Crofting Federation welcome the funding pot announced by the Scottish Government

“Crofters have long been working in a sustainable way to produce food and environmental benefits,” said Donald MacKinnon, chair of the SCF. “It is no coincidence that most of the High Nature Value areas of Scotland correspond with the crofting areas. We recognise that there is plenty more that we can be doing and welcome the commitment by Scottish Government to keep up, and indeed increase in some areas, the budget for activity related to our land, ecosystems and food production.

“Crofters manage a lot of our peatlands, the prime ecosystem for carbon sequestration and biodiversity. Careful grazing increases biodiversity. Crofters also plant a lot of trees and manage woodlands, as well as grazing livestock - indeed the two go well together and should be encouraged where appropriate.”

Mr MacKinnon continued: “Many crofters also provide tourist accommodation and local food for tourist outlets and this has been adversely impacted by Covid 19. Crofters often fall outside of support to tourist providers and this needs to be addressed. It is also essential that local authorities use the increase in tourism support to put in place the services, infrastructure and education to ensure that tourists get the best experience.

“All in all, this is a very positive budget which aims to help crofters and farmers to deliver for Scotland. We all need food and Scotland can produce much of its own food without damaging the environment – this is our aim.”