1 THE CROFTER, december 20131

Scottish Federation THE CROFTER rooted in our communities The journal of the Scottish Crofting Federation, the only member-led organisation dedicated to the promotion of crofting and the largest association of small-scale food producers in the UK december 2013 Number 101 Did the 2010 Questions on Scottish Act equalise availability of Government land sale policy ollowing the Scottish Government's expressing an interest in the land, when, as crofting grants? decision to withdraw part of its Rosal the sales particulars were keen to point out, Fforest estate in Sutherland from communities were cleared from this land and open market sale after public criticism, the it is a deserted wilderness. rofting-specific grants, SCF asked the government to examine its Putting this land on the market in this way is namely CCAGS and CHGS, policies on the sale of public land, community simply perpetuating a system of land ownership were expected to be extended to ownership and the creation of new crofts. concentrated into few hands, a system the C SCF chair Derek Flyn believes the Rosal Scottish people want to see changed.” owner-occupier crofters by virtue of the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010. case demonstrates some of the problems He continued “A great deal of effort and The former scheme provides grants caused by the manner in which the Forestry public money has been invested in reforming towards agricultural developments such Commission conducts the process of land crofting. The SG has pledged its commitment as sheds, barns, fencing and other sale. He said: “There is no surprise that to the crofting system and has legislated to permanent improvements; the latter local communities did not come forward Continued on page 3 towards the building of a croft house. As one would expect, myriad regulations control the provision of each, but there is little doubt that these grants are still a major draw for those wishing to build croft houses and/or carry on agricultural activities on their crofts. Before 2010, it was the case that both types of grant assistance ceased to be available to owner-occupier crofters, and therefore this was a major reason to remain a tenant crofter. The Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010 was intended to equalise owner- occupier crofters and tenant crofters, both in terms of the regulatory framework to which they were subject, and also the financial assistance which was available to them. However, the regulations which are required in order to facilitate the extension of financial assistance to owner-occupier crofters have only been passed in respect of CCAGS, not in respect of the CHGS. Eilidh Ross approached the Scottish Government for a comment on this matter

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LOCATION Rosal Forest is located within one Inof thesi fewde remaining th iswilderness issu Thee forest is shown on the location plan within these sale Human settlement in this area dates back at least 6,000 years, but areas in the north of Scotland. The area is known as Strathnaver particulars and inCrofters’ more detail on the sale plan enclosed. voice The Strathnaver heard is known more for the in Sutherland Clearances of the and Naver Forest, renowned for its excellent salmon and trout forest can also be found on 0S 1:50,000 sheets 10 and 16, with 1800’s when the locals were displaced from their lands to re-settle fishing and deer stalking. The• SCFforest itself gathering adjoins the report River the main entrance located at Grid Reference NC 701 414. on the coast or travel by sea to the eastern seaboard of America Naver and its tributary, the River• Mallart.CAP updateAlthough the forest is parliament onand New goose Zealand to make way forpetition a new era of farming. situated in quite a remote location, there is good access on to the HISTORICAL NOTE Indeed, within Rosal Forest there are many historical features B871 public road heading south •to KinbraceScottish and onkye to Helmsdale he SCF appeared before the Scottishdating backexisting to this periodgoose and management beyond. The ruined programmes; settlements Nabaros - The Naver -parliamentary is one of the oldest petitions names forcommittee a river to and assign additional resources to crop meeting with the A9 trunk road and south to Inverness. recorded in Britain and pre-dates the known languages of the of Rosal Village in the north of the forest and Truderscaig in • Shed design defend its call for the government tothe do south, protection provide a fascinatingand adaptiveinsight into themanagement struggle for There are regional airports situated at Wick, 70 miles to the north, area. The meaningT originates from a root word ‘nabh’ found more about the escalating numbers of geese programmes to ensure this threat to the in Greek, Latin and Sanskrit meaning ‘cloud’ or ‘wet cloud’, to ownership of this land. and Inverness, 82 miles to the south.• Animal Both airports health provide car devastating crofters’ crops. future of crofting is averted. which the Gaels added Strath and gave the name Strathnaver. hire and helicopter charters are available from Inverness airport. SCF director Roddy MacDonald and chief Roddy said “The MSPs were very attentive The nearest railway station is in• Kinbrace, a short car journey embryos executive Patrick Krause defended the SCF and sympathetic to the issue and in an unusual from the forest. • A view from a petition, calling on the Scottish Parliament to move for this committee, apparently, referred the Crofting Commissioner urge the Scottish Government to address the petition directly to the committee for rural affairs. problems created by increasing populations of This is a very good outcome for crofters. There and much more wild geese in the crofting areas as a matter of is a way to go yet but we are seeing progress, in priority; reassess its decision to stop funding that the parliament is taking this very seriously.” 2 THE CROFTER, december 2013

Message from the chair... Derek Flyn significant role in the lives of many the boundaries of the croft in the in sunshine. The SCF meeting crofting communities. You will find Crofting Register. at Lerwick was well attended full coverage of the event in the Observers will be aware that by members. The topic was centre pages. a glitch in the law required to the introduction of the Crofting SCF has been encouraging be rectified this year and an Register. I was pleased to have crofting community mapping as amendment was passed at the opportunity to present honorary a way to develop a collective Holyrood with the active support life membership of SCF to Norman approach. The new national of SCF. Having heard what we Leask in the company of his own Crofting Register will provide a had to say, MSPs were sufficiently folk. A pleasant task indeed. definitive map-based record of all persuaded to recommend to the As we go to press, the Crofting land within crofting tenure and we Scottish Government that further Commission is consulting on have worked closely with Registers plans be made to ensure crofting a new grazings regulations of Scotland in its preparation. law is clear, consistent and fit for the template and the duty to report There is now a clear demarcation 21st century. form. Much discussion has ur annual gathering in between the regulation of crofting, A well-supported SCF petition already taken place on the duty of September took place in which is in the domain of the calls on the government to do more a grazings committee to report on OStornoway Town Hall and Crofting Commission in Inverness, about the escalating numbers of both their common grazing and was well attended. and the registration of crofts in the geese devastating crofters’ crops. on the crofts of the shareholders. The theme was “Common Crofting Register in Edinburgh. This required our chief executive The hope is that, with refreshed grazings: utilizing potential” – From now on, all actions triggered Patrick Krause and director Roddy regulations, crofting communities with the intention of stimulating by a regulatory application to the MacDonald from South to will become more self-reliant and activity on this extensive resource. Crofting Commission for approval, attend the petitions committee at business-like. Common grazings make up a such as assignation or decrofting, Holyrood to state our case. We were calling for this at our large proportion of land covered must be accompanied by an In October, Patrick and I visited gathering in Stornoway so it is by crofting tenure and can play a application to register or update Shetland and found it basking something that we must support. Our man in Brussels Crofting acronyms e continue to fight that as machinery and tags do not on several fronts for you produce 100% accuracy it is unfair These acronyms are used throughout The Crofter. in Brussels. to expect the crofter to have 100% W BnG Bòrd na Gàidhlig By the time you receive this, results, thus meaning that cross- the CAP figures will be presented compliance records should not CAB Citizens Advice Bureau by the Scottish Government. require 100% accuracy. EID will CC Crofting Commission I do hope that they and the never be fit for purpose until we CCAGS Crofting Counties Agricultural Grants Scheme Westminster government will put get back to the batch system that CHGS Scottish Croft House Grant Scheme their ideological differences to bed stopped the 2001 foot and mouth CLS Community Land Scotland at this time and use what we have outbreak at the borders of Scotland CnES Comhairle nan Eilean Siar made possible when negotiating and sorted out the 2007 outbreak. EBV Estimated Breeding Value in Brussels. It looks like we will The re-defining of eligible land have a ceiling of 8% for coupled continues to cause hardship. As EC European Commission support, so I hope that the calf you will recall, Scotland was fined EFNCP European Forum for Nature Conservation and Pastoralism scheme that SCF won back in by the EC for allowing claims to EID Electronic Identification Device 2004 for the benefit of crofters will be made on land considered not FCL Foundation for be strengthened – Mr Lochhead is grazing. We can accept that rock is HIE Highlands and Islands Enterprise minded to use the full allocation of not grazing, but to take out rocky HLF Heritage Lottery Fund coupled support for the sector. areas, or low-density bracken HSCHT Highland Small Communities Housing Trust As you will have heard by now, or foreshore, is simply not right IACS Integrated Administration and Control System the German shepherds’ case as sheep do graze these areas. against the EC on EID was all but We continue to press for a fairer JHI lost in the court. But we cannot implementation of this rule, and LFASS Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme accept complete defeat yet. The hope to win more back, as we did LMO Land Managers’ Options EC is revisiting animal health and with heather. NFUS National Farmers Union of Scotland welfare rules, so this gives us a I do hope that as we approach NGPRG National Goose Policy Review Group chance to change a few words in another election, politicians of all RBST Rare Breed Survival Trust the EID legislation to allow EID to parties will not forget the needs RoS Registers of Scotland be voluntary until the sheep leaves of small-scale , the SAS Scotland (Crofting Connections) the jurisdiction of the keeper at birth. heart and soul of every country We need our politicians to get in Europe. SBS Scottish Beef Scheme the court of auditors to accept Norman Leask SCU Scottish Crofters Union SEPA Scottish Environmental Protection Agency SFP Single Farm Payment SG Scottish Government SGRPID SG Rural Payments and Inspections Division SIC Shetland Islands Council SLE Scottish Land and Estates SNH Scottish Natural Heritage SPICe Scottish Parliament Information Centre SRDP Scotland Rural Development Programme SRUC Scotland's Rural University College STFA Scottish Tenant Farmers Association UHI University of the Highlands and Islands Derek presents Norman with honorary life membership of SCF. WCP Woodland Crofts Partnership 3 THE CROFTER, december 2013 Did the 2010 Questions on Scottish Government Act equalise land sale policy availability of Continued from page 1 ACCESSenable crofts to be created. We have called on Derek concluded “We must question crofting grants? the government to be proactive in its policies. the adequacy of the consultation the TheHere main is forestan opportunity access routes to restore are topeople the northto government of the forest currently with holdsThe when forest disposing has an excellent quarry, situated along the ridge known as Truderscaig, shown at point A7. This route is well Continued from page 1 twothe servitude land. W rightse urge ofthe access SG to in take to the braveforest forof all forest purposes. land. TheWe believebetween the process points isA4-A5, providing a substantial source of stone formed but will require improvement prior to timber extraction. principaland historic access decision route to is repopulate shown on the the cleared sale planfocused between on points delivering for financial road building targets and surfacing. There is estimated to be and received the following statement:- crofting communities of Strathnaver.” with the least possible hassle to Forestry The access track between points A8-A9 is only suitable for four- A1-A2 and a secondary route is further north, shown between approximately 1,000 tonnes of graded (crushed) rock stockpiled, “It is the Scottish Government’s The call is part of a wider request for the Commission land agents, rather than as a wheel drive vehicles and will need to be upgraded prior to timber intention that the CHGS scheme pointsgovernment A3-A4. Bothto investigate routes cross the overpotential neighbouring for proactive croft opportunity land and to whichdiversify is ownershipincluded and shows the quality of the material available extraction. Fortunately, there are also many locations within the should accurately reflect the equality includetransferring a right control to widen of the or Frealignorest of the Rosal existing to androad get and more drains people to on theat variousground, eitherpoints as within the forest. intention of the primary legislation, southern half of the forest providing sources of stone for road an communityoverall width interests of 10 in metres. Sutherland. Maintenance The SG is individualsaccording orto throughuser. community projects. which would mean making CHGS claimed there was no community interest This is a golden opportunityThere for theis Sacottish servitude right of access from point A5 over building purposes. assistance equally available to both These routes have been used for timber haulage and connect with registered in the 6,356 acre estate and as Government to show thatneighbouring they believe thatland to point A6, which then continues south tenant and owner-occupier crofters, an aexcellent result they internal put the forest forest road on thenetwork market, that theextends people to of pointsScotland should have first call irrespective of who the croft had been before subsequently withdrawing it from sale on the land.” through the forest to the old village settlement and grazing land bought from and the length of time the A5 afterand criticismA8 on the on socialsale plan. media. croft house site had been the private property of the crofter. In order to do this, the Scottish Government is required to amend the CHGS regulations through the Scottish Parliament. This is under active consideration and, following the parliamentary process, the scheme would then apply equally to all. “ The effect of the current lack of new CHGS regulations is that crofters who purchased a short time ago, or who have not yet purchased their crofts, must hope that the regulations are indeed passed before the seven-year period expires. That may not happen. Furthermore, crofters who purchased their croft in the mid-noughties are increasingly likely to run out of time.

