes series, all available to listen wherever you normally do, right now!

If you’d like to get in touch or find out more about anything we discussed in the Podcast, head to the show notes.

This episode was presented by Calum Johnston, produced by Kerry Hammond and edited by Cameron Waugh, in association with the Scottish Government.

Related FAS Resources

Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland

Biodiversity On Your Farm | Helping farmers in Scotland

Climate Change resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service

For more information, visit  www.fas.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Autumn Budget 2025

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie are joined by Andrew Coalter to discuss what the recent Autumn Budget means for farming.

Timestamps

02:05 Upcoming deadlines

04:51 Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF)

06:35 Greening 2026

07:34 Introduction to Andrew Coalter

09:45 Autumn budget - overall summary

11:47 Autumn budget – Relief (APR & BPR)

14:08 Autumn budget - Practical Advice

22:54 Autumn budget – Personal tax

26:45 Autumn budget – National living wage

28:38 Autumn budget – Capital allowances

33:01 Autumn budget - Other changes

35:10 Making tax digital

37:20 Upcoming events

FAS Resources

Business and Policy December 2025 - Management Matters - Autumn Budget

https://www.fas.scot/article/business-and-policy-december-2025-management-matters-autumn-budget/

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme

https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/scottish-suckler-beef-support-scheme/

FAS Events

https://www.fas.scot/events/

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Men’s Health Month – Blood Pressure & Baler Twine

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie discuss men’s health month with RSABI hut coordinator Rebecca Mackie and Health Hut nurse, Irene Scott.

Time Stamps

00:26 What’s going on with George & Mary-Jane

03:10 Future Farm Investment Scheme (FFIS)

05:30 Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) Reminder

08:45 Leaving winter stubbles

14:44 Upcoming events

17:28 RSABI Health hut

FAS Resources

RSABI Health huts: Health Huts - RSABI

FAS Events: https://www.fas.scot/events/

Rural Payments, all scheme guidance https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/

Other Resources

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Storm Amy, AgriScot & Reminders

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:45:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie discuss the aftermath of storm Amy, speak to Gilmour Lawrie ahead of the much-anticipated AgriScot 2025 and talk about upcoming deadlines including EFA green cover, PSF, SSBSS and SUSS.

FAS Resources

AgriScot 2025: https://agriscot.co.uk/

FAS Events: https://www.fas.scot/events/

Rural Payments, all scheme guidance https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

New Regulations for Applying Waste to Land

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today’s episode George Chalmers and Mary-Jane Lawrie highlight what’s happening in Scottish agriculture and are then joined by Peter Lang from SEPA to discuss new regulations for the application of waste to land, which will come into effect on 1st November 2025.

FAS Resources

Preparing For The Future | Helping farmers in Scotland

Other Resources

Use of waste on land - changes to regulations | SEPA

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (Mainland and Islands) full guidance

Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme full guidance

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Hot weather, FFIS & Cross Compliance

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 14:15:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today’s episode George Chalmers introduces Mary-Jane Lawrie, who will be sitting in for Tiffany Stephenson, while on maternity leave. Topics of discussion include, extreme weather, FFIS updates and cross compliance reminders, which includes useful tips on hedge management.

FAS Resources

FAS Website – Responding to changing weather https://www.fas.scot/responding-to-changing-weather/

FFIS Scheme Guidance - https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/ffis/future-farm-investment-scheme/

Other Resources

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Future Farming Investment Scheme

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 16:15:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson discuss the new Future Farming Investment Scheme, which will open for applications on 14th July 2025 and close on 22nd August 2025. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government.

FAS Resources

Future Farm Investment Scheme full guidance

Future farming Investment Scheme - gov.scot

Other Resources

How to Complete your FFIS Application

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Enhanced Greening for 2026

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. On today’s episode George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson talk to Professor Steven Thomson about the Enhanced Greening conditional changes which will come into effect from 1st January 2026.

This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government.

FAS Resources

Events | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Greening Guidance 2026 (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing For The Future | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Other Resources

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

AECS & Water Scarcity

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. On today’s episode George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson talk about the upcoming AECS deadline and the pressing issue of water scarcity. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government.

FAS Resources

Water Scarcity - Farming and Water Scotland

Events | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

For more information, visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Farm Business Survey Results & The Spring Statement

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Becka Henderson, a Farm Business Analyst from SAC Consulting to talk about results from the Farm Business Survey and headlines from the spring statement.

FAS Resources

Whole farm benchmarks | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Contact: ScottishFarmBusinessSurvey@sac.co.uk

Scottish farm business income (FBI) - gov.scot

Other Resources

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Headlines & Deadlines for SAF (IACS) and AECS

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who talk headlines and deadlines. We talk about the Single Application Form (IACS) window, AECS, and changes to both. We also discuss “Fair work first” and what that means for farmers & crofters undertaking an AECS.

Related Resources

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF)

Claims and payments

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Spring Update, Avian Flu & a “New Deal for Agriculture”

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who bring us their Spring Update, with information on the “New Deal for Agriculture”, NVZ, claim deadlines for PSF & AECS Capital claims, an update on h5n1, and a market update.

Related Resources

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF)

Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot

Claims and payments

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

First Footing Forward: Plan for the Year Ahead

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who discuss what Farmers & Crofters can do to put the best foot forward in the New Year, to give themselves a good chance of a successful 2025.

Related Resources

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF)

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme

Whole Farm Plan full guidance

Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Keeping Well at Christmas

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who discuss all relevant schemes and deadlines, and look ahead to Christmas in the Farming Community.

FAS Resources

Mental Health and Wellbeing | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

fas.scot/downloads/mental-health-and-wellbeing/

Other Resources

Home - RSABI

Christmas and mental health - Mind

Farmstrong Scotland - Live Well, Farm & Croft Well

Preparing for sustainable farming - gov.scot

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (Mainland and Islands)

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme

Home | ScotEID

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

The Autumn Budget 2024 (Death & Money)

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by Sascha Grierson, Principal Consultant & Agri-Economics lead at SAC Consulting and Andrew Coalter Senior Consultant & Chartered Accountant at SAC Consulting who discuss the implications of the Autumn Budget for the Agricultural Industry and dive into detail on the inheritance tax update, and why you should start thinking about Succession, sooner rather than later.

FAS Resources

SuccessionPlanning | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

SuccessionPlanning – Crofting | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Other Resources

AutumnBudget 2024 – HC 295

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Policy Spotlight - Calving Intervals & EFA

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, Farm Advisors Tiffany, George and Robert give us the latest agricultural updates from around Scotland, and are then joined by Professor Steven Thomson, Professor of Agricultural Economics and Policy at SRUC to discuss the latest policy updates, including EFA, Calving Intervals and more.

FAS Resources

Stock Talk | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

SRUC | Rural Policy Centre

W9 Calving Intervals in Scotland's Cattle Population: Conditionality Options - New Rural Support Scheme development - evidence: outputs summary - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Scottish-Suckler-Beef-Support-Scheme-FAQ-June-2024-v2.pdf

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Climate Week

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, Farm Advisors Tiffany Stephenson from St Boswells, George Chalmers from Turriff and Robert Ramsay from Ayr, give us the latest agricultural updates from the Borders, N. East and S. West of Scotland, and are later joined by Iain Boyd, a senior Environmental Consultant to talk about Climate Week and what opportunities it brings to Crofters and Farmers in Scotland.

