Scotland's Farm Advisory Service Podcast

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 [email protected] 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: [email protected]

Welcome to the April 2023 edition of Agribusiness News, brought to you by the Farm Advisory Service (FAS). Agribusiness news helps you to scan your horizon, prepare for industry changes and keeps you abreast of the latest research and policy updates. Along with our regular monthly updates on policy briefs, cereals, beef, sheep and milk, in this edition we are also bringing you 2 sector overviews on the budget and Northern Ireland Protocol. We will also be bringing you news on the 2022-23 Farm Business Survey and seasonal workers. Show Notes 00.49:-News in Brief 02.44:-Policy Briefs - SFA, EFA, Small Producers Fund 06.44:-Cereals and Oilseeds - Wheat prices beginning to bounce back 10.55:-Beef - Tight supply sees solid price. 14.16:-Sheep - Input costs affecting performance. 17.14:-Sector Focus - Budget update 22.35:-Milk - February boost to milk output 27.58:-Management Matters - 2022-23 Farm Business Survey 32.15:-Sector Focus - Northern Ireland Protocol Update 37.44:-Input Costs - Seasonal Workers FAS Resources Agribusiness News April 2023 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Links: Small Producers Pilot Fund Croft House Grant Scheme. [email protected] Farm Business Income Estimates for Scotland 2021-2022 DEFRA England FBI 2022-2023 forecast. SAWB - 0131 244 9750 or [email protected] For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: [email protected]

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 offer 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 Resources 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: [email protected]

Episode #12 – A Damming Conclusion? Beavers are a keystone species and their presence in Scotland could go a long way to achieving land landscape scale nature restoration that Scottish Government want to achieve. They are, like humans, ecosystem engineers and the natural processes they encourage can bolster other vulnerable habitats and species. But beavers come with challenges, they will naturally be inclined to block ditches and watercourses, burrow into productive agricultural fields and will by design, leave areas flooded. Obviously there are places in Scotland where this could be and has been highly disruptive. After hundreds of years without them, can farming and beavers find common ground? If you would like to see any of the press releases, journals, or further information that Euan referred to, please contact the FAS advice line who can provide you with this information.

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: [email protected]

In this podcast we will hear from Martin Beard from the Rare Breed Survival Trust. Martin tells us about what the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST) does and the importance of genetic diversity within species. He also talks about the importance of marketing and the supply chain working well. He highlights the RBST conference which will be held on the 23rd March. Linked Resources: Rare Breeds Survival Trust (rbst.org.uk)

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 Tina MacPhail, the manager of Grinneabhat Community Space who is joined by Iain MacMillan a crofting consultant at SAC Consulting.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: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

Episode #11 - The Farm Business Survey. On the podcast, we take two things more seriously than anything else - hills and thrills. But if there were a third place, that would go to data. Being able to produce figures to make informed decisions and justify your actions is at the heart of farming, more so now than ever. The Scottish Farm Business Survey offers a free, independent assessment of your business, producing a helpful set of management accounts and the all important carbon audit. Related FAS Materialshttps://www.fas.scot/whole-farm-benchmarks/ Related External Materialshttps://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-farm-business-income-annual-estimates-2020-2021/documents/

Welcome to CropCast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Mactaggart will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish Government In this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by Adam Christie, Managing Director at Scottish Agronomy and Professor Fiona Burnett to discuss winter and spring barley disease management (For winter wheat, please see Crop Disease Management - Winter Wheat episode). We discuss T0,T1, T2 & T3 spray timings and what you need to consider for this year's spray programme.Linked FAS Resources SRUC Crop protection report Crops | SRUC Scottish Agronomy Homepage - Visit Scottish Agronomy For More Information Scottish Recommended lists for cereals 2023/24 SAC RL centre pages 2010 (sruc.ac.uk) AHDB – Fungicide programmes for Barley https://ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/fungicide-programmes-for-barley

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: [email protected]

