Natural Capital - Combating Nature Loss: Scottish Biodiversity Strategy Scotland's Farm Advisory Service podcast

32:09

In this podcast we hear from Kirsten Williams who will be taking over Robert Ramsay’s role as the host on Stock Talk. Kirsten talks about her farming system at home as well as her interests at work. Robert mentions some of his favourite Stock Talk podcasts and how they can develop into something bigger (e.g. the deer farming podcast has now turned into a FAS Deer Farming Group). Kirsten wishes to continue Stock Talk with more farming stories as well as discussing more technical aspects. Related FAS Resources Kirsten Williams: Let your determination grow stronger | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service…

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Natural Capital - Biodiversity Funding on Farms 41:19

9 days ago41:19

41:19

We take a deep dive on the various sources of biodiversity funding opportunities that are available to farmers in 2025 and beyond. Covering Agri-Environmental Climate Schemes, Nature Restoration Funds, and biodiversity audits. In this episode we are joined by agricultural consultant Alex Pirie, to share updates on environmental funding opportunities for farmers in 2025 - including going over what the Agri-Environmental Climate Scheme (AECS) is, Nature Restoration Fund opportunities and biodiversity audits as part of the Whole Farm Plan. We discuss changes and example projects farmers are undertaking, and links with future tiers of agricultural support. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producer Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 2:39 – 16:52 AECS, what support is available and changes to previous years. 16:53 – 27:01 NRF, what it supports and updates for the year ahead. 27:02 – 33:11 Whole Farm Plan, biodiversity audits and how this links with funding. 34:51 – 40:01 Collaboration and landscape approaches, future opportunities and next steps. AECS Deadlines Agri-Environment Management : Applications are open from February 3, 2025, to June 12, 2025. Organic Conversion and Maintenance (Standalone Applications ): The application window is from February 3, 2025, to July 31, 2025. Pre-Application Consultations: Deer Management : If you're considering applying for deer management support, you must contact a NatureScot Wildlife Management Officer before applying. The deadline for requesting pre-application advice is April 30, 2025. Peatland Management : Applicants are strongly advised to consult with NatureScot at least one month before the application deadline to discuss proposals. Related FAS Material Specialist Advice | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service Thrill of the Hill | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service Other Related Resources: Scottish Government Nature Restoration Fund (NRF) | NatureScot Agri-Environment Climate Scheme Whole Farm Plan full guidance…

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Thrill Of The Hill - Staggeringly Good: Raising The Profile of Venison in Scotland 27:57

13 days ago27:57

27:57

Thrill of the Hill returns for season 5, with an exciting line-up on new and returning guest speakers and specialists in their fields and on their hills. Venison, an underappreciated meat in Scotland? Despite the abundance of deer in Scotland, farmed and wild, venison has never been a staple of the Scottish diet, certainly not in the same way as beef or lamb. Scottish Government reports that the amount of farmed venison in Scotland increased by around 4.9% on the last five year average, making up 16,000 animals. That figure might sound impressive, but the Venison Advisory Service suggests that accounts for only 3% of national production, with the remainder coming from wild venison. Scottish Government reports that around 3,500 tonnes of wild venison is produced in Scotland each year and The Times suggest that around two thirds of that is used in the domestic and wider UK markets. But with such plentiful supplies of venison on our hills, could we be making more of it? In this episode Anona Gow discusses the virtues of venison, its nutritional value, cooking options, perception of the sector and reflects on her new book, The Venison Kitchen. Want to get in touch with Anona? She can be contacted at The Venison Kitchen via email enquiries at hello@thevenisonkitchen.co.uk Related FAS Resources https://www.fas.scot/publication/podcast-the-thrill-of-the-hill-deer-farming-management/ https://www.fas.scot/publication/thinning-herds-thicken-forests/ Related External Resources The Venison Kitchen by Anona Gow Cook Book Events — Pitscandly Farm Venison Events and Farmers Markets…

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Rural RoundUp -Spring Update, Avian Flu & a “New Deal for Agriculture” 38:55

15 days ago38:55

38:55

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who bring us their Spring Update, with information on the “New Deal for Agriculture”, NVZ, claim deadlines for PSF & AECS Capital claims, an update on h5n1, and a market update. Related Resources Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot Claims and payments For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot…

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CropCast - Tom Scrope, Nuffield Scholar 2025 35:47

16 days ago35:47

35:47

In this episode Tiffany Stephenson is joined by Tom Scrope to talk about his 2025 Nuffield Scholarship, in which he is exploring new ways of farmer knowledge exchange to secure stronger soils. Tom is also the Co-founder of soil benchmark, an online platform which can be used to create bespoke soil management plans. Welcome to Cropcast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Stephenson will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Cameron Waugh, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish Government. Linked Resources Nuffield Farming Scholarships: https://www.nuffieldscholar.org/scholars/2024/tom-scrope Soil benchmark: https://www.soilbenchmark.com/#features Tom Scrope, Linked in: Tom Scrope on LinkedIn: 🤔 🇦🇺 🪱 Why do Aussie farmers share soil-y ideas BETTER and FASTER than… | 70 comments…

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Agribusiness News Audio February 2025: A spotlight on breeding bulls, pigs, the benefits of Co-operatives and how Whole Farm Plans will affect landlords 47:23

23 days ago47:23

47:23

Along with our regular monthly updates on policy briefs, arable, beef, sheep and milk, in this edition we are also bringing you a sector overview on breeding bulls, pigs, the benefits of Co-operatives and how Whole Farm Plans will affect landlords. Show Notes 00:41 News in Brief 03:10 Policy Briefs – Foot and Mouth Disease and Avian Flu, heating grant, area monitoring pilot, national flood advisory service, new housing planning hub. 08:18 Arable- US tariff uncertainty, Sterling weakens through January, barley, oilseeds and oats. 13:04 Beef – Short supply and records prices continue. 17:31 Sheep – Shoppers trends, Christmas trends, markets and Australia. 21:49 Sector Focus – Breeding bulls. 26:40 Milk – production data, farm-gate prices, dairy commodities and market indicators, Mullers carbon reduction programme, a glass of milk a day! 31:38 Sector focus – Pigs. 37:27 Inputs: The role of Co-operatives in supporting agribusiness in Scotland. 42:09 Management Matters – Landlords and the 2025 SAF Whole Farm Plan requirements FAS Resources Agribusiness News February 2025 Other Links: The Paris Agreement | UNFCCC Foot and mouth disease Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) Field Services Office RSABI Help For Heating National Flood Resilience Strategy The National Bovine Data Centre (NBDC) NBDC beef cattle type classification guide Aberdeen-Angus Linear Assessment Explanatory Doc Animal Health & Welfare plan Integrated Pest Management Plan Nature Scot - Biodiversity Audit Rural Payments website - Whole Farm Plan guidance For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot…

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Stock Talk - Sam Parsons, Balcaskie Estate 55:45

5 weeks ago55:45

55:45

In this podcast we hear from Sam Parsons from Balcaskie. He talks about the organic farming system and the use of regenerative agriculture practices at Balcaskie and how it has helped reduce costs. He also talks about meat eating quality in their choice of cattle as they sell their beef direct to customers through the butchery. They are using Lincoln Red bulls across the herd. Sam talks about the challenges he has faced with changing his system from 6-7 months winter housing cattle to outwintering them most of the year. He also discussed with Robert the importance of young people coming into the industry. You can contact Sam by emailing sparsons@balcaskie.com Related FAS Resources Stock Talk - James Biggar & Lorna Galloway | Information helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service…

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Natural Capital - Combating Nature Loss: Scottish Biodiversity Strategy 48:28