FAS Resources

Climate Change resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Climate Week | Net Zero Nation

Take Action | Net Zero Nation

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Agritourism, the People, the Places, the Produce

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode I’m joined by George Chalmers, Robert Ramsay & Osla Jamwal-Fraser to talk about agritourism, opportunities to diversify and the added value opportunities for Scottish Agriculture.

FAS Resources

Alternative Enterprises | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agri Culture - Cream O Galloway: A Dairy Story | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Home - Scottish Agritourism

Agriturismo.it - True Italian agritourism only

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

The Whole Farm Plan

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 09:00:00 +0000

FAS Resources

Preparing For The Future | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

The Farm Management Handbook | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Events | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agribusiness News July 2024 - Sector Focus: Whole Farm Plans | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Whole Farm Plan (ruralpayments.org)

Scottish IPM Assessment Plan | Plant Health Centre

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Census, Silage, & Scottish Land & Estates

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode I’m joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who chat about the census, thinking about silage and the ECS organics deadline, and I’m later joined by Eleanor Kay from Scottish Land & Estates who talks about their theme of resilience this year. We discuss everything from their organisational strategy, right through to how land-owners can take advantage of the right opportunities at the right time.

FAS Resources

https://www.fas.scot/downloads/feed-and-forage-factsheet/

Integrated Land Management Plans (ILMPs) | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Specialist Advice | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

https://www.ruralpayments.org/news-events/agricultural-census-2024.html

https://www.scottishlandandestates.co.uk/

Scottish Land & Estates | Musselburgh | Facebook

Natural_Capital_Toolkit_Open_Version.docx (live.com)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

A Carbon Conversation, audits, emissions, reductions and more

Wed, 22 May 2024 09:00:00 +0000

FAS Resources

Carbon Audits | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Specialist Advice | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Carbon Literacy for rural industries | Keep Scotland Beautiful

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Water, Water Everywhere and Far Too Much to Do

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode I’m joined by George Chalmers, Robert Ramsay and Tiffany Stephenson who discuss the recent bout of wet weather, and the implications of this on our agricultural businesses. We also talk about beef enterprise efficiencies. I’m later joined by Sascha Grierson, Principal Consultant at SAC Consulting and Project Lead for the Scottish Farm Business Survey, commissioned by the Scottish Government. Sascha tells us the latest findings from the Scottish & Farm Business Survey, and provides some figures for industry performance.

If you want to sign up for the farm business survey please email Sascha.grierson@sac.co.uk

FAS Resources

Stock Talk - Performance in Beef Herds | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

CropCast - Spring Fertiliser Applications | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Whole Farm Benchmarks Tool 2022-23 | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Agricultural Reform Route Map (ruralpayments.org)

Supporting documents - Scottish farm business income: annual estimates 2022-2023 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Trees of the Gaelic World : SCOT’S PINE (mini-series)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. This episode is part of a spotlight mini-series titled Trees of the Gaelic World. This episode is all about Scot’s Pine and will explore the Gaelic language and lore surrounding the species with scholar Dr Mìcheal Newton, and advice from Alan Crawford from The Woodland Trust on the best conditions for the species, and how to manage or establish Scot’s Pine on our land in the current day. You can find three more episodes in this series on the Rural Roundup Podcast, we also cover, Yew, Birch and Oak.

Dr Mìcheal Newton was awarded a Ph.D. in Celtic Studies from the University of Edinburgh in 1998 for his dissertation The Tree in Scottish Gaelic Literature and Tradition.

Music Credit:

Our sincere thanks go to composer David Bertrand for providing the folk music interludes in this episode. https://www.davidbertrandmusic.com/

Resources

Tree Planting Advice - Plant Trees - Woodland Trust

Michael S Newton - Academia.edu

Home (hiddenglenfolk.org)

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/publications/2023/01/trees-for-the-crofting-community/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Trees of the Gaelic World : OAK (mini-series)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. This episode is part of a spotlight mini-series titled Trees of the Gaelic World. This episode is all about Oak and will explore the Gaelic language and lore surrounding the species with scholar Dr Mìcheal Newton, and advice from Alasdair Firth from The Woodland Trust on the best conditions for the species, and how to manage or establish Oak on our land in the current day. You can find three more episodes in this series on the Rural Roundup Podcast, we also cover, Yew, Birch and Scot’s Pine.

Dr Mìcheal Newton was awarded a Ph.D. in Celtic Studies from the University of Edinburgh in 1998 for his dissertation The Tree in Scottish Gaelic Literature and Tradition.

Music Credit:

Our sincere thanks go to composer David Bertrand for providing the folk music interludes in this episode. https://www.davidbertrandmusic.com/

Resources

Tree Planting Advice - Plant Trees - Woodland Trust

Michael S Newton - Academia.edu

Home (hiddenglenfolk.org)

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/publications/2023/01/trees-for-the-crofting-community/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Trees of the Gaelic World : YEW (mini-series)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. This episode is part of a spotlight mini-series titled Trees of the Gaelic World. This episode is all about Yew and will explore the Gaelic language and lore surrounding the species with scholar Dr Mìcheal Newton, and advice from Iona Hyde from The Woodland Trust on the best conditions for the species, and how to manage or establish Yew on our land in the current day. You can find three more episodes in this series on the Rural Roundup Podcast, we also cover, Yew, Birch and Scot’s Pine.

Dr Mìcheal Newton was awarded a Ph.D. in Celtic Studies from the University of Edinburgh in 1998 for his dissertation The Tree in Scottish Gaelic Literature and Tradition.

Music Credit:

Our sincere thanks go to composer David Bertrand for providing the folk music interludes in this episode. https://www.davidbertrandmusic.com/

Resources

Tree Planting Advice - Plant Trees - Woodland Trust

Michael S Newton - Academia.edu

Home (hiddenglenfolk.org)

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/publications/2023/01/trees-for-the-crofting-community/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Trees of the Gaelic World : BIRCH (mini-series)

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. This episode is part of a spotlight mini-series titled Trees of the Gaelic World. This episode is all about Birch and will explore the Gaelic language and lore surrounding the species with scholar Dr Mìcheal Newton, and advice from Viv Halcrow from The Woodland Trust on the best conditions for the species, and how to manage or establish Birch on our land in the current day. You can find three more episodes in this series on the Rural Roundup Podcast, we also cover, Yew, Oak and Scot’s Pine.

Dr Mìcheal Newton was awarded a Ph.D. in Celtic Studies from the University of Edinburgh in 1998 for his dissertation The Tree in Scottish Gaelic Literature and Tradition.

Music Credit:

Our sincere thanks go to composer David Bertrand for providing the folk music interludes in this episode. https://www.davidbertrandmusic.com/

Resources

Tree Planting Advice - Plant Trees - Woodland Trust

Michael S Newton - Academia.edu

Home (hiddenglenfolk.org)http://woodlandcrofts.org/?page_id=552   

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/publications/2023/01/trees-for-the-crofting-community/

https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Celebrating-Birch-by-Greg-Wright/9781565233072

https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Birch-by-Anna-Lewington/9781789140118

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Spring Updates, SAF, IACS, AECS, Calving, Lambing and Cropping Advice

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. George Chalmers and Tiffany Stephenson discuss, in detail, all the things we need to focus on for Spring, including the Single Application Form (IACS), the Agri-Environment Scheme (AECS), and advice pertinent to calving, lambing, cropping and grass for Spring.