In this podcast we will hear from Michael Shannon from Damn Delicious. Michael tells us his story from working in the seed business to where he is today running his mixed farm and has diversified his business to include Damn Delicious which direct sells his homegrown produce. Michael talks about his business goals and the influence New Zealand systems had on him and his business. Michael is passionate about food production and gives his opinion on its future in the UK. A relatively new enterprise he speaks about is the Christmas turkeys. He talks about the challenges running that enterprise and the satisfaction he gets from feedback on his produce. Linked Resources HOME - Damn Delicious Butcher and Farm Shop Scotland Turkey Production | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Delivering Quality Produce | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

Episode #10 – A Cow for the Future. We all think we know a good cow when we see one, but how futureproof is she, and what are the traits the beef industry needs, at an individual cow and herd level to be productive and sustainable? In this episode we hear from agricultural consultant Robert Ramsay about the importance of a range of different features, from tail to temperament, hind legs to horns and how they all come together to form the cow of the future.The beef sector in Scotland has faced some difficult times in recent years and taking a longer view of history has seen dramatic declines since the 1974 when the head of cattle in the national head reached its all time high at 2.68 million cattle. More recently in 2020, we saw an all time low in cow numbers but looking at the most recent Scottish Agricultural Census results, numbers have increased by less than 1% to 1.72 million cattle. With all this in mind, is the sector on track for resurgence - here's hoping.

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: [email protected]

Welcome to CropCast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Mactaggart will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish Government In this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by Adam Christie, Managing Director at Scottish Agronomy and Professor Fiona Burnett to discuss crop disease management in winter wheat.We also discuss T0,T1, T2 & T3 spray timings and what you need to consider for this year's spray programme. Linked FAS Resources SRUC Crop protection report Crops | SRUC Scottish Agronomy Homepage - Visit Scottish Agronomy For More Information Scottish Recommended lists for cereals 2023/24 SAC RL centre pages 2010 (sruc.ac.uk) AHDB – Fungicide programmes for Wheat Fungicide programmes for wheat | AHDB

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 Laura Beck, from The Pawpark. 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 ​[email protected] For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: [email protected]

*Content Warning: This episode discusses themes of suicide and may not be suitable for all listeners* Mary-Jane Lawrie talks to Nigel Owens, a Welsh former international rugby union referee, who retired in December 2020 after a 17-year career. He currently holds the world record for the most test matches refereed and is one of five international referees listed as professional within the Welsh Rugby Union. Nigel has recently purchased his own farm and has started a pedigree Hereford herd. He talks about his early involvement in agriculture, his rugby career, his mental health struggles and his sexuality, and what he enjoys about farming. FAS Resources Health is Your Wealth: Physical and Mental Resilience | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Resources Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listen RSABI: Home Page Stonewall Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline

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 ScotlandPasture Poultry Feed Group– West Coast Focus. For more info contact: [email protected] Market Gardening Group – Central Scotland. For more info contact: [email protected] Supporting Biodiversity within Island-Based Farming & Crofting Group – Islay, Jura, Gigha and Colonsay. For more info contact: [email protected] Grazing Group – North East Scotland. For more info contact: [email protected] Soil Health Group – South West Scotland. For more info contact: [email protected] Biodiversity & Profitability Group – Scottish Borders. For more info contact: [email protected] For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

Episode #9 – Digging Deep on Soil Carbon. In this episode we hear from Senior Scientific Lead Rachael Ramsay about the scientific consensus around soil carbon, its impact on farm carbon footprints, options to reduce atmospheric carbon and whether soil is the silver bullet in the fight against climate change. There is an increasing awareness of the role of soil, grassland, peatland and atmospheric carbon capture in the pursuit of net zero emissions. The Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations suggests that the soil around the world has the capacity to capture 20 gigaton of carbon over a period of 25 years, the equivalent of 10% of global emissions - demonstrating the power of improved soil management and building soil carbon reserves. Catch up on our previous soils episode with Dr Bill Crooks here https://www.fas.scot/publication/podcast-the-thrill-of-the-hill-renewables/ and for more information on improving soil management, check out Farming for a Better Climate here https://www.farmingforabetterclimate.org/improving-farm-profitability/soils-fertilisers-and-manures/.

