The Crofter 125 December 2021

THE CROFTER SCF is dedicated to campaigning for crofters and fighting for the future of crofting DECEMBER 2021 Number 125 Access to crofts FOLLOWING our article in the last issue of The Crofter, SCF wrote to the board of Crofting Commissioners, whose term of office is approaching completion, asking them to reflect on their watch at the helm of the crofting regulator. In the open letter, which appeared in the press, we asked what is preventing the commission from being the effective custodian we all want, what is required to restore crofting regulation to good health? The letter does not criticise the commission in any way, rather it asks commissioners for their opinion. It is not a secret that commissioners (and staff) feel that they are restricted by current law and a lack of resources, that they are unable to take action or make decisions that they know ...Continued on page 3 The audit of SCF member Jo Hunt and family on climate march in Glasgow the Crofting We cannot lose sight Commission of the importance of THE 2020/21 audit of the Crofting food production Commission is shocking reading. As a public body, funded with SCF HOPED that COP 26 could move the we can’t ignore what happens when our animals public money to carry out a public function, discussion on climate change beyond leave the croft and go to finishers all over the it falls under the scrutiny of the Auditor the bashing of agriculture that we UK. We are reliant on an integrated agricultural General for Scotland. His report concludes, have become accustomed to in recent years, system. The ability of these businesses to in a nutshell, “The body responsible for but unfortunately polarisation of the debate adapt and improve how they operate will be overseeing Scotland’s 20,000 crofts seems to have continued. Writing this during critical to the future of livestock production in must improve its governance and rebuild the first week of the conference, we hope the Highlands and Islands. In efforts to reduce damaged relationships between its board that agreements realising the importance of the carbon emissions of agriculture, we cannot and managers.” agriculture can still be reached. lose sight of the importance of food production. This refers to the structural relationships Of course emissions from agriculture need Tinkering with production methods, while of the organisation breaking down yet again. to be reduced, as all sectors need to, but the important, will not go far enough to help meet SCF appreciates that this setup – a board challenge we face is far too important to be our climate targets. Land use change led by of commissioners, some elected and some boiled down to cheap sound bites about cattle crofters and other land managers will be crucial and red meat. to delivering net zero. Restoring peatland and ...Continued on page 3 planting new woodland will be necessary; but we Crofters are already doing a lot of good that don’t have to choose between sheep and peat, INSIDE THIS ISSUE should be encouraged and rewarded. Yes, there or cattle and trees. We can have both. is a need for change in the sector and crofting • adapting to climate change cannot sit this one out, but that change is Integrating livestock with these land uses achievable and we believe the industry is ready could help achieve net zero, alongside • extensive grazing to make our contribution. maintaining and increasing the biodiversity that only livestock can support. Focusing on • parasite treatment Many crofters already manage to produce carbon emissions alone will leave us in danger quality livestock with minimal inputs of artificial of neglecting the biodiversity crisis which is just • national test scheme fertilisers and bought-in feeds, both helping to as pressing an issue. keep carbon emissions low. In addition, these • croft safety livestock help maintain some of our rarest and World leaders need to get this right. Agriculture most important natural habitats. cannot be used as a scapegoat. We will all have • agritourism to do our bit to help achieve net zero. However, as most of us produce store livestock, … and much more

2 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 Message from the chair... Donald MacKinnon WELCOME TO the December issue of continue to represent the interests of crofters and The Crofter, another issue packed crofting and make sure that the needs of smaller full of interesting articles and opinion producers are recognised. This policy must work pieces. for the whole of Scottish agriculture. November was dominated by the COP 26 We were disappointed that crofting law reform gathering in Glasgow. SCF did not have direct did not get a mention in this year’s Programme involvement in the conference, but we have for Government; in fact crofting barely got a been engaging in the wider debate on climate mention at all. However, we were heartened by emergency. We have continued to argue that, the cabinet secretary’s address to the SCF AGM despite the rhetoric from some, livestock rearing in September, when she restated the Scottish has an important role to play in tackling the climate Government’s intention to deliver crofting law emergency and biodiversity crisis. Rearing cattle reform in this parliamentary session. It is crucial and sheep in a traditional way, while making use that the groundwork begins as soon as possible. of modern technology, is critical to maintaining the natural environment and Highlands and Islands Plans for reform of the law are closely linked to communities. our campaign on access to crofts. The market in crofts shows no sign of slowing, with exorbitant In last few years the pages of The Crofter have prices paid for crofts across the crofting counties, had many articles about the future of agricultural although some areas seem to be particularly policy in Scotland. We have argued that crofters badly affected. We will continue to highlight and the wider agricultural industry need clarity this issue and work with other stakeholders to from the Scottish Government on what that policy try to develop solutions, including the Crofting is going to look like. The recent announcement Commission and Scottish Government. from the cabinet secretary about the launch of the National Test Programme is the clearest It’s hard to believe it’s tupping time again. With indication to date of that future direction. As a only winter in the way, spring and lambing will be member of the implementation board set up just around the corner. I hope it is kind to you and by the cabinet secretary earlier this year, I will your stock and that you have a good Christmas and New Year when it comes! National Test Programme SINCE IT became clear that the UK would be leaving the European Union, involved. Participation from a good cross-section that work must be met in full, whether a carbon and with it the Common Agricultural of producers will be vital to ensure that this audit, animal health plan or biodiversity audit. It is Policy, SCF has been calling for the Scottish approach is going to be suitable for crofting. It is also important that these pieces of work are not Government to provide a clear plan for the likely that carbon audits will be a feature of future simply a tick-box exercise, but provide crofters future of agricultural policy in Scotland. schemes post 2024. Early involvement should with insights into their business and add value. help make that transition easier. The current period of Stability and Simplicity As frustrating as it is that the detail of what is due to finish in 2024 and the big question is This approach cannot be allowed to awaits us in 2025 is still not clear, it is encouraging what comes after that. Cabinet secretary Mairi disadvantage smaller producers. SCF has to see progress being made. We now need to Gougeon’s announcement at the end of October consistently argued that for any scheme requiring make sure that future schemes are designed to about the launch of the National Test Programme work to be carried out to allow entry, the cost of work for crofters and crofting. does not answer all these questions, but it is the clearest indication yet of what future policy will © Claire Nicolson focus on. The announcement launched a series of pilot schemes which will be voluntary to begin with. The proposed Track 1 will aim to reach a large number of crofters and farmers across the country and will involve support for undertaking carbon audits and, where appropriate, nutrient management plans. A livestock data performance feedback scheme will also be launched, aimed at sucker beef producers. Track 2 will look in detail at a smaller number of producers to identify how future schemes and payment structures can be developed to meet the objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting biodiversity, while supporting sustainable business practices. Crofters reading this might not be overly enthusiastic about taking part in these voluntary schemes, but it is essential that crofters do get www.crofting.org

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 3 The audit of © Martin Benson the Crofting Access to crofts Commission ...Continued from page 1 on what it does within current constraints. The paper will be presented at the next board meeting ...Continued from page 1 would be right for crofting. So we asked what are early in December, at which the cabinet secretary the specific areas of law that the commission with responsibility for crofting, Mairi Gougeon, appointed, an executive team and a body of can identify for reform, which would lift the legal will be present. government officials – is not ideal for smooth fetters? What resources are needed to regulate functioning and really needs to be reviewed. and enforce duties effectively? Whether it will go further, into what changes Everyone involved must feel frustrated. to law and resourcing are needed to improve We have had no reply to these important delivery, is yet to be seen. The commission is the key-stone to the questions yet, but there has been progress. At much-valued regulated system of land the board meeting of the Crofting Commission, We need to know what you think tenure that is crofting, and we hoped that a report was presented entitled Consideration of this sort of internal wrangling was a thing the Market in the Assignation of Croft Tenancies. Please let us know: of the past. You can find this on the commission website • What you think about the current situation and it is worth a read. It gives some background It translates into a lack of achievement detail on the emergence of a developing market in crofting – the high prices, crofts being of outcomes, particularly those we have in croft tenancies and various options were neglected, new entrants finding it almost raised on many occasions about occupation provided, including “The commission could ask impossible to get in, crofts being developed and use of crofts. The lack of regulation is the Scottish Government to appoint an expert on – sometimes by companies. threatening the future of the crofting system. panel to examine this specific issue and provide • Do you think regulation needs to be tightened We note the comments from the commission recommendations prior to the process for any up? Should there be more done to ensure convener and CEO that the issues are being new crofting legislation.” that crofts are used? addressed – and we wish them well in this. • Should unused crofts be passed on to new It is urgent. After a short debate amongst the entrants as a matter of course? commissioners, which included attempts to • Is bringing croft (including tenancy) prices The immediate urgency is to get the frame the issue as simply part of a global housing down a good thing? organisation working again, but it is clear problem and the suggestion that crofters could • Do you have any suggestions on how to get that a more fundamental redesign is take a principled stand and not sell for market crofting into a healthier situation? needed. There is a statistical rule: once is price, all acknowledged that better/tougher an incident, twice is coincidence and thrice regulation is a realistic way to help depress Have your say on this important issue: email is a trend. prices, though to do it effectively would require us, write us a letter, use social media or simply more resource. give us a phone. Three times now we have seen the Crofting Commission slide into dysfunction, The option of an expert panel was not discussed Thank you! with strife at the top and the untimely and the debate concluded with commissioners departure of the convener. This pattern agreeing that another paper would be prepared cannot be allowed to repeat. The structure doesn’t work so there must be a review and return to the drawing board. The 2020/21 audit of the Crofting Commission can be found at: www.audit- scotland.gov.uk/report/the-202021-audit-of- the-crofting-commission. Commissioner elections coming up Elections for commissioners will take place next April. SCF encourages members to consider standing for this important role – or encouraging someone else to. We have the valuable opportunity to have elected commissioners on the regulatory board, so please put yourself forward – crofting needs you. If you are interested please contact the Crofting Commission for information on how to stand and the election process. Thank you.