FAS Resources

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS) | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

CropCast - Spring Fertiliser Applications | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Basic Payment Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

SPOTLIGHT: Policy

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. This episode was recorded on Tuesday 20th Feb 2024 and all information considered correct to this date. On today’s episode Robert, Tiffany and George are joined by Professor Steven Thomson from SRUC’s Rural Policy Centre. They discuss the potential future landscape of funding, common grazings & small holders, policy and pressures around GHG emissions, and value chain need for reduced emissions and increased biodiversity. Discussion touches on the next generation of farmers, and how policy can encourage young people into the industry.

Other Resources

Agricultural Reform Route Map (ruralpayments.org)

Agricultural Reform What will Future Support Look Like? (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Downloading the Highlights from the FAS Connect Conference

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode I’m joined by George Chalmers as he fills me in on the headlines from the inaugural FAS Connect Conference. Remember for PSF options completed in 2023, the claim window runs from 1st March 2023 to 29th February 2024.

FAS Resources

FAS Connect | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

FAS Connect Conference | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Other Resources

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Adverse Weather Advice

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Robert, Tiffany and George discuss the impact of the recent wave of bad weather across Scotland. Whether managing flooded soils or staying safe around fallen trees it’s all worth taking a moment to consider best practice and the current advice out there.

FAS Resources

Forestry Information Note: Forestry Update – Felling Permission and Windblown Trees | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Mitigating Extreme Rainfall: October 2023 Flooding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources

The Forestry (Exemptions) (Scotland) Regulations 2019 (legislation.gov.uk)

Scottish Forestry - Felling permission for wind blow

Guide to Natural Flood Management (farmingandwaterscotland.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Back to the Future, a Resolution to use our Past to Inform our Next Steps

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Robert think about what Rabbie Burns would have to say about Farming today. They reflect on the similarities, and the massive changes that agriculture has seen since the Poet was working a plough.

We are also joined by Phil Knott a crofter from Skye, the Vice-Chair of the Nature Friendly Farming Network and facilitator of two farmers networks. Phil also discusses the value of looking back to a traditional way of farming, not for conservation, but to ensure that farmers are getting the best out of their land and their enterprises. He tells us about his own crofting innovations and brings us news of a network of Crofters in Caithness and Sutherland, crofting in a nature friendly way.

FAS Resources

FAS Connect | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

FAS Connect Conference Tickets, Wed 31 Jan 2024 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

Other Resources

Agroecology: strengthening livelihoods - Nourish Scotland

NFFN Scotland launches new crofting group for Sutherland and Caithness | Nature Friendly Farming Network, NFFN

BBC - Robert Burns - The Ploughman

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Working Together in Agriculture to Amplify Success

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George, Robert & Tiffany discuss collaboration and partnerships, looking at examples like The Scottish Pig Producers, and investigating how technology could facilitate collaboration. We are also joined by Tara Wight from The Landworker’s Alliance discussing their work in bringing people together, and the benefit of Farmer’s networks.

FAS Resources

Cooperation & Collaboration Resources (fas.scot)

Other Resources

Landworkers' Alliance Homepage (landworkersalliance.org.uk)

SCOTTISH PIG PRODUCERS - Home (scottishpigs.coop)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

“A Farmer isn’t just for Christmas”, Public Perception of Farming Throughout the Year

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George, Robert & Tiffany chat about the run up to Christmas, how the public get interested in farms, farming, and local food at this time of year, and how we could make more of this for the rest of the year.

FAS Resources

Positive PR | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Positive PR Infographic | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

fas.scot/downloads/creating-a-social-media-campaign-fact-sheet/

Women in Agriculture Conference | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Talking Technology

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Robert are joined by Lorna Galloway, a senior consultant at SAC Consulting to discuss developments in agricultural technology, opportunities for efficiencies and what tech might look like in the future.

FAS Resources

Thrill of the Hill - Virtually Stockproof | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Podcast: The Thrill of The Hill - Virtual Fencing | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

The FAS Companion App | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Virtual Fencing | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Storm Babet, PSF Funding Opportunities and a Conversation about Sheep and Cow Supplementation

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Robert discuss the recent extreme weather events and the opportunities for farmers through PSF (Preparing for Sustainable Farming). We are also joined by Dr Annie Williams to discuss optimum mineral supplementation for cows and sheep.

FAS Resources

Mitigating Extreme Rainfall: October 2023 Flooding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

fas.scot/downloads/water-management-on-your-farm-resilience/

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) - An Overview | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Mineral Supplementation for Sheep Webinar - YouTube

Mineral Supplementation for Cattle Webinar - YouTube

Cattle Mineral Supplementation | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

RSABI Launches £100,000 Flooding Fund for Farmers - RSABI

Fundraiser by John Morrison : Brechin Community Assistance Fund (gofundme.com)

Guide to Natural Flood Management (farmingandwaterscotland.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Spotlight on Policy

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, George & Robert are joined by Professor Steven Thomson from SRUC’s Rural Policy Centre to shine a spotlight on what’s happening currently with rural and agricultural policy.

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

AECS 2024, The Nature Restoration Fund and The Scottish Agricultural Awards

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Tiffany chat about the Scottish Agricultural awards, AECS 2024 and the Nature Restoration Fund.

FAS Resources

Borders Vet Lab Visit | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Farmyard Pollution, Farmer Solution | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Scottish Government Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) | NatureScot

Scottish Agricultural Awards | RHASS

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Basic Payment Scheme, the Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme, and an Organic success story

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Tiffany bring you some good news about the Basic Payment Scheme, The Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme, and an Organic success story. Tiffany Stephenson also tells us about another podcast she hosts, called CropCast, and tells us what we can expect to hear in those episodes.

FAS Resources

Organics Discussion Group from the Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Organics podcasts | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

CropCast | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Stock Talk | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Peatland Restoration Event - Stornoway | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Culteuchar Grazing for Profit and Biodiversity | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Basic Payment Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Welcome | Scottish Organic Milk

Farm Resilience Programme - The Royal Countryside Fund

Scottish Smallholder Festival October 2023 - Scottish Smallholder Festival

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

SPOTLIGHT: Environment

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, George & Robert are joined by Iain Boyd, Senior Environmental Consultant at SAC Consulting, to give our quarterly Environmental update. The guys discuss water quality and scarcity, Carbon offsetting & insetting & a look at current issues with invasive species.

FAS Resources

https://www.fas.scot/specialist-advice/

https://www.nonnativespecies.org/

https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/invasive-species/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/choosing-financial-software-for-your-farm-business/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/sustainable-sheep-systems/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/mineral-supplementation-for-sheep-webinar/

Other Links

https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/water/water-scarcity/

Bathing Waters: Homepage (sepa.org.uk)

Know the Rules - Diffuse Pollution Information Sheets - Farming and Water Scotland

https://www.fas.scot/downloads/mind-the-gap-2-m-and-10-m-buffer-strips-near-watercourses-information-note/

https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/carbon-insetting-vs-offsetting-an-explainer/

https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/protected-areas-and-species/protected-species/invasive-non-native-species/identify-and-report-invasive-non-native-species

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

SPOTLIGHT: Farm Health & Safety

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

*Content Warning* This podcast discusses accidents, injuries, and fatalities, some of which involve children. Though there is no gore, and this is discussed in a factual manner, please consider if you are able to listen to this episode safely. *

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany, George & Robert are joined by Kathy Gostick, Health & Safety Inspector for HSE to discuss Farm Health & Safety in-depth.