In this podcast we will hear from Nicola Lambe and Claire Morgan-Davies, who are based at SRUC Hill & Mountain Research Centre, Kirkton & Auchtertyre Farms. They talk about the projects they are involved in. One of Nicola’s projects is a breeding program at Kirkton where they are crossbreeding sheep to maximise efficiencies and with the aim of creating a composite breed. Claire is involved in EU projects EuroSheep looking at issues in sheep farming across the EU and working on solutions to overcome these issues, the SMART project which is looking at technologies in sheep farming and the Take Care project. They both highlight the importance of hill farming and are fairly positive about its future in the industry. Related Resources EU Projects at Kirkton: TechCare Project – Integrating innovative TECHnologies along the value Chain to improve small ruminant welfARE management (techcare-project.eu) Sm@rt | Sm@ll Ruminant Technologies Platform (smartplatform.network) EuroSheep | European Knowledge Exchange Breeding Program Breeding and management strategies for sheep in the Scottish hills and uplands to meet future economic, environmental and climatic challenges | SEFARI

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 Matter 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: [email protected]

Welcome to CropCast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Mactaggart will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish GovernmentIn this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by Natalie Wood, agronomy operations manager at YARA UK & Ireland along with George Chalmers, a senior agricultural consultant at SAC Consulting, to discuss best practice for applying nitrogen efficiently this coming season. Related FAS ResourcesTechnical Note (TN731) Nitrogen for Cereals, Rapeseed & Potatoes (fas.scot)Other Related ResourcesFertiliser application and spreading advice | Yara UKAgronomy podcasts | Grow the future | Yara UKNitrogen-Use Efficiency | Grow the Future | Yara UKYara UK on Twitter: "Our latest podcast is available! 🎧✔️ Yara agronomist Natalie Wood talks to Ken Rundle about the role micronutrients play in crop establishment and how they are no less important than macronutrients.🌱💧 Listen here 👉 https://t.co/S8cvADqc3T https://t.co/Bs0V9sI5Fe" / TwitterNatalie Wood - Agronomy Operations Manager - Yara International | LinkedIn

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: [email protected]

Mary-Jane Lawrie talks to Richard and Fiona Lamb of Fordhead Farm, Kippen, about how they have diversified their farming business and how they have adapted to the many challenges that starting new ventures has thrown at them. Richard and Fiona Lamb are the definition of ‘give it a go’. From exiting the Metropolitan Police and dipping toes, (and losing part of a finger) in their entry to farming, Fiona and Richard have faced more than their fair share of hurdles. One thing that has always been consistent in their business endeavours, is that if they don’t give it a try, they’ll never know what could happen. From camping sites, to woodlands, grass trials, firewood, farm accommodation, tea growing, Gin production, Farm shop and café, insect farming, and hemp production, the Lambs have been there, done it and learned lessons along the way. Related FAS Resources Engaging with Consumers - Part 1 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Engaging With Consumers - Part 2 | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Adding Value | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Grant Support For Croft Woodland Creation: A Comparison | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Related Resources The Woodhouse Kippen Ginti- The Scottish Tea Gin (gintigin.co.uk) Forth Valley Leader :: Case Study "Tea Plantation at Fordhead Farm" (fvl.org.uk) Matthew Lamb of Fordhead Farm tells us a bit about their venture into growing tea in the Forth Valley! | By Forth Valley & Lomond CLLD | Facebook From holiday lets, to gin, to tea and more - diversification paying for Stirlingshire family farm - Insights - Farmers Guardian (fginsight.com)

