Expo for farmers who are keen to branch out

Scottish farmers who are considering diversifying into woodland are the target of a new forestry event scheduled to take place in Lanarkshire next week.

Forestry Expo Scotland is aimed at the forestry, aboriculture and land management sectors and will combine a live harvesting demonstration with trade stand exhibitions.

Visitors will see the latest in timber harvesting technology working at full capacity, with more than 10,000 cubic metres expected to be harvested during the event.

There has been an upsurge in the amount of hill land being bought by private forestry companies as a result of generous government grants and farmers are being encouraged to establish new woodland.

Event organiser Martin Dare said: “Professional advisers have been quick to offer support and guidance to the farming community to help identify forestry solutions.

“However, in some ways, especially when it comes to harvesting, timber is essentially just another farm crop.

“Whilst there is obviously a requirement for specialist machinery and operators, there is no real mystique around the process of engaging a reputable contractor for the job in the same way as one would engage a contractor for any other harvesting operation – from silage to cereals to wool.”

Forestry Expo Scotland will take place on Thursday and Friday at Little Clyde, Elvanfoot, which is farmed by the Wight family of Midlock, and in adjoining forestry.