5 weeks ago48:28

48:28

The loss of species and degradation of our natural environment is an existential threat to the planet that requires urgent, collaborative and transformative solutions. We are in a biodiversity crisis, with 1 in 9 Scottish species facing extinction and declines in numbers and ranges of many plants, birds and animals. There is a need for action and Scotland’s Biodiversity Strategy to 2045 sets out a clear ambition - For Scotland to be Nature Positive by 2030, and to have restored and regenerated biodiversity across the country by 2045. We are joined by Professor Davy McCracken to discuss the newly published Scottish Biodiversity Strategy and delivery plans to 2045 and his involvement with it. We go through what is included in the strategy and what it means for farmers and land managers in Scotland going forward. Host Harry Fisher, Producer Iain Boyd, Editor Kieron Sim, Executive Producers Kerry Hammond & Kirstyn Blackwood Timestamps: 0:55 – 9:20 The Scottish Biodiversity Strategy, it’s purpose and history 9:21 – 20:41 Outcomes, goals and six main objectives within the strategy 20:42 – 36:24 What it means for the rural sector going forward 36:25 – 43:39 investment in nature, who is paying for it and shifting baselines Related FAS resources: Biodiversity | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service FAS Sounds | Helping farmers in Scotland | Farm Advisory Service Other Related Resources: Scottish Biodiversity Strategy to 2045 - gov.scot Davy McCracken | SRUC Scotland's Biodiversity | NatureScot Scotland - State of Nature…

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Rural Roundup - First Footing Forward: Planning for the Year Ahead 21:04

6 weeks ago21:04

21:04

Welcome back to the Rural Round-up. This show is produced in association with the Scottish Government. On today’s episode, we’re joined by George Chalmers & Tiffany Stephenson who discuss what Farmers & Crofters can do to put the best foot forward in the New Year, to give themselves a good chance of a successful 2025. Related Resources Preparing for Sustainable Farming (PSF) Agri-Environment Climate Scheme Whole Farm Plan full guidance Avian influenza (bird flu) outbreaks - gov.scot For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot…

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CropCast - Balbirnie Home Farms: Thinking Outside of the Box 52:30

6 weeks ago52:30

52:30

In this episode Tiffany Stephenson is joined by Balbirnie Farms manager David Aglen along with Professor Fiona Burnett, an applied plant pathologist at SRUC to discuss the results from crop trials, which have been taking place at Balbirnie Home Farms as part of the AHDB strategic cereal farm Scotland project. Welcome to Cropcast, your go to podcast for all the latest information on arable crops. Each month, SAC advisor, Tiffany Stephenson will be joined by a range of industry experts, bringing you timely updates to help you make decisions in the field. Producer George Gauley, Editor Cameron Waugh, Executive Producer Kerry Hammond, in association with the Scottish Government. Related Resources Strategic Cereal Farm Scotland | AHDB…

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Agri Culture - SAYFC Respect 37:39

7 weeks ago37:39

37:39

Mary-Jane Lawrie is joined by Ally Brunton chair of SAYFC and Jillian Kennedy, SAYFC Vice chair. They both talk about their time in young farmers and the experiences and benefits of being in the club. They also tell us about the SAYFC Respect campaign which was launched at the Highland Show in 2024, which aims to allow every member to contribute to SAYFC as a safe, inclusive, fun environment for young people. This episode discusses themes around mental wellbeing and suicide, please listen with care. Resources The Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs | SAYFC SAYFC focused on RESPECT - Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs Young Farmers say ‘Leave a Light On’ - Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs Mental Health Support | SAYFC Members Support | Contact Us Home - RSABI Farmstrong Scotland - Live Well, Farm & Croft Well Agri Culture : Farmstrong Episode Agri Culture: Stephanie Berkeley - Yellow Wellies Agri Culture: Jim Chapman - Adapting to Life After an Accident For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot…

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Thrill of the Hill - First Aid on Farm with Sean Magee 41:48