In our final episode of the series we are discussing the important financial topics which cover most natural capital projects, including ecosystem markets and green commerce. We discuss potential funding and revenue options for natural capital, and importantly what are the risks and future opportunities for agriculture and landowners in Scotland. Investing in nature can help to improve our environment, drive a green economy, tackle global issues such as climate change and make the world a better place for both society and biodiversity. Professor Mark Reed is an expert in Rural Entrepreneurship and the Co-Director of the Thriving Natural Capital Challenge Centre at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC). He is a transdisciplinary researcher specialising in environmental governance, ecosystem markets and research impact. He is a visiting professor at several universities, CEO of Fast Track Impact, Research Lead for the IUCN UK Peatland Programme where he sits on the Executive Board of the Peatland Code, and is also Co-Chair of UNEP’s Global Peatland Initiative Research Working Group. The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond. Timestamps Putting a financial value on nature : 1:50 - 6:56 Requirements and controls for land and carbon markets : 6:57 – 11:13 Opportunities and risks for farmers : 11:14 – 22:50 Money for nature restoration projects : 26:18 – 38:00 Balancing science, business and farmers needs : 38:00 – 44:55 Related FAS Resources Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Funding Opportunities for Sustainable Farming | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service Environment resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Related Resources Professor Mark Reed, SRUC, UK (profmarkreed.com) Thriving natural capital | SRUC Scottish Nature Finance Pioneers – Grow, Restore, Prosper | NatureScot Scottish Forum on Natural Capital – Bringing together public, private and voluntary sector organisations in order to protect and rebuild Scotland’s natural capital. (naturalcapitalscotland.com) Home - UK Woodland Carbon Code Peatland Code | IUCN UK Peatland Programme (iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org) Soil Carbon Code | About the Code (sustainablesoils.org) ICVCM - Build integrity and scale will follow

Thrill of the Hill is back! Season 3 #8 – Working for Waders Part II. In this episode we hear from returning guest, Working for Wader's Patrick Laurie, joined this time round by RSPB's Stephen Field, about the importance of our national priority ground nesting wading birds, life through a lense, the importance of predator control and promoting landscape scale conservation efforts.Increasingly recognised for their conservation importance, Scotland's waders are under threat from all sides. Intensification of agriculture has played its part, yes but looming threats of habitat loss to forestry and destruction of nests and eggs from predators also places immense pressure on the species group. The podcast also sets out the need for data to inform decision making and how looking at small samples can skewed view of what is a more complicated story overall. Related FAS Materials https://www.fas.scot/publication/podcast-thrill-of-the-hill-working-for-waders/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/surveying-farmland-wading-birds/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/farmland-wading-birds-information-note-snipe/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/farmland-wading-birds-information-note-redshank-tringa-totanus/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/farmland-wading-birds-information-note-oystercatcher-haematopus-ostralegus/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/farmland-wading-birds-information-note-curlew-numenius-arquata/ https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/how-to-provide-for-wading-birds/farmland-wading-birds-information-note-lapwing-vanellus-vanellus/ External Materials https://www.workingforwaders.com/ https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/at-home-and-abroad/scotland/

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 Notes00:06 - Intro00:41 -Rural Roundup with TIffany, Robert and George19:23 – Find out more about our sister Agri Culture Podcast24:26 - Christmas wishes and next episode detailsLinked 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 PageHELPLINE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY: 0808 1234 555 (FREEPHONE)Samaritans | Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy | Here to listenCall 116 123 for freeFor more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: [email protected]

Mary-Jane Lawrie talks to Anna Davies about the importance of great storytelling in agriculture and gets an insider's view from this journalist on how the media could cooperate and celebrate Scotland’s farming successes and the people who create them.FAS Resources https://www.fas.scot/publication/positive-pr-infographic/https://www.fas.scot/new-entrants/positive-pr/https://www.fas.scot/publication/writing-a-marketing-plan/https://www.fas.scot/rural-business/crofts-small-farms/alternative-enterprises/selling-your-own-produce/marketing-development/Other Resources https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/OnFARM-rural-podcast-Podcast/B08JK2B3B2?action_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp&shareTest=TestSharehttps://www.sceneandherdpr.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-davies-thomson-3852a719/

