Scottish Crofting Federation THE CROFTER rooted in our communities SCF is the only organisation solely dedicated to campaigning for crofters and fighting for the future of crofting

NOVEMBER 2017 Number 113 Conflict between two endangered species: crofters and geese © Martin Benson – Skye

HE HAVE had a problem with wild population returns to its former numbers. crofters on the machair. And the geese seem to geese damaging crops and grazings for The barnacle population in is escalating. be winning.” Tmany years now. Last year it was 4,000, this year 8,000, next SCF has been fighting for the control of wild The main culprit was the greylag but this is year? It has been predicted that if they are not geese on croft land for many years, with a petition now being overtaken by the Greenland barnacle controlled now, crofting will stop within 10 years. in the urging the government goose. The greylags were fairly well controlled in The repercussions will last for generations, to not cut the budget, and the goose issue being an adaptive management pilot scheme run by with some of Europe’s finest high nature value regularly brought to the Cross Party Group on SNH but, despite its success, the scheme has farmland, the esteemed machair habitat, being Crofting. This parliamentary group recently wrote closed. Was this a good investment of £294,858 left to degenerate. As SCF chair Russell Smith to cabinet secretary for environment Roseanna public money? Yes, if you look at the success; no, said recently, “We have a conflict between two if the scheme does not continue and the greylag endangered species – barnacle geese and ...Continued on page 3

Scottish upland INSIDE THIS ISSUE

• Crofting law support shenanigans consultation

HE SCOTTISH UPLAND differential needed for those crofting to actual replacements. • Access to land Sheep Support Scheme our marginal areas. However, the objective could be Tis a very significant The scheme has been very achieved most effectively by paying • Training support mechanism for crofters, lucrative for some though, as the on ewe hoggs retained as breeding introduced as a chance for those SCF highlighted recently, due to replacements or on gimmers taken on Region Three rough to the lack of capping. into the breeding flock. This would • Croft development make up for their distressingly low Some large producers have allow for maintaining flock numbers and diversification basic payments, but the obscure been claiming not only on their in regular ages, or for growing the criteria and fear of reprisals has replacements but on any number flock size. But cynics may say that • Crofting on St Kilda put off many who deserve the of ewe hoggs, the surplus then the Scottish Government is unlikely payment from claiming it. being sold off. This rapidly uses up to take such a bold step which could The recent mixed messages the limited budget, depriving others require more administration. • Good food from Scottish Government over of benefiting from it. This was not Paying on a percentage is a claiming and tagging dates has the intention of the scheme; and it step in the right direction at least • Help when you done nothing to help this; and is appropriate that even NFUS has and should be relatively easy to need it has only emphasised the fact that recognised this and is proposing accommodate. we need to revamp this essential a limit on claims of 20-25% of the However, the payment should …and much more scheme with the potential to pay the breeding flock – roughly equivalent ...Continued on page 2 2 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

Message from the chair... Russell Smith confusing activity with progress and that we see some results soon. There is a long list of known failings of the law (The Sump) and it seems obvious to me that we need to get on and correct these so that crofting law works for crofters rather than for lawyers. There is something wrong if an intelligent layperson can’t pick up one document and understand what the law is. On the positive side, the Scottish Government started paying out loans for basic payments in October, which will relieve the pressure for many of us and get money flowing round from crofters to suppliers and local businesses, to the benefit of all. Whilst they are billed as loans they are really just advance payments. I hope you applied for them, as we advised members. Research by the James Hutton O HOW MANY replacement number as normal whilst hoping that designed to suit the industrial Institute suggests that, on average, stock lambs did you keep someone somewhere has a plan for agriculture lobby. Common grazings the move from single farm payments Sthis autumn? the Brexit negotiations? suffer particularly badly from this to basic payments has benefitted the crofting counties. Are you an optimist and kept lots Uncertainty over the next few tendency and that contributes to Also there is good news on the because you think that by the time years along with falling prices for the declining use of grazings and Crofting Commission who seem to you sell their offspring in August old ewes and (at best) stagnant the waste of a valuable resource. be working together and getting on 2019 we will have continuing tariff- lamb prices has kept down good That is one of the things that with the job of regulating our system free access to the EU plus lots cheer at Lairg and, no doubt, other we have pushed for in the SCF which they do on our behalf. We are of good trade deals with other marts round the country. Not much position paper on Brexit that has working with them (and HIE) to get countries to boost exports? Or are there to attract the dynamic young recently been issued to politicians more vacant, absentee and derelict you a pessimist and cut the numbers people that we need to take crofting of all parties in Westminster and crofts back into use to the benefit you kept since you think we will be forward. Holyrood. We will keep campaigning of both crofting townships and the have lost our EU export market due The opportunity with Brexit is on this. wider communities – more people, to high tariffs and have accepted that we can have a support system Elsewhere, the crofting law more activity, more progress. a higher quota of imported New designed in for Scotland reform consultation moves round We remain the only organisation Zealand lamb. Or are you a realist which might mean that crofting is the country. The team are certainly solely dedicated to campaigning for who hasn’t a clue what is going on built in from the start and not added energetic in covering the crofting crofters and fighting for the future and so have just kept the same as an afterthought to something counties. I hope that they are not of crofting. Scottish upland sheep support shenanigans

...Continued from page 1 be on 30% of breeding flock, on the basis that those on Region Three land will likely have more losses, especially due to predation. 20% would do if you were taking six crops of lambs as lowland farmers might; but most crofters would work to a four or five crop system. To facilitate those with small numbers or building up their flocks, such as new entrants, for those claiming 50 or fewer hoggs the percentage criteria should not apply. There are more issues and the scheme clearly needs to be overhauled. It would be appropriate for government officials to meet with crofters and other upland sheep producers to discuss practicalities and the way forward. © Martin Benson –

www.crofting.org THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 3 Brexit: brave new world or bananas new world? Free trade fanatics and future for crofting agriculture

Like many, writes SCF director Brendan O’Hanrahan in this personal commentary, I have been transfixed by the often-bewildering and sometimes horrifying news and analysis associated with our continuing Brexit thriller and the possibly glorious future that awaits us on the other side of the divorce.

HERE HAS RECENTLY been no shortage of Tprojections for the agriculture industry, with a multiplicity of scenarios advanced, advocated and analysed with varying degrees of rigour. Trying to digest all these predictions, I come to both scare you and point to some sunny patches in the © Martin Benson – , Skye © Martin Benson – Waternish, uplands. Even at this late stage in whole sectors of the already as “more specialised and capable scrapping direct support entirely. negotiations there is a worrying historically-weakened British of competing in global markets”; And our current Pillar II schemes combination of incompetence, industrial economy – with agriculture “Seeking self-sufficiency in food do a very bad job of reaching insouciant apparent delight at ‘no at the top of the vulnerable list. should not be a goal of agricultural crofters. Before this would be deal’ or similar cliff-edge outcomes; The common theme and priority policy,” illustrate how the strengths acceptable there would have to be and salivating at the prospects with these scenarios is to deliver (admittedly not yet sufficiently a radical redesign of these systems, of a promised free trade utopia, a better deal for consumers, and realised) of the products from incorporating a substantial element demonstrated by a sizeable cohort counteract the inflationary trends crofting areas and similar systems of bottom-up or locally-led input for of the UK Government – including unleashed since the referendum, in other parts of upland Britain each area. the likes of Boris Johnson, Liam which of course makes sense in – currently enjoyed by much of The more detailed agronomists’ Fox and, at times, even the DEFRA terms of the populist drive behind the supermarket-shopping public Brexit scenarios showed that sheep secretary, Michael Gove. These Brexit. As far as these seers and – would be jettisoned, and such prices are predicted to collapse reckless visions are being fed by sages are concerned, opening the crofters and farmers would be and prices to fall significantly a swathe of right-wing think tanks free trade floodgates to waves of reduced to mere custodians of under unilateral trade liberalisation populated by cavalier economists chlorinated , hormone-fed ecosystems and pretty landscapes. – offsetting any potential gains from such as Patrick Minford and beef and dirt-cheap lamb from That’s the ghetto they envisage more generous agri-environemnt Tim Congdon. We’ve seen these the US, Brazil and the Antipodes for the vast majority of upland and LFASS-type payments. in reports from Economists for will reward Brexit voters and, at agriculture in the UK. And they scoff So, what do we need to fight for? Free Trade (the Who’s afraid the same time, force the weaker at any notion that food security may The longer the transition period, the of Free Trade report) and even sectors of the agricultural industry to be an important national objective in better – it’s as simple as that. the supposedly more sober and shape up or ship out. For them it is these unsettled geopolitical times. And the future? A radical focus on centre-right Policy Exchange, which purely the price aspect and market There is of course a strong increasing the added value derived recently brought out a report called efficiencies which are regarded argument that crofters should from crofting produce (especially Farming Tomorrow (which I do as priorities – only lip service is be paid more for managing and meat) has to be the way to a recommend people read). paid to other factors which British safeguarding some of the most secure future. This will involve more Now, it’s not necessarily that the consumers have hitherto valued sensitive habitats and species in abattoirs and intelligent, precisely- economics and analysis in these highly. Europe – but even though these targeted marketing of our high value reports is wrong, it’s more that This approach is very market- scenarios do envisage substantial products. they demonstrate a willingness to driven. Phrases from even the rises in Pillar II payments (agri- It is the way forward, but we will jeopardise, even potentially destroy, Farming Tomorrow report such environment), they propose almost need time to realise it. Conflict between two endangered species: crofters and geese ...Continued from page 1 constraints on management options on as it Islay has a population of around 50,000 Cunningham, raising concerns about escalating has around 70% of the total barnacle population barnacles at the last count, Uist about 8,000 or numbers of wild geese in Uist and asking what the overwintering on the island. 16%. So if there is a spend of £900,000 to control Scottish Government intends to do to control them. Scottish Government spends around £1.3 the Islay population, proportionately Uist should be A point raised by the group was the difference in million per year on the control of wild geese. Just receiving £144,000 per year. spend on controlling geese in Islay – predominantly over £900,000 is spent per year on Islay to protect This year Scottish Government put in nothing arable farmers – and the Uists – predominantly farmers’ land and pay compensation for damage. towards goose management intervention in Uist, crofters. Ms Cunningham replied that the greater In contrast Scottish Government has spent an though they have put up £10,000 to cover all of the spending on Islay compared to the Western Isles average of under £40,000 per year in Uist over pilot areas of , Uist, , , Lewis and does not reflect the value attached to farming or the life of the pilot scheme. The budget for this Harris to promote do-it-yourself goose control. Uist crofting on these islands, but rather the greater year was zero. crofters are justifiably at their wits’ end. 4 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 Crofting law consultation Martin Minton from Inksters Solicitors looks at the scope of the consultation, which closed for input on 20th November. HE 2017 CROFTING law consultation seeks the views of those with a stake Tin crofting and its future. The consultation takes a broad view on crofting today, and why changes are needed to the law that governs it. The consultation document references the Scottish Government’s commitment to securing the future of crofting and its contribution to the economy (estimated to be £85.8 million in 2016). However, recent legislative reform, rather that simplifying crofting law, has arguably made dealing with it increasingly problematic. The practical difficulties in working with the current legal framework will be known only too well to crofters and those who work in crofting law. It is clear reform is needed, but what form should that take? Central to the consultation is the proposal of four options. Option 1 is the consolidation of all the legislation (currently found in the Crofters (Scotland) Act 1993, as amended by the Crofting Reform etc Act 2007, the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 and the Crofting (Amendment) (Scotland) Act 2013). A single © Martin Benson – Northton, Harris act would be created. However, there would be no scope for any substantive changes or additions to the law and the many and varied Crofting law reform issues identified in the Crofting Law Sump could not be addressed. The simplest option, but perhaps not a longer term solution? continuing Option 2 would see a two-stage approach; existing law would be amended, HE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT’S well over 100 problem issues being placed in the followed then by consolidation. This would commitment to continue the process Crofting Law Sump by stakeholders, lawyers and allow issues to be addressed; but the second Tof reforming crofting legislation within members of the crofting public. If nothing else, stage would likely need to wait till the next this parliamentary session proceeded with a the sump has shown that there is a lot needing parliamentary period. 12-week-long consultation, coming to a close to be done to make crofting law fit for purpose. Option 3 would involve a process of as you read this. The consultation suggests a range of options amending existing legislation, bringing The crofting bill team ran a series of public for taking reform forward. The option of merely some substantive changes to the law while meetings to explain the options they are consolidating the acts with little change would restating some of the existing law. This would suggesting. Hopefully you got to one and were be a pointless exercise. The option of starting attempt to reduce layers of legislation and able to respond to the consultation. The SCF all over again with a clean sheet runs the may be quicker than option 2, but with less response can be found on our website. risk of crofters’ rights being lost, bearing in opportunity to make significant reforms. This is another stage in the long process of mind that a clean sheet means exactly that. Option 4 is perhaps the most controversial attempting to make crofting law fit for purpose Finding consensus on what goes on to the – and most difficult to achieve. A clean sheet; now and for the future. Over the years since clean sheet would also be protracted, if not starting from scratch and developing entirely legislation was formed in 1886, amendments impossible, to achieve. The two options of new law to fit with the needs of crofting today. have introduced inconsistencies and errors, 1: amending and then consolidating the law or 2: Whether consensus could be reached as rendering current crofting law difficult to access restating law are practicable – though it is difficult to what that should be may be the biggest and, in some aspects, unusable. The current to anticipate what could be left out in restating barrier to taking this route. reform process started with the formation of law, the consultation document indicating that it The consultation looks to ascertain the Land Reform Policy Group in 1998, which would be the lighter version of the two. The final specific legislative priorities among topics led to the first crofting reform act of 2007, a bit option of ‘other’ would include doing nothing or such as absenteeism, succession and the of a damp squib that did not fulfil its promise. terminating crofting legislation. lack of clarity surrounding owner-occupier However, this resulted in the Committee of Whilst exploring ways to make the legislation fit crofter status (the current legislative loophole Inquiry on Crofting, the largest investigation into for purpose, we must not lose sight of the fact that at Section 19B of the 2010 Act means crofting for a generation. crofting legislation was formed to protect crofters’ some owner-occupiers do not have owner- Only some of the recommendations of the rights. The crofting act is at the heart of crofting occupier crofter status.) inquiry were taken up by Scottish Government, and has evolved over 130 years, adapting to Hopefully, a wide range of responses will who then passed the next crofting act in 2010. work for crofting in a changing world. This is enable the Scottish Government to move Following its enactment some glitches emerged, another time of change and the basic principle forward with crofting law reform that will work necessitating the passing of an emergency act of protection must not be lost in the wash. for crofters. in 2013 to amend the 2010 act, and leading to THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 5