Eilidh Ross, Inksters Solicitors Progress on CAP reform

eforms of the CAP have new entrants and deer farmers that there will be 2.78 million ha There is talk of using the never been simple but this receive appropriate support; of eligible rough grazing, so are French redistribution which would Rone is by far the most • having either two or three regions modelling on that, but the reality put a higher rate on the first 54 ha, complicated and difficult to follow. for the Pillar 1 basic payment might be that there is less land which would be good for crofters. The implications for individual scheme, in line with the emerging claimed (they think less rather As usual, the small differences farms and crofts are likely to be consensus; than more) so rates per ha could on the better land – arable far more dramatic than anything • setting minimum activity levels go up. And as you can see from – equate to big differences we have seen before. The move in Scotland that keep out slipper all the tables on the Scottish proportionately on rough grazing. from a historic-based payment farmers but provide support for Government website they are still So the arable farmers are arguing to an area base will mean genuine extensive hill farmers; trying out lots of models. for very small differences which that payments will change for • taking into account the impact They haven’t fixed a minimum in reality make a big difference everyone, with some going up of greening on the arable sector, stock rate for activity yet. This to crofters. As long as it goes and some going down. with judgement being reserved is a danger zone for crofting as the right way it will be good for During a debate in the Scottish on the merits of setting up a too high a level could exclude crofters – ie arable loses a wee Parliament, rural affairs secretary Scottish-specific scheme – also crofters grazing very fragile land. bit and that goes to rough grazing Richard Lochhead set out his known as an equivalence scheme Scottish Government is where it gives a significant thinking on how CAP reform – especially in relation to carbon. saying they are going to be proportional lift. could be implemented in Scotland. Arguments for and against stricter about eligibility. Under There is going to be an external Considerations currently include: degressivity – the system of LFASS you claim your number of convergence uplift to UK of around • how much coupled support should reducing big farm payments – hectares and if they are stocked 220 million euros which will be go to the Scottish beef sector – if and whether additional measures at under the minimum rate the spread over the period (2015 – Scotland’s coupled support ceiling will be needed in Scotland to number of ha eligible are scaled 2020) in increasing stages, so is set at eight per cent, serious address the issue of very large back until the stocking – LU/ha – first year uplift will be 11m going consideration is being given to individual payments. makes the minimum. So if under up incrementally to 60m in the last devoting the full allocation to beef; Information gleaned from the minimum stocking density, year. There will also be a small • managing the transition from stakeholder groups includes a you still get paid on adjusted ha. transition uplift for 2014. historic payments to area-based consultation on figures which Under the new basic payment, And finally, the greening payments for those currently will go out near the end of the scaling back will not be allowed; payment seems to favour those receiving high payments, such year. The figures are still all very you have to claim on all land who actually do the least for as some beef and farmers, hazy as they are basing models and it has to be stocked to at environment. Some things while ensuring hill farmers, on unknowns – eg they estimate least the minimum. don’t change. 4 THE CROFTER, december 2013 Common grazings and CAP support n the current CAP reform, see the regulation matching the study any opportunities created direct payments and the ANC a key desire on the part reality on the ground so it would by the new CAP to improve this scheme, but should be able to Iof Scottish government be prudent to assume that stock situation? allow the active shareholders has been the removal of the kept on the croft will not count as There is no particular reason to carry enough stock to meet controversial naked acre activity on the common grazing why the grazings have to these requirements on behalf situation where payments were if they never use it. This is likely be physically divided for the of all. There are obvious issues made on unused land. to mean that unused common purposes of support. Stock to resolve in covering costs and The Scottish Clause, or the grazing shares will attract no clubs work effectively managing dividing payments but these ability of a member state to further direct payments and as the whole grazings for common should not be insurmountable if insist on a minimum level of the replacement scheme for benefit and agri-environment there is a benefit to all. Currently activity on rough grazing land, LFASS, ANC (Area of Natural schemes operate effectively there are many grazings delivering has now been enshrined in Constraint), will also have with the grazings committee no benefit at all to townships the proposals as a mandatory minimum activity as an eligibility as the applicant. Why then and many where the benefit is feature. It is worth considering criteria there may be no further could we not take the same restricted to a limited number the effect this may have on the support from this scheme on approach with the new direct of active shares. This could be use of common grazings. these shares either. payments and ANC scheme? a way back towards common At present crofters who have Unused common grazings are If the shareholders in the grazings and grazings committees single farm payment entitlement one of the tragedies of modern grazings relinquished their functioning for the common good. can use that entitlement on day crofting and this is even right to individual entitlements, We have yet to see the their croft and on their share of more so where there are active which the inactive could not implementing regulations which the common grazing. However crofters using common grazings access anyway, and allowed the might or might not allow this to under the new regime in 2015 who are restricted to limited grazings committee to become happen, but the potential benefits it may be the case that crofters stock numbers while the rest the applicant, then there is the are such that SCF is pressing the will only be entitled to new of the land lies idle. Where the potential to unlock more support Scottish Government to consider entitlements on the common land is not providing anything for than is currently achieved. this and would like to hear from grazing if they meet the the township or the community The grazings committee would townships interested in exploring minimum activity level. and there are people willing to have to meet the minimum this model. The Commission is keen to use it, then it would be logical to activity requirements for both the Outrage over UK decision to keep CAP cash

he Scottish Crofting Federation the uplift is because of Scotland’s very low on to Scotland does not incur any joined widespread calls for justice over payments in the upland areas which bring deductions to farmers in the rest of the UK. Tthe allocation of CAP uplift funds which the UK average down.” Allowing the money to come to where it is rightfully belong in Scotland. Addressed to the UK Government’s rural needed, the areas that bring the average Following the UK government’s November affairs secretary Owen Paterson and copied payment down and therefore qualify for decision to keep additional CAP cash, SCF to Scottish secretary Alistair Carmichael, a uplift would be fair. There is simply no parliamentary spokesman Norman Leask cross-party letter followed a recent debate argument that can justify keeping this cash said, “This decision by the UK government in the Scottish Parliament where MSPs (which is meant to bring average payments is a political heist. The Scottish Government, agreed that the UK’s full uplift should come to up to somewhere closer to the European with cross-party support, made the Scotland in its entirety. The announcement by average) in UK areas that are already at reasonable claim that the convergence uplift, the UK government rejects this claim. that level or above. The Scottish upland as it is known, should come to Scotland. Norman added: “We just want what is areas have earned this uplift and this is The only reason that the UK qualifies for rightfully ours. Passing the uplift payments where it should be spent.” © M artin B enson 5 THE CROFTER, december 2013 crofting law Crofting law problems Owner-occupier crofters

to be investigated In 2010, legal recognition was person is not the owner of the belatedly given to owner-occupier croft, only of the remaining part. crofters. Who are they? Derek Persons who own only part of he Crofting Law Group of this year and should be sent by Flyn explains. a croft are not owner-occupier has announced its crofting e-mail to: crofters because they cannot Tlaw sump, which aims to [email protected] – or y explanation should satisfy the first condition. They gather details of the significant can be tweeted to not be taken by anybody as must be regarded as landlords of problem areas within existing @croftinglawsump. legal advice. The definition part of a vacant croft. crofting legislation. M is now found in the new section The second condition requires During the recent passage The Crofting Law Group 19B of the Crofters (Scotland) Act that the person (already identified through the Scottish Parliament is open to anyone who has 1993. This provides that a person as the owner of the croft): (a) of the Crofting (Amendment) an interest in the subject of is an owner-occupier crofter if three was the tenant of the croft at the (Scotland) Act 2013, MSPs were crofting law. The membership conditions are all fulfilled. time of acquiring it (or is such a informed by practitioners about consists of lawyers, surveyors, The first condition is that the tenant crofter's successor in title); many problems in the existing land agents, crofters, land person is the owner of a croft. (b) acquired title to the croft as legislation causing difficulties for owners and others interested in For this purpose, the croft nominee of a crofter (or is such crofters, landlords and others. crofting law. The objects of the appears to mean (1) the site of a nominee's successor in title); or Paul Wheelhouse, minister group are: the dwelling-house (if any) and (c) purchased the croft from the with responsibility for crofting, • to promote the knowledge and (2) the croft land. A crofter who constituting landlord (or is such a gave an undertaking that his understanding of crofting law; has acquired his entire croft purchaser's successor in title). officials would investigate, in • to promote a forum for (but not necessarily his right in The third condition is that, consultation with stakeholders, consultation and for making pasture or grazing land or any since it was acquired, the croft the best method for dealing with proposals to the EC, apportionment) becomes an has not at any time been let to these outstanding issues. The government and other bodies, owner-occupier crofter. Since any person as a crofter. sump has been set up to assist in relation to the law reform as 1976 any grazing right or share In some cases the crofter who the government in this process. it affects crofting interests; or apportionment that has not acquires the landlord’s interest It will be administered by retired • to create a forum for discussing, been acquired is deemed to be in his croft nominates another crofting lawyer Derek Flyn (now in particular, crofting law a separate independent croft person or persons to take title, chair of the SCF board) and Keith issues but also related UK and in tenancy. That being so, the thus avoiding the loss of tenancy. Graham, formerly principal clerk of EC legislation which has an person who now owns the entire Only where that tenancy cannot the Scottish Land Court. They will impact on crofting estates and croft – stripped of that which was be held to have continued collate the issues and problems communities; and not acquired – must be the owner beyond the date of acquisition that are causing difficulties, • to produce and circulate a of a croft. can the person who became the prioritise them and indicate how newsletter on a regular basis There is nothing to suggest that owner of the croft claim to be the the problem can be resolved. giving relevant details. the person must be a singular owner-occupier crofter. Submissions to the crofting law natural person. It has been normal Where all the conditions are sump will be taken up to the end See www.croftinglawgroup.org for a purchasing crofter to take fulfilled, the croft can identified title in joint names, for instance as an owner-occupied croft, himself and his spouse. Where but only if the owner-occupier this is the case, it seems that crofter gives notice of that fact more than one person can be the to the Commission. It seems owner-occupier crofter of a croft, that unless or until an owner- but those persons must own the occupier crofter gives that entire croft jointly and their title notice, he will not be recognised must be in their joint names. as such by the Commission. If an entire croft has been Broadford, IV49 9AP acquired but any part of it has This is a shortened version of been conveyed away without an article Derek Flyn submitted 01471 822 555 www.strathprint.co.uk decrofting taking place, the to the Crofting Law Group.