Welcome to CropCast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Mactaggart will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Iain Boyd, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish Government In this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by Gordon Whiteford from Lower Mill of Tynet farm, who uses intercropping as a technique to produce crops to produce feed for his Banffshire based business, Highland Eggs. Tiffany is also joined by Dr Robin Walker, a senior researcher focusing on low input cropping systems to discuss his research and the potential benefits of intercropping to both arable and mixed farmers. If you are in Scotland and interested in taking part of the intercrop VALUES project, which Robin is involved in, please contact Robin [email protected] ResourcesThe current intercropping project SRUC and SAOS are involved with is the EU funded Intercrop VALUES project. (https://twitter.com/IntercropVALUES; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088203159247; https://www.linkedin.com/company/intercropvalues/posts/?feedView=all) If you are a farmer, maltster or craft brewer in Scotland and are interested in being a part of the Intercrop VALUES project, Robin would be keen to hear from you. Robin & team plan to explore potential problems and solutions within the value chain of high-quality craft beer made from barley that has been produced using intercrops, e.g., barley undersown with grass-clover, or barley grown in a mixture with a grain legume such as pea. Please contact [email protected]. There is a range of intercropping information already available from some of SRUC’s previous projects, such as the ReMIX brochure (PDF) and the YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRxVldHWHJAoU8xHNZ0efCQ/videos). These will soon be transferred across to the Intercrop VALUES YouTube channel (IntercropVALUES - YouTube) and website once fully up and running as the project progresses. For further information, please contact [email protected].

In this podcast we will hear from Paddy Jack, DLF Business Manager in Scotland. Paddy talks about the pros and cons of different forage crops, clover, and different grazing systems. The importance of growing crops which suit your farm type as well as type of stock grazing it was also discussed. With high input costs involved in keeping stock over the winter, there’s opportunities to outwinter stock to reduce costs. Linked FAS resources: Forage Crops | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

This time we are focussing on Arable Natural Capital with John and Louise Seed from Woodend Farming Partnership and Agricultural Consultant Mary-Jane Lawrie, to find out what they are doing on farm and to learn from their combined experiences. Woodend Farming Partnership focusses on arable crops, free-range egg production, renewable energy and conservation, where they take a progressive, evidence-based approach to farming that enhances biodiversity, reduces the farm carbon footprint whilst maintaining or even improving profitability. We discover what can be done to protect and enhance biodiversity on farms to benefit both the environment and the farm business; including making use of unproductive land, funding support that is available and how multiple farms doing a little can make a big difference. The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Kieron Sim, executive producer Kerry Hammond. Timestamps Natural capital projects on farm and the wider benefits : 5:07 – 11:50 Biodiversity gain, agricultural yield and profitability : 13:35 – 19:06 Surveys and baseline data : 19:07 – 24:11 How will it look in the future? : 24:12 – 28:34 Adaptations to ensure profitability : 28:35 – 30:32 Wider context, funding and support available : 36:30 – 42:00 Related FAS Resources Crops and soils | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) CropCast | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Environment resources for farmers from Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Advice & Grants | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot) Other Related Resources Woodend Farming Partnership - Family farming business with arable crops, free-range egg production, renewable energy and conservation Farming with Nature | NatureScot Scottish Forum on Natural Capital – Bringing together public, private and voluntary sector organisations in order to protect and rebuild Scotland’s natural capital. (naturalcapitalscotland.com) Farming for a Better Climate - Farming for a Better Climate

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: [email protected]

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: [email protected] RSABI CONTACT DETAILS HELPLINE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY: 0808 1234 555 (FREEPHONE)

In this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by David Mathewson from the Scottish government land inspections team, along with Neil Melville, senior Consultant with SAC Consulting, to discuss ecological focus areas (EFA’s). What is the purpose of them? what are the options and how can you make the most of them? Related ResourcesGreening guidance https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/basic-payment-scheme/ Local SGRPID office https://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/contact-us/ For more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice Hub:Phone: 0300 323 0161Email: [email protected]