HSE Links & Guidance:

Stats: It’s time for farmers to ‘think differently about safety’ says regulator | HSE Media Centre

Fatal injuries in agriculture, forestry and fishing in Great Britain: 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023 (hse.gov.uk)

Recent Campaigns: HSE Agriculture ebulletin: It's time for farmers to 'think differently about safety'

Work Right Agriculture Campaign - 'Your Farm Your Future'

Welcome to the 10th Annual Farm Safety Week - YellowWellies.org

Vehicles: Safe workplace transport - Agricultural - HSE 

Safe Stop for workplace transport

Maintenance - Agriculture - HSE

Cattle: Handling and housing cattle AIS35 (hse.gov.uk) HSE AIS17 EW Cattle and public access in England and Wales (hse.gov.uk)

HSE AIS17 S Cattle and public access in Scotland (hse.gov.uk)

The Countryside Code - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

OHPLs: Agriculture: Electricity (hse.gov.uk)

General: What a good farm looks like - Agriculture (hse.gov.uk)

Farmwise: Your essential guide to health and safety in agriculture (hse.gov.uk)

FAS Resources

Developing Safe Farming Practices | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sammi Kinghorn - Thriving Through Adversity, and Promoting Diversity | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Developing Safe Farm Practice: How to Complete a Risk Assessment

Child Farm Safety | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Keeping children safe during lambing | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Agriculture: Learning on the job

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany, George & Robert catch up with Jennifer Mitchell and Emma Newlands to find out what they have been getting up to on their summer placements with SAC Consulting.

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Farm Labour shortages, free upskilling events, and a conversation with The Soil Association

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up hosted by me, Kerry Hammond. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany, George & Robert discuss recent weather patterns, silage, a new outbreak of bird flu, and mull over the issues caused by a national labour shortage on farms. Later, we are joined by Ana Allamand, Knowledge Exchange Manager for The Soil Association, to tell us about some of the exciting projects they are working on.

FAS Resources

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/selecting-finished-lambs-and-butchery-demonstration/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/young-farmers-upskilling-workshop-cowsignals/

Other Links:

https://www.soilassociation.org/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-allamand-b2401437/?locale=en_US

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

SPOTLIGHT: Policy

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany, George & Robert catch up with Steven Thomson, Rural Policy specialist from SRUC for the second policy spotlight update this year.

FAS Resources

Rural Roundup - A Spotlight on Rural Policy, a Peek at the Scottish Farm Business Survey Results, and Farmer Networks for Livestock Projects | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Steven Thomson — SRUC, Scotland's Rural College

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Royal Highland Show, Bracken Control and Thrill of The Hill

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany, George & Robert catch up after the Royal Highland Show, discuss the difficulties around Bracken Control and roundup sector performance at the moment. We are also joined by Alexander Pirie, Senior Consultant at SAC Consulting and host of the Thrill of the Hill Podcast, one of our sister Podcast shows, as he tells us what’s coming up on their podcast this year.

FAS Resources

Thrill of the Hill | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Borders Biodiversity Meeting | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Integrating Trees Network Event | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Use of Asulox for bracken control - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

SPOTLIGHT: Environment

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany & George are joined by Iain Boyd, Senior Environmental Consultant at SAC Consulting for the first quarterly spotlight on the Environment. Discussing water scarcity, wildfires, water pollution and renewables, this is a valuable conversation you don’t want to miss. We are also joined by Rachel Smillie, host of the Natural Capital Podcast, one of our sister Podcast shows, as she tells us what’s coming up on their podcast this year.

FAS Resources

https://www.fas.scot/news/nature-based-solutions-to-combat-drought-and-flooding/

https://www.fas.scot/energy/

https://www.fas.scot/sounds/natural-capital/

Other Links:

https://www.sepa.org.uk/environment/water/water-scarcity/

https://www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/know-the-rules/

https://businessenergyscotland.org/smeloan/

https://www.netregs.org.uk/environmental-topics/water/water-use-and-efficiency/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

On-Farm Events & Farmer to Farmer Learning and Talking Stock Talk

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Robert discuss the plethora of opportunities to get onto other people’s farms to learn and get inspired, and we’re joined by Kirstyn Blackwood the producer of our sister Podcast Stock Talk who chats with me and Robert about what’s coming up in the year ahead.

FAS Resources

Events | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Arable Scotland | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Stock Talk | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Arable Scotland 2023 Tickets, Tue 4 Jul 2023 at 09:00 | Eventbrite

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Headlines & Deadlines, Talking Silage; Whack it, Bale it & Stack it, & Abi Mordin from Propagate

Wed, 24 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Tiffany MacTaggart and George Chalmers bring you the headlines and deadlines to note for the fortnight, George & Robert discuss silage, and I’m joined by Abi Mordin, Co-director at Propagate who tells us about what’s on her desk, in her polytunnels, greenhouses and more.

Other Links:

A network for farmers in South West Scotland (propagate.org.uk)

Contact (propagate.org.uk)

Regenerative Farming Network (dgsustainablefoodpartnership.org)

@PropagateScotland on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

@D&GGoodFood on Twitter and Facebook

Regenerative Farming Network South West Scotland | Facebook

Soilmentor – The app for regenerative farmers (vidacycle.com)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Picking out the Positives from Agricultural Sectors and Planning for Water Scarcity with SEPA

Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode George & Robert pick out some positives from across the Sectors, and I’m joined by Nathan Critchlow-Watton , Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, to tell us more about planning for water scarcity in Scotland.

Show Notes

00:31 - The Rural Roundup with George and Robert

14:14 – Water Scarcity in Scotland

22.28– I need your help! Listener request.

FAS Resources

Nature Based Solutions to Combat Drought and Flooding | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Water Requirements at Grass | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Working for Water in a Changing Climate | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Homepage

Water scarcity | Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA)

sepa-a4-flyer-agriculture-final.pdf

Reduce Diffuse Pollution Risks in Farming. Know the regulations. (farmingandwaterscotland.org)

Listen to farming and water Scotland podcasts here:

Farming & Water Scotland (audioboom.com)

Water use and efficiency | NetRegs | Environmental guidance for your business in Northern Ireland & Scotland

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Pasture for Life, Exploring Unconventional Grazing, the Proposed Closure of the Forfar Mart and the Potential Consequences

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode we hear from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George & Robert discussing the proposed closure of the Forfar Mart, the potential consequences of this and the need for robust infrastructure in the wider farming sector, and we’re joined by Nikki Yoxall Head of Research at Pasture for Life, PHD student at CCRI, and Grazier and unconventional farmer joins us to tell us more about pasture for life and discusses what the future of livestock grazing may look like.