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@ Scottish Crofting Federation © M artin B enson 6 THE CROFTER, december 2013 A commissioner’s view The five-year tenure of the first-ever elected get SCF to listen to your needs and speak on Crofting Commissioners has reached your behalf. the end of its first quarter. I G Macdonald, The prime functions of the new Commission commissioner for Skye and West Highlands, are somewhat different from the previous body reflects on whether he and his colleagues and these are spelled out in the amended have begun to make a difference. Crofting (Scotland) Act 1993. They are to: for one was fired up, after my surprise election victory, and keen to right the 1. regulate crofting; I wrongs of crofting, as I and my constituents 2. reorganise crofting; saw them. We commissioners were not 3. promote the interests of crofting; unaware of the difficulties that lay before us, 4. keep crofting matters under review. but were not prepared to cushion ourselves with the usual excuses. There are plenty of Regulating crofting involves doing what the administrative, resource and legal reasons Crofting Act (ie the law) requires. As crofters, why progress has been slower than we would we are privileged people; privileges gained have liked, but I would prefer to focus on the for us by our predecessors. As such we have positive issues. responsibilities to them, to the land and to the My most positive experience so far came crofting system. when I attended the launch of The Crofting There are three statutory duties:- Year, a new crofting course backed by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, at Plockton • a residency duty; was achieved. It remains to be seen if a High School. The original course was • a duty not to neglect or misuse; and crofting support scheme will provide for developed and trialled at Sgoil Lionacleit. • a duty to cultivate and maintain our crofts. Enthusiasm from the young people for this crofting’s needs in the near future. course was infectious and was matched both Any crofter who is in breach of all, or any, of Dealing with applications to make changes from the teachers, the crofters on whose these duties ought him/herself to rectify the to croft land is the day-to-day casework which holdings practical work is to be undertaken situation as soon as possible – ie self-regulate. requires Commissioners to allow, or to allow and the landlords, National Trust for Scotland. There will then be no need for the heavy hand with conditions, or to refuse applications Getting young folk into crofting must be high of the Commission. Completion of the annual made by crofters. These decisions are on the agenda of all bodies and individuals notice for the first time in 2013-14 and the guided by our policy plan which has recently involved in the crofting industry. Young folk; five-year report from grazing committees will been accepted by Paul Wheelhouse, the yes, but also the not so young were to the fore inform the Crofting Commission of progress Scottish Government minister. Up until that when I presented certificates to an equally – and the very landscape itself will provide time we were guided by an interim plan set enthusiastic bunch of students on completion visible confirmation. This self-help is the best out by the Crofters Commission and perhaps of the SCF’s crofting course for Skye and reorganisation that crofting could possibly have. we felt unduly restricted. Lochalsh. Meeting people desperate to In the past, active crofting was a The main key to our decisions rests in become active crofters stirs up the emotions necessity but now is seen, by some, as a the question: Is this application for the as I go around parts of the crofting counties lifestyle choice. Due consideration needs, good of the croft, the crofting estate and and witness much neglect and misuse by however, to be given to the sustainability the crofting community? In answering it those fortunate to have crofts. of our communities, the environment, the we must pay attention to the desirability of Another time of shared optimism came culture and the crofting landscape. The retaining population in the crofting counties, when the Commission board visited the North Crofting Commission cannot make crofting pay regard to the overall area of land in Harris Trust and West Harris Trust. Both into a lucrative business, but we can co- crofting tenure and to the sustainability of these bodies are community land owners operate with others to achieve better crofting. Each application must be considered who are providing enthusiasm, energy and conditions for crofters. on its own merits but be looked at within the employment for their shareholders. Discussions with all the major overall policy framework. In discussion with assessors, clerks and stakeholders and the cross-party group in Yes, much has been done in a short time, ordinary crofters, I find that many are unaware parliament, to provide relevant information but there is a long road ahead if we are to or uncertain of what the Commission actually to the Scottish Government on the issues for make a noticeable difference before the new does and expect us to be a lobbying body. crofting in the context of the current SRDP Commissioners take office in April 2017. The Crofting Act specifically excludes us from review, and to present recommendations for that. To lobby the Scottish, UK or European a future programme, was led by the Crofting I G Macdonald Governments on crofting issues you need to Commission and much valuable consensus Crofting Commissioner

Marina takes over as commissioner ormer SCF board representing crofting interests This is still a new body and I hope member Marina Dennis on the north board of SEPA and I can play a valuable part in its Fhas joined the Crofting on the board of governors of the development, working with fellow Commission to represent the MacAulay Land Use Institute. commissioners to help secure a East Highlands constituency. From 1996 to 2005, she was a long-term future for crofting.” Her appointment will run until board member of the Crofters Marina participated in March 2017 and follows the Commission and from 2005 the election to the Crofting resignation of Donnie Ross. until 2012 was on the appeals Commission in 2012, recording Marina has been involved panel on EU subsidies for the a close second place to Mr Ross. in crofting all her life, living on Department of Agriculture. and working the family croft Speaking from her croft in SCF is pleased to welcome in Strathspey, serving as an Inchdryne, Marina said, “I’m excited Marina as a worthy addition to assessor for over 30 years, a to be joining the Commission at this the commission board and we director of the SCF and also time of challenge and opportunity. look forward to working with her. 7 THE CROFTER, december 2013 Government failing to provide answers to Torridon planning controversy

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he SCF is concerned that the Derek Mackay, asking him to reconsider the fact that this is a requirement of the planning Scottish planning system is undermining decision. The SCF argued that the planners’ process. Tcrofting law, after the government said it justification for refusing the house on “By this decision, the Government has would not intervene in the case of a Wester landscape grounds went against the advice demonstrated, unequivocally, that Scotland’s Ross woman who is trying to build a house of the statutory landscape authority SNH. Mr planning system regards the dramatic on her croft. Mackay replied that he has no intention of appearance of the west coast as more In August, government planners rejected an taking the matter further. important than its people." appeal by Torridon crofter and SCF member SCF director Fiona Mandeville said: The case also raises concerns about Elaine Holmes against Highland Council’s “Sadly, the minister’s response shows that broader attitudes towards crofting among decision to refuse a planning application for he and his planning officials are still unable planners. Crofting law provides a presumption a small single-storey house on her croft at to provide a satisfactory answer as to why that every crofter has the right to a single Fasag at the head of Loch Torridon. There is the advice of SNH, the locally-based expert dwelling-house on their croft. Where is regard no house on the croft at present. Ms Holmes, body on landscape issues, was not properly taken of that in these decisions? a mother of three, is currently unable to stay in considered in this case. They also failed to We are compiling a list of planning appeal Torridon and lives nearly ten miles away from address our concerns about the apparent lack decisions which do not properly consider the her croft. of any serious effort by the planning appeal crofting interest and we would like to hear After government planners rejected the official to quantify the social impact of Ms from anyone with further examples. Please appeal the SCF wrote to the planning minister, Holmes’ presence in Torridon, despite the get in touch with SCF HQ.

Scottish Crofting Federation

Our mission is to safeguard and promote the rights, livelihoods and culture of crofters and their communities 8 THE CROFTER, december 2013 let's liberate diversity Let’s liberate diversity…

wo SCF representatives were in Basel in Switzerland in September to Tattend the annual Let's Liberate Diversity (LLD) forum. LLD is a gathering of farmers, activists and academics with an interest in maintaining what is called agricultural biodiversity. This term is used to describe the wide variety of crops and which have been adapted to their local environments over the course of many centuries. Members of LLD also support the rights of farmers to maintain these varieties against restrictions imposed by legislation on seeds. LLD says this legislation favours commercial Young Swiss crofter seed breeders and runs the risk of outlawing informal seed-saving practices. Last year’s LLD forum was hosted by SCF in Strathpeffer and the focus there on native breeds and seeds made it clear that the Highlands and Islands holds a wealth of the United Kingdom’s native agricultural biodiversity, both in cereal varieties and in livestock. This is particularly true in the islands, where saving and exchanging seed from each year’s cereal crop is a vital part of the local agricultural economy. Many delegates to the Swiss event said Apple harvest in the Swiss mountains that working with local varieties could be an important means of responding to challenges facing agriculture from the impacts of climate change and from the rising cost of inputs such as fodder, fuel and fertiliser. Ena MacDonald from was a speaker at a workshop on livestock diversity, in which she described how she and her family keep a herd of pedigree which are fed in the winter on fodder from cereals grown on the island. At the heart of her presentation was the importance of young people acquiring traditional knowledge about farming and of older people passing that knowledge on to the young. One of the issues raised by different nationalities at the workshop was electronic tagging of sheep, felt to be an unnecessary bureaucratic interference in husbandry. Ena told delegates that it “is destroying the bond that exists between people and their animals – one man in the islands told Pro Specie Rara conservation garden in Basel me it was the last straw. He felt they were no longer his animals, they were being constantly monitored”. The other SCF delegate, Iain MacKinnon, helped organise a workshop on seed saving and exchange as an intangible cultural heritage (ICH). The workshop was initiated by Bela Bartha, the head of ProSpecieRara, a Swiss organisation promoting and maintaining native varieties of plant and livestock, which was hosting this year’s LLD. The United Nations has passed legislation to protect knowledge, practices and skills which people have transmitted over generations as part of their cultural heritage. The idea of having seed exchange established as ICH would be to give organisations greater leverage with governments when seeking support for some of the shared knowledge and practices involved in traditional farming systems. Delegates gathering for the LLD forum in Basel 9 THE CROFTER, december 2013 Hungry for rights Food sovereignty, Vía Campesina and SCF

he idea of food sovereignty way that some countries have persistently, with expertise was developed in the early incorporated principles of food and at high level – in direct T1990s and presented by an sovereignty into their national law meetings with DG Sanco – to alliance of small food producers with important consequences for have the interests of small seed named La Vía Campesina at the the position of small producers in companies and small-scale 1996 world food summit. these countries. farmers’ seed savers addressed The concept of food in the new EU seed directive, sovereignty has evolved and Europe and UK to be voted on next year in grown since then. It can be In Europe the Nyéléni the European Parliament. It is summarised as a movement for movement brings together farmers, thanks to ECVC's efforts that a democratic, sustainable and consumers, NGOs, trade unions, there is increased recognition of fair food system. It is about fair environmental and development and willingness to exempt small control of the food system or, in organisations to build common farmers maintaining traditional the words of Professor Tim Lang, strategies in order to reorganise varieties such as coirce food democracy. It links in with food and agriculture on the beag, small oat, and bere, the the programme of the UN special principles of food sovereignty. The traditional Scottish barley. rapporteur on the right to food, UK has recently started a network More information: Olivier de Schutter. for food sovereignty. European Coordination Via Campesina: www.eurovia.org The principles adopted to re- ECVC is Vía Campesina in UK network: http://foodsovereigntynow.org.uk organise food and agriculture on Europe, an important proponent UN Right to Food : www.srfood.org/index.php/en the values of food sovereignty are: of small and family farmers within Europe and the EU. It 1. that food is more than a brings together 27 farming commodity; bodies from 17 countries across 2. the central role of small- Europe, including SCF. Through scale food producers; its membership of ECVC, SCF has access to the following EU 3. localise food systems by advisory groups: bringing consumers and Sheep-meat producers closer together; CAP – Post 2014 4. more local control over food Beef-meat production and resources such as land, water, seeds; Family farms 5. building on local knowledge Renewables and skills; Permanent and natural pasture 6. using ecologically-friendly, Bio-fuels low-input methods. Rural development The involvement of Vía Research and innovation Campesina has recently been Integrated biodiversity acknowledged in an agreement Animal health of co-operation with the food and agriculture organisation of Next 50 years of CAP the United Nations. Also, Vía Shepherd Net Campesina has been the driving force behind the recent UN ECVC has direct contact with declaration on peasant rights. MEPs, European Commission Although the declaration is not and the European Council. In binding, it can become a template a recent example of lobbying, for national law, in the same ECVC has been campaigning