In this water episode of our Natural Capital Series, we discuss seaweed and its wider benefits to the farming community, it’s important ecosystem services and the various uses for seaweed products. We are joined by Rhianna Rees, Seaweed Academy Coordinator at SAMS Enterprise, who is passionate about the growth and expansion of the seaweed industry and its role in a rapidly developing blue economy, and Fiona Salter, a Senior Environmental Consultant at SAC Consulting, who focuses on the improvement of natural capital and ecosystem services in the rural environment. The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. Timestamps What are the different types and uses of seaweed? : 4:35 – 7:55 What are the main benefits of seaweed for agriculture? : 10:54 - 12:47 The potential economic growth of the sector : 15:15 – 17:06 Using seaweed as a livestock feed and methane reduction : 21:40 – 23:12 Water quality issues and solutions : 23:51 – 29:18 Related FAS Resources FAS Water Management: https://www.fas.scot/environment/water-management/ FAS TV: S2 E6 - Improving Grassland Performance & Turning Seaweed into a Crop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-gW1Fo4PAI FAS Casestudy – Seaweed as a fertiliser: https://www.fas.scot/downloads/cropping-case-study-use-of-seaweed-as-a-fertiliser-for-grassland/ FAS Sounds: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/ Other Related Resources Seaweed Academy - https://seaweedacademy.co.uk/ SAMS Enterprise - https://www.sams-enterprise.com/ Farming and Water Scotland - https://www.farmingandwaterscotland.org/ Crown Estate Scotland Aquaculture - https://www.crownestatescotland.com/scotlands-property/marine/aquaculture NatureScot Seaweed Harvesting - https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/land-and-sea-management/managing-coasts-and-seas/seaweed-harvesting

In this podcast we will hear from Jack Munro, Farm Manager from The Buffalo Farm. The Buffalo Farm run by Steve Mitchell in Kirkcaldy, is the largest Buffalo Farm in Scotland. Jack will tell us about how the buffalo herd got established and the progress and changes they have made along the way, including introduction of the dairy buffalo herd to make mozzarella. Jack also discusses opportunities for other farmers that are interested in going into buffalo dairy farming. Related Resources: The Buffalo Farm | Scotland’s largest Buffalo Farm and Butchery Contact email address for the Buffalo Farm: [email protected] For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub: Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: [email protected]

Thrill of the Hill is back! Season 3 #9 – COP26 One Year On. In this episode we hear from SAC Consulting's Seamus Murphy as we take a look back at Scotland's role in COP26 and review some of the highlights, shortcomings, commitments and missed opportunities from the conference. We also discuss the changing mindsets of farmers in Scotland and how to find common ground with climate marchers and protestors.COP26, or the 26th meeting of the Conference of the Parties, was a watershed moment in international efforts to tackle climate change and its effects. COP26 was, at its time the latest meetings of the parties, meaning nations that had signed up to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which launched in 1992. It is a common phrase, "X is at the frontline of the fight against climate change" but here in Scotland, in the backdrop of one of the hottest summers on record the realities of climate change are becoming increasingly apparent and each year that passes without serious action is time society might not get back. One year on from the conference in Glasgow we take a look at the progress that has been made since.Related FAS ResourcesCOP26 – What’s the big deal? (webinar) | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)Other Related ResourcesFarming for a Better Climate - Farming for a Better ClimateFor more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

In this episode Tiffany Mactaggart is joined by David Ross, a senior Agricultural consultant from SAC consulting along with Audrey Litterick, director of Earthcare Technical, to discuss soil health. What is a healthy soil? What components can be tested and most importantly, what can we do about the results? Related ResourcesFarm Advisory service (Healthy soils)https://www.fas.scot/article/evaluating-soil-quality-and-testing-for-soil-health-status/ National Testing Scheme Guidancehttps://www.ruralpayments.org/topics/all-schemes/preparing-for-sustainable-farming--psf-/preparing-for-sustainable-farming--psf--full-guidance/ Earthcare Technicalhttp://earthcaretechnical.co.uk/For more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice Hub:Phone: 0300 323 0161Email: [email protected]