Hosted by Kerry Hammond and edited by Kieron Sim. Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with the Scottish Government

Show Notes

00:59 - The Rural Roundup

09:40 - What’s on your desk with Nikki Yoxall

21:44 - Resources and next episode information

Other Links:

Pasture for Life – Certified 100% grass-fed meat, milk and dairy

Members – Pasture for Life – Certified 100% grass-fed meat, milk and dairy

Nikki (Gilbey) Yoxall | LinkedIn

Follow Nikki on Twitter: @howemill

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

A Spotlight on Rural Policy, a Peek at the Scottish Farm Business Survey Results, and Farmer networks for Livestock Projects.

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Kerry hears from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, and George who are joined by SRUC’s Steven Thomson, (Reader in Agricultural Economics and Policy) to spotlight what is happening in rural policy.

Sascha Grierson, Principal Consultant for the Scottish Farm Business Survey, joins us to give us some insight from the latest Survey results, hot off the press from March 30th.

And we’re joined by Dr Claire Morgan-Davies a livestock systems scientist at SRUC who tells us what’s on her desk and highlights some interesting projects for Farmers to get involved with.

Hosted by Kerry Hammond and edited by Kieron Sim. Executive Producer Kerry Hammond. In association with the Scottish Government

Show Notes

01:04- Rural Roundup policy spotlight with Steven Thomson

22:54-Scottish Farm Business Survey Results

36:33- What’s on your desk – Claire Morgan Davies

45:54- Resources and next episode information

FAS Resources

Agribusiness News April 2023 - Management Matters: Scottish Farm Business Income 2021 - 2022 | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Whole Farm Benchmarks Tool 2021-22 | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Scottish Farm Business Survey - Good Technical Efficiency Pays | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links:

Agricultural Reform Programme (ruralpayments.org)

Steven Thomson — SRUC, Scotland's Rural College

Steven Thomson (@StevenGThomson) / Twitter

Scottish farm business income: annual estimates 2021-2022 - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

Farm Business Incomes 2021-22 (www.gov.scot)

Sascha Grierson PhD | LinkedIn

Sascha.Grierson@sac.co.uk

TechCare Project – Integrating innovative TECHnologies along the value Chain to improve small ruminant welfARE management (techcare-project.eu)

EuroSheep | European Knowledge Exchange

Sm@rt | Sm@ll Ruminant Technologies Platform (smartplatform.network)

Claire Morgan-Davies | LinkedIn

Claire Morgan-Davies — SRUC, Scotland's Rural College

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Cara Cameron Loch View Rural Training

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Cara Cameron is a Welsh girl living in the Scottish highlands with a love of the outdoors and agriculture. She has a thirst for knowledge and also loves to be able to pass on her experiences to others. After her time studying agriculture at SRUC (formerly SAC) at Craibstone in Aberdeen, she then went on to complete a post-grad in Organic farming. Cara launched Lochview Rural Training from her own croft in Sutherland in 2021.

Lochview Rural Training is situated in the beautiful Sutherland landscape. A social enterprise and registered Scottish Charity, with the key aim to promote, organise and deliver rural learning, training and career opportunities. Cara is passionate about improving awareness, knowledge and access to the rural landscape and promoting understanding of the value of rural life to social wellbeing for all. Lochview Rural Training offers a range of training for anyone from 7 years to adult. Calum Johnston, one of our FAS advisors, and FAS TV Producers sat down with Cara to find out more about Loch View Rural Training, and the amazing impact it has on the families and people who visit.

Related Materials

https://lochviewruraltraining.co.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/LochviewRuralTraining

https://www.instagram.com/lochviewruraltraining/

For more information,

visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Getting Ready for SAF/IACS and Diving Deep into the FAS Problem Solver

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Kerry hears from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George, and Robert to find out about what’s been going on in the agricultural sector, and Sascha Grierson joins us to tell us about the FAS problem Solver and Lorna MacPherson deep dives into some of the dairy specific resources you can find using this tool.

00:44- Rural Roundup

17:55 – What’s coming up – Events & Resources

19:03- FAS Problem Solver

31:53– Outro

FAS Resources

FAS Problem Solver | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

CropCast - Ecological Focus Areas (EFAs) | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Navigating Rural Payments New Map Viewer | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Resetting Your Rural Payments and Services Login Details | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Resources:

Single Application Form 2023 (ruralpayments.org)

Transfer of entitlements (ruralpayments.org)

Investing in sustainable agriculture - gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Tina MacPhail & Iain MacMillan, Grinneabhat Community Space

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Tina MacPhail has worked in hospitality for over 30 years, doing everything from dishwashing to accounting. The community has always played a large part in the roles she has held, as Tina believes Community and Hospitality go hand in hand. Her current role with Grinneabhat Community Hub gives her the opportunity to stay true to her Isle of Lewis roots - her Family, Traditions, Gaelic and crofting and passing it on to others .

UCBA (Bragar and Arnol community trust) is the owner of the Grinneabhat community building in North Bragar, Isle of Lewis.

The community is at the heart of the Trust.

Grinneabhat community building provides community facilities, a community veg garden and market, an exhibition space with regularly changing features, a cafe, self-catering accommodation for 12 in four en-suite rooms, one fully wheelchair accessible, a laundrette and an electric car charging point.

UCBA (Bragar and Arnol community trust) is a social enterprise, a small community organisation with big ideas remaining true to itself, with community, family Gaelic and tradition at its heart. Calum Johnston, one of our FAS advisors, sat down with Tina to find out more about this fantastic community resource, and how it helps the crofting communities it serves.

Related Resources:

Grinneabhat, Bragar | Hostel & Café | Fàilte is furan

Chris Dyer, Garths Croft - Crofting History & Culture | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

For more information,

visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Getting Ready for IACS, Corncrake Cover, and High Nature Value Farming

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Kerry hears from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George, and Robert to find out about what’s been going on in the agricultural sector, and Professor Davy McCracken tells us what’s on his desk.

Show Notes

00:40- Rural Roundup

13:25 – What’s coming up – events & resources

15:18- Davy McCracken – What’s on Your Desk, with Professor Davy McCracken

28:33– Outro

Related FAS Resources

Corncrake | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

How to complete your SAF Online | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Benefits of completing your SAF online video | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Corncrake | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Land Parcel Identification System (ruralpayments.org)

Farm Planning In Difficult Times: Energy, Economy, and Ecology Tickets, Mon 13 Mar 2023 at 19:00 | Eventbrite

SRUC KIRKTON & AUCHTERTYRE FARMS | Facebook

Davy McCracken - LinkedIn

Davy McCracken (@DavyMcCracken) / Twitter

Davy McCracken’s Profile | Muck Rack

Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme (SACGS) (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Lindsay Robertson, Long Island Retreats

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week the Rural Roundup is bringing you the latest in our series of six diversified farm businesses across Scotland, asking them about their journeys, the conversations they had along the way, and the decisions they had to make. This week we’re going to hear the Story of Lindsay Robertson from Long Island Retreats.

A woman who invites Shetland ponies into her home was perhaps always destined to create a crofting experience where visitors get to share her love of animals.

Born out of their passion for the land and livestock Lindsay and her partner DJ launched Long Island Retreats & Larder in 2022. The business combines croft tours, croft produce and soon will launch croft accommodation to deliver a fully immersive crofting experience, the first of its kind in the Outer Hebrides, allowing visitors to step off the beaten track and out onto their croft at Loch Skipport, South Uist.