The Women In Agriculture Task Force, on which Patrick Krause represents SCF Women in agriculture HE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Crofting and SCF come out well in the research commissioned Women in Farming and Agriculture responded to the Women in Farming as having women involved in all levels of activity Research Report draws out some difficult issues Tand the Agricultural Sector Research but the agriculture sector as a whole has deeply- as well as looking at some of the slightly less Report published in June by the formation ingrained gender biases. The task force will be controversial issues facing women within Scottish of a task force, co-chaired by Fergus Ewing, looking at ways to counter these and encourage agriculture. If we are to achieve change we must cabinet secretary for the rural economy and positive action such as the provision of appropriate be prepared to face up to and discuss and debate connectivity, and Joyce Campbell, a working training, gender-balanced governance and action and challenge those difficult issues.” farmer and entrepreneur based in north to promote inclusion and equality. SCF welcomes members’ views on this topic. Sutherland, with members from a wide range First minister Nicola Sturgeon said on Any thoughts, examples and advice on action that of organisations including SCF. launching the report “The Scottish Government- SCF can take should be sent to Sandra in HQ. Armchair environmentalists versus local development Between the construction and operational phases there will be a significant number of jobs in an area of extremely dire economic circumstance. Coul Links has an interesting history. It was industrial in its time with the Dornoch-Mound railway line running through it. It was agricultural, with Cambusmore Estate wintering 100 there, the beasts trampling the place flat in the process. It provided provenance for the village in hard times from rabbit, roe, hare, mallard, teal and widgeon. And before computer games, it provided entertainment for the village bairns who experimented with their scramblers up and down the dunes; and every year in the season set fire to the place. The area is currently becoming extensively overgrown with invasive species – gorse, bracken and willow herb. Yet suddenly it has become an extremely cherished ecological habitat. Environmental bodies and armchair environmentalists queue up to condemn the golf course proposal, without offering any alternative Coul Links looking north from the proposed 14th tee, with Coul Steading in the distance left centre investment, without admitting the radical and SCF member Jim McGillivray poses a pertinent cannot make a living out of scenery alone, expensive measures the developers have question. and every year our young people leave to find taken to accommodate all environmental issues SPEND EVERY Saturday morning serving education and work in the south. With less raised, and without admitting the improvements in the volunteer-run Embo Community Shop. proper work available in the south, and university to environment, biodiversity and economy that I A high number of the Embo diaspora return education becoming more expensive, even that the investment will create. from around the world to find their roots, and they becomes more problematic. Is it a regrettable story throughout the Highlands end up at some point in our little shop. Thanks There is something of a solution emerging. that those of an environmental persuasion, secure to the internet, they come equipped with their Todd Warnock and Mike Keiser, American in salary, pension, property and personal wealth, family trees – Rosses, Mackays, Frasers and millionaires and golf fanatics, are seeking planning seek to deprive those who are less fortunate in all Cummings – and they are directed to the houses permission from Council to construct of these characteristics from having some modest where their forebears lived. and operate an international-standard golf course advancement made available to them? Like many Highland villages, Embo has been on Coul Links, just to the north of the village, at If you believe so, then please comment subject to generations of poverty, neglect and a cost of around $10 million. It’s something they accordingly, reference 17/04601/FULSU, to the emigration. Beautiful though our area is, people have done very successfully in other countries. Highland Council Principal Planner. 6 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

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SAC Agricultural & Conservation Consultants combine local knowledge with extensive experience and are supported by our team of renowned specialists. We can assist crofters with business advice on a range of topics to improve profitability including:

• Agricultural and rural business advice • Enterprise planning • Comprehensive assistance with IACS, LMO, RP, CHGS and CCAGS (agricultural buildings, hard standings, drainage, grassland improvement, Contact your local handling equipment, fences and access tracks are SAC office: examples of eligible expenditure under CCAGS) • Completion of Assignations, Decrofting and Sublet Balivanich 01870 602336 applications Campbeltown 01586 552502 • GPS croft maps for Crofting Commission or SGRPID Inverness 01463 233266 • Operational Needs Assessment to support planning Kirkwall 01856 872698 applications Lerwick 01595 693520 • record keeping and pre-inspection checks Oban 01631 563093 • Grassland and crop advice including soil analysis, fertiliser and reseeds Portree 01478 612993 • Livestock feed analysis, rationing and animal health Stornoway 01851 703103 planning Thurso 01847 892602 • Horticultural advice • Agri-environment advice • Forestry scheme implementation and management • Diversification opportunities • Marketing advice • Renewable energy feasibility studies including wood fuel heating systems Leading the way in Agriculture and Rural Research, Education and Consulting

SAC Consulting is a division of SRUC SRUC is a charity registered in Scotland, No. SC003712 155651DMN25.06.13 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 7

TRAINING

Training to diversify Top tips on diversification CF RUNS A number of demand- led courses throughout the year. SIf there’s something you’d like to do please get in touch. We also work closely with Business Gateway (BG), who run a number of business start-up and support training events each year. Here are some top tips for success when starting a diversified enterprise on your croft, from BG’s managers David Knight (Sutherland/Ross Shire) and Alistair Danter (Skye and Lochalsh).

1. Prepare a business plan Initially, this can be in any form that suits you. Keep it flexible and add/ amend/delete as your research progresses. It can be easily modified to suit a funder’s requirements, but remember, the business plan is primarily your guide to how you’re going to achieve your goals in both the short and longer term. 2. Cashflow is king No matter how altruistic your aims, the business needs more money coming SCF training manager Lucy Beattie outlines the Rachael shares this recipe: in than going out. The cashflow importance and potential of diversification. forecast is probably your most useful Chorizo fresco indicator – keep updating it. ROFTING IS ROOTED in a diverse – a Mexican breakfast sausage 3. Research range of enterprises. Here at SCF The biggest cause of any stress is Ctraining we have seen a few. Have it with eggs, in a burrito or with tacos. uncertainty. And uncertainty is caused A crofter in Elphin who spins rare-breed sheep by a lack of information. Do your , Angora wool and collie-dog hair to 1kg good fatty pork mince research and get the information. make wall hangings; micro-businesses such (almost frozen) about 20% fat 4. The “rolling why?” as croft-gate honesty boxes; macro-businesses 1 tbsp salt Why are you starting the business? such as the Isle of Harris Gin Company. There 4 tsp smoked paprika Why are your competitors failing/ is much to be proud of and a strong appetite for 2 tsp chipotle (freshly roasted and ground, succeeding? Why do you have no learning more ways to diversify and expand your remove the seeds for a cooler sausage) money in the bank? Why do you hate/ business. 1 tbsp acho chilli (freshly roasted and ground) love your business? Why are your SCF training has been fortunate to secure 2 tsp minced garlic customers complaining? When you funding from the Princes Countryside Fund to 1 tsp freshly-ground black pepper come up with an initial answer, ask support diversification events and in October 3 tsp chopped fresh oregano why again. And again. Until you get the we saw two charcuterie courses in Mull and (can use dried, but it’s not very jolly) true answer. Strontian. These one-day events were greatly 1 tsp cumin (freshly roasted and ground) 5. Remember the three Ds: supported at a local level by Claire Pepper, local 1 tbsp tequila, chilled (to make this taste Diversification in the face of course director, Eve Coles (Mull Abbatoir) and smokey, infuse to taste with some lapsang desperation will be a disaster. Hollie Taylor (Ardnamurchan) who supplied souchong tea, strained before use) Sometimes it is just not worth it and home-reared pigs to be used in the courses. 1 1/2 tsp cider vinegar, chilled you should not go down that route. Tutor Rachel Hammond said: “It was a nose- 6. Grow your assets and strengths to-tail pleasure tutoring the course! What lovely Mix everything in a mixer (too cold to do by hand), – rather than saying this is what I need. people! It reminded me of why I make charcuterie, the colder the mixture the better the texture, until 7. Humans are a crop and was a learning process for me as well as nicely sticky-looking. Fill your pork casings, rest They need nurturing, but treat ‘em right a joy.” overnight in the fridge, twist into links and fry and they are more value than sheep, gently. coos, grass, fruit, veg, etc 8. Network Meet people. Talk to people. Keep records of the people you meet. Some of those people will be useful to you and your business one day. And you’ll SCF training has been shortlisted for be useful to them. the Scottish Rural awards. 9. Get advice Start with Business Gateway and Results will be known in March. we can hopefully identify the most appropriate support for developing your business. 8 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

