Agroecology– farming with nature – is only just creeping into the mainstream in farming and crofting practice in Scotland. There is a growing wider recognition of the potential of agroecology as a solution.
“Agroecological approaches to farm management have significant potential to help Scotland tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity decline whilst building resilience into our food production systems. ” The potential for an agroecological approach in Scotland: Policy Brief
There is also a need for improved support and advice for farmers, crofters and growers. Trying out different practices in your farm is not an easy decision. Going to the field, seeing the practices yourself and hearing from those implementing them can increase confidence to try them out.
A unique partnership of organisations have come together to embed and support the transition to agroecological practices in Scotland through a practical knowledge exchange programme funded by the Knowledge Transfer Innovation Fund (KTIF).
We are committed to support farmers, crofters and growers at all stages of their agroecological journeys in Scotland.
Between August 2022 and March 2023, Nourish Scotland will work with the Landworkers’ Alliance, Pasture for Life, Soil Association Scotland, the Nature Friendly Farming Network and Propagate to facilitate a series of farmer/crofter/grower groups and a wider webinar series. The groups will meet on farms/crofts/market gardens and online and include:
- Pasture Poultry Feed Group– West Coast Focus. For more info contact: clem.sandison@landworkersalliance.org.uk
- Market Gardening Group – Central Scotland. For more info contact: aallamand@soilassociation.org
- Supporting Biodiversity within Island-Based Farming & Crofting Group – Islay, Jura, Gigha and Colonsay. For more info contact: kirsty.tait@nffn.org.uk
- Grazing Group – North East Scotland. For more info contact: nikki@pastureforlife.org
- Soil Health Group – South West Scotland. For more info contact: abi@propagate.org.uk
- Biodiversity & Profitability Group – Scottish Borders. For more info contact: diana@nourishscotland.org.uk
This project builds and expands on previous work undertaken over 2021/22 under the Agroecology: Facilitating Mindset Change project. Through this, 28 participants hosted on farm/croft events with over 300 attendees sharing their knowledge, learning and hopes for the future. You can read the final report and recommendations on how to embed agroecology in Scotland here
Webinar Series
Expect webinars up until March details TBC.
Learn about Agroecology: webinar recordings & resources
Agroecological Transition: reflections from recent research in Scotland. Watch video.
A perspective on the link between Biodiversity & Profitability . Watch video.
Soil Food Web for Farmers. Watch video.
Sustainable Poultry Feed: The potential of insect protein. Watch video.
Crop Nutrition and Compost. Download PDF.
High Nature Value Farmland-the key to a nature-rich future in Scotland?. Watch video.