For advice on Crofting and Agricultural Law call David Findlay on 01463 239393, or email [email protected]

David Findlay is one of only four Specialists in Scotland in Crofting Law who has been accredited by the Law Society of Scotland

28 Queensgate, Inverness, IV1 1YN www.macandmac.co.uk Dave Thompson MSP

Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency (SNP) An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach 10 THE CROFTER, december 2013 I hold regular surgeries and advertise these in local newspapers. I am always happy to hear from you. Dave Thompson MSP No matter how small the problem is, I always do my very best to help. Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency (SNP) An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Ness I hold regular surgeries I hold regular surgeries Constituency Office, Thorfin House, and advertise these in local and advertise these in local newspapers. newspapers. Bridgend Business Park, Dingwall, IV15 9SL I hold regular surgeries.I am always happy to hear I am always happy to hear Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 from you. from you. I am always happy to hear fromNo matter how you. small the No matter how small the Email: [email protected] problem is, I always do my problem is, I always do my No matter how small the problemvery best to help is,. very best to help. A’ seasamhInksters nan còraichean can agadsa provide - Standing you up for with you I always do my very best to help.Dave Thompson MSP Dave Thompson MSP Dàibhidh MacThòmais BPA Dàibhidh MacThòmais BPA specialist advice on all aspects Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Dingwall,Member IV15 of the9SL Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- noch constituency (SNP) noch constituency (SNP) of crofting law throughout the Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach Email: [email protected] Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Crofting Counties from our offices www.davethompsonmsp.org Ness Ness Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, in Inverness and Glasgow. I hold regular surgeries Dingwall, Ross-shire,I IV15hold 9SL regular surgeries Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL and advertise these in local Phone: 01349 864701 Fax:and 01349advertise 866327 these in local Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 A’ seasamhnewspapers. nan còraichean agadsaEmail: – [email protected] up fornewspapers. you Email: [email protected] www.davethompsonmsp.org www.davethompsonmsp.org I am always happy to hear I am always happy to hear from you. Standing up for you from you. Standing up for you No matter how small the A’ seasamh nan còraicheanNo matter agadsa how small the A’ seasamh nan còraichean agadsa Glasgow problem is, I always do my problem is, I always do my Brian Inkster very best to help. very best to help. Solicitor + Notary Public Dave Thompson MSP Dave Thompson MSP 0141 229 0880 AngusDàibhidh MacThòmaisMacN BPAeil MPDàibhidh MacThòmais BPA

Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- [email protected] noch constituency (SNP) noch constituency (SNP) Constituency Office An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch AbarI agushold regular Bàideanach surgeries An t-Eilean Sgitheanach LochI hold Abar regular agus surgeries Bàideanach and advertise these in local and advertise these in local newspapers. 31 Bayhead Street newspapers. Inverness Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Ness I am always happy to hear NessI am always happy to hear from you. Stornoway from you. Eilidh Ross Constituency Office, Thorfin House, BridgendNo matter Business how small Park, the Constituency Office, Thorfin House,No matter Bridgend how small Business the Park, problem is, I always do my problem is, I always do my Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL very best to help. very best to help. Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Solicitor + Notary Public Email: [email protected] of Lewis HS1Email: 2DU [email protected] www.davethompsonmsp.org www.davethompsonmsp.org 01463 210 333 Standing up for you Dave Thompson MSP Standing up for youDave Thompson MSP A’ seasamh nan còraichean agadsaDàibhidh MacThòmaisA’ BPA seasamh nan còraicheanDàibhidh agadsa MacThòmais BPA [email protected] Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- noch constituencyTel no (SNP) 70 2272 noch constituency (SNP)

An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach E-Mail [email protected] Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Ness Ness croftinglaw.com Enquiries welcome – office open Monday-Friday Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Angus MacNeil MP Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Constituency office www.davethompsonmsp.org www.davethompsonmsp.org Standing up for you Standing up for you 31 BayheadI hold Street regular surgeries I hold regular surgeries and advertise these in local A’ seasamh nan còraicheanand advertise agadsa these in local A’ seasamh nan còraichean agadsa Stornowaynewspapers. newspapers.

Isle of LewisI am always happy to hear I am always happy to hear from you. from you. HS1 2DUNo matter how small the No matter how small the RHODATel no 70problem 2272 is,GRANT I always do my MSP problem is, I always do my ALLANS OF very best to help. very best to help. E-Mail [email protected] & Islands Regional MSP ( Scottish Labour) Enquiries welcome Office open Monday-FridayDave Thompson MSP Dave Thompson MSP GILLOCK LTD Constituents’Dàibhidh Telephone MacThòmais Surgery BPA Dàibhidh MacThòmais BPA

Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- Member of the Scottish Parliament for Skye, Lochaber and Bade- GILLOCK MAINS, GILLOCK, WICK, CAITHNESS, KW1 5UR (During Parliamentarynoch constituency Sessions) (SNP) noch constituency (SNP)

TEL: 01955 661211 An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach An t-Eilean Sgitheanach Loch Abar agus Bàideanach

WednesdayConstituency includes 1 Dingwall,- 2 p.m. the Black Isle, Aird and Loch Constituency includes Dingwall, the Black Isle, Aird and Loch YOUR LOCAL BUILDERS & AGRICULTURAL MERCHANTS Ness Ness Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Constituency Office, Thorfin House, Bridgend Business Park, Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL Dingwall, Ross-shire, IV15 9SL 0131 348Phone: 01349 5766 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Phone: 01349 864701 Fax: 01349 866327 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.davethompsonmsp.org www.davethompsonmsp.org [email protected] up for you Standing up for you A’ seasamh nan còraichean agadsa A’ seasamh nan còraichean agadsa PO Box 5717, Inverness, IV1 1YT www.himsps.org.uk

Rob Gibson MSP Caithness, Sutherland and Ross Stockists of Welcomes All Enquiries FENCING MATERIALS & GATES SHEEP & CATTLE HANDLING & Constituency Office: 4 Grant Street FEEDING EQUIPMENT Wick, KW1 5AY CAITHNESS SHETLAND INVERNESS Tel: 01955 605016 Tel: 01955 661211 Tel: 01856 761594 Tel: 01950 460417 Tel: 01463 713270 Fax: 01955 661244 Fax: 01856 761709 Fax: 01950 460013 Fax: 01463 713393 Email: [email protected] 11 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

Commons grazings - utilising potential

The SCF’s annual gathering in September looked at how this vast resource can be utilised, The attractive venue of Stornoway Town brought the potential of common grazings into providing income for the crofters who manage Hall saw an enthusiastic group of crofters and sharp focus. it, generating development revenue for crofting others with an interest meet to hear a varied Welcoming attendees, SCF chair Derek communities and delivering public goods. range of presentations. Workshops, led by the Flyn said “Common grazings make up a The conference, opened by the Scottish speakers, allowed opportunities for discussion large proportion of land under crofting Government’s deputy director for agriculture of topics and sharing experiences. tenure, extending to nearly 600,000 hectares. and rural development David Barnes, A buffet dinner in the evening, prepared Today they still play an important part in the explored how the CAP and development by chef Dede MacGillivray from Skye, was livelihoods of many crofters and provide initiatives such as community renewable thoroughly enjoyed by all. a significant amount of public benefit, energy projects could help to revive the use SCF is very grateful to HIE, Registers of environmentally as well as aesthetically.” of common grazings and realise their huge Scotland, the Naturesave Trust, Norbrook But, for a number of contributing factors, potential for crofting communities. Below and Laboratories, the Foundation for Common common grazings are being under-used and in the following pages we summarise the Land and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar for their even abandoned in many areas. The conference various speakers’ presentations. support of this event.

Keynote speech David Barnes, deputy director for agriculture and rural development, Scottish Government

Common grazings are crucial for high these crofts have resident crofters. be introduced with a basic payment, greening nature value farming and maintenance of The crofting register opened for voluntary payment, and the successor to the beef scheme. traditional breeds. Other benefits include registration on 30 November 2012. 30 Crofters will be eligible to claim SFP on in-bye renewable energy; peatland carbon sinks; November 2013 introduced triggers requiring and common in the new basic payment scheme. custodianship of designated sites and the registration on land subject to a regulatory One decision for SG is whether to have a small natural environment; tourism and housing. application. The Commission has been farmers’ scheme giving a fixed lump sum, Legislation requires grazings committees to consulting grazings clerks and landowners on instead of payment per hectare. report every five years on the use made of their mapping and registering common grazings. The EU’s aim was less form-filling. But crofters land. The Commission produced a template to HIE’s development role complements the who want to claim LFASS and agri-environment assist grazing committees in this duty. Commission’s regulatory work. SG officials will still have to fill in all the same forms. And it Eighty three new crofts have been created will be discussing the delivery of crofting would deny them access to coupled support. SG since 2007. Legislation supports population development, including utilisation of grazings, will consult later this year and will also consult on retention by ensuring that crofters live on or with the Commission, HIE and Registers of the new SRDP that will run to 31 December 2020. within 32 kilometres of their crofts. In 2010, Scotland. HIE can support a range of activities The programme will be launched on the Commission contacted several hundred – renewables, housing, etc – that can deliver 1 January 2015, so 2014 will be a transition croft tenants and owners, but so far has benefits for entire crofting communities. year for SRDP. LFASS will continue only had to terminate 35 tenancies. The CAP provides vital support through CCAGS, without interruption and SG is aware of the remainder returned to the croft or assigned SFP, SBS and SRDP. SFP and SBS will remain importance of continuity for agri-environment it to someone else. Three years on, 314 of in place for 2014. In 2015 a new system will contracts and CCAGS. 12 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