ACCESS TO LAND N THIS ISSUE we look at what can be achieved when unused croft land is freed up Ifor those who will work it. This is one of the key goals from the various stakeholder group discussions on the future of Let the land work crofting and the recent consultation on crofting law reform. It is a concern that has been voiced for many years and was highlighted in the Shucksmith report. Crofting will never prosper when underutilised ground abounds yet keen would-be crofters cannot get a hold of land. Rod MacKenzie, Crofting Commission chair, looks at how crofts can be made available; and we have a number of articles on the remarkable achievements that members have made when they get their hands on a croft. We look at croft development, diversification and the results of hard work and innovation. If you or someone you know is struggling to keep going, finding it tough to maintain your croft, you’ll see in this issue that help is available. We can open up possibilities for someone with new energy and commitment. We can give them guidance if they need it. Follow the advice in Rod’s article and be inspired by the achievements of our writers in the feature. © Martin Benson – Lewis

25,000 ha represents only 1.7% of that. And the bottom line is that we get 10,000 more crofting families on the land. Demand for land The second objection is, “Why create new crofts when there are existing crofts that are unused but not released?” This is indeed an issue that needs to be addressed but it will take time, so creating new crofts in parallel to bringing existing crofts back into use makes sense. One of the functions of the Crofting Commission is, as a guardian of croft land, to ensure that croft land is put to good use and is not neglected. It can do this by facilitating successful relets, getting more crofts into active use. The convener of the Crofting Commission has outlined some options that can be taken with unworked crofts in his article in this issue of The Crofter. SCF is looking at ways to start a development project that will work in accord with the Commission’s initiatives. The plan is to bring existing crofters who are not using their crofts together with young people who are wanting to croft. We aim to run a pilot in the Outer . Something we have also considered is the creation of a land trust to facilitate the creation of new crofts and the management of assigning

© Martin Benson – Rodal, Haris unused crofts, to ensure that the land is protected and remains for public good, something along KEY DRIVER of land reform in deliberations,SCF has called on the Scottish the lines of how community estates manage their Scotland has been to increase the Government to create 10,000 new crofts, half of land. A number of people who occupy, own, which should be woodland crofts. In discussion, This last point could provide a connection with manage and have a say in Scotland’s land. two objections are sometimes raised to this an initiative presented at a Scottish Parliament A broad-ranging review by the Land aspiration. The first is “Why 10,000? Why such a event recently – “Wanted: Land for New Reform Policy Group, carried out in the late big number? Why not start with something small, Farmers”. This saw the establishment of the 1990s, found that it is essential to achieve a a few hundred perhaps?” Scottish Farm Land Trust, an organisation which reduction in the concentration of ownership and The answer to this objection is that we are aims to emulate the very successful initiatives management arrangements, at local level, to talking about only a tiny proportion of Scotland’s happening in other countries such as France. promote sustainable development in Scotland. rural land. If we use 5 ha as an average croft size The SFLT recently carried out a survey asking Furthermore, the Land Reform Review Group (according to the Crofting Commission), 10,000 if people are interested in starting to farm. They Report of 2014 emphasises the need to increase new crofts would be 50,000 ha (25,000 ha agro had 1,286 positive responses, 989 of whom access to land by addressing the fact that 432 -crofts and 25,000 ha woodland crofts). want to farm agro-ecologically and 73% of these private land owners own 50% of the private rural The total amount of agricultural land in Scotland wanting less than 20ha. A fear of insecurity of land in Scotland. In short, we need more people which is not already under crofting tenure is 4.94 tenure was cited by 56% of respondents as a living on, using, owning and managing Scotland’s million ha so 25,000 ha of new crofts would only barrier to entering farming. rural land. take 0.5% of this land. The total woodland area You can see the dots joining up – crofting is In our contribution to the land reform over the whole of Scotland is 1.44 million ha so the answer. THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 9

ACCESS TO LAND

a permanent transfer of the croft and they would remain the principal tenant or owner-occupier Unworked crofts crofter. Crofting Commission convener Rod MacKenzie the crofter is resident. If a crofter is thinking about transferring the croft looks at this vital issue. This would fall under non-compliance of duties. to someone else on a permanent basis, but does However, it is sometimes the result of a sensitive not feel sure about it, then a sublet/short term let HE CROFTING COMMISSION was situation and difficult for the Commission to take could also be a way of letting someone use the delighted earlier this year to have let steps to resolve it, for example when the crofter is croft to see if they will make good use of the land Tthe tenancies of six vacant crofts to new possibly an elderly person or someone in ill health before deciding whether to assign/let it to them. entrants. who is unable to utilise the croft land. We know that another key concern is what We are continuing to work with landlords on There are positive steps crofters can take happens to the house if a crofter decides to pass unresolved succession cases, to bring more crofts themselves to make sure the land is kept in good the croft on. When assigning, a crofter can keep back into use. repair until such time as they are able to work it the house and continue living in the area, as Avoiding an unresolved succession – where again. long as they apply to the Commission to decroft there is no will confirming the crofter’s wishes in the house site and then purchase it from their relation to who they would like the croft passed Options for crofters landlord. Similarly an owner-occupier crofter can on to – is so important, as it means the croft can Subletting, or if you are an owner-occupier let the croft tenancy but exclude the house site be passed on easily to the next crofter rather than crofter a short-term let, allows you to let someone and garden ground area from the let. potentially lie empty for a significant amount of else use the land for a specific period of time. It is You will find information on the Commission time. up to the crofter to decide who they want to use website, or you can give us a call and we can talk We are increasingly being asked about crofts the croft for that period of time and crofters should you through the options available. that are underused or not used at all, even when remember that the sublet/short term let is NOT www.crofting.scotland.gov.uk A privilege to call ourselves crofters My family and I are first-generation crofters, write Mairi and Jonathan Hedges.

E ARE ABLE to make this proud statement Wbecause of one man, Alistair Maciver (see page 10). We first met Alistair when we were looking at a croft in Rogart. When that fell through he asked us to his house. Following an excellent tea, and an informal chat/interview, he drove us up the road and offered us the tenancy of the croft on which we have lived for the last ten years and now call home. After an often frustrating time on the west coast – where many crofts were derelict, townships full of holiday homes, young people moving away and croft tenancies almost impossible to get – this seemed like a miracle. That Alistair wanted us to take on the land that he and his family had worked was a huge act of trust on his part, made the more poignant for us as we had been knowledgeably informed in the west that “you Jonathan and Mairi's croft at Inchcape, Sutherland wouldn’t understand crofting”. have been re-dug, weeds tackled and the ground, and we cannot now be lived on and worked, knowledge Crofting is our everyday life. and topped, fences repaired. We imagine life without them. and skills passed on rather than Whilst we will always be incomers, are slowly gathering equipment, We have planted a lot of trees, forgotten; in this way previous we are custodians of a 25-acre and what we have is also used for without grants so we are able to generations can be remembered piece of Sutherland, carrying a contracting outside the croft, so it graze the sheep between them. no matter whether they are a blood tradition into the future. Things pays its way. Sheep and trees are tricky, but relation or not. Crofting is such an move slowly on a bare-land croft, We have a small flock of Cheviot- can be done. We have many plans and after ten years in a caravan, cross sheep, started with 10 ewe for the future. Day to day there is important and unique social land we are almost ready to move into hoggs, and now we have 35 home- nowhere we would rather be. use. our house. We have done what we bred ewes. The sheep have been Alistair changed our lives by It is a privilege to be able to call can, mostly by hand. The ditches a steep learning curve, but suit us assigning us the croft. Crofts should ourselves crofters.

www.crofting.org 10 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

ACCESS TO LAND New crofts in Argyll point to the future

Michael Eyre, forest access co-ordinator at local people. The woodland croft model where the area, Tighnabruaich Primary has welcomed Kilfinan Community Forest, reports people can manage pieces of our land for the a reversal of falling pupil numbers. benefit of their families, the community and the The new crofters’ attention will now turn to EN YEARS OF planning came to environment was the best way to make sure our regenerating their land: transforming it from fruition when Kilfinan Community Forest main resource – the land itself – was used to clear-felled conifer stumps with bracken, rushes T(KCFC) announced the registration of support the community.” and brash piles into native broadleaf woodland first three new woodland crofts this summer. SCF’s Patrick Krause echoed this point producing firewood, forest products and food. Crofting has been on the Tighnabruaich social when he visited the Kilfinan Community Forest. Woodland crofts help Scotland to meet other enterprise’s agenda since the foundation of the “Scotland has a large forestry reserve,” he national priorities such as reducing food miles, working group to bring the forest into community said, “but most is managed under the Forestry lowering emissions and improving food security. ownership in 2007. Now the project’s supporters Commission. In other countries the model is Unsurprisingly, the idea has grown in popularity, aim to show that, as well as being an important completely different. Forests are managed on a leading to increased demand for plots of land. part of the country’s history, crofting can provide smaller scale, so it’s great to see woodlands being Jamie McIntyre, co-ordinator for the Woodland a solution to many of the problems facing rural created and managed by the people who live in Crofts Partnership, confirmed that there are Scotland in the 21st century. or next to them. many people ready to take on the challenge. Set on the picturesque Kyles of Bute, “The main thing crofting offers to rural “Hopefully this will inspire other woodland owners Tighnabruaich and the surrounding areas face communities is people, so the more crofts you – community, public and private – to develop all of the issues that affect highland Scotland: can create, the more people you can encourage woodland crofts, for which there is huge unmet an ageing population, a preponderance of to stay permanently, not just tourists or holiday demand. We maintain a register which includes holiday homes, a shortage of year-round work, home owners (although there’s nothing wrong over 160 names. So while Kilfinan Community rural isolation and falling school rolls. For KCFC with that) but people who will raise families and Forest has shown the way, we need many more the solution to many of these problems lies support local services. crofts to be created over the coming years.” in attracting families to the area to stimulate “With Brexit looming and Scotland being The Woodland Crofts Partnership is a partnership economic activity and support local services. dragged out of the European Union, it’s really between SCF, the Community Woodlands Operations manager Rob Borruso explained: important that we have resilient ways of living – Association, the Highlands Small Communities “Although conifer plantation forestry dominates and crofting is very much an embodiment of that.” Housing Trust and Woodland Trust Scotland. much of Argyll, it doesn’t provide many jobs for As a result of crofting families being drawn to http://woodlandcrofts.org

Patrick Krause at Kilfinan LISTAIR MACIVER MBE, from Inchcape in Rogart, Sutherland, Awas a founding member of the SCU, a branch and council member and latterly a respected SCU president. After the reincarnation of the Scottish Crofters Union into SCF, Alistair was the organisation’s first company secretary. He was honoured with an MBE in 2015 for his services to the crofting community. The photo shows Alistair, his wife Betty and Jim Hunter, with the Lady Lieutenant of Sutherland, Dr Monica Main, who presented the medal on behalf of the Queen. Alistair is now enjoying a well-earned retirement, having assigned his croft to Jonathan and Mairi Hedges.

