NFU Scotland, along with Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) and the Farm & Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) held a hugely successful hill sheep farming event last Friday (4 August) which hosted over 40 people, all with an interest in the future of hill farming.

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The event, which was the first in a series of four events on farms across Scotland, aimed to bring together the real farmers who face the daily challenge of farming in the hills and allow them to benefit from dialogue, both with each other and with decision makers within the industry.

Last week’s event, which was kindly sponsored by Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, took place at Shantron Farm, Luss Alexandria, by kind permission of Bobby Lennox.

Gail Macdonald, NFUS Livestock Policy Manager, said:

“I am extremely pleased with this first event. Around 40 people came along and took part in the workshops.

“Scotland’s hill sheep farmers are facing particular challenges at present but what is really obvious is that they are ready and willing to help themselves and to become actively involved not only in the development of their own businesses but also in the decision making process.

“The purpose of the workshops which took place on the day was to raise awareness and understanding of best management techniques and practices for hill sheep farmers and to ascertain particular issues of concern within the sector. Sharing experience, best practice and opportunities is the best way to establish how best to tackle challenges and work towards a better future.

“Feedback from those who attended was incredibly informative and positive and will not only help to shape future decision making but will also ensure that NFUS is able to tailor future events to member demands and assist more closely in the development of hill farm businesses.

“We now look forward to holding further successful events on 14 August at Conchra, Dornie, Kyle, 21 August at Auchmore Farm, Muir of Ord and on 23 August at Bragleenmore Farm, Kilninver Argyll.

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