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: [email protected]

Selling livestock this autumn and winter? We have some wise words from Sarah Balfour on what to think about and how to navigate the auction mart system. This is the time of year for sales of breeding and store cattle and sheep. Sarah and Siobhan discuss the current beef and sheep markets and tips on presentation. Siobhan also speaks to John William Gillies of the North Rasaay Sheep Stock Club, who discusses how they batch lambs at the mart, and the popular Portree sale of store calves. For further information, have a look at this webinar which details buyer’s requirements, feed conversion and handy tips: https://www.fas.scot/publication/going-to-market-managing-your-stock-in-preparation-for-selling/ and you might also be interested in this case study, which although not in a crofting area, describes how Nigel Millar sells his AA & BSH store calves to a finisher: https://www.fas.scot/publication/fas-beef-supply-chain-case-study-co-operative-strategy-finishes-cattle-in-the-scottish-borders/ Sarah mentions Agribusiness News, which is a publication with up-to-date monthly market and policy intelligence for farmers and crofters: https://www.fas.scot/rural-business/agribusiness-news/ Linked FAS resources: A Guide to Buying and Selling at the Mart - https://www.fas.scot/downloads/a-guide-to-buying-and-selling-at-the-mart/ Croft & Small Farms: Store Livestock - Adding Value in Presentation - https://www.fas.scot/downloads/croft-small-farms-store-livestock-adding-value-in-presentation/ Small Lambs – A Problem or an Opportunity for Crofters and Smallholders? -https://www.fas.scot/downloads/small-lambs-a-problem-or-an-opportunity-for-crofters-and-smallholders/

In this podcast we will hear from Cameron Wilson from The Sheep Game. Cameron Wilson was a policeman for many years before going full-time in agriculture, between sheep pregnancy scanning, shearing sheep, as well as looking after his own flock of sheep and running his YouTube Channel and social media pages ‘The Sheep Game’.Cameron has experienced livestock worrying from the Police’s perspective and also from a farmer’s perspective. He will tell us about the do’s and don’ts when it comes to handling livestock worrying.Linked ResourcesThe Sheep Game - YouTubeSheep Worrying Advice for Lambing Time | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)For more information, visit www.FAS.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScotNational Advice Hub:Phone: 0300 323 0161

Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined this week by Sammi Kinghorn MBE. Sammi is a farmer’s daughter and Team GB wheelchair racer from the Scottish Borders. We spoke the week after she was back from the Commonwealth games where she won bronze in the 1500m. We chatted about her childhood on the farm, the accident that left her paralysed and how she got into wheelchair racing. She has such a special bond with her Dad, who instilled a love of nature and farming into her at a young age, and now he supports her with her career. Related Resources FAS Resources https://www.fas.scot/sounds/thrill-of-the-hill/ https://www.fas.scot/sounds/crofting-matters/ Related External Materials https://www.sammikinghorn.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sammikinghorn/?hl=en http://www.bromakin.co.uk/

Thrill of the Hill is back! Season 3 #6 – Virtually Stockproof. In this episode we hear from SAC Consulting’s Malcolm Macdonald & Robert Ramsay about the increasing opportunities for virtual fencing technology in Scotland, including; benefits to stock management, habitat grazing and ease of use for the farmer. As an industry, we have repeatedly been told that a mix of innovation, sequestration and emissions reduction can solve the climate crisis. This is true, but it is a special kind of innovation that could also contribute to halting Scotland’s dangerous nature declines. Virtual fencing could be that technology and in this episode we get an update from Malcolm Macdonald on uptake in Scotland and the progress that has been made since the first time we talked virtual fencing on the podcast. We also discuss the virtual fencing roadshow planned for autumn 2022 across the country and what to expect from the events. Related FAS Resources www.fas.scot/publication/the-thrill-of-the-hill-virtual-fencing/ For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: [email protected]