The new SRDP: opportunity or threat? Bill Slee, senior researcher, James Hutton Institute, Aberdeen

The new SRDP is now in preparation. should be based not on the idea of reinstating restoration and tree planting are both land- Responses to the Scottish Government’s a committee but on delivering a public good or management activities which, in most cases, consultation were generally supportive of a avoiding a public bad. will sequester additional carbon. It may be crofter support scheme. But would crofters still Crofting can be seen as a cultural wise to think about whether pilot schemes be eligible to apply for other RDP schemes or ecosystem service which could be viewed could be pursued. SNH is currently promoting would what was available be ring-fenced? A as a public good. This is a strong argument a scheme outwith the SRDP, but it is not ring-fenced scheme might be too small and for supporting crofting if the public funds for impossible that the new SRDP could have there may be no provision to spend more, public goods argument is used, but crofters such a measure when it is fully up and running. should demand arise. may not want to be seen as museum pieces If the desired outcome on common grazings The new RDP looks likely to encourage and rather as something delivering a unique was increased grazing to support particular collective action, but it must be to deliver contribution to Scottish cultural diversity. biodiversity outcomes (such as particular flora a public good (habitat improvement) or According to the European Commission, or bird populations), it would seem fair to reward avoidance of a public bad (eg diffuse pollution) climate change should take up 20% of the new those with grazing animals proportionately to to be justified. RDP budget. Recent activities on renewable their stocking where this is delivering public Common grazings may be under-grazed or energy have largely taken place outwith the goods. If the desired outcome was peatland un-grazed and grazings committees may be SRDP, because of the better support under restoration, then all shareholders might be not functioning well (or at all), but the funding the feed-in tariffs system. However, peatland deemed to be legitimate beneficiaries. 13 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

Learning from each other Julia Aglionby, chair of the Foundation for Common Land

The Foundation for Common Land was is loss of skills and cultural heritage and links with the SCF and are keen to strengthen established to promote and ensure future decline in the provision of environmental these – and extend to Wales so that the public benefits from pastoral commons. It public goods. different countries in can learn is a gathering of those across Great Britain When people visit the countryside they from each other's experiences and share best with a stake in pastoral commons. do not consider the number of people practice. Pastoral commoning makes a significant involved in managing it. If we lose graziers Particular areas where we can each benefit contribution to rural economies. Active our managed countryside is at risk. are: grazing of commons provides national FCL works in a number of ways – • working with government to influence benefits to landscape, biodiversity, access sharing information through our website; environmental stewardship schemes; and heritage. Commons and common rights undertaking practical training courses eg hill are essential to many communities’ cultures. farm training for conservation professionals; • delivery of training by hill farmers and common Addressing the challenges of the future, preparation of reports and guidance; and graziers to conservation professionals; there are many stakeholders with legal convening meetings and campaigning on • working with common graziers to find rights in common grazings. Research has policy and programmes with government synergies to maintain active grazing of found that the number of active graziers and non-governmental organisations. common grazings designated as SSSIs. on commons has reduced significantly and Currently the majority of our work has the trend is for further reductions. The risk focused on England, though we do have good www.foundationforcommonland.org.uk

John King Top (l-r) Alistair Danter, Murdo MacLennan, Keith Matthews

One of the workshops Julia Aglionby Bill Slee

The new Crofting Register John King, Registers of Scotland

RoS was delighted to be able to participate between the regulation of crofting, which is remain the preferred approach but, in addition, in this year’s SCF gathering. the responsibility of the Crofting Commission, registration will be required on the occurrence The focus of our appearance was to and the registration of crofts which now falls to of certain events. These events mainly relate explain the new Crofting Register, debunk the Keeper of the Registers of Scotland. to actions requiring a regulatory application to some myths and explain how RoS can assist The register is free to view on- the Crofting Commission for the approval to communities and individual crofters through line and can be accessed direct on change some aspect of croft land, such as the the registration process. http://www.crofts.ros.gov.uk/register. assignation or division of a croft. The Crofting Register went live on 30 During the first year of its operation, the As well as the guidance on our web-site, November 2012. Through time it will provide Crofting Register has been open for voluntary further information about the Crofting Register a definitive map-based record of the extent of, registration and the emphasis has been can be obtained from and interests in, land within crofting tenure in on encouraging community applications. A www.ros.gov.uk/croftingregister/guidance.html Scotland. Not only does the register show the community application involves those within or by contacting the RoS crofting team at boundaries of crofts, it also includes common a particular township working together to [email protected] grazings and land held runrig. The register map crofts as the basis for collectively (or call 0141 306 1510). derives from the crofting reforms introduced applying to register their crofts in the Crofting We especially welcome enquiries on by the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010. Register. From 30 November 2013, voluntary community mapping and are happy to talk crofters That act brought about a clear demarcation registration and community mapping will through the practicalities of such an exercise. 14 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

Management structures and processes Alistair Danter,development officer, Business Gateway

An overview for common grazings committees structure can developed through some simple voluntary sector – Office of the Scottish considering diversification on common grazings questions. What is the organisation trying Charity Regulator (OSCR). to achieve? Who controls what happens? A range of incorporated structures exist that The current socio-economic environment What expertise is required? What makes the can be used by grazings committees – and for diversification of activities on common organisation carrying out the development while legal support may be required in finalising grazings is positive, with numerous legitimate? documentation, an awareness of options, their opportunities for communities to consider. Who controls what happens is often the advantages and disadvantages can help Two key issues affect successful outcomes most complicated and difficult question to preliminary discussions. A number of information of diversification projects – the structures answer as it involves may players with different sheets on charitable organisations and company used as vehicles to develop projects and the perspectives, experiences and capacities. structures can be obtained from SCF HQ. The processes employed to develop the projects. Shareholders may feel that they have control main options that exist include limited liability Concerns around governance – Who is of their common grazings, yet the reality is companies, community interest companies, in charge; how decisions are made and that there are many other players – owners, industrial and provident societies and Scottish public agencies, pressure groups, non crofter recorded; together with levels and standards charitable incorporated organisations. of reporting have been a major issue in community members. Negotiations are often In addition to issues related to structure both the voluntary and private sector in torturous, time-consuming, energy-sapping and governance, any grazings committees recent years. As unincorporated or voluntary and tedious. considering diversification will need to develop organisations, common grazings committees As unincorporated institutions, grazings a capacity to manage a range of business need to pay close attention to their internal committees are legally limited in what activities development processes such as planning, management structures if they are to take on they can carry out. Individual committee a diversification project. members have personal liability in the event of financial management, forecasting and As local institutions, common grazings problems; committees cannot enter into legal recording. committees have traditionally been concerned or employment contracts or hold property; all Large projects are likely to require external simply with the management of grazings for key issues if a business opportunity is to be finance. While it seems likely that the days agricultural or forestry purposes. The move developed successfully. of grant funding may be limited, significant to involvement in other forms of economic Development of an incorporated opportunities for loans, from both soft, activity can throw up significant challenges organisation will overcome these issues and commercial and crowd funding sources exist. for organisations that are, in many cases, in addition give the organisation credibility Support for organisations requiring assistance dependant on a limited number of people, with as the process of incorporation deals with in this area is available from Business Gateway limited time and knowledge of other business governance, defines how finances will be which has a presence both on-line and environments. raised and managed and most importantly physically throughout the crofting counties. The processes involved in developing implies formal regulation either through A full list of offices and contacts is available both the project itself and an appropriate the private sector – Companies House, or from SCF HQ.

A rainbow harvest of fruit and vegetables from pupils at Tong primary school

Diversifying income streams Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn commercial development manager, Lisa Maclean

Galson Estate Trust is a community land 900kW turbine. The rotor and blades were community consultations) and projects will trust covering much of the north west of the assembled on the 55m tower in September be assessed on their contribution to the Isle of Lewis. and this is the result of several years of hard overarching vision of the community, which is The estate was purchased in January work, most of which was by a small group to become sustainable in the long term. 2007 by the community. The estate is 22,260 of volunteers. Funding for the project was The trust is engaged with a raft of other hectares, with 618 crofts in 22 townships secured through BIG Lottery, a Co-op Bank projects and is working hard to build up the on in-bye land of 2,000ha. The remaining is loan and the Scottish Government CARES infrastructure – and all the while focusing on common grazing land. scheme. The trust holds consent for a 2.7MW capacity building to ensure it is prepared to take The trust has a very clear vision which development and will start work on a second advantage of the opportunities that arise through remains at the core of its work: “To promote turbine as soon as possible and a third will be renewables, tourism, conservation, improved rural regeneration, following the principles of considered after that. land management and crofting. Trustees sustainable development which meets the needs This initial turbine is projected to generate wish to take account of opportunities for skills of the present without compromising the ability of an income of in excess of £100k per year. A development and aim to focus on our youth and future generations to meet their own needs.” community investment fund will be launched how we can continue to engage with them, so The trust has undertaken several projects in spring 2014, using that income, and groups they have a voice in how their land is utilised. since the buy-out six years ago, the most will be invited to apply for funds. A funding For more information visit www.galsontrust. recent milestone being the installation of a process has been established (based on com or telephone 01851 850393 15 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

Community energy generation Kirsten Macdonald, development officer, Community Energy Scotland

Community Energy Scotland is an obstacles that they may face. We are also practical help we aim to make communities independent Scottish charity with nearly 400 able to draw in specialist advice on the legal stronger by helping them to generate and use members across Scotland. We have 17 staff aspects of development on croft-land. their own electricity efficiently. based around the country to provide help on Many crofters have access to wet and windy Crofters can access our help through our the ground. land which is a huge asset when it comes free membership service if they are part of a We have a long history of supporting to developing renewable energy projects! community group, or through our trading arm locally-owned renewable energy schemes There are many challenges facing renewable on a contractual basis if they are interested in in crofting communities. Recently-installed energy developers, such as the financing of taking forward their own individual projects. We examples include the turbines in Shawbost, smaller projects, uncertainty over financial can also advise on the community benefit which Tolsta and Galson on the Isle of Lewis. Our incentives and constraints on the grid. We you will receive if a commercial developer is experience in developments on croft-land and work alongside communities to overcome taking forward a project on your land. the necessary negotiations with shareholders these constraints, as well as facilitating We can help with projects of all sizes and means that we can give support to the many knowledge-sharing between groups and stages – see our website for some examples crofters who are looking to diversify and can representing groups at a policy level. By and more information on how we could help help them through the technical and funding providing information, impartial advice and you: www.communityenergyscotland.org.uk.

