The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Arable farmers called
Scotland’s arable farmers are being invited to enter their enterprises in this year’s AgriScot Arable Farm of the Year competition.
In a change to the usual judging schedule, the organisers are looking for entries before June 20 so that shortlisted farms can be visited by assessors pre-harvest.
Award convener, John Weir said: “We are calling for nominations and entries over the next eight weeks, and our assessors aim to then produce a shortlist of three farms to visit in July.
“This timing is new, but we believe it gives farmers a better opportunity to show crops and farms looking at their best at a potentially less busy time of year.”
Last year’s award winner was Preston Hall farm in Midlothian and the two shortlisted farms came from Aberdeenshire.
Mr Weir added: “This year we are keen to encourage farms from all over mainland Scotland and the islands to put themselves forward, or to hear from agronomists, machinery suppliers, and others – anonymously if necessary – who wish to nominate their customers, clients, and neighbours as deserving of the 2022 title.”
Mr Weir will be joined by Bill Gray from Preston Hall, to assess this year’s entries.
The award is being facilitated by levy body AHDB, and sponsored by SoilEssentials, whose general manager, Gregor Welsh said: “We are continually fascinated by the award finalists, having the insight into their individual farming businesses and inspiring stories each year, so we would actively encourage submissions from the length and breadth of Scotland.”
Previous award recipients were South Redbog, Strichen, Aberdeenshire (2017), Rhynie House, Tain, Rossshire (2018), Lacesston, Gateside, Fife (2019) and Preston Hall, Midlothian (2021).
To nominate a farm or request an application form contact info@ agriscot.co.uk
Submissions must be received by noon on June 20.
The awards will be presented as part of AgriScot on November 16 at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston.