Archive for the Uncategorized Category

Westminster’s International Development Committee published its report today on Global Food Security. www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201314/cmselect/cmintdev/176/176.pdf Good to see them recommending more help for small famers throug extension services (that could work in Scotland too) and a‘focus on sustainable systems such as pasture-fed cattle rather than on grain-fedlivestock. ‘ The

Would you….? improve the advisory services to help farmers improve biodiversity and store more carbon in the soil? strengthen supply chains between rural areas and cities to make organic and local food more widely available? invest in ‘animation’ to get communities, farmers and other rural businesses working

Blasda is Scotland’s local food feast, which takes place right across the country during Scotland’s Food and Drink fortnight (Sat 7 – Sunday 22nd September).It’s an opportunity for communities to take charge of, and celebrate their own food culture. In the last few years hundreds of communities

George Monbiot (Guardian 28 May) wants to see re-wilding in Europe. He’s a bit off the mark about CAP subsidies, which go to the low ground much more than the hills – but his main point is we should stop farming some less productive upland areas and

Good to see there’s been a breakthrough in Colombian peace talks, where land redistribution has been a key demand of Farc rebels for the last 50 years. Today 52% of the farms are in the hands of just 1% of landowners, giving Colombia one of the most

The Scottish Government is currently consulting on the National Planning Framework 3 (NPF3) and the Scottish Planning Policy (SPP). The consultation deadline is 23 July 2013. SPP and NPF3, both documents should have the same outcomes and targets with the SPP dealing with the ‘how’ and NPF3

Falkland Estate in Fife is making land available for new farmers.  Parcels of between 5 and 15 acres, on Grade 3.1 land (suitable for vegetable production) will be created on the Estate, which already hosts Pillars of Hercules and the Big Tent. Scotland’s Rural College is offering

This one’s on guerrilla gardening… www.heraldscotland.com/food-drink/opinion/grow-your-own-guerrilla-gardening.2013051298

An opportunity to join a dynamic social enterprise on Isle of Bute.  Fyne Futures has been delivering a range of social and environmental benefits to Bute and beyond since 2005.  Our activities include recycling collection and processing, furniture reuse, community car club, energy efficiency and renewable energy

The Stage 1 Consultation for SRDP 2014-2020 is due to be issued by the Scottish Government today, 1 May 2013. To complement this, the Food and Rural Communities Directorate are holding a series of roadshows over the next few weeks, beginning this evening in Portree. Scottish Government