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 book club, and Amy Burton from Azets Accountants and Consultancy gives us an insight onto what’s on her desk. 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: [email protected]

Thrill of the Hill is back! Season 3 #6 – Understanding Natural Capital. In this episode we hear from SAC Consulting’s Rachel Smillie & Paul Chapman as we get to grips with the concept of natural capital, ecological functions and services, and review some of our own experiences with a recently completed natural capital calculator trial. Farmers and landowners are at the front line of fighting climate change in Scotland, implementing changes at landscape scale for the benefit of nature and to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate. Key to that is to have a better understanding of the natural functions that occur everyday on the farm and how they impact the bottom line and broader society so we can as an industry advocate more effectively for what we do. Rachel and I also discuss the new podcast series, The Natural Capital Podcast and how she hopes to develop our understanding of natural capital at a crucial time of transition for the industry and country. Related FAS Resources Natural Capital | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service (fas.scot)

In episode three of this Natural Capital Series, we are joined by Dr Emily Taylor to explore the very relevant and important topic of peatlands. Peatlands are a key part of the Scottish landscape covering over 20% of the land. Healthy peatlands are valuable carbon stores and provide many ecosystem services and benefits to people and nature. We discuss the importance and value of this natural capital resource, the various work that is ongoing to protect and restore peatland and what land managers can do to look after it. Dr Emily Taylor is a peatland specialist and leads the Crichton Carbon Centre, overseeing all of their projects. Emily has developed, and is delivering, the highly popular Peatland Action Restoration Events throughout Scotland. The Earth’s soils, rocks, air, water, plants and animals are all valuable resources that provide a wide range of services and benefits. These resources need to be carefully managed and maintained to support a healthy functioning environment. In this Natural Capital podcast series, hosted by Rachel Smillie we will explore different natural capital assets and their value to Scottish agriculture and the rural economy, including the opportunities and risks for the future. Hosted by Rachel Smillie, produced by Iain Boyd, editor Ross Mackenzie, executive producer Kerry Hammond. Timestamps What is peatland? : 2:22 – 8:52 What is involved in peatland restoration? : 8:53 – 13:47 Peatland Action and The Peatland Code : 13:47 – 18:57 Ecosystem services and land use : 18:57 – 29:05 Advice to landowners and potential financial benefits : 30:58 – 34:17 Related FAS ResourcesProtecting Scotland’s Peatlands - https://www.fas.scot/environment/biodiversity/protecting-scotlands-peatlands/FAS TV S2 E11 - Peatland Restoration in Shetland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txdnXcOy8EoFAS Sounds: https://www.fas.scot/sounds/FAS Environment Pages: https://www.fas.scot/environment/Other Related ResourcesCrichton Carbon Centre - https://www.carboncentre.org/Peatland Action - https://www.nature.scot/climate-change/nature-based-solutions/peatland-action-projectPeatland Code - https://www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/peatland-code/introduction-peatland-codeHow to assess the condition of peatland - https://www.nature.scot/doc/peatland-action-how-do-i-assess-condition-my-peatlandScotland’s Forum on Natural Capital - https://naturalcapitalscotland.com/

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?' Related 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.scotTwitter: @FASScotFacebook: @FASScot National Advice HubPhone: 0300 323 0161Email: [email protected]

If you are a new crofter, or new to buying livestock, we have some wise words from Sarah Balfour on what to think about and how to navigate the auction mart system. This is the time of year for sales of breeding cattle and sheep. Sarah and Siobhan discuss disease risk, how to bid, different terms used, buying in guineas, how the auction mart works, and how to prepare.Related FAS resources:New Entrants Guide to Buying and Selling at the Mart Practical Guide - https://www.fas.scot/downloads/a-guide-to-buying-and-selling-at-the-mart/