4 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 5 2022 Crofting Crofting law reform SCF EXPRESSED bitter disappointment Commission that long-awaited crofting law reform lack of effective regulation. The PFG also says, was not included in the Programme for “To ensure a sustainable future for agriculture, elections Government (PFG) for this year. we must have new people coming through.” Are these empty words? IN MARCH 2022 the Crofting Given that the government stopped the Commission will hold its quinquennial progress of the crofting law reform bill in the Other measures in the programme could elections; electing commissioners from last term of government – due to Brexit – with indirectly affect crofting, for good or bad. But across the crofting counties to serve assurances that it would receive top priority in overall the PFG is weak on a new vision for on its board. Nominations will open in the new parliamentary session, and the SNP rural Scotland and leaves crofting wanting. January for prospective candidates to put manifesto pledged they will “reform the law and Whilst promoting measures to address climate their names forward. develop crofting to create more active crofts,” the change and environmental degradation, and crofting system has been allowed to degenerate claims to want to help young people and remote The key purpose of a commissioner is to an extent that it is now in crisis. communities, the lack of direct action to tackle the to provide independent oversight of the crofting crisis is lamentable. commission and contribute to decision- Preparations for a bill, or indeed any crofting- making by scrutinising policies, the specific actions, were not included in the However, addressing the SCFAGM, the cabinet business plan and the performance of the programme – a disregard for the crofting system secretary acknowledged the disappointment felt commission. Commissioners also have a at a time that this type of land tenure is needed by many that crofting law reform did not feature role in promoting the interests of crofting most. in the Programme for Government this year. and advise Scottish Ministers on policy. She reiterated that she is committed to taking Elected commissioners serve for five years It says in the PFG “In supporting our rural and the reform through parliament in this session and, and receive training and support to carry island economies, we will ensure young people when pressed on the urgency of this, said that out their role. have more opportunities.” Crofting could give engagement with stakeholders on how to take it young people huge opportunities and there are forward is planned. The commission will hold a series of many wanting to croft but cannot get in, due to the events in December and January to explain the role in more detail and answer any © Martin Benson questions crofters may have. Full details will be advertised on the commission website and social media. The commission benefits greatly from the mix of skills and experiences that commissioners bring to the organisation. With advances in technology, meetings are now more accessible to a wider range of crofters. If you are interested in becoming a board member, but unsure if you would be eligible, please contact the commission at [email protected]. Re-letting of a croft by the Crofting Commission Brian Inkster of Inksters Solicitors procedure until December 2018 to divide a croft, not a landlord. Mr The court took the view that reports on an interesting case. when the Crofting Commission Macdonald decided to sell the croft. the commission could only let wrote to Mr Macdonald, as landlord, the croft subject to the statutory A RECENT Land Court notifying him that it proposed to With no re-letting proposals conditions contained in the 1993 case, Macdonald v terminate the tenancy and declare submitted, the commission had to Act and were not at liberty to vary Kennedy and Another the croft vacant, inviting him to invite applications for the tenancy by them. The Land Court cannot then SLC/75/20, concerned croft 6 make representations as to that public notification. The commission interfere as these were in effect not Crowlista in Lewis. proposal. No representations let the croft to Ms Flora Kennedy. “terms and conditions fixed by the having been received, in April 2019 commission”. The only matter fixed The owner of the croft, Roderick the commission gave written notice Mr Macdonald made an by the commission was in effect Macdonald, lived in Edinburgh, but of termination of the tenancy and application under section 23(6) the rent on which further written it was always his intention to retire vacancy of the croft with immediate of the 1993 Act, which allows the submissions were invited. to the croft. effect. Mr Macdonald was required landlord of a croft which has been to submit re-letting proposals for the let on terms and conditions fixed The court commented that At some point he let the croft to croft. by the commission to apply to the “greater engagement with the a friend, Alick Matheson, who was court for a variation of those terms commission would have done [Mr aware of his intentions and could be He appointed solicitors who and conditions. The application was Macdonald] no harm.” It may indeed trusted not to purchase the croft. Mr wrote to the commission, not with opposed by the commission and Ms have avoided the unfortunate Matheson died in May 2016. The re-letting proposals but with a Kennedy on the basis that some, situation that ultimately befell him. croft tenancy passed to his nephew, proposal to divide the croft into two at least, of the variations sought John Matheson, under the law of and sell both new crofts. However, were incompetent. The variations The people involved in this case are intestacy. However, when John that proposal did not find favour with included, amongst other things, referred to by name, as the case is Matheson had the circumstances the commission, nor could it, since a restriction of the period of the in the public domain on the land explained to him by Mr Macdonald, in terms of section 9 of the 1993 Act, tenancy to five years and removal court’s website and records. he declined to take up the tenancy. only a crofter can apply for consent of any right to decroft or purchase the croft or any part of it. Time passed without further

6 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 Methane as a short-lived GHG In the wake of COP26, SCF council member the end of 100 years, that methane is no longer methane emission out evenly over the 100-year David Muir considers the measuring of causing strong warming because it has almost time-horizon. greenhouse gasses. all been destroyed. What does this mean for the calculation of THE RECENT farmer-led Suckler Beef Using the accepted measurement of GWP100, amounts of methane produced by agriculture? Climate Group report (p91) mentions the 28-tonne equivalent methane emission of Cattle emit methane as a by-product of their ongoing research to increase the CO2 stays in the atmosphere for centuries or digestive systems, hence agriculture is a major accuracy of the current approach to reporting longer, continuing to cause warming at nearly greenhouse gas (GHG) emitter. The Scottish on and estimating greenhouse gas emissions the same rate as when it was first released. But Government is introducing carbon audits for from different sources and industries. that is not the case for methane. This shows that agricultural businesses and the most common emissions of CO2 are not directly related, even GHGs for the industry are CO2 , methane and This article takes a look at what is actually by the 28-multiplier, to emissions of methane, nitrous oxide. meant by this and what it could mean for different as this gas does not linger in the atmosphere in methods of measuring emission of methane the same way as CO2. If methane emissions from all cattle in (CH4) from agriculture. I am not a climate scientist, Scotland remain stable, this methane as a short- nor a scientist of any kind, and this information is This “new” approach to measurement equates lived gas will not contribute to raising global purely gained from my own research. a pulse emission of CO2 with an increase in the temperature more than at present, as it decays emission rate of methane. GWP is typically in the atmosphere on a cyclical basis (GWP*). On a global basis, methane emissions caused defined to compare pulses of emissions with each Conversely, converting methane emissions to by humans come from three main sources: fossil other. A pulse is when a specified mass of gas is equivalent CO2 (GWP100) assumes the gas fuels such as leakages from oil and natural gas released into the atmosphere instantaneously. accumulates in the atmosphere, contributing to systems; agricultural activities, including from Over coming years the CO2 remains in the increasing global temperature. ruminant livestock and rice cultivation; and, atmosphere, leading to a permanent increase in municipal waste landfill sites. Emissions are CO2 concentration. An increase in the methane Given that methane emitted from agriculture is projected to continue to increase rapidly by 2030 emission rate also leads to higher concentrations a short-lived but powerful greenhouse warming unless immediate action is taken. Cost-effective of methane in the atmosphere, assuming the gas and has implications for Scotland reaching solutions such as minimising and plugging leaks sinks remain constant, as the source is larger. net-zero by 2045, many studies, including from from oil and gas production and distribution sites This usage is called GWP*, as it still uses the Suckler Beef Climate Group, have shown could reduce the amount of methane in the GWP100, but instead of comparing two pulses how emissions can be reduced by crofters and atmosphere. (20 and 100 years) it effectively spreads the farmers without cutting production while at the same time becoming more efficient. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, about 28 times more powerful than carbon dioxide at warming the Earth on a 100-year timescale and 86 times more powerful over 20 years when the gas is first released. This is the accepted way methane is measured and is expressed in terms of CO2-equivalent (CO2e) using a metric known as Global Warming Potential (GWP). Recent research shows this misrepresents the impact of short-lived climate pollutants, such as methane, on future warming. GWPs can be explained as follows. If one tonne of a particular greenhouse gas traps a certain amount of heat, how much CO2 would trap the same amount? The 100-year GWP (GWP100) of methane is 28; therefore one tonne of methane released into the atmosphere creates the same warming as 28 tonnes of CO2. This is often described as 28 tonnes CO2e where e stands for equivalent. This method hides the fact that one tonne of CH4 has a strong warming effect when it is first emitted, which then reduces quickly over 10 or 20 years. This is because methane breaks down naturally and is removed from the atmosphere with a half-life of about 12 years. Therefore, by Adapting to climate change on your croft David Muir highlights a source of useful now and in the future – will be important for Scotland and goes on to describe the impacts information. maintaining sustainability and profitability. of more extreme weather, such as flooding and heavy rain, drought and high temperatures, THE FARMING for a Better Climate On the Farming for a Better Climate website, increased storminess, snowfall and extreme website (farmingforabetterclimate.org) you can find Climate change adaptation for cold weather. It offers comprehensive checklists provides a practical guide that supports agriculture – Is your farm ready? produced for preparing to reduce the negative impacts crofters and farmers in helping reduce their by SAC Consulting – and equally relevant to these issues may bring. There are detailed impact on the climate. crofting. Anna Beswick, programme manager case studies where you can learn from the for Adaptation Scotland, describes it as experience of others. COP26 held in Glasgow, half-way through providing “simple, practical explanations about at the time of writing, seems to have headlined the key challenges to consider and actions that This is a very useful guide that can help commitment to mitigation measures like can be taken. The case studies share valuable you prepare the croft to be ready for often reducing emissions. However, understanding practical experience of adaptation action being unpredictable extreme weather events. It also the need to adapt – how croft businesses can taken in many different contexts.” contains lists of resources where you can find cope and deal with changing and variable further information. weather conditions as being experienced The guide highlights potential risks and benefits of climate change for agriculture in

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 7 Commission engages with crofters to increase active croft use The commission development team: l-r Karen MacRae, Heather Mack and Lynne MacMillan Trust for a number of years and know the local crofting community T HE Crofting Commission of strengthening its residency the commission board, highlighted: there very well. has seen a welcome and land use team, with two new “Enforcement of crofting duties is a expansion to establish officers joining the team. top priority for the organisation and “Crofting faces many challenges a crofting-community-focused we are committed to strengthening and I’m looking forward to the crofting development team. These two new residency and this important function.” prospect of being able to help land use casework officers will crofters on the ground. Whether it’s The new team transforms the contribute to the team’s work on the Karen MacRae from Scalpay bringing crofts back into purposeful way the commission can support enforcement of crofting duties. The on the Isle of Harris joined the use or supporting a diversification, and engage with crofters – and four new appointments will expand Crofting Commission as one of the we’re here to ensure crofting’s the location of the two new officers the organisation’s capacity to work two crofting development officers. proud continuation and contribution in the Western Isles means they with crofting communities and see Commenting on her role, she said: to Scotland’s rural economy.” are well placed to do so. The an increase in active crofts. “I was really excited to get this role. commission is also in the process I’ve worked for the North Harris The other crofting development Malcolm Mathieson, convener of officer is Lynne MacMillan from South Uist. Lynne previously spent 14 years as a business support officer with Business Gateway. “It’s an exciting time to have joined the commission, with the launch of the new development team. An important part of our role will be to help guide crofters and liaise with crofting communities to encourage croft occupancy, croft use and management of common grazings.” Heather Mack, head of crofting development with the commission, said: “I’m thrilled to have Karen and Lynne joining the commission. Their combined skills and insight into the challenges and opportunities in crofting will help build a greater understanding of the commission’s role within the crofting community. “The overall aim of the new development role is to support the strengthening of crofting on the Western Isles as well as across the Highlands and Islands as a whole.” The development team can be contacted at [email protected]. Scottish Parliament Cross Party Group on Crofting ©2004 Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body SCF HAS organised has agreed to accord the Cross-Party recognition to the CPGoC for Group on Crofting this session of parliament. (CPGoC) in the Scottish Parliament since it was On the agenda of its first reconvened in 1999. meeting we had items on access to crofts and control The group is a very of geese as main topics, powerful forum for informing along with a standing item MSPs and encouraging their on the administration of the support for pressing the Crofting Commission. Scottish Government to act on crofting issues. Cabinet secretary for rural affairs and islands, Mairi The Standards, Gougeon, will attend the Procedures and Public next meeting, at which she Appointments Committee will speak to these issues.