7 weeks ago41:48

41:48

Thrill of the Hill returns for season 5, with an exciting line-up on new and returning guest speakers and specialists in their fields and on their hills. We're all human, fragile and fallible, accidents can occur and mistakes can be made, people can be in danger, get hurt and when that happens, be in need of first aid. The National Farmers Union reports that despite accounting for only 1% of the working population, agriculture accounts for 20% of all deaths in the workplace. In this episode, qualified First Aid Trainer and practitioner, Sean Magee discusses the importance of first aid in the farm and rural environment, including what information to provide to emergency services and the processes of seeking help, how to assess the requirements of a casualty and top tips for dealing with agricultural related incidents when they occur. If you want to get in touch with Sean, he can be contacted at CPS Activities Ltd via email at enquiries@cpsactivities.com . Related FAS Resources Developing Safe Farming Practices - Lone Working Other Related Resources First Aid Training - CPS Activities Ltd…

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Agribusiness News Audio January 2025: A Spotlight on 2024 Environmental Developments, Global Trends, the New Scottish Budget and Financial Update 52:20

8 weeks ago52:20

52:20

Along with our regular monthly updates on policy briefs, arable, beef, sheep and milk, in this edition we are also bringing you a sector overview of environmental developments over 2024 and we will be bringing you news on global trends and the new Scottish budget and financial update. Show Notes 00:40 News in Brief 02:06 Policy Briefs – Roundup of 2024 and looking to 2025 and beyond. 07:52 Arable- Political alliances define trading blocs, Black Sea region supplies diminishing and UK barley and oats. 12:34 Beef – 2024 market recap, Scottish suckler herd decline and 2025 beef outlook. 17:33 Sheep – 2024 – what a year! Looking forward to 2025. 22:02 Sector Focus – 2024 environmental roundup. 29:56 Milk – 2024 review: a year of two halves and 2025 dairy outlook. 35:35 Sector focus – Global trends. 47:08 Management Matters – Financial matters: a year of political change, fiscal policy and looking ahead. FAS Resources Agribusiness News January 2025 Other Links: Farm management handbook 2024-25 www.sac.co.uk/fmh fmh@sac.co.uk Land Reform (Scotland) Bill Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill NatureScot Website Whole Farm Plans Biodiversity Audits Plant Health Centre Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill Scottish Kept Bird Register Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) (Scotland) Bill Sheep and Goat Inventory Preparing for Sustainable farming portal on the Rural Payments and Services Website Farming and Water Scotland - Slurry and Manure Storage National Adaptation Plan 2024-2029 Biodiversity Delivery Plan 2024-2040 COP29 COP16 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting internationally Scottish Government - compliance measures in agriculture from 2025 Land Reform Bill Record levels of peatland restored in 2024 (SG) Natural Capital Markets Framework Facility for Investment Ready (FIRNs) Nature finance investment fund - Nature Scot Landscape Enterprise Networks (LENs) For more information, visit www.FAS.scot Twitter: @FASScot Facebook: @FASScot National Advice Hub Phone: 0300 323 0161 Email: advice@fas.scot…

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Stock Talk - Jock Gibson 1:08:55

10 weeks ago1:08:55

1:08:55

In this podcast we hear from Jock Gibson who is a farmer and butcher. He talks about his farming system at home and how his cattle are certified with Pasture for Life. This means they are on a grassland and forage diet and are therefore slower to reach finished weights than conventional finishing systems which feed concentrate feed. Jock has native breeds of cattle to suit this system. Jock also talks about the butchery side of the business and direct selling to customers and the importance of eating quality of the meat he is selling to customers. Jock also talks about his Nuffield Scholarship focussing on eating quality of meat which included travels to other countries to experience different systems and abattoirs. Jock is a trustee of Farmstrong Scotland and this is something he is passionate about. This is now setup as a charity and is designed to help people with their mental health and wellbeing and encourage the creation of positive habits. Linked resources: Farmstrong Scotland - Live Well, Farm & Croft Well…

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Natural Capital - Tackling the Climate and Biodiversity Crises 59:06

10 weeks ago59:06