Farms selected for ‘climate friendly farming’ trial

Four farms have been chosen to demonstrate “climate friendly” farming methods in Scotland.

The Climate Change Focus Farms, selected by Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead, will work to reduce emissions, improve efficiency and boost productivity as part of the Scottish Government‘s Farming for a Better Climate programme.

Mr Lochhead said the Scottish target to reduce emissions by at least 42% by 2020 was among the most ambitious in the world, but farmers were ready to play their part.

“Not only can the industry cut emissions but farming businesses can save costs at the same time and earn new income,” he said.

The four farms represent dairy, upland livestock, arable and farm diversification. They are:

• Torr Farm, Auchencairn, Castle Douglas. A dairy business run by Ross and Lee Paton

• Glenkilrie Farm, Blairgowrie. An upland livestock business run by David Houstoun

• Milton of Mathers, near St Cyrus, Montrose. An arable farm run by James Reid

• Stewart Tower Farm, Stanley. The diversification and demonstration farm run by Neil and Lynsey Butler

The Focus Farm programme will run until 2012, establish best practice and establish monitoring and reporting procedures. Open days and demonstrations will take place on the farms.