8 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 CLASSIFIED ADS Sell your unwanted croft equipment (and other stuff) for just 30p per word. Get in touch: [email protected] or 01599 530 005

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 9 ON THE CROFT The virtues of extensive grazing Former SCF chair Yvonne White, who breeds grazing extensively is more natural than an CO2 and water which then grows grass. A virtuous pedigree Highland cattle on her croft, considers intensive grain-fed system and consequently circle. this traditional form of agriculture in the context has much less of a carbon footprint. This fact of climate change. needs to be shouted loud and clear to counter Most studies accusing livestock of global emission studies which cite livestock, environmental harm measure the effects of THE ENVIRONMENTAL benefits of especially cattle, as the main culprits contributing intensive cattle rearing systems, where calves and extensive grazing systems are manifold. to greenhouse gases. their dams are given antibiotics daily to counter Less damage to land and soil, as stocking the negative health effects of being housed in densities tend to be lower and there is no or Grass-fed cows and sheep are not a problem. huge sheds, fed grain-rich diets (requiring high minimal use of chemical inputs such as fertilisers, Poultry and pigs make up 57% of soya intake inputs of chemicals to produce crops) and hardly pesticides or medicines such as antibiotics, all in the UK, with aquaculture at 5.6% being seeing the light of day. used in copious amounts in intensive grazing higher than beef input. A Welsh lamb and beef regimes. Large amounts of inputs – fertiliser and association advert observes that Welsh sheep Intensive livestock rearing has a detrimental chemicals – are generally required annually to and cattle are reared only on natural resources: effect on herd behavior, as family groups with grow silage and hay for animal winter feeding. grass and rain. varying ages are prevented from forming, unlike in extensively reared herds which allow free Of course, livestock need feeding in winter, as In the Highlands and Islands of Scotland much expression of natural behaviours. The taste and grass stops growing at 8-10º C. Winter livestock land is unsuited to growing crops without vast nutritional value of beef or lamb is far greater from feed in the crofting counties usually entails buying amounts of chemical inputs; and land contours naturally reared, grass-fed, happy livestock than in feed. This does involve a carbon footprint, prevent crop growing. It is not flat arable land that of poor beasts in an intensive regime. hopefully offset by the minimal inputs and easily ploughed. We have copious amounts of management of an extensive crofting system. rain at not quite the right time for bringing on Turning now to the all-important topic of soil, Traditional cattle breeds require less high-protein grass. CO2 is absorbed by grass and livestock what occurs underground determines what feeding to flourish and maintain body condition graze on grass. Result is highly tasty and nutrious happens above ground. Healthy soil in good than commercial cattle bred for big carcasses. beef, lamb, mutton and milk, all from a naturally- working order supports not just livestock but reared livestock system fed mainly on grass. insects, birds and all forms of plant life. Livestock Food and nutrients consumed by livestock Cows emit methane which is broken down into dung is heaven for worms and other insects and indeed birds. Good soil health is not achieved by intensive grassland grazing systems with copious amounts of artificial inputs. Good soil health requires good land management practices. Sown grassland mainly has a maximum of 10 different plant species. Extensive grassland areas with low-intensity livestock grazing can have 100 or more different species – common grazings and in-bye where fertiliser has been sparingly, if ever, used (depending on ground type and climate). Profit margins are lower in an extensive grazing system. However, this can be offset by reduced or no requirement for fertiliser and chemicals, fewer livestock health issues and the vital fact that extensive grazing systems are sustainable and help create or maintain thriving habitats and species. Another virtuous circle. To end with a disclaimer, this piece is purely my personal thoughts on livestock and croft land practices, not based on any academic or technical expertise. For those interested in exploring this fascinating subject further, there are many well- researched texts written from practical experience and also academic and technical agriculture papers. Drones could control bracken SCF member John W Gillies from Raasay I recently spoke to a drone operator on this Encroaching bracken, east side of Raasay highlights the problems with bracken and subject and he explained the ease of use, suggests a solution. where the drone can initially map a location and colour co-ordinate the area to be sprayed. HEATHER HAS always been This is something that has to be used in the associated with the Scottish control of bracken. landscape and is a food source for hill sheep, grouse and bees. But bracken, Government must take a lead in the control the most invasive species in the UK, is killing of bracken by licensing drones. This in turn it. can eliminate the need for buffer zones of 50m near trees when helicopters are used. The use of drones in the application of chemicals gives more control than helicopters. I would like all agencies, NatureScot, SCF, Although chemicals can be seen as harmful, and NFUS to put pressure on HSE to license application by electric power is certainly the drones for aerial spraying and control the lesser of two evils. spread of bracken which kills everything in its path.

10 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 ON THE CROFT The crofter’s coo Wold White, Wold Wonder, Wold Blimey milkiness, good temperament and Shetland cow and calf small dairy in North Yorkshire. It longevity, they frequently calve was legendary, winning numerous With sustainability, high-quality until they are 18 or 19. Bulls range more input-heavy commercial calf, awards and could not meet demand. local production and short supply from 600-900 kgs and are generally meaning a higher profit margin. It closed when the cheese-maker chains in mind, it’s a good time to docile and easily managed. emigrated and no-one has followed look again at the Shetland cow as Chefs and butchers rate Shetland in its footsteps. an ideal animal for the modern croft, Shetland herds excel in widely beef amongst the best, if not the writes SCF member Paddy Zakaria. different management systems best, of all native UK breeds, only A new organic Shetland calf- Originally called the crofter’s cow, – as commercial sucklers, in little known because the breed is still at-foot dairy, The Rare Dairy, is the breed is as relevant to crofting niche market systems, on crofts, low in numbers. Breeders achieve underway in Shropshire, selling today as it was in the hard days of smallholdings and as conservation premium prices for Shetland beef milk initially and planning yoghurt. the past. grazers on nature reserves and are never short of buyers. Cheese-making is just waiting for an managed by city councils and enterprising person (a crofter?) to THE SHETLAND is an wildlife trusts. Another attribute of the Shetland tap the hidden bounty of the breed ancient indigenous breed. cow is a success story waiting to and pick up where Wold left off. Archaeological evidence As a suckler cow the Shetland is happen. The attribute is milk and shows that the modern type a surprise package. She is smaller the success story is cheese. In Shetlands are still very much the was established in Shetland than more common commercial recent centuries the Shetland crofter’s cow. They are a worthy, by 2,000 years ago. Attributes breeds, causing less damage to has been a dairy breed and the under-rated, agreeable and low- developed over time hold the the ground and noticeably thriftier, small amount of research into the maintenance native. Those who modern cow in good stead – an doing well on poorer forage. She milk shows very high levels of take on their custodianship will be adaptable, easygoing, people- has the second-widest pelvis of any conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), high well rewarded. They will give you oriented breed, rated highly by breed – a small cow will calve easily fats and proteins and mastitis cell profitable commercial calves, put experienced cattle keepers. to a continental bull like a Limousin counts many times lower than those your land in good order and give or Simmental without incurring vet of other breeds. The milk is rich, you products that can be sold in Medium sized, an adult cow bills. She will rear a lively, fast- with a unique flavour and Shetland your local region. ranges from 350-500 kg, light on growing cross-bred calf that will calves achieve a very high daily the ground and can winter outside thrive on her copious, quality milk live-weight gain. As the Shetlanders say of their with appropriate natural shelter. and sell at a similar price to the peerie coo, “a breed from the past Renowned for fertility, thriftiness, The only commercial cheese with a place in the future”. made from the milk of Shetland cows was Wold cheese from a The crofter’s wife into a screen to sit in front © Claire Nicolson of our stove and prolong Our regular column from SCF member Claire its usefulness. The second our stove, though it’d make a grand entrance to Nicolson one was leant up against an a kennel, as Gryff demonstrates (see image). oak tree which has grown IT’S AMAZING what you find when you’re not round it. That’s two household items put to use looking for it. outdoors when no longer required by someone I seldom visit the shore without finding Another interesting two generations up the line, that I will be bringing something of interest – a piece of wood with find, hidden in an old back indoors decades later. I can’t think of many unusual shape or markings, or a colourful or outhouse, was a gorgeous things we produce nowadays that would survive patterned stone, or a sea urchin from out in the butter churn, very retro. that kind of usage! bay. I’m equally happy finding pieces of pottery It still has its Blow Butter among the ruins of the old stone houses that label, English-made from provide our cattle and sheep with shelter in the 1940s. The lid was winter storms. screwed shut, preserving the wooden paddles inside, These treasures are insights into the past so a quick clean and a rub and connect me to the spaces I’m lucky enough of the lid with wire wool, to call home: croft, hill, woods and shore. I was then it claimed pride of place on the dresser recently astonished to discover two cast iron in the kitchen. bedstead ends in the burn up on the croft – presumably put there to block a gap in a fence A larger project is a fire surround, appearing in at some point and long since forgotten. It took the burn after days of torrential rain. It had been quite an effort to free the first one. The bottom used to create the front of a culvert hidden under six inches or so were firmly sunk in peaty rhoddies, and whilst part of it had eroded quite water, but with a wee bit of work I can turn it badly, I think the damage adds character and I intend to restore the piece and install it behind

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 11 ON THE CROFT Staying safe on the croft © Chris Tyler SAC Portree’s Janette Sutherland offers good involved in identifying risks and thinking about to help them be seen on crofts and farms. advice. safety is effective. To that end, along with a It is easy to miss dangers on your own croft, wider FAS team, we created health and safety IT’S A real challenge in crofting to balance information and interactive games. Go to fas.scot as you are seeing them every day. One low-cost the need to keep children safe whilst and search for child farm safety. way to improve safety would be to pair up with allowing them to take part in activities on the another crofting parent and walk through each croft – activities which often encourage future This year we worked with talented Skye other’s crofts, including sheds and fanks, to spot generations of crofters. cartoonist Chris Tyler to make three seasonal hazards for children. Then you can think of ways films that children and parents can watch together to reduce these risks and hazards. The importance of having safety measures in on lambing, livestock sales and winter. Find them place and teaching children what they can and on www.fas.scot. As crofters, if there is something that requires cannot do was beautifully described by Skye capital investment to ensure better safety – for farmer and grandfather Robert MacDonald of We also ran a competition this summer for example, better handling pens or a bespoke Uiginish Farm in his piece on FAS TV https:// children to design posters about staying safe on bull pen – remember that CAGS can be used youtu.be/44aJEQfin00. crofts and farms. It was encouraging to see so to support these investments which, when you much knowledge about risks and ways to reduce consider the risk of an accident, could be priceless. Research has shown that getting children them. All competitors receive a fluorescent tabard Croft safety advice from HSE To compliment Janette’s excellent advice above, a priority and help us to reduce the number of • Cattle and public access in Scotland: we asked HSE to comment. deaths and injuries in the industry. Advice for farmers, landowners and other livestock keepers AIS17; A GRICULTURE accounts for just 1% of Further guidance can be found on the HSE the working population, yet accounts website hse.gov.uk, as follows: • Agriculture: Preventing falls; for 20% of workplace fatalities. • What a good farm looks like; • Safe working with bales in agriculture 41 people were killed in agriculture in 2020/21. • Farmwise HSG270; On average over the last five years, 33 people a • Agriculture health and safety, farming INDG125; year were killed working on farms – being struck • Agriculture: Children and public safety; by moving vehicles, killed by an animal, struck industry help and advice; • Fatal injuries in agriculture, forestry and by an object, falling from height and contact with • Agriculture: Machinery – safe use; moving machinery. • Safe use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) in fishing in Great Britain 2020/21. HM principal inspector in HSE’s national agriculture and forestry AIS33; The SCF e-newsletter has a detailed list of agriculture sector, Adrian Hodkinson, said: • Handling and housing cattle AIS35; advice points from HSE, which lack of space “Agriculture is a vital part of our economy and excluded here. everyone involved is rightly proud of the quality and standard of the food produced. Agriculture will continue to be a priority sector for HSE, which will be achieved through the delivery of HSE’s sector plan for tackling the high rates of injury and ill health. “There are simple safety measures people should follow to reduce injury, like remembering to put on handbrakes, fasten lap belts in cabs, make sure anyone operating a quad bike wears a helmet and receives sufficient training, don’t put cows and calves in fields with public footpaths; and make sure to switch off the power to vehicles or machinery before attempting to carry out repairs. We need everyone to play their part to improve their behaviour, do things the right way and call out poor practices whenever they are seen.” Agriculture will continue to be a priority sector for HSE. We are urging people to make safety

12 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 ON THE CROFT Biocell for improved nutrition BASED AT Lochans on Why use Platinum Drenches? • store cattle at turnout for the the picturesque Rhins of • Our carefully designed and grazing season; Galloway peninsula, we are specialists in the field of selected drenches are aimed • as a stimulant to the immune applied microbiology in animal at improving health and fertility system to aid recovery – stock nutrition. in dairy cows, cattle and sheep should still be provided with of all ages. macro-minerals via powder Our key roles include managing • improved fertility; or buckets, but the need for rumen function, safeguarding • increased growth rates; protected trace elements is health through effective mycotoxin • shorter calving and lambing reduced. Bought-in stock control and managing forage and periods; should be treated on arrival. slurry. We offer a comprehensive • increased calf and lamb vitality yet specialist range of ingredients at birth. In situations of known deficiency for any farmer wishing to maximise – ie copper, selenium, cobalt – returns from home-produced feeds Additional applications: Platinum Drenches will provide a and forages whilst exploiting the • Stock bulls and rams benefit rapid uptake and lasting effect via genetic potential of all livestock. storage in the muscle tissue. For from drenching one month dairy cows and intensive cattle Our products are suitable for all before bulling/tupping; there is the option of adding to types of commercial animals and • store lambs on roots, where the TMR Platinum In-Feed. It is are fully EU-approved. conventional mineral is not recommended that it is fed over practical; four days.

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 13 ON THE CROFT Cattle housing and parasite treatment SCF council member Stephen A Leask looks on pasture and newly-acquired (immature) fluke resulting in pasture contamination. at the main internal and external parasites which in cattle liver. As no available flukicide will kill all Work with your local veterinary practice and impact on cattle health – lungworm, gut worms early immature fluke, balance the convenience (Ostertagia), lice/mites and liver fluke. of treating at housing and leaving some behind, animal health advisor. Check www.nadis.org.uk or holding off for the appropriate waiting period and www.cattleparasites.org.uk. ADULT CATTLE can be affected with so that all fluke are old enough to be killed by lungworm if they do not build immunity the product. Remember out-wintered cattle and the more as a calf. First-year grazers, depending prophylactic method of treatment and increased on treatment for late-season lungworm Treatment at housing will minimise handling/ risks from the extended grazing period, with management, are a consideration for housing stress, but impact on growth rate from left-over infective stages still present on pasture during treatment. If Dectomax pour-on is given in the fluke must be taken in to account. A later, second mild winters. Further treatments may be needed five weeks leading up to housing, they will not treatment with a different active would ensure during January/February if later housed. Good need re-treatment at housing. removal. Any fluke left will still be there in spring, ventilation and clean dry bedding can make a dramatic difference to welfare and productivity. Ostertagia is the main worm to consider at housing. Select a product that covers type I and type II. Type II hibernates in the stomach lining until late winter/early spring. The main effect is scouring and weight loss. Two types of lice cause intense irritation, leading to rubbing and scratching, poor appetite and lower growth rates. Mange mites cause severe irritation in autumn and winter, especially in housed cattle. Flypor will cover lice and mange mites. Infection in growing cattle can depress liveweight gain by up to 1.2 kg/week. Removing fluke picked up from pasture will help cattle perform well over winter and achieve potential growth and productivity. In late summer/autumn fluke levels increase Hill and upland sheep farmer and vet input needed for sustainable parasite control project Final call for interested crofters egg count to monitor pasture for roundworm and liver fluke Economic and animal and farmers and vets to participate contamination, anthelmintic efficacy control will be proposed for each performance data will be collected to in a research survey by Moredun checks and to provide material farm or croft. After discussion and analyse management and financial Research Institute to investigate for identification of roundworm agreement, these approaches will impact of optimised parasite control ways to optimise parasite control in species present. To develop a more be implemented and monitored at farm level. This will develop hill and upland sheep, as part of a complete understanding of parasite over the following two full production practical recommendations on PhD research project. impact on each farm, more general years. Proposed interventions will optimum internal parasite control. management data such as grazing vary depending on the specific REGULAR WHOLE-FLOCK history, animal performance and unit, production systems, goals To broaden understanding of treatment with anthelmintics economic information is also and available resources, but may parasite control challenges faced to tackle roundworms and collected. include simple measures such as across Scotland, and make this liver fluke may cause resistance, ensuring effective anthelmintics are research more applicable to which threatens control of these After initial data collection and used, to altering dosing strategies. a wider remit of holdings, the infections, with significant welfare analysis, customised strategies project is looking for Scottish hill and financial implications. and upland sheep farmers and Most research into anthelmintic © Anne McLaren large animal vets to complete resistance and sustainable control a short survey. The results, in methods for roundworms and combination with data collected liver fluke has been on lowland from the nine farms/crofts, will aid farms, but little is known about in the proposal and development of the parasite challenge and practical recommendations on how anthelmintic resistance issues on to optimise internal parasite control hill and upland farms. for these farming systems. Farmer survey: aimed at hill and The project is working closely upland sheep farmers and crofters, with nine crofters and farmers taking around 20 minutes to located across the length of complete: http://bit.ly/315J5lD Scotland, from the Highlands and Vet survey: aimed at large animal Islands to Dumfries and Galloway, vets with upland and hill sheep for three full production years from clients, taking around 10 minutes 2021 to 2024. Parasite burden to complete: has been assessed on each farm https://bit.ly/3cQfsdy and information collected about If you would like to request a paper approaches to internal parasite copy of this survey, please contact control. Eilidh Geddes at [email protected]. Moredun is carrying out faecal