Lindsay's background in marketing and business development has been pivotal in the development of the croft business, Calum Johnston, one of our FAS advisors sat down with Lindsay to find out more about this exciting new diversified business.

Related Resources

Visit South Uist Long Island Retreats

Long Island Retreats | Facebook

Long Island Retreats & Larder (@longislandretreats) • Instagram photos and videos

Long Island Retreats | Linktree

For more information

visit  www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Agricultural Performance, Nature Friendly Farming Network, & a Six Nations Listen

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Kerry hears from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George, and Robert to find out about what’s been going on in the agricultural sector and Phil Knott, Vice Chair of the Scotland Nature Friendly Farming Network tells us what’s on his desk.

00:42- Rural Roundup

19:26 – What’s coming up – events & resources

21:31- Phil Knott – What’s on Your Desk?

35:35 – Outro

FAS Resources

Postponed - Orkney Women in Agriculture Group - Crunching Carbon Audit Results | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) (Please note this event has been postponed.)

Scotland's Farm Advisory Service Podcast / Nigel Owens International Rugby Referee - From Pitch to Pasture (audioboom.com)

Reducing Inputs: An Integrated Approach | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

How to Reduce your Farm Energy Bills Webinar | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme (SACGS) (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Laura Beck The Paw Park

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The Pawpark is an exclusive use dog playpark located just outside Hawick in the Scottish Borders. It is run by Laura and Angus Beck alongside the family farming Business with Laura's Parents. The Diversification venture opened in August 2021 and has been a valuable addition to the farm Business. Calum Johnston, one of our FAS advisors, and FAS TV Producers sat down with Laura to find out more about her unique diversification idea.

Show notes:

https://www.thepawpark.net/

Katie's free-range corn fed chicken Business located in The Scottish Borders has recently started adding value to the chicken by-products by producing dog treats.

https://pasturepoultryuk.com/collections/pasture-poultry-pets

thepawparkscottishborders@outlook.com

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

The Agri-Environment Scheme, Big Farmland Bird Count, Nourish Scotland & Toe Health

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode Kerry hears from Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George, and Robert to find out about what’s been going on in the agricultural sector and Diana Garduño Jiménez from Nourish joins us to tell us what’s on their desk, and about their toe health.

Show Notes

00:34- Rural Roundup

22:53 - Interview with Diana from Nourish

31:00- Outro 

FAS Resources

Podcast: Thrill of The Hill - Working for Waders | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Thrill of the Hill - Working for Waders Part 2 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Soil Association Certification

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Big Farmland Bird Count - Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (bfbc.org.uk)

NatureScot

Agroecology: enabling the transition - Nourish Scotland

Pasture Poultry Feed Group– West Coast Focus. For more info contact: clem.sandison@landworkersalliance.org.uk
Market Gardening Group – Central Scotland. For more info contact: aallamand@soilassociation.org
Supporting Biodiversity within Island-Based Farming & Crofting Group – Islay, Jura, Gigha and Colonsay. For more info contact: kirsty.tait@nffn.org.uk
Grazing Group – North East Scotland. For more info contact: nikki@pastureforlife.org
Soil Health Group – South West Scotland. For more info contact: abi@propagate.org.uk
Biodiversity & Profitability Group – Scottish Borders. For more info contact: diana@nourishscotland.org.uk

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Caroline Hamilton, Cairns Farm Estate

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:00:00 +0000

The incredible transformation of Cairns Farm from hill sheep farm to a gorgeous destination wedding and events venue is a wonderful success story from Caroline Hamilton and her husband, fourth generation farmer Graham. Caroline has three adult children, and whilst none of the three were keen to take on the hill farming aspect of the business, all three were incredibly proud of their home and heritage, and worked with Caroline to ensure it’s future success. Caroline at Cairns farm started the incredible £1.9 million diversification project in 2017, and weathered many issues with the project through Covid and Brexit, resulting in a gorgeous and unique wedding and events venue.

Calum Johnston, one of our FAS advisors, and FAS TV Producers sat down with Caroline at her kitchen table, to find out the details. https://www.cairnsfarmestate.co.uk/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

NVZs, Budget updates, Farmstrong Scotland & a Spotlight on the Crofting Matters Podcast

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Rural Roundup. Happy New Year and a Happy Burns Night from all of us at the Farm Advisory Service! This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode we will join Farm Advisors, Tiffany, George, and Robert to find out about what’s been going on in the agricultural sector, we bring you an update on some new Farm Advisory Service resources, events, and other events happening in industry, and Siobhan MacDonald, host of our sister podcast, Crofting Matters, to take us on a quick whistlestop tour of the Crofting Matters series.

Show Notes

00:07 – Intro with Kerry

00:59 – Rural Roundup with Tiffany, Robert & George

18:49– What's coming up from the Farm Advisory Service & what's happening in industry

26:39 – Find out more about the Crofting Matters Podcast

38:15 – Details of our next episodes

FAS Resources

Crofting Matters | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Common Grazings Dilemmas | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Crofting Legislation | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Ayrshire Women in Agriculture Group - Distillery & Anaerobic Digestion Plant Visit | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agribusiness News January 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Milk Manager News January 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

FAS TV | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Morayshire New Entrants - Forage Crops | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Online Training for Practical Skills - Sheep Dipping Uist | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

The Trading Market for Farmland Carbon | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Other Links

Siobhan Macdonald | LinkedIn

High Nature Value Farmland- the key to a nature-rich future in Scotland? Tickets, Tue 31 Jan 2023 at 19:00 | Eventbrite

Reducing Inputs: An Integrated Approach (soilassociation.org)

Farmstrong Scotland Events | Eventbrite

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Bonus Content: Jock Gibson, Edinvale Farm (Diversification Story)

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 09:00:00 +0000

This week the Rural Roundup is bringing you something a little different, we spoke to six diversified farm businesses across Scotland, asking them about their journeys, the conversations they had along the way, and the decisions they had to make. This week we’re going to hear the story of Jock Gibson from Edinvale Farm. Jock is a partner of Edinvale Farms and Managing Director of Macbeth’s Butchers, both family owned businesses. Jock and his wife Fiona farm cattle and sheep in Moray and are 'Pasture for Life Certified' they also run Macbeth's Butchers in Forres, operate an online-shop / mail order butchery, and have an honesty shed shop on-farm. Listen in as Jock tells us about the decisions they made along their journey.

Related Resources

Macbeth's - Scottish online butcher and game dealer (macbeths.com)

Edinvale Farm | Forres | Facebook

Edinvale Farm – Pasture for Life – Certified 100% grass-fed meat, milk and dairy

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

New Years Resolutions, Veganuary, and a spotlight on the Agri Culture Podcast.

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition (recorded in advance of the festive break) Tiffany Mactaggart, is joined by Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers who discuss their farming highlights of 2022, their wishes for the next year, and their new year’s resolutions. Mary-Jane Lawrie joins us on the podcast to tell us more about Agri Culture, one of our sister podcasts. Everyone at the Farm Advisory Service, hopes you had a lovely Christmas if you celebrate it, wish you a happy Hogmanay.

Show Notes

00:06 - Intro

00:41 -Rural Roundup with TIffany, Robert and George

19:23 – Find out more about our sister Agri Culture Podcast

24:26 - Christmas wishes and next episode details

Linked FAS resources:

Agri Culture | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Linked Other resources:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-jane-lawrie-05658a253/

RSABI: Home Page

HELPLINE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY: 0808 1234 555 (FREEPHONE)

Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen

Call 116 123 for free

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Local Food and Drink, Short Supply Chains, and New Food Product Development

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 09:00:00 +0000

We just want to clarify that the AECS Capital, Sustainable Agriculture Grant Scheme (SACGS) and PSF Carbon Audit/Soil Analysis claim deadlines are the 28th February 2023.

If you have AECS Capital Items the work for these must be completed by December 31st 2022.

In this fortnight’s edition we get the latest news from Tiffany MacTaggart, who is joined by Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers to discuss what’s happening in the agricultural sector, I (Kerry Hammond) bring you the latest useful resources and events from the Farm Advisory Service, and I talk to Alistair Trail a Principal Food & Enterprise Consultant about his work with Food & Drink businesses, and how some farmers are adding value by making food products.

00:00:00 Intro

00:27:589 Rural Roundup

16:07:582 Advertising Segment

18:18:236 What’s on Your Desk

26:40:055 Outro

Related FAS Resources

Sheep Nutrition Workshop - Borders | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Crofter’s Fuel Poverty – Improving the Existing Housing Stock | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

FAS TV | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service

Other Related Resources

Scottish Suckler Beef Support Scheme (Mainland and Islands) (ruralpayments.org)

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (ruralpayments.org)

Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme (SACGS) (ruralpayments.org)

Food and drink TechHUB | HIE

Food & Enterprise | SRUC

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-trail-0a498211/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Soil Sampling, Economic Uncertainty, and a Controversial Trifle Recipe

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition we get the latest news from Tiffany MacTaggart, who is joined by Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers to discuss what’s happening in the agricultural sector, I (Kerry Hammond) bring you the latest useful resources and events from the Farm Advisory Service, and I talk to Chloe McCulloch, Principal Consultant at SAC Consulting, and Programme Lead for the Farm Advisory Service, to find out what’s on her desk, and some of her polarising opinions on trifle.

Linked FAS Resources:

Scottish Farm Business Survey | SRUC

Whole farm benchmarks | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Cattle and Sheep Record Keeping Video Series | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Plan Now to Navigate Your Way Through the Tough Times Ahead | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Farming For A Better Climate Roadshow - Stirling | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Farming For A Better Climate Roadshow - Larkhall | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Farming For A Better Climate Roadshow - Inverurie | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Linked Other Resources:

RSABI: About RSABI

Business contacts | Lantra - Scotland

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Farm carbon calculator | Home | Agrecalc

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

RSABI CONTACT DETAILS

HELPLINE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY: 0808 1234 555 (FREEPHONE)

Avian Influenza, Production & Exclusions Letters, and upcoming bonus content.

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition we get the latest news from Tiffany MacTaggart, who is joined by Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers to discuss what’s happening in the agricultural sector, I (Kerry Hammond) bring you the latest useful resources and events from the Farm Advisory Service, and I talk to Calum Johnston about some exciting bonus content he has been creating for future Rural Roundup episodes.

00:20 - Rural Roundup with Tiffany MacTaggart, Robert Ramsay, and George Chalmers

04:00 –Avian Influenza on the rise

06:50 – Avian Flu’s impact on Christmas turkeys

09:05 – Production & Exclusion letters for 2016

11:45 – Cropping for 2023

17:50 – What’s new from FAS

22:35 – Upcoming Bonus Content

Related FAS Resources

Responding To The Energy Crisis | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Profiting from Reducing Tillage and Lowering Emissions - Farmer Meeting | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) 

Land Management for Scottish Atlantic Rainforests | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Agribusiness News November 2022 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Aberdeenshire New Entrants Group - How Diversification Can Enhance Your Business | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Related Other resources:

Avian influenza (bird flu): how to spot and report the disease - gov.scot (www.gov.scot) 

Contact APHA - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Sheep & Beef Support Schemes PLUS talking AgriScot

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 14:30:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition we get the latest news from Tiffany MacTaggart and are joined by George Chalmers and Robert Ramsay to talk about sheep and beef support schemes and AgriScot. We also get an insight into what’s on Lorna MacPherson's desk.

Show Notes

00:20 - Rural Roundup with Tiffany MacTaggart

01:45 –AgriScot with Robert and George

08:20 – Updates from the Farm Advisory Service

10:00 – What’s On Your Desk – with Lorna MacPherson Dairy Consultant SAC Consulting

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Preparing For Sustainable Farming & Agricultural Bill Consultation

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition we get the latest news from Tiffany MacTaggart, and are joined by George Chalmers and Robert Ramsay to talk about soils and fertilisers. Janette Sutherland is here to give an update on her personal development bookclub, and Amy Burton from Azets Accountants and Consultancy gives us an insight onto what’s on her desk.

Show Notes

00:20 - Rural Roundup with Tiffany MacTaggart

04:05 – Soils and Fertilisers with Robert and George

09:30 – Updates from the Farm Advisory Service

10:30 - Personal Development Bookclub with Janette Sutherland

15:30 – What’s On Your Desk – with Amy Burton from Azets Accountants and Advisory Services

Linked FAS resources:

https://www.fas.scot/crops-soils/

Sourcing Labour - Advertising for Applicants to the Agricultural World | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Sourcing Labour - Making Your Farm an Attractive Place to Work | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/personal-development-book-club-2/

Amy Burton | LinkedIn

Local Accountants & Business Advisory Services | Azets UK

Linked Other resources:

 Delivering our Vision for Scottish Agriculture. Proposals for a new Agriculture Bill - Scottish Government - Citizen Space (consult.gov.scot) 

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Early Harvest, Nitrogen Application, Changing Slurry Rules, Basic Payments Scheme

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight's edition of Rural RoundUp we get the latest news from Tiffany Mactaggart. Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers discuss the energy crisis and we hear all about Janette Sutherland's virtual book club before finishing with 'What's On Your Desk Sascha Grierson?'

Linked FAS Resources;

Renewed Interest Podcast:

https://feeds.captivate.fm/thrill-of-the-hill/

FAS Book Club:

https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0oceyuqTovH9z7QPB1BRSTdvJahqugAkhL?_x_zm_rtaid=UoJ0i7EjRWKvtwEMWG_a0A.1664292705202.74994bfeb78b0875b2240979cc489798&_x_zm_rhtaid=241

Responding to the energy crisis:

https://www.fas.scot/energy/

Linked Other Resources;

Farming for a better climate Podcast Series

https://www.farmingforabetterclimate.org/about-us/farming-for-a-better-climate-podcast-series/

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Muirburn, The Australian Trade Deal, The Nature Restoration Fund, and Forage Budgeting,

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition of the Rural Roundup, we get the latest news from Tiffany Mactaggart and we speak to Sascha Grierson and Mark Bowsher-Gibbs about the benefits of the new Quick FAS tool, as well as how to get the best outcome for your crop. We bring you a highlight from the latest Natural Capital podcast, where Stan Phillips and Helen Bibby discuss Scotland's Rainforests. Finally, we speak to Iain Boyd and ask him 'What's on your desk?'

Linked FAS resources:

Natural Capital podcast Series:

https://feeds.captivate.fm/natural-capital/

https://open.spotify.com/show/3RonMCZhbF92rSxI97VnpK

Alternatives to Land Ownership - North Region Event (24th September)

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/alternatives-to-land-ownership-north-region/

Marketing the Crop - Getting the Best Outcome for Your Crop | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Linked Other resources:

Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) - Information for Applicants - Guidance for funding applicants | NatureScot

Iain Boyd | LinkedIn

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Nutrient Budgeting, Basic Payments, Hedge Trimming, Scottish Upland Sheep Support Scheme

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:00:00 +0000

Tiffany McTaggart - Rural Roundup 0:22.697

Margo McGill 18:28

Other great podcasts from the Farm Advisory Service 13:44.468

Robert Ramsay & George Chalmers - Calf sales and Harvest 2:4

Linked FAS resources:

Deer Farming Meeting - Innerhadden Estate | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Virtual Fencing Tech Roadshow - Highlands | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/grazing-lambs-for-productive-flocks/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/grazing-ewes-for-productive-flocks/

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/backing-beef-what-does-the-future-hold/

Chris Dyer, Garths Croft - Crofting History & Culture | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

https://www.gov.scot/publications/delivering-vision-scottish-agriculture-proposals-new-agriculture-bill/documents/

Linked Other resources:

Lockharts / Law. Meet The Team. (lockhartslaw.com)

Rural Payments and Services

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Water Scarcity, Interest Rates, and The Economic Conditions of Crofting Survey

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition of the Rural Roundup we get the latest news from Tiffany Mactaggart, we speak to George Chalmers and Robert Ramsay about harvest progress and how the dry weather has affected crops and grass. Sascha Grierson and Findlay Ross introduce us to the new Quick FAS feature and we speak to Hamish Logan from Savills to ask him what’s on his desk?

Update Description

Harvest Discussion and Agri-Update

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 09:00:00 +0000

00:18 - Rural Roundup with Tiffany MacTaggart

04:05 - This years harvest discussion with Robert Ramsay and George Chalmers

13:35 - Other great podcasts from the Farm Advisory Service

16:10 - What's On Your Desk? With Brady Stevens

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Relevant links:

https://www.fas.scot/sounds/

https://www.fas.scot/publication/crofting-matters-bull-management/

https://www.fas.scot/publication/peter-eccles-success-out-with-succession/

https://www.fas.scot/publication/cropcast-episode-1-winter-crop-disease-management-for-2022/

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/brady-stevens-3790a590

Regenerative Agriculture and Organics

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

In this fortnight’s edition of the rural roundup we get the latest news from Tiffany Mactaggart and we speak to George Chalmers and Robert Ramsay about regenerative agriculture and organics. We hear about the latest instalment of the personal development book club from Janette Sutherland and find out about a brand new Dragon’s Den imitative for new entrants to farming. Finally, we speak to Rosanna Fraser from Bidwells to find out what’s on their desk.

Linked FAS resources:

Aberdeen and Angus Women in Agriculture Group | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

How to Establish a Successful Farm Business: Make Your Mark | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Linked Other resources:

Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) (ruralpayments.org)

Sustainable Farming Survey Open (ruralpayments.org)

beef_sector_strategy_2030.pdf (qmscotland.co.uk)

https://homes.bidwells.co.uk/

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rosanna-fraser-24b584100

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Basic Payment Scheme, Avian Influenza, and Agri-Environment Schemes

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This fortnight's roundup features news updates on the Basic Payment Scheme, avian influenza and agri-environment schemes. Janette Sutherland is back with the second instalment of her personal development bookclub. We learn about lead poisoning and its causes, calving heifers and finally, we speak with Tom Rust, a land agent from Bell Ingram and ask him what's on his desk.

00:00 Rural Roundup with Tiffany McTaggart

03:27 Talking Local Shows With Robert Ramsay & George Chalmers

12:20 Self Improvement Bookclub With Janette Sutherland

15:29 News & Events

15:45 Lead Poisoning & the Causes

17.05 Are You Calving Your Heifers At The Right Age?

Calving at 2

Calving at 2.5

Calving at 3

18:25 Asulam Emergency Authorisation

19:23 22nd July Event: Nature Restoration Fund

Taking the Plunge - Pond Creation for Wildlife | Events helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

20:21 Whats On Your Desk: Tom Rust

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Cereal, Wool and Pig Market Updates, plus Increased Tick Burdens

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This fortnight's roundup features updates on the Cereal, Wool, and Pig market. As well as a warning about increased tick burdens in sheep and cattle. Janette Sutherland is back with the first instalment of her personal development bookclub, and we speak with Agricalc and Agricultural consultant Anna Sellars to find out more about her and what’s on her desk.

On this episode:

0:24 – Rural Roundup with Tiffany McTaggart

3:55 – Personal Development Bookclub with Janette Sutherland

6:23 – 13th of June Women in Agriculture Event ‘Get The Most Out Of Your Soil’

7:48 – 30th June – Wedding Venues & Diversification at Cairns Farm

8:34 – 21st July – Farming Organically at West Moss Farm

8:48 - 5th July – Arable Scotland Is Back!

10:20 – ‘What’s On Your Desk’ with Anna Sellars

16:18 – How to like and subscribe for more

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Official Controls Register, Food Processing Grant, and AECS information

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 09:00:00 +0000

This fortnight's roundup features information on The Official Controls (plant protection products) Register 2020, The 2022 Food Processing Marketing and Co-operation grant, and some timely information on the agri-environmental climate scheme inspections taking place for 2023 applications. We hear from Janette Sutherland about the new FAS personal development book club, kicking off soon, and hear from Malcolm MacDonald to ask him What's on his desk?

On this episode:

0:23 – Rural Roundup with Tiffany McTaggart

2:34 – Personal Development Bookclub with Janette Sutherland

6:36 – Introducing the Crofting Matters Podcast

https://player.captivate.fm/episode/7b6cef6e-c9c4-476f-a4ea-84d8c2853c8a

7:39 – June 2022 Agribusiness News

https://www.fas.scot/publication/agribusiness-news-june-2022/

8:15 – Carbon Audit Webinar with the Perthshire Women in Agriculture Group

https://www.fas.scot/events/event/perthshire-women-in-ag-what-are-carbon-audits-and-why-all-the-chat/

8:40 – FAS At the Highland Show

9:04 – Introducing FAS Connect

https://www.fas.scot/connect/

9:57 – ‘What's On Your Desk’ with Malcolm Macdonald

19:18 – How to like and subscribe for more

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot

Introducing The Rural Roundup

Wed, 25 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000

The Rural Roundup is Scotland's Farm Advisory Service's regular Podcast, hosted by Kerry Hammond, featuring a roundup of the latest news, information and opinions from some of our other Podcast show hosts. Listen to find out what new information, events and resources are available through the FAS website, and get to know someone working in Industry with our short segment "What's on your desk?"

For more information, visit www.FAS.scot

Twitter: @FASScot

Facebook: @FASScot

National Advice Hub

Phone: 0300 323 0161

Email: advice@fas.scot