Kilfinnan clear fell where the three crofts will be sited THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 11

CROFT DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION Did you hear the one about the Glaswegian who learnt to milk a goat? It would be misleading to say there how and got good results; she now are on the RBST watchlist, his and Hebrideans will graze it was a plan, writes SCF member Ros uses nothing else – and no eczema. conservation contribution. into shape in no time. O’Connor. We gave it to family and friends We didn’t come to Skye to be This gives us more opportunities, who then gave to others; that’s how crofters; the opportunities arose, and possibly other goats’ milk products? EFORE COMING TO Skye, “Goatelicous”, our goats’ milk soap if not for generous neighbours letting Some hives – have you ever tasted friends joked about us production, started. us use some of their land it wouldn’t heather honey? Bbecoming crofters. Gerry had worked on a farm have happened. Finding affordable We only had a quarter acre so we every school holiday, so we bought land to rent or buy is difficult, but we www.goatelicious.com got . I went to ask an elderly a buck for breeding and the Eilean have managed to buy a croft and the www.eaileanacheogoats.com neighbour if she had any objections a’ Cheo goat herd was created. to us getting a cockerel and she and Another neighbour let us use a shed her relatives shared stories about for storage and an overgrown field, their crofting activities. but the goats soon had it tamed to Their goat stories caught my lush grass. Goats bred by us are attention and I was hooked. Gerry happily living on other crofts on Skye thought it was another daft idea of and further afield. mine, but this neighbour let us use While on , Gerry a small field. We got a shelter and arranged to swap a goat for 10 three goats – mum and two kids. I Hebridean ewes, starting the defy anyone not to like goats; they Eilean a’ Cheo sheep flock. Our 49 are friendly, mischievous, curious Hebrideans have a couple of fields and do stuff just because they can! to graze thanks to the generosity of Someone asked about goats’ another neighbour. They are a slow- milk soap. Her daughter’s a chef maturing breed that we sell to local and washing her hands so much restaurants. We also sell the fleeces. exacerbated her eczema. I learnt Gerry now has which

Self-build labour costs

CF HAD AN enquiry labour will be assessed by your about whether labour local area office and the rates we Scosts for a self-build use are based on, but not linked project could be part of the to, the Agricultural Wages Board. cost of building a house for the Where labour costs are claimed purposes of calculating a grant they must be supported with level under the Croft House completed timesheets which will Grant Scheme (CHGS). It has be issued to you with your grant been confirmed by Scottish offer and claim form.” Government that this cost It seems to be an oversight cannot be included. that the same rules do not apply Under the Crofting Agricultural for building a house as building Grant Scheme the cost of the a shed. Furthermore this would crofter’s labour very sensibly support self-build, something can be included as a legitimate that we strongly advocate as a cost. The grant criteria states: means to affordable housing. “Where the work is undertaken SCF is therefore pressing for by either you or an employee, this anomaly to be rectified the labour costs can also be and labour to be accepted as a applied for. The value of your legitimate cost. 12 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 Argyll croft woodlands Hyde, croft woodland shelterbelts, CWP can also project officer for Argyll and assist through the Woodland Lochaber, reports. Trust’s MOREwoods scheme. The CWP adviser HE CROFT will help design a suitable Woodland Project planting scheme and WTS T(CWP), launched in will contribute at least 60% 2015 in the Highlands and of the costs of trees and Islands, was extended into protective guards. Within Argyll in 2016. Argyll at least 10 sites are In Argyll, the project is run due to be planted through by Woodland Trust Scotland MOREwoods this coming (WTS) in partnership with winter, ranging in size from SCF, Forestry Commission 0.25ha to 3ha. Schemes Scotland, and Argyll Small approved for planting include Woodlands Co-op and a croft on Islay, a mixed-use is supported through the smallholding in Benderloch, Heritage Lottery Fund. The an uninhabited island in the aim is to provide assistance Baliscate Croft, Tobermory, – a new shelterbelt is to be planted along the trackside field boundary Sound of Jura and land at to crofters, smallholders and using the Woodland Trust’s MOREwoods scheme an outdoor education centre communities within Argyll (£3600/ha) for native broadleaves has now been on Mull. who want to create new native woodlands. The extended to suitable planting sites throughout all If you are thinking about planting a new native project also provides advice on management of of the crofting counties. This higher rate is aimed woodland or have existing native woodland to existing native woodlands. at sites with high exposure where high-density expand or regenerate and would like to discuss Help is available to access funding through planting is required to establish woodlands. how the Croft Woodland Project can help, please the SRDP Forestry Grant Scheme (FGS). FGS Capital grants for operations necessary to ensure contact Iona Hyde, Croft Woodland project officer planting grants are available to establish a range woodland establishment such as fencing, gates for Argyll and Lochaber, on 0343 770 5460, or of native woodland types, including upland birch and bracken control are also available through email at [email protected]. wood, upland oak wood, native Scots pine, small FGS, and a higher rate of deer fencing grant If you are in the Highlands or the Western farm woods and native low-density broadleaves. (£9.90/m) is available for much of Argyll. or , please email crofting@ In September FCS announced that the higher For small-scale planting of new native woodlandtrust.org.uk and the Croft Woodland Western and Northern Isles planting grant woodland, such as in-bye woodland planting and project officer for your area will be in touch.

Trees provide important shelter for your livestock, crops and buildings and a valuable source of woodfuel for you. Trees for Free advice and support to help the crofting community plant trees and manage woodland is available. the crofting Get in touch with your local croft woodlands advisor and find out how community useful trees are.

0343 770 5847 [email protected] woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 13

CROFT DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION Hard work, vision and energy

SCF member Ian McLean to test the shows what hard work can fencing and more importantly achieve on his and Robert for us to learn from. They are Pancic’s formerly run-down great conservation grazers and croft in , Isle of Skye. we believe that the terrain and vegetation of the croft suit them E TOOK ON our better. They also look cool! croft in 2011 as Having now had a few Wnew entrants with years of lambing, shearing no agricultural experience and treating we find it hard but with a willingness to work but massively rewarding. learn, a clear vision and lots The fleeces go to a local of energy. business, Island at the Edge, The croft extends to 11 where it is spun and sold as hectares and is situated on an yarn or as woollen garments. exposed shore-side location We also plan to create our own near the headland of Loch sheepskin rugs from a local on the Isle of Skye. tannery, SkyeSkyns. The meat Although inactive for many is incredible, low in fat with a decades, the tenant and family gamey flavour and we hope wanted to see the croft come that a market for it develops. back to life but were unable To help this, Skye desperately to do so themselves. There needs a local abattoir. was no infrastructure on the We are keen horticulturists; croft, no tracks, the fencing we love to grow our own was in a bad condition, the produce – a challenge on an drainage ditches overgrown exposed west coast croft and and the fields were waist-high with roaming deer. A small in bracken. area of the croft was deer Our aim is to create a and rabbit fenced and hardy successful diversified croft, a hedging planted. Escalonia, home and to find a different hazel, oleria and dog rose and healthier way of life. Like worked well. To extend the many Highlanders, I was season and variety of crops drawn away from my village we also erected a poly tunnel. for further education and the Soil testing identified a need for career opportunities of the city. liming and for lots of seaweed. Robbie has always known the We grow a range of soft fruits city but we both share a love and hardy vegetables through of nature, wildlife and the to tender salads. Our produce outdoors – in particular the is sold during the summer at west coast and Skye. We also the local weekly Glendale share a need to be active, to Highland Market, which we experience and to learn. helped set up, and to some of We set ourselves a fairly the fine restaurants in the area. detailed five-year plan. To Last year I became clerk improve our rural skills we of the newly re-established enrolled on a part-time course grazings committee. We at the local college and have performed a community attended as many relevant muirburn and are currently courses from the SCF and SAC in the process of updating as possible. The SCF crofting the boundary fence – the induction course is essential for first township project in over new crofters and those wanting 30 years. Grazings are an to refresh their knowledge. important asset for all crofts Another valuable way to learn and often overlooked or is from our neighbouring neglected. crofters who we found most In addition to our own welcoming and keen to share home we built a holiday their experiences. accommodation, An Airigh, The crofting grant scheme which has been essential in helped us create the basic subsidising the development infrastructure for an active of the croft. A successful croft – a croft track, a shed and pond was created to hold a supply of fresh water diversified croft has always fencing. The scheme can be an administration for the croft and to benefit wildlife. The waist-high required a mix of income sources and tourism is headache but we strongly advise that you bracken took three years of cutting several times another opportunity to be considered. persevere; the grant is there for the benefit of a year for it to disappear and for the grasses to The croft has been transformed and brought crofting. take over. We applied lime to the fields from the back to life. Achieving this has been hard work With our trusty spades we manually opened local quarry. but the rewards and wealth of new experiences up the overgrown ditches to improve drainage. A We initially introduced a small number of has been more than worth it. 14 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