14 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 ON THE CROFT Pondering the importance of peat Most crofters know quite a lot about © Martin Benson peatland, observes Donald Murdie. model of food production and distribution has to lairds currently buying up huge tracts of land in WE TRAMP over it looking change. That is possible if the capability of our the Highlands, the expensive land agents that for sheep and many land is properly recognised. We know the value serve them, and dealers who profit by trading of us rely on it to keep of what we have, so don’t talk down to us. in dodgy, vacuous, theoretical commodities. A warm, the alternative being oil or greenish bitcoin? coal. In case we are tempted by the vague prescriptions of the Peatland Code, we can create I can see no benefit to crofters from the Yes, we get it, the importance of carbon units. These have a monetary value and Peatland Code as promoted at present. Carbon peat, both in the context of carbon can be traded. But beware. Legally they belong storage on peatland is viewed as an easy win. If storage and the economics of to the landlord unless agreed otherwise. A market crofters are to take part, there must be a scheme crofting households. It has been has emerged, apparently, with brokers involved that involves us literally at ground level and from simplistically stated that eighty in selling these units as credits to companies the start – and takes full cognisance of crofters’ percent of our peatland is in poor seeking to green-wash their businesses. The rights. condition, mainly due to the historic only beneficiaries I can see will be the new green drainage that has provided rough grazing and even permanent grassland. I carefully read the article on the Peatland Code in the last Crofter, hoping to see how the code could benefit crofters through our common grazings and help us do our bit to conserve carbon stocks in the land we are responsible for. I emerged none the wiser. There is more clarity in the glaur at the bottom of my peat bank. It would be good to define the peatland they’re talking about. Some new thinking, based on research in Uist, helps us take a more holistic view of such land and uses the word peat for the burnable black stuff; a bog or mire to describe a growing natural landscape; and highly organic soil for past and present agricultural fields. (see book review below) Most importantly, the code says not a word about food production, about the many generations of crofters that have made this land produce hardy, healthy, extensively-grazed livestock. In a climate emergency, the current My Land – an agricultural journey by Mary Norton Scherbatskoy and how can they again become productive? How do we overcome the institutional prejudice of a THIS IS a unique piece of work in many national land-use map that writes off the potential ways and works on a number of levels. of over half the country’s landmass? It is an account of the past, present and future of a kind of land familiar to many crofters in The basics of such a croft means grass. Mary the islands and elsewhere, but hardly studied at started by taking a close look at all parts of her land. all. It is a polemic against received wisdom derived What had previously been improved and what had from intensive agriculture; and an academic work happened since? Restoration consisted of clearing that has earned the degree of MSc from Edinburgh drains and removing a thatch of moss and plant University. It ends with some very profound debris. The regeneration of native grasses was conclusions about soil, climate and food. Indeed spectacular and yielded a high-quality silage crop. the final chapter is called The Beginning, which the This in turn supported the profitable introduction of author clearly sees as a call to action. a small herd of Dexter cattle. Mary took over her croft on the Uist island of Mary describes failure as well as success. Grimsay about ten years ago. The croft consists She says that, by trying to introduce “improved” largely of what is now known as blackland; rocky, grasses, she damaged the native sward in one of acidic and slow-draining, with highly organic soils. her best fields and allowed the ingress of rushes Until the 1960s such land had been worked and and creeping buttercup, a mistake that will take a improved, but deteriorated due to a combination of lot of time to remedy. population loss, perverse subsidy incentives and, in turn, over-dominance of sheep. All this is described in the book in great detail and it is impossible to do it justice here. Small parts are Mary’s work takes us back to basics. How were a bit technical, but it is highly readable throughout, such crofts worked, how did they support families ...Continued on page 15

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 15 ON THE CROFT Donald’s hortiblog Use some of that wool What do we have an excess of in stuff on the market has always been the Highlands and Islands? of highly variable quality – and the materials that manufacturers have No, not motor homes. I’m talking substituted for peat have made it bracken and wool, the former a even more of a lottery. Typically result of land abandonment and these might be coir, composted climate change, the latter due to municipal or forestry waste, or a shocking market failure. Crofters combination of materials. We have have shed-loads of wool just now, found them to be very poor on the not worth the cost of transport, while whole, despite their claims to being governments and campaigners are organic and sustainable. They can shouting “Insulate!” contain quantities of stones, bits of wood and even fragments of plastic While we await a bit of joined-up – and that’s just what you can see. thinking, some of that wool can be combined with some of that bracken New to the market is commercial, to make a really effective soil organic, wool-based seed compost improver. As with any composting and we decided to give it a try. First system, the greater the volume, the impressions are that it is much quicker the process. A metre cube superior to the alternatives. It is a minimum, so four single-use gives good germination and water pallets make an ideal enclosure for retention and produces healthy that quantity (see picture). Stuffing strong plants. It’s not cheap, but it’s the air spaces around the pallets a case of getting what you pay for. with more waste wool will retain heat within the heap and speed up the process. We make alternating layers of wool and green bracken, each layer of wool not more than one fleece thick, the more daggs the better. We also add layers of sawdust to balance the nitrogen-rich fresh bracken. Can you use brown bracken? Yes, and it’s best to put it through a shredder if possible, but it will need to be layered with green material as an activator. That’s not so easy at this time of year, but seaweed will work fine for the purpose. Cover the stack with brown cardboard, weighted down, and top it up as it sinks. It will take from six months to two years for this to break down to form rich, crumbly compost. Compost from the bag Most growers need to buy commercial compost as a seed- sowing medium and most will have given up peat-based products. The My Land – an agricultural journey ...Continued from page 14 with lots of illustrations. Like all of the many projects Mary has undertaken in Grimsay and elsewhere, it is the result of painstaking research and minute attention to detail. In fact, for those interested in our soils and making the most of what we have, it’s a page-turner. My Land – an agricultural journey is available from Ceann na h-Airigh, Grimsay, North Uist HS6 5JA or [email protected], price £12.00 including postage. Cheques payable to Grimsay Community Association. Reviewed by Donald Murdie

16 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 17 ON THE CROFT Trees for common grazings Before the woodland A recent view this, close to towns, are popular with locals and visitors. Allt na Creige Woodland’s convenient In the Western Isles, writes Viv Halcrow of the of soil, enabling trees to establish. location behind Sir E Scott school has led to it Woodland Trust, opportunities for tree-planting Local contractors were used for the scheme. being well used by the rural skills and outdoor on common grazings may seem limited. learning pupils, under the guidance of teacher Ground preparation was carried out by excavator Rory Miller. They have plans to improve access THE GROUND is often very poor: – no small feat on these steep slopes and rough in the area. It is seen by the school as a very unimproved rough grazing with extensive ground. Large turfs, approximately 60cm square, valuable resource for their work. deep peat and rock exposures. were turned over soil-side-up to create planting Combined with the challenges of establishing mounds. Due to the terrain, steeper sections had Local crofter Alice Read was the driving force trees in a climate of extreme wind and heavy to be mounded by hand. Deer fencing was not behind the woodland development and was rainfall or periods of drought, the difficulties are required as deer were not present in south Harris delighted with how well the fencing, ground obvious. But with care, hard work and patience, at the time. Stock fencing was tricky enough, preparation and planting progressed at the it can be done. There is an inspiring example with steep slopes to 45 degrees, undulating lazy time. She is even more delighted now the trees immediately south of Tarbert in the Isle of Harris. beds and soils too thin to support fence posts are thriving and adding a visual element to the and strainers. landscape as well as biodiversity, recreational In 2011, Direcleit and Ceann Dibig townships and educational gains. worked hard to secure funding and to plant 25 Digger drivers and fencers worked together hectares of common grazings with 50,000 native to overcome these issues. Banking was created This shows what can be done with trees: Allt na Creige Woodland. The woodland sits by digger as a foundation for the fence where determination – to secure funding, employ local on north-facing slopes immediately above Sir E required. Contractors, school children and local problem-solving contractors, take advice, involve Scott secondary school, on the western edge of folk planted robust native species: downy birch, the wider community and plant the right species in Tarbert. Some of the ground had historically been pockets of alder, rowan and willow, with Scots the right places. Ten years on, the healthy varied worked for cultivation; the remains of lazybeds pine where soil conditions were better. young woodland is a testament to everyone’s can be seen in old photographs. These areas hard work. had slightly higher soil fertility and better depth A walking route was established through the woodland, giving walkers excellent views across the area. Short accessible walking routes like New Scottish Coppice Network launched This year Reforesting Scotland enjoying resurgence, as people can be grown to provide logs on © The Wild Croft launched a Scottish Coppice look to sustainable and locally a much shorter rotation of around Network to promote and support sourced products once again. The four years and many crofts are Willow regrowing from a cut stool development of coppice and Scottish Coppice Network aims to experimenting with this. Woodchip coppicing across Scotland, reports build on this and is affiliated to is also gaining a lot of attention at network evolves and held our SCF member Al Whitworth. the National Coppice Federation, the moment, with its potential to first Scottish coppice gathering which provides support, training be used as mulch in horticultural near Ullapool in November. We’ll COPPICING is the act of and marketing to members. systems, particularly as ramial also be organising a number of repeatedly felling trees at chipped wood and as a base for skills events and training over the the base and allowing them Modern coppicing has evolved, locally-made composts. Fast- coming months and years. If you’re to regrow, providing a sustainable with some worthwhile opportunities growing species such as willows interested in finding out more, supply of small-diameter timber. for croft diversification. The excellent and alder grow well on poorer soils head to the Coppice Network page Most of our native broadleaved Highlands and Islands Woodland and are ideally suited to chipping. at www.reforestingscotland.org or trees in the UK coppice well. Handbook (available from SCF HQ) join our Facebook group. Once very common in Scotland, has an entire chapter on coppicing Traditional coppice products a huge industry existed around and some great advice. One of are well worth a mention too and oak coppice to create charcoal the main benefits on a croft scale have the potential to generate a for smelting iron. In other crofting is a cutting cycle which can be as small income for the croft. Basket- counties willow and hazel were short as a few years, providing a making continues to gather highly valued for basketry, creel- fast return on the invested time and momentum in Scotland. People making, thatching spars and effort in planting a small woodland. are also looking at local products agricultural products, though the for gardens, such as beanpoles scale of these industries doesn’t Woodfuel production is an and peasticks – usually made from appear to have matched that of ideal candidate for coppice hazel. There is also substantial England. management. Trees such as potential for local charcoal for the alder, birch, sycamore and hazel tourist market. South of the border, coppice is can be cut on a rotation of around 10 years for logs. Hybrid willows We’re excited to see how this