Kirsten (l) and her colleague Rona CES turbine on croft

Quail and hen eggs from Tong primary school pupils Rainbow harvest

Power to the community Claire Kemp, Local Energy Scotland

There are now many community groups of social and economic benefits resulting from time. They are very experienced in supporting and rural businesses across Scotland who the development of such projects and the community renewable energy projects. are taking full advantage of the opportunities subsequent dispersion of income generated. If you would like to discuss the different available through renewable energy, proving Local Energy Scotland is a new national ways that Local Energy Scotland and that community and locally-owned renewable consortium made up of Changeworks, the CARES can support community involvement energy is not only possible, but highly Energy Agency, the Energy Saving Trust, in renewable energy, or how we can assist rewarding in a number of ways. SCARF and the Wise Group. It is dedicated rural businesses, then please do not hesitate Claire Kemp of Local Energy Scotland to enabling community and local uptake of to contact us for more information. highlighted some of the many communities renewable energy projects, and is responsible who are taking control of their own futures and for the delivery of the Scottish Government’s discussed support available from the Scottish Community and Renewable Energy Scheme Government to help them achieve this. (CARES), which was featured in September’s Local Energy Scotland believes there is edition of The Crofter. so much more communities can gain from Though Local Energy Scotland is new, renewable projects, over and above the energy CARES has been around for a number of years generated and financial benefits. Communities and the team behind Local Energy Scotland throughout Scotland are experiencing a number have been involved with CARES for some 16 THE CROFTER, december 2013 SCF Annual Gathering 2013

Crofters – pioneers of community ownership Sandra Holmes, community assets team, HIE

Today, in the Western Isles, 70% of people attending public meetings up and down huge difference”. live on community owned land and 40% of the the crofting counties. It is not unusual for “It has given hope for the future that the land mass is owned by its communities. tenants to be apprehensive, initially, at local community will be something more than There is a reason why community ownership the prospect of a community buyout. It’s a a holiday home resort. For the first time the is being embraced in the Outer change, there’s no denying that, but tenants’ community is shaping its own future”. and for the earlier crofter-led buyouts in rights remain totally unfettered by a change These responses are from a recent CLS Assynt, Borve and Annishader, Treslaig and to a community landlord. survey to the question, “What does community Achaphubuil, Hope and Melness. That reason It takes courage, clarity of vision and ownership of your land mean to you?”. is crofting and crofting communities. confidence to embrace change. Add resilience Alex Salmond, when speaking at CLS’s Figures are on the rise, with Scalpay and dogged determination together with the conference in Skye this summer, set an transferring into community ownership and land asset and big things start to happen. ambitious target of one million acres of land Carloway, Barvas and Bays of Harris, to name Across our region community landowners to be in community ownership by 2020. In just some, actively exploring what owning are generating income from renewables, Scotland today, approximately 2% of land, just their own land might mean for them. creating jobs and housing opportunities, under 500,000 acres, is community owned. Ninety years on from the establishment of maximising the tourism potential of their The vast majority of this is in the Highlands the first community landowner, The Stornoway area’s cultural and natural assets. And croft and Islands – why’s that I wonder? Trust, community ownership of land is now tenants are still able to assign their tenancy, recognised internationally as a proven model buy their croft, sub-divide etc, in the usual way. For more info contact Sandra on of rural regeneration. “The difference since the buyout is like night 01520 722021 [email protected] Since joining Highlands and Islands and day. The population has increased and www.ie.co.uk/communityassets also Enterprise over a decade ago, I’ve been infrastructure improvements have made a www.communitylandscotland.org.uk

Community Ownership Iain MacIver, Community Land Scotland

Iain MacIver, former SCU president and grazings management much more difficult, quarry developments, woodland schemes, long-time of the Stornoway Trust, spoke with disproportionate demands on the few provision of land for affordable housing – all about community asset management in terms who turn out for gathering, dipping, clipping require co-operation and agreement between of use of common grazings and the kind of etc. What used to be popular community shareholders and landlords. issues that came before him as factor. events which bonded people together and Conservation designations can lead to He explained the use of soumings, grazings reinforced community co-operation were now challenges for crofters when their use of the shares, apportionments and resumption. Land less sustainable, with work commitments and grazings is restricted. can be removed from crofting for reasonable aging populations leading to minimal turnout Wind power generation offers good purposes and for community benefit. at these important get-togethers. potential but proposed developments have As an active crofter himself in the township In times gone by all features of the to be sensitive to the local situation and not of Laxay, he was well aware of the challenges landscape had names, which aided in dominate the landscape. facing crofters and grazings committees. A gathering and other hill work. Sadly, today, Iain concluded by affirming that crofting major problem now is the limited number of few of these names are in use. continued to have a viable future, despite the participating shareholders, which makes Access tracks, fues, apportionments, challenges currently facing it.

After dinner speaker Angus MacDonald

Journalist Angus MacDonald, after dinner to build its own wind turbine, producing just speaker, gave a thought-provoking speech. one megawatt each, £28m extra would come into the Western Isles. What could you do Thirty years ago all 30 crofts in his village with that in each community, if it was done were worked. Now one of the only two crofters throughout the Highlands and Islands? with cows takes hay from them. How many of CnES is planning its own power company. the next generation have any interest? Very If they had so much power from community few. And young couples are refused housing schemes they could offer island residents grants, as crofting grant schemes are eroded. cheap or free electricity, and cut-price What does the government want from electricity to industry to re-locate to the islands. crofting? Jobs must make it worth young The electricity and income could be used to people’s while to work crofts. The crofting develop crofting agriculture. community should come up with an economic There are huge problems to be overcome, development strategy. with plenty of issues for politicians to tackle. Renewable energy is the last hope for Why is one of the best wind generation sites economic recovery of remote rural areas. in Europe left marooned while everyone else Some communities already have their own forges ahead? Why are fragile communities wind turbines. A few years ago the rule-of- being denied perhaps the last chance of thumb profit from renewables was £100,000 taking a hold of their own destiny, creating per megawatt per annum. If each of the 280 jobs and retaining young people in a vibrant settlements in the Western Isles was helped crofting community of the future? 17 THE CROFTER, december 2013 crofting connections Shieling – Àirigh

he isles of Lewis and The visit was led by local Ness Harris were hosts to almost crofter Donald MacSween, who T40 rural skills pupils from four works in community education Crofting Connections secondary in Lewis and Sam Harrison, who schools: Kinlochbervie, Plockton, teaches place-based learning in and the Nicolson the Highlands and Islands. Institute, with teachers and Pupils imagined life in the crofters who teach these courses. past compared to the present The visit coincided with the and what it could be like in the Callanish stones SCF’s annual gathering in future. They recorded this in Stornoway. Pupils participated pictures and stories which they in a range of activities. At shared – an exciting exercise in Gearrannan blackhouse village outdoor learning and creativity. they heard how crofters provided The general consensus was their own food, housing, energy that many others in Crofting and clothing until the last Connections schools would residents left in the mid-20th benefit from spending time at this century. Some pupils searched beautiful place. the skies at the eagle observatory The Crofting Connections in Harris; others learned about exhibition at the SCF gathering managing a modern-day croft at featured excellent projects from Brue Highland Fold, where the three Lewis Primary schools Mathesons breed Highlanders for – Lochs, Laxdale and Tong. beef and breeding stock. Delegates were captivated by At the SCF gathering pupils the range of topics, including Cuidhshader shielings learned how renewable energy model black-houses made of can be the way forward for recycled and natural materials, many crofters interested in used as a context for Gaelic diversification, as well as language acquisition at Laxdale providing their own energy. Primary and a rainbow harvest of They learned about the Crofting vegetables and fruit from pupils at Commission in an engaging Tong Primary, who also exhibited dialogue with Catriona MacLean, quail and hen eggs. the new chief executive. It was an Other activities included visits authentic experience of crofting to the Callanish stones, Dun past, present and future for our Carloway broch, the Harris Tweed students – just what Crofting Authority, the Hebridean Seaweed Connections is all about. Company, the North Harris Trust The highlight was a visit to and Comunn Eachdraidh Nìs, Laxdale pupils Cuidhsiadar shielings in Ness, Ness Community Centre – all a rare example of shieling memorable experiences of Lewis dwellings old and new, many and Harris hospitality. still used today. Residents now come every summer for rest, Crofting Connections Phase 2 is recreation and peat-cutting, funded by SG, HIE, HLF and BnG, rather than to tend their animals with office space provided by SNH. out on the hill as was the tradition.

Tong pupils

Carloway broch Weaver at Gearrannan 18 THE CROFTER, december 2013

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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 • Livestock 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 19 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft Scottish kye – the product

odern markets like to fed, from low-stress systems located in areas of product as local, traditional, good quality differentiate products even if what is of good health status. A template for reliably and supporting a rural community is a positive Mbeing sold is, in fact, mass produced. producing good quality could be agreed if the market niche. We will never compete on price One certainty is that beef from the crofting desire was present. with fast-grown, grain-finished meat, and we herd is not mass produced, but how much The second requirement has been shouldn’t bother trying. of it currently ends up as an undifferentiated mentioned before: collaboration in the market- Scottish kye is worth keeping but it needs product, sharing shelf space with beef place. This is easier said than done, but the to be helped in the current market. The quality from unremarkable sources? There is an crofting community can work together as well of food in our shops and restaurants has opportunity to consider whereby locally- as the next group. The target has to be to link improved dramatically in the last twenty years. produced beef of traditional quality can the producer of quality beef with the buyer who There is a place on the shelf or in the menus be promoted as crofter-reared. There will appreciates quality and who can add value. for traditional crofter beef. be no need for Saatchi & Saatchi for the With low numbers of cattle spread far and wide We need to hold steady in the genetics, photographs; the image of low-input cattle it would seem sensible to provide a producer reduce the variability in quality, provide a network coming from the Highlands out of centuries- network that buyers can access remotely to for marketing and purchasing (it is called the old production systems is the same model that find the beef they want, when they want it. internet) and be proud of what we have. is used for marketing whisky. Local production and local sale is efficient There are a number of ingredients for and has high value in the drive towards energy Jamie Robertson producing and marketing successfully. First efficiency, carbon foot-printing and all the Livestock Management Systems Ltd is a good product and it would be naive to green and welfare signals flown by the major Honorary Research Fellow Horizons House suggest that all cattle off the crofts are fit to retailers. We have them already; we just need School of Biological Science 81-83 Waterloo Quay make top class. But the basis for quality is to recognise them and join in. This leads to University of Aberdeen Aberdeen there: slower-growing genetics, mainly grass- opportunities for the buyer, as the marketing 01224 565 020 07971 564 148 © C ecil P irie, S tockright ystems © C ecil P irie, S tockright ystems

Crofting Produce Mark to be revitalised

art of the role of SCF is to help and will pay a little bit extra for. We can’t crofters and crofting become more trademark these terms as they are in common Peconomically viable so that we can usage but we can introduce a certification continue to live and work in the crofting counties. scheme which guarantees that products with We can do this by helping to develop the Crofting Mark are genuinely from a croft markets for croft produce – be it selling meat and conform to basic standards. This scheme direct to consumers rather than as store lambs, was introduced a few years ago and continues turning wool into gloves and scarves, boiling to attract new members. up raspberries to make jam or inviting people We are now poised to expand the brand to stay on your croft and share the wide open through a new website to be launched early in spaces, fresh air and traditional culture that the new year. The cost for new members of the we take for granted. scheme will be £20 and is only £10 for renewal This means that we have to promote of membership. Other marketing initiatives will crofts and crofting as a brand which has follow when we know what members want from desirable characteristics (natural, sustainable, the scheme. traditional, healthy) which people want to be If you want to know more, contact Sarah at part of – and hence are more likely to choose HQ and watch for the press release. 20 THE CROFTER, december 2013

SPECIAL CROFTERS OFFER SUBSCRIBE AND RECEIVE A £15 Verm-X voucher

Subscribe for a year by Direct Debit for £28 or by credit/debit card for £32 (saving up to 45%) Special grants guidance for Scottish smallholders and crofters in our Christmas issue www.subscriptionsave.co.uk/cro Savings based on the cover price of £3.95 and Country Smallholding is published 13 Harbro Country Layers Pellets or call 0844 848 8041 and quote NSMVERM2 times per year. Offer ends 28/02/14. Health and performance Strong egg shells Rich yolk colour Selenium and vitamin E Vitamins and minerals Available from your local Harbro Country Store Staneyhill, Lerwick Tel: 01595 693744 Regulating to promote active crofting, to help sustain the Harbour Road, Inverness Tel: 01463 701999 Annat, Corpach Tel: 01397 772434 wellbeing of rural communities. Struan Road, Portree Tel: 01478 612212 Kilmory Ind. Est., Lochgilphead Tel: 01546 603804 Riaghladh airson croitearachd gnìomhach adhartachadh gus Harbro Stockists cuideachadh le mathas nan coimhearsnachdan dùthchail J & W Tait, Kirkwall Tel: 01856 873003 a chumail suas.

Lewis Crofters, Stornoway Tel: 01851 702350 Great Glen House, Leachkin Road Inverness, IV3 8NW. T: 01463 663 439 www.harbrocountrystores.co.uk E: [email protected] crofter 88x130 120202 03/02/2012 15:14 Page 1

Anderson MAcArthur Solicitors Fresh look…

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21 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft Shed design for animal welfare and reducing pollution

Janette Sutherland, SAC Portree, A Younger animals are more A It is very important that livestock In addition, annually you should reports on a well-received sensitive to colder temperatures buildings have holes in the roof to check meeting held earlier this year on than older animals. Adequate ensure adequate ventilation. If a • gutters are not clogged or broken; shed design for animal welfare draft protection at calf height is shed has to be general purpose, and reducing pollution. critical. Ensure there is always or if it’s in a high-rainfall area, then • down pipes are running clearly dry bedding as wet animals feel a covered open ridge is preferable. and not damaged; uest speakers were the cold more. Make sure there Q What annual checks should • roof and wall fabric intact; John MacDonald, is air circulation as fresh air is I make to ensure my shed is SRUC Craibstone, and important in killing bacteria and maintained in best condition? • floors have not become worn so G as to be dangerous and slippery; Jamie Robertson of Livestock keeping buildings healthy. A Before any major changes Management Systems Ltd. The in the type or number of stock • manure storage is safe and meeting was funded by the Q I am building a new general housed it is important to do a compliant with legislation. SG Veterinary and Advisory purpose shed to house building ventilation calculation. Services Programme. livestock, machinery and Monitor animal behavior daily In short, it is important that feed. I have heard different and note down any illness in case we start to look at our croft Several key points emerged. opinions about open or there are building modifications buildings from our stocks’ closed roof ridges. that could be beneficial. point of view. With our high rainfall, guttering and down-pipes need to be properly installed and maintained. Ensure clean water runs into drains and any dirty water is stored correctly. Give due attention to temporary dung stores on fields, ensuring storage is away from water courses. Don’t store within 10m of a river, burn, ditch, loch or coastal water or 50m from a spring or a borehole used for human consumption. Ensure ventilation in your shed works, keeping the amount of moisture created in the shed down to a minimum. Excess moisture increases the risk of bacterial and virus survival and it will also often lower the temperature in buildings. Well- Dr Jamie Robertson discusses shed design with Skye crofters ventilated sheds require less bedding, which is important with the current price of straw. We asked Jamie Robertson some questions to share with Crofter readers. For fuller advice please download his excellent information note at www.eblex. org.uk/wp/wp-content/.../BRPplus- cattle-housing260913.pdf

Q In my shed the young stirks often huddle together. Why do they seem to avoid parts of the shed? A This could be because of poor air circulation in the building, leaving some areas too draughty or other areas too warm. Follow the building ventilation calculation on page 17 of the above to see if there is an issue for ventilation and what solutions would be possible.

Q We calf in February in the Highlands and sometimes on windy nights the shed seems very cold for young calves. What would you suggest? Annual checks on all sheds would be advisable 22 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft Common infectious causes of lameness in sheep

ameness is a common and which become lame during late pregnancy persistent disease problem in sheep. should be treated when seen rather than L Knock-on effects include failure to being left until after lambing. Gentle handling gain weight, metabolic diseases in pregnant should ensure no extra stress is involved. ewes, reduced lamb birth weight and poor FOOT TRIMMING – do NOT carry out foot colostrum production leading to increased trimming on foot-rot-affected feet, as this lamb mortality and poor performance. significantly delays healing. There are many causes of the condition SEPARATE infected animals until they and infectious agents are usually involved. have cured. The most common are interdigital dermatitis MONITOR – assess the level of lameness (scald) and footrot caused by bacteria called in groups of sheep during routine inspections. Dichelobacter nodosus. Another infectious RECORD which animals become lame. disease which is becoming a problem is CULL repeat offenders and chronic cases. contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD). SELECT animals with sound well-shaped Lame sheep should be attended to as soon feet. as possible and infectious forms of lameness BUY only sound replacements and select must be dealt with on a flock basis. Veterinary those from your own flock which have never advice should be sought to confirm diagnosis been lame. and to formulate a plan to treat and control, ISOLATE new stock and examine feet. particularly if lameness is sudden in many IDENTIFY key control times to prevent animals, persistent or fails to respond quickly spread of infectious causes of lameness – eg to treatment. housing and turn-out after lambing. There are many types of lameness with CONSULT your vet and make lameness different causes, eg infectious agents, part of your flock health plan. environmental and mechanical factors. CLEAN GRAZING – allow two weeks break However it is possible to significantly reduce (as long as possible if aiming for eradication). the most common types – ID, FR, CODD – FOOT BATHING – where used, facilities and to keep other types under control by must be in good order, the product used implementing the following: at correct concentration and according to manufacturers’ directions and standing on DIAGNOSIS – make sure this is accurate hard (clean) ground after bathing. and involve your veterinary surgeon. INSPECT daily if possible, certainly at This information forms part of a Moredun not more than three-day intervals, to reduce news-sheet on sheep lameness written by spread. The key sign is a head nod, an early Agnes Winter and Clare Phythian. If you would indicator of lameness. like a free copy or are interested in Moredun W inter TREAT every individual lame sheep as soon membership, please contact The Moredun

as seen, even when lameness appears mild – Communications Team on 0131 445 5111 or © Agnes don’t wait until it has become severe. Ewes visit www.moredun.org.uk. Chronic footrot © M artin B enson 23 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft The cocky’s coo?

In a recent article in The Crofter to do and could also conserve the gene pool now, though stable, export-standard semen collection. on rare breeds I talked about the gene pool against a disease is small. It was clear that an off- Currently I have one bull at the Shetland cattle, a very ancient catastrophe here. The brick wall, shore herd would need to include semen collection facility in Kelso, breed used widely in the Shetland however, was the Australian the whole gene pool in order and I have three more bulls lined isles for possibly millennia. I regulations. It is virtually to be viable and healthy long- up to go. When calves are born keep a small herd near Ardgay in impossible to import live animals term. With help from genetics in Australia and the gaps in the Sutherland, writes SCF director there. specialists I spent some time gene pool are identified, more Paddy Zakaria. However, last year I learnt working out a combination of cows will also be flushed. that embryo transfer is now cows and bulls that would give With an expectation of a 60% nlike most other British a more accessible process me a very wide gene spread success rate with the embryos, native breeds the Shetland and that it might be within the and in August I started seven of and the possibility of half the Ucow has no overseas realms of possibility for me to my cows on the five weeks of calves being bulls, the herd will population which means that create Shetland embryos and intensive preparation for embryo be starting small. But over time, the breed would be particularly send them across to Australia flushing. paying heed to the genetics and vulnerable to an outbreak of to be implanted in my friend’s On 19 September Paragon breed characteristics, the herd disease. In a worst-case scenario cows. The Shetland Cattle Herd Veterinary Group from Cumbria will grow and eventually provide it could even be wiped out. Book Society approved the idea travelled up and flushed the a complete gene bank which can I have an ex-dairy farm in the and I proceeded to investigate cows. To our great relief, because be called upon in the event of any cool temperate Otway Ranges how it would be done. Shetland there was always the possibility emergency in this country. of southern Victoria, Australia, embryos had not been created of failure, the cows produced 16 It will be a much-desired where a friend keeps Aberdeen before but it was worth a try; and embryos. The first step in the bonus, too, if the hardy, versatile Angus/Hereford cross cattle if successful we would be on the creation of the new herd has little Shetland cow is adopted (Black Baldies), along with a herd road to creating the first viable, been successful. in Australia for its many good of Ayrshires. I had often thought independent Shetland cattle herd The next step is to collect attributes. Long known as “the that Shetland cattle would do outside this country. semen from suitable bulls, for crofter’s coo”, perhaps down under well in that region and could be The Shetland, while once inseminating heifers born in it will become “the cocky’s coo” too. a welcome addition in a country numbering thousands in its native Australia. Unfortunately, most where British native breeds are home, is listed with the RBST of the small amount of Shetland A "cocky" is an Australian term appreciated and widely used. and has less than 750 breeding semen available through the for a farmer who farms land on To create an offshore herd of females. At its most vulnerable RBST is not eligible for import a small scale and is therefore there would be an some forty or fifty years ago, the into Australia so the future of usually poor and battling to make interesting and rewarding thing breed numbered less than 30 so the herd will depend on further ends meet.

Drumlough Isobel, a rare colour combination of black and red

St Trinians Balou, a rare black brindle bull, purchased for semen Paddy and some of her Shetland kye 24 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft SEPA action on dip disposal in crofting townships © D onald M ac S ween

here were press reports during the townships, and ask what exactly they do to functioning, we are vulnerable to the sort of summer that a number of townships in justify the level of charges, the disposal of situation that has occurred. TLewis had been summonsed to the sheriff sheep-dip into a burn, a loch, or the sea, as It may well be that sheep dipping is no court by SEPA for arrears of fees for disposal used to happen in some places, was totally longer carried out by these townships. Many of used sheep-dip. unacceptable and had to stop. townships and stock clubs now contract In some cases the arrears amounted to These events also ask some important out their dipping, in which case it is the many hundreds of pounds. questions about how township assets, and contractor’s job to dispose of the dip safely Since the EU groundwater regulations were indeed their liabilities, are being looked after. and legally. Other townships and individuals adopted in 1998, there has been a requirement We understand that the townships being have gone over to using injectable treatments for those disposing of dip on land to have a pursued by SEPA had no grazings committee for scab. licence granted by SEPA which is subject to in office, so there was no one responsible for In these situations it is worth checking an initial application fee and an annual charge. paying the bills. We are all keen to protect whether a license for disposal of dip is still This charge is supposed to cover inspection of our rights as crofters, and so we should be, in existence. If so, an annual charge will be the site and admin costs. but we must also take the collective action payable to SEPA. If a dipper is in disuse and/ Let us be quite honest here. While we necessary to safeguard our communal assets, or disrepair and is not likely to be used again, may question the heavy-handed approach as well as dealing with our liabilities. Without the best action is to surrender the license and taken by SEPA to recover these costs from grazings committees, properly appointed and avoid further charges.

Training

We are hoping to offer training opportunities across the crofting counties and would like to hear from any members who would be interested in working as self-employed local course directors for the up-and-coming training programme 2014/15.

We are particularly looking for folk in the Strathspey, and Moray areas. If you are efficient, organised and good at taking bookings and have some knowledge of crofting, you are our ideal person. Please get in touch with Lucy or Tina: [email protected] 25 THE CROFTER, december 2013 on the croft Communal activities

SCF member Donald MacSween reports on I know it’s one day when the work isn’t and do it, while under the watchful eye. one of his favourite activities. too strenuous, there will be plenty bodies to Communal activities like this are a window help out and we’ll have a good laugh at all back in time, particularly for the younger lads. his might come as a bit of a surprise, the stories from the bodachs. This year was Stories about the arguments and characters but going to the fank is a real social no different; almost perfect weather, sheep all that used to frequent our fank are common Thighlight for me. doing as they were supposed to and lots of – as are the unrepeatable stories of what That statement might say more about young lads on hand to help out – and the best they got up to! Young people have so many me than I care to admit, but it’s true! I know thing was the help from the youngsters. At distractions these days, but I really think people reminisce of days gone by, when 29, I’m still classed as a youngster myself, in communal events like this help crofting lose everyone helped each other, but these days crofting terms, but we had several teenagers any fuddy-duddy image it may have. haven’t gone completely. Our wee village still giving up their Saturday morning lie-ins to help For people like myself, who are employed comes together quite often and folk help each out. I think you can go on all the courses you full-time, it’s not always easy to make time other with dipping, shearing, gathering etc. want, but there is nothing that can beat hands- for communal days and it is often easier to We recently dipped all the sheep in our village on experience in a real working environment. soldier on alone, but the long-term benefits and I can’t describe how much I was looking No sterilised work-place here; you are told are incalculable. forward to it! exactly what has to be done then go ahead Roll on next year! © D onald M ac S ween North Dell dipping crew First round of new entrants’ payments he first round of payments from the second instalment as early as possible in with no SFP”. Another member commented new entrants’ scheme started at the end the new financial year offers a reasonable that it is not the actual amount the matters, Tof October. compromise. Each instalment of the scheme but the recognition from the government after The fund was set up to provide £2 million payment is made up of a basic payment of eight years of hard work with very little support. over two years to support new entrants who are £500 per business plus £25 per hectare, up to There was a minimum activity requirement excluded from Single Farm Payments under a maximum of 65 hectares or the maximum de and also a minimum area of 3ha. Twenty current EU rules. A total of 806 applications minimis payment, whichever came first. The one applications were rejected as they were were assessed for the scheme and up to basic payment was agreed to ensure a fairer under this minimum size of 3 ha. However the 637 new entrants will receive a share of two distribution of payments so that all recipients minimum size allowed by the EU is 1ha. The million pounds. Successful applicants receive got a significant level of compensation. This Scottish Government had previously chosen payments in two instalments – the first was means that the smallest croft would receive to set the minimum size at 3ha. made at the end of October 2013 and a further £392 per ha with the latter farms receiving This is an issue which the Scottish Crofting one will be made as early as possible in the a maximum of £70 per ha. Recipients will Federation has been lobbying to change, as new financial year, in April 2014. receive between £1,146 and £4,250 in total. often new entrants will start on a small scale It was the view of the new entrants panel Feedback from members about these and expand over time. that a single payment could have offered payments so far has been positive, with We would be interested to hear if you have more impactful support, however the Scottish comments such as “Delighted to be getting applied for the grant and whether or not you have Government’s commitment to paying the the payment at last, after crofting for 10 years received a payment. Please get in touch with HQ. 26 THE CROFTER, december 2013 Co-chomainn ann an Nirribhidh

a ghabhas tu cuairt gu bainne nam buill. am fear a dh’aithnicheadh sinne, an sàs ann an reic do Nirribhidh, buailidh e ort Tha e mar phrìomh amas ‘s e gu math coltach ri leithid thuathanaich is croitearan ach Mcho riaghailteach ‘s a tha aig TINE prìs mhath a thoirt Croitearan Leòdhais, ach fada tha an fheadhainn air fhàgail coltas na dùthcha. do na buill air a’ bhainne. Tha nas motha, le corr is 100 bùth air an gnìomhachasan a Taighean is saibhlean sgiobalta, co-chomann eile NORTURA aige. Agus ma tha tuathanach ag shìmpleachadh agus chan togalaichean le peant dearg orra, a’ ceannachd bheathaichean, iarraidh iasad, tha co-chomann eil fhios agam a bheil gin an air an cumail suas gu grinn. Tha e a’ ruith nan taighean-spadaidh ann do sin, Landkreditt . ‘S bochd sàs sa leithid. Bha Stoc na iongantach cuideachd, ge-tà, cho agus a reic feòil gu na bùthan fon nach eil barrachd cho-chomainn Gaidhealtachd ‘s nan Eilean riaghailteach ‘s a tha ceannachd ainm GILDE. Mar an ceudna, tha ann an Alba. ‘S ann an Alba (HILL) a’ feuchainn ri prìsean agus reic bhon fhearann sa co-chomainn ann airson buntàta, a thòisich an gluasad leis a’ cunbhalach a thoirt seachad rìoghachd sin. Tha cha mhòr airson mil, agus airson fiodh a Fenwick Weavers Society ann air beothaichean ach tha e nis a h-uile rud a’ tachairt tro cho- cheannachd bho na mìltean de an Lanark an 1769 ach an-diugh an-dèidh sguir. Ach an dèidh chomainn (co-operatives) agus thuathanaich aig a bheil coille ri chan eil mòran cho-comainn ag sin sna dhèidh, tha urrasan mar sin tha prìsean cinnteach. gheàrradh. obair a thaobh àiteachais. fearainn coimhearsnachd a’ fàs Tha bainne ga thogail bho na Nuair a thig e gu tractar, no Bha cuid de na co-chomainn anns an Gàidhealtachd, ‘s dòcha tuathanasan air feadh na dùthcha todhar-gallda, no aodach- choimhearsnachd ioma- gum faic sinn leudachadh sna agus ga reic gu bùthan le TINE, a dìonach a cheannach, tha taobhach a chaidh thòiseachadh buidhnean co-chomainn a rithist. tha na cho-chomann anns a bheil co-chomann ann airson sin fo sgèith seann Bhòrd na 16,000 tuathanaich crodh- Felleskjøpet, agus sin ‘s dòcha Leasachaidh na Gaidhealtachd Gabhan Mac a’Phearsain

Norway farm buildings – the big building is a byre for a samdrift or partnership farm. A dairy farm on the shores of the Trondheim fjord.

Go online at www.crofting.org

Membership matters Structure update where possible. This feedback You can scan the QR code We have been inviting will then be summarised into comments and proposals over the guidance for local groups. with your smart phone and sign up. last year to help us improve our The intention is that this communication with members, structure review will culminate You can also keep up to date to ensure our democracy and to with a finalised proposal being with us through Facebook offer easy ways to have members submitted to the SCF board (Scottish Crofting Federation) participate with the organisation. before the 2014 AGM. If this Following on from our proposal in proposal is endorsed by board and our latest development – Twitter @SCFHq. the last edition of The Crofter we members, the necessary can expand on the initial proposal. amendments will be made to SCF’s memorandum and articles Local group development of association to enable these Throughout December and changes to take place. January we will be consulting all existing area and branch We always welcome members’ contacts to discuss what effect feedback, so if you have a the proposals will have on that comment on any of the above locality and also what activities then please get in touch with HQ. and involvement they would like to see happening. We will also be More ways to communicate looking for more volunteers who Members who have not already are willing to help the organisation signed up to our monthly e-newsletter with recruitment, invigorating can do this now by visiting http:// local activity as well as the more eepurl.com/oWOdr. You will need interesting policy and case work, your membership number for this. 27 THE CROFTER, december 2013

CROFTERS INSURANCE THAT’S ON YOUR DOORSTEP

Find out more by contacting your local NFU Mutual branch at www.nfumutual.co.uk

NFU Mutual is The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes, telephone calls may be recorded and monitored. 28 THE CROFTER, december 2013 The benefits of your SCF membership The ideal Christmas present As well as the benefits from dedicated political representation, as reported throughout these pages, you get: Horticulture – a handbook for crofters • four issues a year of The Crofter – this magazine full of Lots of useful information for new and experienced growers in the useful resources and information for crofters; crofting areas. Beautifully illustrated, the book comes in a convenient • monthly e-newsletters, keeping you up-to-date with the loose-leaf style in a ring binder with space for you to add your own latest news and policy developments; pages of notes, cropping plans etc. • access to the SCF crofting advice service; Available to SCF members for £10 and non-members for £15, plus • a free dedicated legal helpline through crofting specialists postage if necessary. Inksters; Please contact SCF HQ to order your copy. • discounted training opportunities; • the opportunity to promote your croft tourism business on the SCF website; • free host membership of the WWOOF croft volunteers scheme for a year; Horticulture: • the opportunity to brand and market your croft produce with a Handbook for Crofters our unique Scottish Crofting Produce Mark; • a wide network of contacts for sharing experiences and sourcing information; • a skills mentoring service; • community mediation service; • assistance and guidance for those wanting to enter crofting; • discounted attendance at the SCF annual gathering; • the credibility of being a member of the UK’s largest association of small-scale food producers! All this for less than the cost of a pair of good boots or of filling your car once with fuel. What good value SCF membership is at £51 for 2014, compared with some other membership subscriptions: NFUS sub for crofters £90, STFA minimum sub £120. Can you afford not to be an SCF member?

Produce Produce Scottish Crofting Federation Highlands and Islands Croft Origin HighlandsToradh and Croitearachd Islands na h-Alba Croft Origin rooted in our communities Às a’ chroit anns a’ Ghàidhealtachd ‘s na h-Eileanan How to contact us Postal address and registered office Scottish Crofting Federation Head Office Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8AX General enquiries & membership: [email protected] Tel: 01599 530 005 fax: 01599 618 038 Training: [email protected] The Crofter: [email protected] Annual gathering 2014 Fiona Mandeville Advertising: [email protected] Sarah Macrae, Tel: 01599 530 005 Pencil into your diary: SCF legal helpline: 01599 230 300 The SCF annual gathering 2014 is planned to visit www.crofting.org for full contact details be held in October in Lochinver with the theme of Young crofters: access to land and homes. Company Number SC 218658 charity Number SC 031919 Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information printed in this publication, SCF cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. The views Watch this space. expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the SCF. Print and design by Strath Print, Broadford, Isle of Skye tel: 01471 822 555 www.strathprint.co.uk tel: Isle of Skye Broadford, Strath Print, Print and design by