CROFT DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION Young crofters kick-start new glamping business E ALL KNOW how difficult it On the croft are Hebridean sheep, can be to get a new crofting cows, Brecon Buff geese and Wbusiness idea off the ground. a polytunnel for veg growing. Maddy has Having the capital investment, accessed the Young Farmers’ Start Up time investment and energy can be a Grant and the Crofting Agricultural Grant challenge. Two SCF young crofters were Scheme with the 30% young entrants struggling to realise their business dreams increase. She is also in the AECS until they decided to work together. scheme. Aspiring young crofter Rachel In August, Rachel, Maddy and Lucy Butterworth bought a yurt in June to live (Maddy’s mother and fellow crofter) put up in up Strathglass, near Beauly. However, the yurt in a beautifully secluded, heather- with a change in work situation, and covered part of the croft. Surrounded by being offered a cottage in Strathglass, birch woodland, sheep and cows, the new she found she no longer needed it. She glamping business was now a reality. The considered selling it, but thought there three lady crofters reclaimed furniture, was surely a better business option. rugs and kitchenware to kit out the yurt, Rachel’s friend Maddy Norval – another created a listing on AirBnB and voila! SCF young crofter – had considered starting an eco-glamping business on her But the project hasn’t been without its croft at Rogart, but was struggling with the challenges – the yurt has had to withstand huge capital investment required to buy strong winds and heavy autumnal rain the pods, bell tents or huts that tourists (to which it has fared well so far). The would stay in. This is where the pair had a compost loo has needed new steps, and brainwave – why didn’t they combine their visitors have been educated about good resources – Rachel’s yurt and Maddy’s farm etiquette. croft – to start a new business venture But Rachel and Maddy are confident together? The croft is five minutes from that after a trial period, which will include the NC500 route and local B&Bs and the rigours of a Scottish winter, The hotels had experienced a big upsurge in Heather Yurt will be ready to welcome visitors in recent months. many new people to the croft in 2018. Maddy in the yurt Finding the ideal combination Helen O’Keefe outlines the development of surplus to the public, and for meat, mainly her three crofts in Elphin, a small township for home use but also for local sales. I’ll in Assynt. also investigate other breeds but my priority is to develop sustainable, healthy BOUGHT THE crofts last December and productive chickens (ie meat, eggs and and currently have 13 , good mothering). Iseven of them 2017 lambs, four Black The polytunnel and vegetable patch Rock hens and a cockerel. should allow me to grow most of the salad The crofts came with a house which greens for the café, and other vegetables to I share with my mother, and a café, The feature in café meals, plus additional food Elphin Tearooms, which is one reason for the house. I’ll also investigate growing I haven’t made much progress on croft berries, herbs, fruit trees and other crops. matters this year! The café is a key part of this venture. As The crofts are currently all pasture, well as providing supplemental income in although I have fenced off a small the summer (at the cost of most of my time vegetable garden and planted a variety unfortunately), it gives us a marketplace of native trees on steeper sections of the for our products – knitted goods, raw wool, slopes. The trees will provide extra shelter potentially jams etc – and a ready customer for stock, improve ecological diversity and for our produce: salad greens, vegetables, make the place look less bare. My initial berries and eggs “sold” to the cafe. priorities for the croft are to expand the Other potential projects include bee sheep flock, deer fence the majority of the keeping (the trees will help with this) croft, erect a polytunnel and build a larger and milking goats. Being able to use the chicken house. common grazings to support my sheep I want to improve the sheep flock to for most of the year is crucial for achieving produce high-quality spinning wool, as well these other projects. as decent-sized carcases for meat. We will The previous crofter ran Cheviots. He spin and knit some of the wool ourselves died a few years ago and his wife put and sell surplus wool to niche markets. the crofts, house and café on the market Meat will, likewise, be partly for ourselves together in 2015. Several parties wanted but also for sale. There are other Shetland the café but not the crofts, and several keepers in the area with whom we hope to wanted the crofts but not the house/café. collaborate on both these fronts. For me, needing a house, work and wanting I’d like to breed Scots Greys as a dual some land, it was the perfect package and purpose fowl – eggs for the café, selling luckily I could scrape up the money to buy it. THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 15

CROFT DEVELOPMENT AND DIVERSIFICATION Birth of a croft

SCF member Beads describes his years when the weather was too revival of a derelict croft on the Isle bad for hay. That delight as you toss of Skye. the drying grasses in the breeze, breathing in the summer ripeness, T WAS JUST a wee scrap of stored to be released in the cool of land between the road and the winter. Isea, a steep wooded burn one The wee bothy was taken down side and the “mighty” Caroy the and the stone used to rebuild. Local other, needing some TLC (tender green timber from local sawmills loving crofting). was left to season for the roof and Fences down, overgrazed, a flooring, and what remained made run-down stone bothy. Luckily my into windows and doors. We decided itinerant jobbing had left me with a to purchase the local wool crop for fair range of skills, so we set about insulation, adding cedar sawdust to fencing, new larch homemade put off rodents. Trying to keep things gates, ditches dug to shed the run- local, reclaimed Ballachulish slates off from the roads, easy with my new for the roof, lintels rescued from discovery – the mattock. bulldozed piles of stone. Then came the “hurricane” of Money was tight; we couldn’t 2005. The sea rose, clattered the afford to put in mains electric, so we fences, wrecked the gates and decided to have a micro-hydro in dumped loads of rubbish and the burn. Harris Hydro in California degraded plastic on the low-lying provided the gubbins, the water land. A depressing outlook greeted board the pipes (maybe unwittingly, us the next day. Taking a deep but that’s a story for another day), breath, and with some help from whilst roofing for a fish-farming friend friends, we began to clear up. provided the heavy-duty cable. The Since the croft is a series of raised burn changes, pools migrate; you beaches separated by flat areas, we realise how the land changes over planted trees on the banks and kept time. The final piece of the jigsaw the meadows for grazing and hay. I arrived, for the princely sum of a RIP Johnny Day, in the form of a beds, the only drawback being they have only had one summer in 20 half-bottle and half-ounce of baccy, 40-year-old Rayburn – the nerve weigh 50kg each. Luckily we are not centre, providing heating, hot water afraid of hard graft. and cooking during the dark days Our chickens provide us with of winter, and of course a healthy fresh eggs, courtesy of Donald firewood habit. They say it heats you “there are no grants in hens” from twice; I think it knackers you once Struan, proving chasing grants is and heats you once. not always the best option. A wee To keep the grass down we orchard provides fresh apple juice, acquired a small herd of angora damsons and blackcurrants. The goats. Some of their wool was spun, veg beds produce onions, leeks, dyed and woven into lovely scenic beans, tatties, swede, beetroot, wall-hangings by the talented, late kale, garlic. We now get orphan Rosalind Burgess. The hay keeps lambs, grazing them for meat, lovely them through the winter. Only Hebridean and Soays, keeping the Biglein now remains, born on the females for future breeding. The croft, an orphan, bottle reared in a mint in the garden cannot wait... basket by the Rayburn. In the last few years I have Meanwhile we had to establish been making beehives. The first gardens, which means pigs and honey harvest was one of the most proper pork. These tremendous exciting things I have done in years. animals dig and plough for you. All The amber nectar glistening in the you need to do then is create your summer sun, the smooth sweetness beds and grow your veg, and of dripping on the tongue... course feast on their fine flesh. Two Other buildings have been large gardens were created this way. completed – a workshop/hay The beds were originally wood, loft, composting toilet and a which of course rots and needs summerhouse. Since I am mainly replaced, so over the last few years a carpenter, I decided that in such we have gleaned broken-up plastic a wet environment wooden-clad cages from the defunct local fish buildings are taboo. Wooden farm and used the tubes to create structures are slated, with velux the beds, which can never rot and windows, a low maintenance being black absorb heat. Local option, well able to keep out the culverts in the roads were concrete driving coastal rains, and allow you “troughs”. A few years ago these to indulge the inner artist. were removed and left on the Many of these things and more roadsides. I realised they could be can be seen on Chapelcroftcreatures used to create other permanent veg Facebook page. 16 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

ON THE CROFT Toradh festival celebrates food of the Uists © Iain Stephen Morrison Could Uist be a land of milk and honey? Panel discussion with Sarah MacLean (beekeeper, ), Matthew Topsfield (Allotment Association, ), Mary Norton (, North Uist), Kathy Biss (cheesemaker, ), chaired by Wendy Barrie (Slow Food Scotland). Mary Norton on an innovative local be a key part of a sustainable event food chain, as well as supporting rural communities. Events such Bracken: fuel or foe OMMUNITIES UP and as Toradh and its successors raise down the Uists, from awareness and offer tools for a – timing is critical C to Lochboisdale, better-balanced food system. celebrated the food and food One outcome will be a conference RACKEN IS plentiful, are more accurately described producers of the islands during in February 2018, organised by the with UK coverage as litter. If volume of material the Toradh (Harvest) Festival in Community Association Bestimated in 2000 to is required, for adding bulk to August. and led by Kathy Biss of the have increased by 6.4% compost or for animal bedding, More than 40 events took place, West Highland , with the aim between 1990 and 2000. late summer harvest is required. with over 1000 attendances from of enabling dairy and cheese Post BSE and the massive The dry, later litter material is islanders and visitors. The goal was production in the islands once reduction in hill cattle in Scotland, suitable for mulching or burning, again. Although there was bracken coverage has visually although we need to remember a strong dairying tradition increased across the whole that if we leave bracken litter too as recently as the 1960s, country. We should take a long on the ground, many of the skills and facilities have all different view of the plant before plant nutrients will be leached but disappeared. we lose even more ground. The into the soil, to feed the bracken Traditional dairying approach taken for the University rhizome below. never had to conform of Aberdeen programme was to Frond mulch reduced losses to modern food hygiene investigate productive uses of of soil-available potash by 41 kg regulation. The Bring -1 bracken to at least offset the cost ha compared to bare ground. Back Dairy conference will of harvesting. Litter mulch reduces losses of address the practicalities

Bracken as a source of soil available nitrogen by 11.6 © Iain Stephen Morrison of raising dairy animals biomass does not require kg ha-1. Both bracken mulches Roddy MacLean explains uses and Gaelic names of (cows, sheep, goats), planting, fertilisation or use maintained higher mean soil plants on the croft at Kenary, Grimsay cheese production and of biocides. It produces large temperatures compared to bare to link people who grow food, make marketing, environmental impacts quantities of biomass on land soil, with an average increase of food, eat food and write about food and regulation. The conference that is often unsuitable for other 0.4 0C for litter mulch and 0.75 0C in an environment where a lot of aims to bring up-to-date practical species that could be cropped; for frond mulch. It doesn’t sound food is produced – the crofting and and in pelleted form is generally much but to a plant can be worth information to crofters and others fishing communities of the Uists. equivalent to coal as a fuel. The a few days earlier emergence. who might be considering going into Crofters talked with food writers; mean calorific value of bracken Harvesting bracken can dairy or cheese-making. bee keepers discussed with cheese- litter collected from four sites be used not only as a control makers; people cooked for each across Scotland was 19.5 MJ/ strategy for a plant that has To register interest in Bring Back other and for their communities. kg DM, suitable for potential use devoured huge tracts of land, but Dairy, please email info@grimsay. as biofuel, comparing favourably also as a method of extracting The Toradh Festival reached food org, or by post to Ceann na h-Àirigh, with the average of 18.3 MJ/ uses from that harvest. As with consumers and producers across Grimsay, North Uist HS6 5JA. kg DM for other native plant all good weed control, timing of a wide age range with serious species. Yields vary considerably action is important; and keep the discussion and wide community TORADH was organised by a with time of year, location and eye firmly fixed on the benefits. input. It brought attention to Uist’s local partnership of community weather, ranging from 5 to >15 greatest strength and significant organisations including Ceòlas, t DM/ha. With acknowledgements to Dr weakness: our bounty of resources Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Cothrom, The time to harvest bracken Eric Donnelly and The Kintail – both human and natural – and, so Grimsay Community Association, depends on the outcomes Land Research Foundation. far, a limited ability to add value and Islands Book Trust, Nunton Steading required. Frond dry matter increase self-sufficiency in the local Trust, Salar Smokehouse and Tagsa yields increased to maximum Jamie Robertson food system. Uibhist, with support from Awards in August/September, falling Livestock Management Our crofting areas have the for All, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Caledonian in November when the fronds Systems Ltd, Aberdeen challenge of small primary MacBrayne, Comhairle nan Eilean producers facing the big food Siar, Scottish Natural Heritage and industry; but local production can the SnBM Community Fund. THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 17