18 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 ON THE CROFT Buachaillean Charity tractor run aig COP 26? enjoys record turn out LEUGH MI sna pàipearan naidheachd © Sean Mackay gu bheil buidheann de bhuachaillean bho World Alliance of Mobile SCF council member Marcus MacDonald reports supporting the event, we couldn’t do it without Indigenous Peoples gu bhith tadhal air a’ on a popular event. you.” choinneimh mhòr COP 26. Saoil carson? Nis mun àm a leughas sibh seo, bidh COP SATURDAY 28th August saw tractors, The event is held in aid of Macmillan Highland, 26 seachad, agus sinn uile ann an dòchas drivers and spectators from across the in recognition of the care Euan received at the mòr gum bi ceannardan an t-saoghail north gather at Lochinver harbour for Raigmore Macmillan Suite, and in support of air an cothrom mu dheireadh a ghabhail the annual charity tractor run in memory of the invaluable work Macmillan Highland carry airson lùghdachadh a chur air teasachadh local crofter Euan Macrae. out supporting cancer patients and their families na planaid. Chan eil sìon a dh’fhios agam throughout the region. aig an ìre seo dè thèid aontachadh ach Machinery to cater to all tastes was on show, bha mi toilichte a’ leughadh gum bi na from modern high-horsepower contractor-owned James, along with friends and fellow organisers buachaillean seo a’ tarraing aire air na tractors to more vintage pairings of operators Matthew Bulch and Joe Mackay, made the pledge buannachdan bho chrodh is caoraich air and machinery. A good showing of marques and to cycle the route if the sponsor money raised feurach farsaing. conditions, ranging from peat spec to concourse, from the 2021 event passed the previous record made up the record 75 tractors taking part on of £12,000. A steady stream of donations saw Tha e coltach nach eil ach àite glè bheag the day. that threshold broken and the trio duly set off on aig àiteachas agus biadh sa choinneimh mhòr 30th October to complete the 39-mile route by COP 26. Is aithreach leinn uile sin, chan ann The run left the harbour and took the main bicycle, a mode of transport with which they were a-mhàin ‘s gun cuir siostaman bìdh a-mach road east before heading north over Skiag, then not so familiar. suas ri cairteal nan eimiseanan iomlan an followed the single track road to Drumbeg where t-saoghail, a dh’fheumas sinn lughdachadh, a fantastic spread of refreshments at the school It would be fair to say that none of the three agus feumaidh sinn sin a dhèanamh ach was well received. The convoy continued to are keen cyclists, but perseverance and good tha cothroman ann cuideachd, thèid aig an Culkein Drumbeg to pass Euan’s home before humour saw them complete the circuit and return talamh an t-uabhas carbon a stòradh. heading back to Lochinver via a short stop at to Lochinver with no breakdowns, mechanical or Stoer Green. otherwise. Cha tachair sin le àiteachas nan gnìomhachasan mòra ge-tà. Gun teagamh Organiser James Morrison said: “I am delighted Providing regulations on gatherings allow, next sam bith nuair a bhios beòthaichean gan that an idea that came into my head the night of year’s event promises to be more of a social cumail ann an stait nach eil idir nàdarra, Euan’s passing has turned into this. We hope to occasion. Any readers of The Crofter who would crodh gam biadhadh le gràn agus soya, be back next year with the same format and run like to take part will be most welcome. mucan no cearcan gan dinneadh ann another great event, with as many turned out as an ”factaraidhean” no achaidhean gan possible for such a great cause. A huge thanks If you would like to donate, stay informed or treabhadh bliadhna an dèidh bliadhna gun go to all those preparing, helping on the day and attend next year’s event, follow the Sponsored sguir, bidh carbon a’ falbh don adhar, bidh Tractor Run (Lochinver) page on Facebook. bith-iomadachd ga lùghdachadh agus cha Contact details are available on that page. bhi an toradh fallainn. Chan fheum àiteachas a bhith mar seo, tro chleachdaidhean seasmhach gabhaidh eimiseanan lùghdachadh, gabhaidh carbon tarraing bhon adhar agus aig an aon àm, gheibh nàdar cothrom agus gheibhear toradh de bhiadh fallainn. Tha gnath-shìde, nàdar agus slàinte dlùth-cheangailte ri chèile agus chan eil e ciallach an cuir ann an cròithean fa leth. Gu dearbh, dh’fhaotainn dol nas fhaide na sin agus a ràdh gum bu chòir dhuinn gabhail ris an t-siostam-bhìdh mar chrois- rathaid far a bheil dualchas, àrainneachd, slàinte phoblach, eaconamaidh an t-saoghail agus teicneòlas a’ tighinn còmhla. A’ tilleadh gu adhbhar COP 26, emiseanan CO2 a gheàrradh gu mòr. Tha e coltach gur e talamh feurach as fheàrr a stòras carbon agus gu bheil sin nas èifeachdaich buileach ma tha am feur ga ionaltradh le beòthaichean. Tha toradh a dh’itheas sinn an uair sin a’ tighinn bho lusan nach urrainn dhuinn ithe ‘s na beòthaichean a’ meudachadh stòras carbon an fhearainn. Mar sin, tha mi an dòchas gum faigh na buachaillean èisteachd aig COP 26! Indigenous pastoralists at COP 26 and the benefits of extensive grazing. le Gabhan Mac a’ Phearsain

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 19 Reclaiming Our Land by Rob Gibson rural affairs, climate change and environment Rob Gibson, Reclaiming Our Land committee (from 2011 to 2016) which succeeded (Highland Heritage Educational Trust 2020) Derek Flyn salutes a hero of Scottish land reform. in bringing a major piece of legislation, the Land To purchase, email Reform Bill, through the parliamentary process. [email protected] WHY DO so few Scots own land in The detail of many struggles is laid bare and this Price: £11.99 plus £2.00 postage. Scotland? Why is it that we are so record of them will stand as a valuable research detached from it? Huge tracts of our tool for both students and activists. countryside are in the control of a landed elite. As the title of this book suggests, something Retiring on a high, and described as an should be done. exceptional convener, this “habitually maverick” politician progressed the issue which he had Reclaiming Our Land does two things and it championed for decades, when Holyrood does them both well. Rob Gibson was an SNP overwhelmingly passed the 2016 Land Reform MSP from 2003 until 2016; but his activity as a (Scotland) Act by 102 votes to 14. Of course, the land reformer has been life-long. That’s what Tories and landowning interests were to decry makes this book of special interest to those who these radical measures, but the direction of travel believe in land reform. of the Scottish people was now made abundantly clear. Firstly, it provides a personal account from someone who has committed himself to This is much more than a personal account, campaigning and educating others on land for Rob recalls other campaigners from the past matters. This, as some of us know, results in and provides, from his own experience, examples hostility from powerful interests. Rob did not of how progress might be made. His previous shy away from confrontation and chose a books include The Highland Clearances Trail political career, spending his student vacations (first published 1983 and regularly reprinted; campaigning for crofting (think Glendale and a new, expanded edition is in preparation). As Strollamus), then eight years on Ross and a longstanding affordable guide to historical Cromarty district council, before being elected to grievances in the Highlands, it indicates clearly the Scottish Parliament in 2003. where Rob’s motivation came from. Secondly, he recounts political progress But this new book on his own more recent past from devolution to his time as convener of the has relevance for everyone in Scotland. A Long and Tangled Saga by Bob Chambers the protracted acquisition process. The community initially discussed with The story of the Pairc Estate community buyout the landowner a voluntary transfer of the land. Discussions were frustrated by the THIS BOOK recounts the long anticipated value of the proposed wind and winding road travelled by the farm development, on which Lomas – Pairc community in Lewis, arriving understandably – wished to capitalise. finally at ownership of their land. Complex legal issues had to be thrashed out, taking considerable time. The Pairc Trust commissioned Bob Chambers to write this book, but Due to the landowner’s procrastina- the author’s thorough and objective tions, the community decided to move research provides an independent and to a ground-breaking hostile take-over dispassionate account, detailing the of the land – made possible by the Land considerable challenges faced by the Reform Act of 2003 – the first time such people of Pairc from December 2002, action had been implemented. In the end, when they became aware of proposals a hostile bid was not required, but its de- for a large wind farm on the estate, to manding and convoluted process was December 2015 when their determined thoroughly worked through. efforts finally came to fruition. The achievements of the Pairc Trust The structure of the book provides have significant importance in the a timeline, with chapters highlighting wider land reform process and many the setbacks, decisions taken and lessons have been learned, some now achievements at each point of the process. adopted into current law. For any groups considering a community buy-out, this is In the 1820s and 1830s, the people of essential guidance. Pairc suffered the fate of many across the crofting areas – clearance from the Beautifully illustrated, the book is a lands they had worked for generations very readable account of a complex and to make way for sheep, which were more difficult journey which ultimately reached profitable for the landowner. a satisfactory destination. The community has benefited from the dedication and Bob Chambers observes that this determination of a small group of emotive history, so familiar to many of volunteers who gave years of their life us, was one of the sustaining reasons for to the cause. the determination of trust directors and the community of Pairc to see through Available from Acair – www.acairbook. the machinations of landowner Barry com. ISBN: 978-1-78907-111-5 Lomas and persevere in overcoming the many hurdles placed before them over Reviewed by Fiona Mandeville

20 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 21 Social crofting is part of the wellbeing economy Lucy Beattie, SCF member and mainstream activity of social or care sections of society to connect direct relationship to local NHS or PhD student, explains. farming. to new ways of being – but social services; other arrangements importantly, focuses on were much less formal. All models WHEN YOU hear the Social crofting brings crofter bringing in sections of society deliver exceptional outcomes for words wellbeing and wellbeing, client wellbeing, experiencing the most social attendees. However, there are economy in the same community wellbeing and societal exclusion. In rural areas this barriers. sentence, you’d be forgiven for wellbeing. Farming and crofting can is often younger people, thinking they may not go hand be a lonely existence, especially older people and those with Social crofts face challenges in hand, due to the disconnect as communal work activities have disabilities, alongside crofters of core funding, volunteer fatigue, between the money-driven nature dwindled. Participants noted the worries about health and safety, of economics and its relationship paperwork and form filling. The with more nuanced aspects of “Social crofting denotes using crofts for the social crofting network meetings people and society. purpose of improving health and wellbeing had a great level of support and through social care, similar to social or care it is clear there is a need for this Research in the Journal of Rural farming, which are interchangeable terms network to continue and grow the Studies indicates that crofting describing a diverse set of practices that bring status of social crofting, to bring it and crofting communities are vital together healthcare provision and agriculture into everyday community activity to underpinning the wellbeing within a broader umbrella of green care” where needed. economy. Spaces of well-being: Social crofting in rural crofting sets (Russell et al, 2021) The findings integrate well this out using case studies from with existing research into social SCF’s Gaining Ground project, benefits of working with social themselves as residents of areas farming. Recommendations would funded by Moray and Highland crofting attendees on tasks such as with a lack of local services. be to focus on creating the right LEADER. gathering, fencing and harvesting • As a therapeutic space, conditions for social crofting to vegetables. social crofts generate positive flourish across the Highlands and Case studies, data gathered at • It generates community outcomes for participants with Islands, perhaps through policy or SCF-facilitated events and crofter- a range of needs, evident in agricultural support packages. led discussion groups in Moray and wellbeing with potential to the diversity of participants Highland were written up by the late overcome conflict within benefiting from participation on As spaces for wellbeing in Dr David Heaney. This paper is an communities, through creating a social croft. Scottish rural communities, social important distinction for crofting, a shared sense of belonging Some case studies were crofts can address some of the as social crofting is defined and and purpose. established social crofts with a need for, and interest in, green care. discussed in the context of real-life • It offers opportunities for all Social crofting is an innovative form practice. of rural development and crofting diversification. The key findings look at the delivery of social crofting activity Russell, Z, Beattie, L and and reveal characteristics which Heaney, D, 2021. Spaces of set the model apart socially and well-being: Social crofting in rural economically from the more Scotland. Journal of Rural Studies.

22 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 AGRI-TOURISM The role of agri-tourism in croft diversification Fossil Cottage Armadilla Robin’s house Caravan site at Achue Croft Wildlife croft CROFTING IS a part time occupation, Phil described how he named his Wildlife Croft recycled materials where possible. Our aim is so diversification has always been to brand the business, majoring on their own a place of healing and wonder in a sustainable important, but more crofters now aim to produce and local wildlife on and around the croft. environment.” www.edinbane-self-catering.co.uk build businesses on the croft rather than take full He talked about slow tourism, combining nature / stepsonthecroft.com time jobs elsewhere. escapes with comfort and stressing that support for the property is support for their ecological New ventures require investment and the SCF ran an online seminar on agri-tourism for aims. “Our wildlife branding and marketing has effects of Covid have made estimating future crofters. A good turnout of new and experienced been hugely successful and I feel as crofters it is income difficult. There has been a large increase crofters heard the stories of others and learned untapped potential.” www.wildlifecroftskye.co.uk in visitors to the Highlands and Islands in 2020 of their successes – and failures. and 2021, as foreign travel was cut back. There Robin had taken a semi-derelict croft house is no consensus whether the high visitor numbers Fiona talked about the changed standards used as a feed store and byre, cleaned it out will continue or whether returning European people expect from B&B and self-catering and and successfully started letting with no electricity, visitors will maintain traffic. More planning the explosion in the number of places available no water, no inside toilet. She renovated over applications going through will boost supply of in her area. She advised concentrating on lockdown, so the roof no longer leaks, but accommodation but could affect occupancy rates weekly bookings to reduce the work involved in deliberately left it without water or cooking if demand does fall. changeovers and not to rely too heavily on Airbnb, facilities. The back-to-basics strategy has been which can be controlling. She also talked about successful. But advertising must be honest, so A couple of themes emerged from the her earlier experiences with a bunkhouse and her that visitors know what they are coming to and are presentations and discussion. family’s croft B&B. www.fossil-cottage-skye.co.uk. prepared. www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/14318713 One is that crofting has a story to tell about Russell discussed small caravan sites. If you Liz is planning an up market development of heritage and history as well as links to the land can get the site right then initial set up costs three tourist cabins on her croft. The family’s and nature – eating local produce, seeing starry can be kept down. The income is steady, if not research, including visiting trade shows, skies, observing bugs through a magnifying spectacular. A big plus is not needing planning showed that going to the top end of the market glass, living a life without all mod cons. This story permission if you work through recognised for accommodation and the surrounding draws tourists to stay with us and spend money in organisations such as the Caravan and Motor environment costs more to set up but should local shops and restaurants. We crofters need to Home Club, who can also provide advice. But mean higher returns. The hope is that the local take the time to tell the story and educate visitors. you do need to install electricity, water and waste community can get involved in the ecological This gives financial benefits in the short term and disposal. Any tourism venture can be very tying side. builds long-term support for crofting. since you have to be there to take bookings and welcome guests every day. Helen had used volunteers through WOOFing The other theme was looking around at www.achuecroftcottage.co.uk to develop the croft. She now combines self- what we have and developing these assets catering accommodation with her own massage for the benefit of visitors. It might be the view, Janette Sutherland of SAC described their therapy and wildlife walks through the woods that the environment or an old building that can be leaflet outlining how to set up “airighs” for motor- volunteers helped plant. Peace and quiet is part converted, or a skill you have that others might home stopovers and the pitfalls around waste of the offering for guests. appreciate. And the presenters showed this disposal and muddy fields. The leaflet and advice can be done carefully, thoughtfully in a way are available from SAC. The work was funded by “We have been running our croft for 23 years, that doesn’t damage the thing you are trying to the Universities Innovation Fund. with cattle and vegetable production, welcoming promote. We are preserving what is good for the https://bit.ly/3c3i7k2. visitors to our two croft dwellings, restored using benefit of us, our guests and future generations.

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 23 Uig sheiling AGRI-TOURISM Reasort Estate staff delivering roofing materials by argocat © Neil Howard Roddy Mackinnon, UDT development officer, Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye describes an innovative community project The impact of tourism on rural IN EARLY 2020 the Uig Development Trust (UDT) secured grant funding from livelihoods and environments the Craignish Trust and Highlands and Islands Enterprise to renovate a sheiling MSc student Lucy Shearer outlines her research participating in common crofting activities, instead on Mangersta common grazings. findings on the Isle of Skye. using the land to build tourist accommodation or other tourist-based capital endeavours. This has A sheiling, as many readers will know, THE ISLE OF SKYE has experienced intensified the housing crisis, with an increase was a rough hut built out on the moor where mass, unregulated tourism growth, in the number of second homes and holiday residents of nearby villages would come and detrimentally impacting the island and lets leading to a lack of affordable housing and live through the summer months, to graze its inhabitants. subsequent emigration of younger, less-wealthy, their livestock. This sheiling was last used in native islanders. the 1940s and had largely collapsed. This phenomenon is not confined to Skye; it is a global issue with global consequences. Following Visitors have been coming to Skye for Popular suggestions in a 2019 community decades of near-unregulated expansion, tourism years to explore the environment, culture and consultation – to develop local walking routes has reached a tipping point in many regions, heritage. Participants noted that traditional travel and renovate a sheiling or blackhouse causing more harm than good to the environment experiences have been replaced by the notion of – became noted objectives in the Uig and local residents. This is known as overtourism. tick-box tourism, enabled largely by mass media Development Plan. The main aims are to culture. A tick-box tourist tends to travel around bring an unused, dilapidated building back As the tourism industry has grown, so have a host destination rapidly and with purpose; to into use to provide visitors with alternative environmental concerns. Inundated local tick off mainstream, must-see locations and accommodation, to encourage exploration of infrastructure; limited access to popular attractions document the experience on social media. This the moorland and hills and to support ongoing and destinations; increased cost of living and lack type of tourist is susceptible to overlooking the sustainable community development. of affordable housing; increased road congestion finer nuances of a destination’s history, heritage, and pollution; depletion of natural resources and and culture. The funding was used to cover the cost environmental erosion are some examples of the of materials, with all labour carried out by negative effects. My interview participants noted Skye faces a real dichotomy. While unregulated local volunteers who repaired the drystone how land erosion and degradation, pollution, litter mass tourism has many negative consequences, walls, rebuilt the chimney, reinstated the and disturbance to wildlife have all increased with a large percentage of islanders rely on the roof and laid a new stone floor. Forthcoming tourism. tourist economy for income. Overdependence work includes constructing an adjacent on tourism can result in a slew of social issues compostable toilet shelter and installing a Not only does overtourism have a detrimental and, as an economy, it is vulnerable to external small stove. environmental impact, but some local residents variables – the COVID-19 pandemic being a also perceive it as a threat to a host destination’s recent example. Benches inside the building will fold out to cultural heritage. Skye is a traditionally Gaelic provide a hard sleeping surface for up to four society. However, its speakers have declined To reduce overdependence and subsequent people. These have been repurposed from a significantly over the last century and the social issues such as outmigration, Skye must former church meeting-house in Mangersta. Gaelic culture has suffered. Cultural changes transition from a tourist-based economy, as it has The project is being managed by UDT, who are inevitable in an era characterised by been for many years, to a diverse and sustainable have oversight of the plans and finances and modernisation and globalisation. On Skye, the economy that provides more opportunities for provide support to the volunteers. tourism industry and its many consequences people to return. have accelerated cultural change to the point The sheiling will be ready for use in where elements of the island’s culture and More emphasis should be placed on knowledge midsummer 2022 and will be open all year heritage are almost unrecognisable. sharing between residents and visitors, as well round. Visitors will be asked to book in as the phrase “Leave No Trace”. The solution advance via an online booking system with Participants mentioned increasing levels of in- is not to attack tourism, but better manage the a suggested donation of £20 per person per migration to the island as a contributing factor. industry. Residents’ rights must be prioritised over night. Profits will be reinvested back into Affluent newcomers relocate to Skye in search of the economy to achieve a healthy balance and the community through UDT, with a 10% tourism-based capital, purchasing and operating to ensure that residents are beneficiaries, not donation to Mangersta grazings committee a holiday let. The crofting community on Skye is victims, of tourism’s success. at the end of each financial year, as a thank seeing an increase in the number of newcomers you for their ongoing support. purchasing crofts yet showing little interest in [email protected] If successful, UDT and North Harris Trust have set an aspirational long-term ambition to create a network of sheilings from Uig to North Harris, further opening up the west side of the island to longer-distance walkers. UDT would like to express its gratitude to Mangersta grazings committee, Reasort Estates, Craignish Trust and Highlands and Islands Enterprise for their continued support.

24 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 MEMBERS PAGES SCF membership survey THANK YOU for replying to the Political lobbying is considered essential by Commission. Arguments for and against re- membership survey that came out a four out of five members. The e-newsletter and wilding and Scottish independence come up couple of months ago. The chair and website are also valued but the social media regularly. board need feedback from you, our members, output divides opinion – as does social media to see whether we are doing the right things – to the population in general. Around half of A lot of responses saw threats around the and we take your comments seriously. respondents have found training provided by market in crofts, unused crofts, young people SCF useful to them personally. not being able to get into crofting and regulation. The headline figure is that you still rate the The future of agricultural support was also seen SCF as an effective organisation, even through When we asked about other services, most as a threat by around half of replies. Brexit and the pandemic which curtailed meetings and replies were about doing more of the things we re-wilding were seen as less of a threat. The training to Zoom or Teams. 72% of responses are already doing, like local meetings, lobbying, “Other” category mostly amplified these points rated SCF as moderately or very effective. disseminating advice, or discounts. The board but also included loss of croft land to housing, Less than 6% thought we were ineffective or will look at the suggestions and see what we lack of regulation, affordability, multiple croft not particularly effective. This is consistent with can do better. ownership, land ownership, lack of employment the two previous occasions we have asked the opportunities and lack of young people. question in the past eight years. Opportunities that you see for crofting are about local food production, conservation and That is a flavour of the responses; thank The advantage of online meetings is that more climate change mitigation – but only if crofts you again for replying. The board tries to take people can attend and give their input than would can be made available to young people who positions that reflect the membership at large, not be possible if travel to Edinburgh or Inverness want to work the land and they get the support always straightforward when divisive topics like was required, but they do lack spontaneity. they need. There is a fair amount of pessimism re-wilding come up or when new opportunities out there, with scepticism about government like carbon credits arise and we have to evaluate The Crofter and information on crofting and commitment and the role of the Crofting their impact on our members. policy issues are all highly valued by yourselves. SCF membership subscription YOU MAY recall that our policy is to keep SCF subscriptions up Individual membership £68.00 Follow us with inflation. Our costs rise with Joint membership £102.00 on Twitter inflation, as everything does. Associate membership £204.00 Young crofter membership @ScotCroftingFed Last year we decided to waive the £34.00 increase, as the board felt that members were having a difficult enough time as it If you pay quarterly this is (per quarter): was with lock-down. This year we really have to have an increase. The inflation Individual £17.00 rate over the past year averaged 3% (Office of National Statistics) but we will Joint £25.50 keep it below that, at 2.25%. Young crofter £8.50 This means that, as of 1st January 2022, our membership subscriptions And remember, a full year’s subscription will be: costs you about the same as one tank of fuel for your vehicle – amazing value! Thank you very much for your continuing support of the voice for crofting which, as you will see from articles in this edition, is needed more than ever.

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 25 MEMBERS PAGES Meet our new council members Marcus MacDonald – I am from the crofting township of Strathkanaird, just north of Ullapool. I am a merchant seaman and together with the family run a small flock of Cheviot ewes and a herd of native-breed cattle, along with some very free-range laying hens. I agreed to join the council because I believe that SCF will always have the best interests of the crofting system at heart. I believe that strong representation and united action is more important now than at any time in recent history. Crofting has so much to offer our culture and communities, but needs stronger protection to continue as the system of land use we know today. I will do my best to assist the board and council in any way I can on behalf of our members. Rebecca Robson – My partner and I bought the tenancy of a croft in our village on the west side of Lewis last year. We both grew up in crofting communities and our families have crofts and livestock. Our croft is 17 acres and we are just starting out. We have five cows grazing it and have had our first silage crop baled. We are in the middle of a CAGS application to sort out derelict fencing. Our village is pretty traditional, so we get loads of advice from the other crofters. We are interested in innovative crofting ideas as well as carrying on the traditions. We have small children who are enjoying the outdoors work. So far, I’ve learned far more from SCF than I’ve contributed, but happy to be on the council just the same! Stephen Leask – I was brought up on a farm, and involved in the Shetland crofting community from childhood. When I left school I worked on a farm in Caithness doing a course as a new entrant. I was Shetland regional manager for Harbro. The job entailed being an animal health and feed advisor; and advisor for agricultural chemicals, fertiliser etc. I became a Shetland Islands councillor in 2017 and now work part-time for Harbro as advisor and consultant. I set up the agricultural forum with the council, to add more focus on the importance of crofting and farming in Shetland. Karen MacRae – I live in Dornie with my young family. Some folk might remember me working for SCF a number of years ago. I now work part-time with the local community trust. I have an interest in local food and community ownership and I have enjoyed taking part in SCF’s access to crofts working group. We were fortunate to be able to build our home on my husband’s family croft. It is a traditional set up, selling store lambs and calves, mainly run by my husband and father-in-law. We have some ideas to diversify activities on the croft which I hope to have time to take forward in upcoming years. Jamie McIntyre – I am a freelance forester and community development worker based in Ardnamurchan, though most of my time is spent supporting the Woodland Crofts Partnership (of which SCF is one of four partners). I’ve long had an interest in smaller-scale, rural development forestry and in particular family forestry models such as woodland crofts and woodlots. I was for a time woodland crofts officer for HIE/FCS when the model gained official support following the 2007 Crofting Reform Act, but have been self-employed for the last ten years. My wife was raised on the family croft and we have four children, with two still in school. In my spare time I am involved in various community projects including a hydro scheme and a community-owned school building.

26 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 MEMBERS PAGES SCF annual general meeting Donald MacKinnon, SCF chair Mairi Gougeon, cabinet secretary for rural affairs and islands THE SCF online AGM on 6th Ms Gougeon acknowledged In his chair’s annual report to the policy development to make sure October 2021 was attended crofting as a low-impact agricultural AGM, Donald MacKinnon said: this is the case. by over 30 people. system that has great potential in Mairi Gougeon, cabinet contributing to the government’s “It has been another strange year “The market in crofts is out secretary for rural affairs and priorities on climate change, for all of us, but SCF has continued of control – with few affordable islands, was keynote speaker. biodiversity and community to represent members’ interests at opportunities for young, new Delegates welcomed her resilience. There is great potential several levels. The move to online entrants. We will persist on this assurances of crofting’s value, for income and employment in meetings has helped democratise issue and stimulate discussion. continued government support areas such as woodland expansion, access. From across the Highlands Linked to this is the urgent need for and commitment to reforms peatland restoration and the and Islands, we have been able crofting law reform, which we are strengthening the future of crofting. development of local food networks. to join meetings that in normal urging SG to begin without delay. circumstances would have taken The cabinet secretary gave an A presentation from John Kerr, days to attend. “Projects are an important part upbeat address, tackling members’ Scottish Government (SG) head of SCF’s work. We have been concerns and reaffirming previous of agricultural policy, followed. “SCF representatives participated really pleased to be able to restart government commitments. He outlined how land, agriculture in various groups including our training programme with Enforcement of crofters’ duties is and the rural economy are at LEADER local action groups, QMS, SG support. We are continuing a key issue, to ensure occupation a crossroads, post-Brexit, with local and national goose, deer and our quest for additional funding and use of crofts, creating further significant changes driven by sea eagle management schemes opportunities to extend the offering. opportunities for new entrants to climate, biodiversity, international and various Scottish Government Crofters Diversity Pays! has entered crofting. In addition to increasing the trade and UK relations sometimes groups on agricultural policy. a second phase, again thanks to Crofting Commission’s residency pushing in different directions. SG We continue to meet regularly SG funding. and land use team, and on-the- is in the process of resetting policy with government and opposition ground presence through new objectives for agriculture and land politicians and government officials. “SCF’s finances are in a stable development posts in the Western use in a Scottish context. There We have regular liaison meetings position, testament to the careful Isles, the government is taking is huge complexity in how we use with the Crofting Commission and stewardship of the organisation action on its own crofting estates our land and the communities it SCF provides the secretariat for the by current and previous board and to enforce duties and create supports, so maintaining productive Scottish Parliament’s cross party staff members. opportunities for new entrants. dialogue is essential. Key challenges group on crofting. and issues: “Crofting has an important role Ms Gougeon agreed that an • realigning the agriculture sector “Outwith the CAP, we have to play, in uncertain times. With appropriate balance must be found an opportunity to redesign our appropriate financial support and between public interest and private to meet climate targets and agricultural support system to make reform of the law, crofting can property rights. She acknowledged enhancing biodiversity; it fit for the future. It must work for play its part in tackling the climate the disappointment felt by many that • addressing the needs of the rural crofters and crofting and SCF will emergency, continuing to support crofting law reform did not feature economy and communities, to maintain our engagement with biodiversity and reverse the trend in the Programme for Government capitalise on a green future; of depopulation. SCF will continue this year. She is committed to taking • designing and developing to argue this case.” the reform through parliament in new agencies – Scottish Vet this session. When pressed on Service and Scottish Food the urgency, she affirmed that Agency – which were manifesto engagement with stakeholders was commitments; planned to take this forward. • EU alignment, borders, trade and UK relations. Withdrawal of funding to manage The transition needs to be the control of goose populations, planned, with necessary systems to especially in the Western Isles, support delivery. SG is committed was raised as a matter of great to continue support for crofting, concern. The cabinet secretary as part of the social fabric of rural suggested a meeting between communities, with a key role NatureScot, environment and land in maintaining and enhancing reform minister Mairi McAllan and Scotland’s natural capital. SCF to find an appropriate solution to this problem.

THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 27

28 THE CROFTER, DECEMBER 2021 Appreciating our young crofters SCF IS once again ready Horticulture: to acknowledge the Young Crofter quaich. a Handbook for Crofters contribution of young The judging panel look for crofters, through the SCF Young Crofter of the Year award, with individuals who are crofting in a the continuing support of the sustainable way, using traditional MacRobert Trust. and/or new ways of working and who are active in their crofting Last year’s winner, Helen O’Keefe community. You can download the in Elphin, said “The Young Crofter nomination form at www.crofting. of the Year award has been a great org/about-scf/young-crofters. way to share the message about how important crofting is, especially The award provides an for our communities. It brought a lot opportunity to highlight crofting as of publicity, which was a bit daunting a way of sustaining communities and took some extra time, but it’s and a unique land-based culture. been great for wider public exposure With the support of the MacRobert of the croft, as well as my other Trust, we recognise the role young businesses – the tearooms and crofters play in securing the future our local food hub. This year was for crofting and their communities. very busy with normal life starting up again, but I’m more motivated to Nominations are open till January work on these things, to live up to 31st. the award I’ve been given.” Nominations are now open for this year’s award. We want to hear from you, either by nominating someone in your community, or you can enter yourself. The winner will receive £500 and the engraved Christmas shopping! How to Produced by Strath Print, Broadford, Isle of Skye︱tel: 01471 822 555︱www.strathprint.co.uk contact us Highlands and Islands Woodlands Handbook Postal address and registered office: This guide for crofters, communities and small woodland owners, published by the Croft Woodlands Project, is a Scottish Crofting Federation Headquarters comprehensive guide to establishing, managing and Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8AX utilising woodland in the varied and often challenging conditions of the crofting counties. Written by Bernard General enquiries Advertising: Planterose, and including case studies from crofters and membership: Erin Matheson across the region, the advice and guidance is based on [email protected] decades of hands-on experience. [email protected] 01599 530005 01599 530 005 Members’ price £15 Crofting law helpline Training: for SCF members Horticulture: A Handbook for Crofters [email protected] 01599 230 300 Now its second print, this guide for growers in the The Crofter: visit www.crofting.org challenging conditions of the crofting areas was written Fiona Mandeville, editor for full contact details by experienced crofters and horticultural experts with specialist knowledge of crofting conditions. Principal fi[email protected] Company Number SC 218658 authors are Dr Audrey Litterick, a horticultural consultant 01471 822 297 Charity Number SC 031919 well-known to Highland and Island growers; Calina MacDonald, presenter of Anns a’ Gharradh on BBC Alba; Although every effort is made and John Bannister, crofter and market gardener in Skye. to ensure the accuracy of The book is a comprehensive and definitive guide to the information printed in this horticultural production in Scotland’s islands and on the publication, SCF cannot accept western and northern seaboard. liability for errors or omissions. The views expressed in Members’ price £15 this publication are not necessarily those of the SCF. (prices includes post and packaging within the UK) The books can be purchased online at www.crofting.org/product-category/books-and-cards or call HQ on 01599 530005.