ON THE CROFT Donald's Hortiblog

PINIONS DIFFER ON the merits of raised beds. O In SCF’s highly-regarded publication Horticulture: A Handbook for Crofters, Dr Audrey Litterick, leading authority on horticulture in the challenging conditions we all have to work with, addresses the arguments for and against. On the negative side, there is the cost of construction and loss of space resulting from access paths between growing areas. More seriously, the incredibly complex substance we know as soil needs bulk, both depth and width, not so suitable for things that need a lot of space, of six-by-one-inch sarking, enclosing a bed in order to function as we want it to, providing like potatoes and the cabbage family. approximately four feet wide, as this is a width adequate rooting capacity for crops as well as We recently spent a week in Harris and were that can be worked comfortably from each sufficient water and nutrition. The vital interaction reminded that raised beds are nothing new. On side. Where possible, they should be built on a of minerals, organic matter, air and water with the the hillsides around Scarista and Northton are substrate of natural soil which will permit beneficial essential invertebrate, microbial and fungal life will vast areas of ancient feannagan, the cultivation invertebrate and microbial activity. They will not be inhibited by constricted space. method known outwith the Gaeltacht as rig and work so well on inert surfaces such as hardcore. On the other hand, the benefits to be had are furrow, where the soil was mounded into raised In whatever situation soil in raised beds will tend ease of access for soil preparation, crop planting strips between drainage channels. For thousands to be cropped intensively so it will need regular and management; better targeting of water of years land worked in this fashion supported feeding with bulky organic matter, which will also and feed; building up shallow soils; mitigating a population much larger than today’s. In more help water retention on light soils. Getting the soil drainage issues; and, very important this, the recent times, the people cleared from the good analysed professionally every few years is a very soil doesn’t get compacted because you don’t machair land to the rocky Bays of Harris were good investment. need to stand on it. Raised beds also assist with forced to build up small plots of arable land on The picture shows raised beds on our former crop rotation, especially in polytunnels. They lend the bare rock using the materials available: peat, croft in Lewis growing a good crop of broccoli. We themselves to a variety of high-value crops such clay and seaweed. built these to improve the drainage of the heavy, as strawberries, salad leaves and herbs, where Modern raised bed construction usually peat-based soil. The edging is formed of heavy a lot can be produced in a small area. They are employs a timber support, typically two courses timber from old fish farm cages. A’ strì leis an teicneòlas ED A BHIODH tu a’ dearbhaidhean gus an aithnich iad cumail ris na dòighean nach e cealgair a th’ annad. Tha Gtradaiseanta ann an leabhar beag agam a-nis far am bi croitearachd gun a bhith an sàs mi a’ sgrìobhadh a h-uile facal-faire ann an margaideachd no reic tro a dh’fheumas mi! bhùthan, bhiodh tu fhathast ann Uaireannan bidh taobh èibhinn am feum coimpiutair. sa chùis ge-tà. Cha do rinn mise Cha ghabh e seachnadh san latha riamh mòran textadh agus chan eil an-diugh. Eadar ghrantaichean, mi cho adhartach ‘s gu bheil fear de gluasadan bheothaichean, VAT, na fònaichean sin a cheangaileas agus foirmichean IACS, ‘s ann ris an eadar-lìn agam ach chuir mi tro Theicneòlas Fiosrachaidh no a-mach post-dealain o chionn goirid Information Technology (IT) a bhios a’ faighneachd de chroitearan mu a h-uile teachdaireachd a’ falbh àireamhan caoraich sa bhaile. Chuir agus a’ tighinn. Mura bheil thu dà fhreagairt nam bhreislich mi – suas ris, no cleachdte ris, tha seo croitearan aig an robh (am measg na dhùbhlan mòr, agus na adhbhar eile) glimmers agus welders. Nach do chuid a dhaoine, gu h-àraid an e na fònaichean sin a tha feumach fheadhainn as sine, a bhith a’ sguir air gliocas – predictive text ann no uile gu lèir. Tha mi fhìn gnàthaichte às. ‘S math nach deachaidh mi ri coimpiutairean nam obair làitheil a-mach air a mhonadh a’ sireadh ach fhathast air mo shàrachadh leis biùgan solais bho luchd-tàthaidh an uiread de dh’fhaclan-faire a dh’ a chaidh mi gu CTS gus innse mu thu greim air sin a rithist, ach nan seach dìonagan is muilt! fheumas mi airson faighinn a-staigh bhreith laoigh agus mi air am facal- do chaill thu an “user id” cuideachd gu làraichean lìn. ‘S iomadh turas faire dhiochuimhneachadh. Gheibh feumaidh tu an uair sin dol tro na le Gabhan Mac a’ Phearsain 18 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

tried, tested and approved

superior growing environment for the serious gardener

resistant against extreme weather conditions

Alasdair Allan MSP/BPA

If anybody would like to meet with Alasdair Allan, Member of the Scotti sh Parliament for the Western Isles, he can be contacted using the following details:

4m x 10m Ma tha duine sam bith ag iarraidh coinneachadh ri Alasdair Allan, Ball-Pàrlamaid na h-Alba airson nan Eilean ‘10 year guarantee against uV degradation’ Siar faodaidh sibh a cleachdadh na seòlaidhean a leanas:

Address/Seòladh: Telephone/Àireamh-Fòn: Keder greenhouses Limited a range of newtown, offenham, evesham, 20 Kenneth Street 01851 700357 Worcestershire Wr11 8rZ sizes available Stornoway t: +44 (0) 1386 49094 to suit any croft Isle of Lewis E-Mail/Post-Dealain: [email protected] HS1 2DR [email protected] www.kedergreenhouse.co.uk @KederGreenhouse www.alasdairallan.scot ALLANS OF GILLOCK LTD Angus B MacNeil MP GILLOCK MAINS, GILLOCK, WICK, CAITHNESS, KW1 5UR TEL: 01955 661211 Available for surgeries YOUR LOCAL BUILDERS & AGRICULTURAL MERCHANTS All enquiries welcome

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Ian Blackford MP Member of Parliament for

Stockists of Ross, Skye & Lochaber

FENCING MATERIALS & GATES Future Surgery dates will be advertised in the local press

SHEEP & CATTLE HANDLING Tel: 01349 866397 & FEEDING EQUIPMENT Email: [email protected] Twitter: @IBlackfordSNPMP 29 High Street CAITHNESS ORKNEY SHETLAND INVERNESS Tel: 01955 661211 Tel: 01856 761594 Tel: 01950 460417 Tel: 01463 713270 Facebook: facebook.com/IanBlackford.SNP Dingwall Fax: 01955 661244 Fax: 01856 761709 Fax: 01950 460013 Fax: 01463 713393 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.ianblackford.scot IV15 9RU THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 19

ON THE CROFT Innovative fertiliser trials on the Isle of Skye

The slow-release fertiliser trial which was kindly hosted by Mr Duncan, Feorlig, Skye Urea-based fertilisers with a castor oil coating means they release more slowly. One product is 45% slow release whereas the other is 90% slow release SAC’s Janette Sutherland reports fertilisers used for sports. Canadian agriculture a commercial role for this product. However, it is makes wider use of such products. The group clear that there are visible differences caused by AM A STRONG believer in the importance expressed interest in this. the slow-release coating and when predictions of communication between scientists and David contacted the company and got samples suggest that climate change may make our Icrofters to solve problems which face of the products not yet sold in the UK for the group climate wetter, altering our approach to fertiliser modern-day crofting. A good example of to trial. This was undertaken in two sites on Skye: may be all the more necessary. this came from the UIF-funded grassland a croft in Feorlig where the grassland group met improvement group on Skye. and Waternish Farm which is the Farm Advisory The first meeting of the group took place in a Service (FAS) nutrient network farm on Skye. Average difference in silage field in north-west Skye. At the meeting, The products tested in the trial were: Treatment one of the attendees shared his concerns about sward height spreading fertiliser mid-May for fields involved • Spring N application rate – 80 kg N/ha ( 8 g/ over 5 weeks in late cutting for corncrakes, when it would not m2 ) E90 (90% slow release) 14.1 cm be cut till August or later. “In our wet climate was • Treatments – there a chance the nitrogen fertiliser was being • E45 ( 44%N) (45% slow release) E45 (45% slow release) 12.9cm washed away?” • E90 (44%N) (90% slow release) He wanted to avoid a heavy application in case • Nitram (35%N) (100% quick release) Nitram (all quick release) 11.1cm the crop became lush too early and lodged, and • Control (no fertiliser) noted that ideally you would apply more later in no application control 6.5cm the season, but that is prohibited under the rules. Further tests on the fresh and dry yield of the SRUC grassland expert David Lawson plots are under way. The nutritional quality of the pondered this and shared his knowledge of slow- various plots will also be measured. Results from Feorlig trial. There were release fertilisers used in other industries but not It is early days and more work needs to be immediate differences between the plots, both in agriculture in this country, for example the undertaken before we can say whether there is in colour and amount of grass.

Free mentoring support for new crofters and farmers

F YOU ARE a new crofter, or have set up business in the last five years, you are entitled to free support through the Farm Advisory Service’s Imentoring programme. This can give you access to the valuable skills and knowledge of an experienced mentor, matched to your needs – invaluable help during the setting up and early years of your crofting business.

Typical skills that mentors could offer include: • experience of running a croft business • traditional skills such as stone walling, hedge laying etc • choosing the correct stock • managing grassland • food and drink industry experience.

To download your mentoring application form head to the FAS website www.fas.scot, or telephone the Farm Advisory Service advice line on 0300 323 0161 to obtain a hard copy of the form. 20 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

ON THE CROFT AECS and pains on the croft Sarah Allison, farming and land use claimed – especially beneficial to new manager at Soil Association Scotland, entrants for long-term improvements to reports on a recent workshop held at croft infrastructure. Other stand-alone Badrallach, near , overlooking capital items were discussed, including Little . hard standings and livestock crossings for reducing erosion and run-off into water OIL ASSOCIATION Scotland courses. These options are only available and the Farm Advisory Service’s in key areas to reduce diffuse pollution. Sworkshop aimed to help crofters The group was taken through the basic get the most out of the Agri-Environment principles of a grazing management plan and Climate Scheme (AECS), which and how applications are scored, with offers land managers payments for some final top tips for those considering specific activities that are beneficial to an application in 2018: the environment. Get help – funding is available to assist The day started with a croft walk, led with the farm environment survey and by SAC Consulting’s senior conservation some management plans. advisor, Gillian McKnight. Gillian took Talk to your neighbours and local the group round the 11-acre croft, run conservation advisors who can offer by Lucy Robison and her husband. We advice on specific local species such as looked at a variety of habitats that are wader birds, or local priority catchments. commonly found on Highland crofts and the eligible options in the locality, including Consider your short, medium and long- species-rich grasslands, grassland water term goals for the croft environment – if margins, wetlands, heath and improved a scheme doesn’t fit with your priorities grassland. Gillian talked the group just now, do not be disheartened – they through the identifying features of each do not work for everyone. habitat type, the wildlife they support, and how they could be managed under AECS This event was jointly funded by the Farm to enhance or improve their condition. Advisory Service and through SRDP An in-depth discussion on different Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund options for fencing and managing (which is jointly funded by the Scottish grasslands highlighted that where an Government and the European Union) area of land is eligible to be entered with partner funding from Scottish Water

© Sarah Allison into an AECS option, the capital costs and RSPB Scotland. This event is part of Delegates inspecting a grassland water margin, and discussing the pros and for either permanent stock fencing, a wider KTIF programme, Farming With cons of fencing it off to reduce diffuse pollution or temporary electric fencing can be Nature. Small-scale production of salad leaves in western Scotland A report by Irianna Vlachopoulou and Carol Kyle Production, however, is not affected only by ROFTERS ARE PRODUCING high- distribution. Participants, even though they felt value, fresh salad leaves for high-end that there were opportunities for increasing Crestaurants and direct consumption, as production levels, voiced constraints including part of a surge in polytunnel use throughout lack of time – many have full or part-time jobs; western Scotland. shortage of suitable labour – producers rely on The James Hutton Institute invited small student or transient workers; their age – many producers and other interested parties to a crofters are retired or close to retiring; and the discussion on the production and distribution of difficulties many face when applying for grants such goods in Skye and Lochalsh and Lochaber, or subsidies. to gain insight into the way food is distributed from small farms and crofts and to highlight the The meeting took place within the scope of challenges crofters and smallholders face, while the EU project SALSA – Small farms, small trying to assess measures that could be taken to food businesses, sustainable food and nutrition address them. security. Visit the project website and sign up for updates: Spinach, chard, rocket and speciality varieties www.salsa.uevora.pt/en/stay-informed/ produced in the region are wholly distributed to local hotels and restaurants, individual chefs For more information, please contact: and consumers. On Skye, some producers Irianna Vlachopoulou have banded together with consumers and The James Hutton Institute other supporters to set up a local distribution Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH system, the Food Link Van. The van connects email: [email protected] the producers with their customers through pre- tel: 01224 395307 arranged pickup and delivery services. THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 21 A Food Commission for Scotland OLLOWING THE is a Good Food Nation, a country work done by Scottish where people from every walk of FGovernment and life take pride and pleasure in, and stakeholders on Scotland’s benefit from, the food they buy, Good Food Nation policy, a serve and eat day by day.’ Food Commission has been launched. To fulfil this vision will mean The 15 members selected as that: food policy experts will develop • it is the norm for Scots to take a work programme based a keen interest in their food, on priorities in the discussion knowing what constitutes good document and subsequent food, valuing it and seeking it consultation analysis. out whenever they can; The Food Commission’s remit • people who serve and sell in its advisory (not executive) role food – schools, hospitals, is to: retailers, cafes, restaurants – • provide evidence-based are committed to serving and advice on measures which selling good food; will contribute most to making • everyone in Scotland has ready Scotland a Good Food Nation, access to the healthy, nutritious addressing existing and food they need; potential future challenges • dietary-related diseases are in facing Scotland’s food culture; decline, as is the environmental and impact of our food consumption; • advocate the importance of • Scottish producers ensure good food to Scotland’s health that what they produce is and wellbeing, environment increasingly healthy and and quality of life. environmentally sound; The commission reports • food companies are a thriving formally to the cabinet secretary feature of the economy and for rural economy and connectivity places where people want to and, through him, to cabinet. The work; group meets on a quarterly basis • other countries look to Scotland and will operate for a term of two to learn how to become a Good to three years. Food Nation. SCF attended the Food Look out for the consultation Commission summit organised at when it is released and please the end of September to gather respond to it. This is our food views on the proposed Good Food and our nation and we all have a Nation bill which will be consulted vested interest in ensuring that the on and put before parliament. The bill and therefore the act says what vision for the bill is: ‘that Scotland we want it to say. Spotlight on local produce Nourish Scotland organised a one- our own wee group. In the afternoon, day networking event in October speakers from the Farm Advisory for newly-established and aspiring Service, Soil Association, Business small food businesses from across Gateway and Nourish Scotland Scotland, reports SCF young crofter informed us on available assistance, Cheryl McIntyre. advice and support. From these presentations I would S SOMEONE WITH a wee encourage any new(ish) crofter (who croft looking to start selling has set up business in the last five A produce ‘straight from the years) to have a look particularly gate’ it was an opportunity to meet at the Farm Advisory Service new aspiring and recently-established entrants website to see what help local food entrepreneurs, to share may be on offer. Experienced and and learn about what it takes to skilled crofters can act as mentors to get a local food enterprise off the ground owner/founder, various staff, and hear the these new entrants and teach practical skills or and keep it going. As well as interested story of how the multifaceted estate was set share knowledge, with funding of around £250 individuals, participants past and present up and continues to run with trips either on a day available (maximum of four days) for your from Nourish Scotland’s programme Making tractor-drawn trailer round the organic suckler time/skills/knowledge. a Living from Local Food were in attendance. beef herd or along the road to Meadowsweet The broad message from all speakers was The venue was the Falkland Centre for Organics to learn about growing fresh local not to be afraid of asking questions, even in the Stewardship in Fife, with an evening meal produce. very early stages of starting up – there are lots afterwards in the Pillars of Hercules Café. The morning focussed on discussion and of different types of support available – just ask! An apt setting indeed as we got to meet the practical exercises to facilitate dialogue within https://www.fas.scot/topic/new-entrants/ 22 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

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@FASScot THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 23 Rural mental health A helping hand for crofters

SABI HAS BEEN supporting those in Scottish agriculture since R1897. RSABI can help crofters and their dependants, whether still crofting or unable to croft due to age or health. Welfare manager Mags Granger said, “We are here to help emotionally, practically and financially in times of need. Our helpline is open from 7am to 11pm every day. Whether it’s housing or health, business issues or benefits – or you need someone to talk to – we are here to help. We want all members of the crofting community to get help before a problem becomes a crisis.” Crofters’ business and home life are one and the same and RSABI understands © Martin Benson – Waternish, Skye © Martin Benson – Waternish, that difficulties in one can lead to issues in the other. “We can access business Jim Hume of the National Rural Mental Health some of the challenges faced in rural Scotland. efficiency advice for crofters who are Forum highlights an important issue. Challenges such as confiding in someone that finding that running the croft is having a your mental wellbeing may not be as good as detrimental effect on financial or mental VEN THE ROYAL family is now open in you feel it should be; accessing services that may wellbeing,” Mags commented. “Having talking about their mental health, helping help, such as talking therapies; and reducing the an experienced consultant look at the to make it a normal conversation. E stigma of being open about when you are unwell. business and highlight options that may One in four Scots faces mental health problems Physical illness has no stigma. People are be available is invaluable when things are at some point in their life; and recent research by happy to say they have had a broken leg or getting too much.” Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) has shown that isolation and stigma can be more challenging in appendicitis. There is no reason we shouldn’t be able to talk about having depression or anxiety. Real story: rural Scotland. Mr Scott continued to work even though If untreated, mental illness can worsen with Following that SRUC research, the National he had been asked by his GP to stop. His sometimes dire consequences. If noticed quickly Rural Mental Health Forum has been set up. The health deteriorated to the point he had forum consists of organisations with expertise and acted upon, early intervention and prevention no choice but to stop. He has a wife and in mental health and organisations which have can stop many conditions worsening and leads to two young children to support. RSABI a good outreach into all parts of rural Scotland, many leading a full and healthy life. got involved and supported the family such as SCF. The forum is using its network to The forum is now starting to encourage rural both emotionally and financially to ensure influence government policy, already feeding into organisations to look at staff mental health first-aid that the transition from work into benefits the new social security powers that Scotland will training. This raises awareness of mental health does not have a detrimental effect on the gain, and it has influenced the new ten-year issues, normalises talking about wellbeing, gives family. Mrs Scott said “We couldn’t see mental health strategy. confidence in dealing with it and promotes that any way out of our situation. We were on The forum had a prominent presence at edge all the time. RSABI showed us there important early intervention. the Royal Highland Show this year. Scottish is a light at the end of the tunnel. Please do We all know it is too easy to be frightened of Government mental health minister Maureen Watt not sit and worry, RSABI is such a fantastic MSP announced support for the forum’s work, in approaching someone who may be facing a well- organisation and made a huge difference.” co-operation with cabinet secretary for rural being crisis. Mental health first-aid training gives economy and connectivity Fergus Ewing MSP. you the tools and confidence to intervene at an Please call RSABI’s helpline. The show gave the forum a good platform early stage and can prevent people reaching a We are here to help. to discuss with decision-makers and the public crisis point. 24 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 Company secretary The SCF company secretary will be vacating his position at the AGM in 2018. Any person, whether member or not, can apply for this voluntary post. There will be a hand-over period in the lead-up to the change.

Applications should be made to the chief executive at HQ. As yet, no closing date has been fixed but the position will become available not later than June 2018. Introducing the Nicolsons. They are crofters from on the Isle of Skye. Details of the role can be obtained from the present company secretary, John Bannister, through SCF HQ, or by They also own Sgoirebreac Self Catering & B&B. email to [email protected]. They recently contacted us for help with social media, AirBnB He will be pleased to discuss this with you. and their website. They are now fully booked all year round. Be smart like the Nicolsons. Visit www.exclamationmarketing.co.uk Email: [email protected] Call: 07818021462 for more information.

Eilidh MacLellan Crofting Law Consultant

[email protected] Tel. 07876 513404 www.camus.scot

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Get in touch with [email protected] Broadford, Isle of Skye, IV49 9AP or phone Lucy on Tel: 01471 822 555 01854 612220 www.strathprint.co.uk THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017 25

A visit to St Kilda This summer my daughter and I visited the of North Uist, who insisted that all horses be flock. The average sheep has become smaller St Kilda archipelago, writes IG MacDonald. removed from the island; and a lengthy and tall over the years and flock numbers never reach head dyke be built to separate the arable fields equilibrium. Population growth exceeds the T KILDA HAS dual world heritage site from the common grazing area – a mammoth carrying capacity of the island, which eventually status for the marine and terrestrial task. Twenty-one croft houses were built by causes a dramatic population crash, and then Snatural landscape and the cultural stone-masons from Skye and the land was the cycle repeats. For example, in 1989 the landscape left by thousands of years of allocated to the St Kildans by casting lots. population fell by two thirds within 12 weeks. human occupation. The crofting inhabitants Each family had a milking cow and planted Other wild flocks of have now been were finally forced to leave in 1930 when the traditional crops of bere and oats. Potatoes established on Holy Isle off Arran and Lundy in depleted population made life on the islands were introduced, but had not become as the Bristol Channel. no longer viable. important as in other parts of the Highlands and Soays may be completely black or brown In 19th century national census reports, Islands. In 1840, when potato blight struck, the but are more often blonde or dark brown most of the family heads in Scotland’s other consequences there were not as devastating with a lighter-coloured underbelly and rump. west coast islands were described as farmer/ as in many other places. Lachdann in Gaelic or loaghtan in Manx fisherman, or crofter/fisherman; but St Kilda’s Associated with St Kilda are three breeds of describes this pattern. were crofter/cragsman or birdcatcher. Fishing in sheep, all belonging to the Northern European Borerays are one of the UK’s rarest breeds, the stormy waters of the Atlantic was reckoned short-tailed type – Soays, Borerays and the but the original flock still continues on that to be too dangerous, but scrambling on the breed we now call Hebrideans. It is doubtful island. Males and females are horned, usually sheer cliffs on hempen ropes, reinforced with if there ever were any of the Hebridean with one pair but occasionally two. Colours salted cow-hide, to catch young fulmars for food breed on these islands, but it suited Victorian vary but most are grey or creamy-white. In the and feather-rent, had become second nature to conservationists’ romantic ideas to name them 1970s half a dozen of them were exported to men and boys. St Kilda sheep. The islands of Soay and Boreray form the basis of a breeding population on the Although occupied for such a long time, the belong to the archipelago and these sheep mainland, but the majority of Borerays, some main island of only had its Village Bay breeds presumably were native. 300, remain in St Kilda. It is believed that township laid out by surveyors as recognised There are now no sheep on Soay, but Borerays, North Ronaldsays and crofts in 1834, later than the other Western Isles. National Trust for Scotland (NTS) keep a semi- are all directly descended from the Iron Age Previously, the traditional cultivation and grazing flock of Soays on Hirta. The parent flock Scottish Dunface breed. of the land was carried out on a communal, was moved from Soay to Hirta by the Marquess Our visit included much more which may be of runrig basis and the houses were huddled of Bute in the 1930s after the human population interest to historians, ornithologists, geologists together for shelter. The reorganisation was and their stock were evacuated. and nature enthusiasts but these aspects are initiated by tacksman-tenant Donald MacDonald NTS is engaged in scientific research with this for another article. 26 THE CROFTER, NOVEMBER 2017

MEMBERS PAGES SCF membership for young and not-so-young IGHTY-NINE PER CENT of crofters recorded in the 2016 ECrofting Commission census were aged over 40 years. SCF membership reflects that trend. Attracting young people into crofting is a complex matter, but it is important to get young crofters on board and participating in crofting in order to secure its long- term future. A recent successful Facebook campaign to encourage young crofters to join SCF has seen thirty-five new members since July. If you know of any young crofters (aged 40 years and under) who are not currently members, please do encourage them to join by pointing out five good reasons why they should join today. These are in addition to the special young crofters’ discounted membership fee of £31.50.

• They get strong political representation to help shape © Skye Images crofting policies for the benefit of with the unique Scottish Crofting crofting, usually alongside another in general. While we have these future generations of crofters and Produce Mark. family member. At present we have scheduled on a monthly basis, we their rural communities. • They get the credibility of being no membership option for these would like you to know that we do • They receive the highly-regarded a member of the UK’s largest young people. So we are considering operate an open-door policy at the journal The Crofter and a monthly association of small-scale food the notion of a whole-household or Kyle office where members are e-newsletter along with the producers. family membership and how this welcome to drop in or telephone at Register of Available Crofts. Talking of young crofters, in recent would work in practice. Please any time with crofting questions. • They get access to the members’ We may not always have an weeks we have taken a few enquiries drop an email to [email protected] if support service and a free immediate answer but we will at HQ from members whose children you have any comments or further dedicated legal helpline provided get one for you! At the drop-in by crofting law specialists, and grandchildren are under the suggestions. surgery we will always have an Inksters Solicitors. age of 16 and would like to become Our recent drop-in surgeries held experienced caseworker, director or • They get the opportunity to involved and become members. in the Ullapool and Kyle offices senior staff member available and promote their croft tourism Currently, you have to be aged 16 have proved useful in addressing if you would prefer to discuss your business on the SCF website or over to become a member. These individuals’ specific crofting issues matter in private, you can make an and market their croft produce young people are actively involved in and just having a chat about crofting appointment.

OBIN G ROSS was born in 1930 at area in the north and west of Scotland. He also Heatherlea, Ardgay, son of crofter constructed miles of fencing from Mull and Skye Robin Ross RGeordie Ross and his wife Nan. He was to Sutherland and Easter Ross. to become the fourth generation to work the Robin’s wide-ranging experience was well used Heatherlea croft. to improve his own croft. As a result, he was able Robin and his sister Sybil were brought up in the to raise high-quality lambs and there was always typical crofting way of life at the time. Homegrown great anticipation when the lamb sales came round. oats for oatcakes, milk from their cows made into He knew the market and his hard work was usually crowdie and of course hens, a pig and sheep. well rewarded. Youthful summers were enjoyably spent roaming He was a founder and very active member the hills and fishing the river. of the Crofters’ Union and chairman of the Kyle Primary schooling was nearby but he had to of Sutherland branch. He took a deep personal cycle into Gledfield to secondary school in rain, interest in recruiting as many as possible to the wind, sleet, snow and sunshine. Not for the strath cause, chasing up backsliders for their subscriptions folk in those days the luxury of being picked up by when necessary. He was a resolute champion of the school bus. crofting and the union till the end of his days. Robin learned how to look after animals from Robin leaves a legacy of a loving family, still his father. After he left school, and various estate involved for another generation in the croft on which jobs, he studied at Craibstone Agricultural College he spent so many happy and productive years, near Aberdeen. As well as assisting on the croft, he admired and respected by all who knew him. His became the relief postie and had a very successful was a long life well lived to the very end. contractor’s business, fencing, reclaiming and There can be no greater tribute to one of reseeding land from heather, during the era of crofting’s finest sons. Robin at work on a landrover repair the great hill reclamations. He did this over a wide Jim McGillivray ScottishTHE CROFTER, Crofter Advert_1216_Scottish NOVEMBER 2017 Crofter Advert_0511 16/12/2016 10:34 Page 1 27

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ERRY WILLIAMS WAS an early Catherine Muir. supporter of the SCU. Crofters welcomed Terry into their homes and T In this new book she looks back at shared their memories and experiences. Some, the old practice of droving, now replaced by like Ena, bred cattle. Others helped with the lorries and auction marts. She meets some of droves. For yet others these events were part of the few remaining folk who remember and were their childhood tapestry. Terry draws together all involved, and from their reminiscences and her the threads of their tales and paints a picture full own research, she weaves together a fascinating of images and textures – the misty ascents on the account. old drove roads; the hardship and camaraderie; Terry’s quest started by chance at Dingwall the difficulties of loading the animals from pier mart and the impressive drover exhibition she heads onto the boats and off at the other side of found there, the work of the Highland Livestock ; the progression to transporting stock Heritage Society. With the society’s support she on trains and lorries, rather than marches over took a selection of exhibition material and set several days and hundreds of miles. off in her camper van to Uist for the North Uist She goes on to describe the work of the Agricultural Show. A map of the stances and modern auctioneer and the skill involved in getting ferry ports was compiled and she followed the the best price for crofters’ cattle and sheep in the cattle routes around the Uists, making contact ring, and the commitment of those in the trade. with many individuals who had been involved in, For readers unfamiliar with this area of Scottish or remembered, the gathering of the fine island history, the book is a welcome introduction. For cattle and their progress to the boats which would the rest of us, Terry Williams offers a reminder take them on to their mainland destinations. (if we need it) of the importance of crofting in Terry recorded the conversations and her producing high-quality breeding stock and the transcriptions carry the lilt of island voices very challenges of getting the beasts away to the Scottish Crofting Federation clearly. Her descriptions of the challenges and fun traditional trysts in Crieff, Falkirk and Stirling. This rooted in our communities of the gathering and movement of large numbers is a valuable historical record. of cattle beasts are well written and evocative. Amongst many others, she met SCU/SCF ISBN 978-1-78027-488-1 How to contact us local stalwarts Ena Macdonald and David and www.birlinn.co.uk Postal address and registered office Scottish Crofting Federation Headquarters SCF training courses - Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8AX General enquiries register your interest and membership: [email protected] OURSES ARE BOOKING up quickly. If you have a particular interest, email us and Tel: 01599 530 005 we will contact you as soon as a date is released. C Training: [email protected] Argyll Moray The Crofter: [email protected] Croft woodland management Practical pigkeeping: Spring 2018

Fiona Mandeville, editor www.strathprint.co.uk 24th March 2018 Venue TBC Venue TBC, Kilmartin Museum, Kilmartin Cost: £40 per person Advertising: [email protected] Cost: £40 per person Lucy Beattie Skye and Lochalsh Tel: 01854 612 220 Scything 2-day course: 19th and 20th May 2018 Our local course director Becky Milne SCF legal helpline: Venue TBC, Kilmartin Museum, Kilmartin will be running a range of new practical skills courses including poultry husbandry, 01599 230 300

Cost: £80 per person 01471 822 555 ︱ tel: sheepdogs, lambing and drystone walling visit www.crofting.org Permaculture: 26th May 2018 for 2018. Get in touch if there is something for full contact details Venue TBC, Kilmartin Museum, Kilmartin you would like to happen in your area. We Cost: £40 per person respond to local demand and will try our very best to make it happen. Company Number SC 218658 Charity Number SC 031919 Animal husbandry: 24th June 2018 Venue TBC, Kilmartin Museum, Kilmartin Wester Ross Cost: £40 per person Although every effort is made to ensure the Our local course director Susan accuracy of the information printed in this MacLean will be running horticulture courses publication, SCF cannot accept liability for Local course director Julia Hamilton errors or omissions. The views expressed in this in the near future, as well as sheepdogs, To book a place contact: publication are not necessarily those of the SCF. [email protected] or 01854 612220 dates TBC. She will be hosting a new course with tutor Graeme Swanson MRCVS from Conanvet. Produce Produce Highlands and Islands Croft Origin HighlandsToradh and Croitearachd Islands na h-Alba Croft Origin Às a’ chroit anns a’ Ghàidhealtachd ‘s na h-Eileanan ︱ Isle of Skye Broadford, Strath Print, by Produced