As the end of the year grows near, our thoughts inevitably turn to what we’ve achieved...or not! It's worth remembering that we are still living with the after-effects of COVID-19 and Brexit, not to mention the cost of living crisis which has been exacerbated by conflict and, for many businesses, 2023 has been every bit as challenging as the past few years.
So, if you've been thinking about outstanding tasks, don't be too hard on yourself!
What are you looking forward to in 2024? What's in your diary? What's the top of your 'To Do' list? Are there any particular topics you'd like us to cover either on the OnFARM Academy training modules or in our weekly OnFARM podcast? We'd love to hear from you!
News
In recent weeks Police Scotland has seen an increase in reports of scrap metal theft from urban and rural locations nationally. Typically person/s are seen in vans within the curtilage of these locations and if approached state that they are there to uplift the scrap metal, however, they do not have such permission. The public is urged to report such matters (by calling 101 or at www.scotland.police.uk/contact-us/) and if possible to obtain the vehicle registration number.
A new national litter and flytipping fund to support landowners has been created as part of the 2023 National Litter and Flytipping Strategy to aid private landowners in deterring flytipping on their land. https://www.ruralnetwork.scot/news-and-events/news/national-litter-and-flytipping-fund-support-landowners
Be a citizen scientist and contribute to environmental research on plastic in agricultural soils near you by using the SoilPlastic App which allows you to record your sightings of plastic in soils. Read more https://minagris.eu/index.php/resources/soilplastic-app
On 20 November, the Rural Affairs and Islands Committee published its stage 1 report on the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill. The committee says that more clarity is needed from the Scottish Government about how proposals in the bill would work in practice. More info: https://www.parliament.scot/about/news/news-listing/committee-calls-for-clarity-on-how-proposed-measures-within-the-wildlife-management
Recent OnFARM podcast episodes included:
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Anna Davies: Email: anna@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
Ross (Monty) Montague: Email: monty@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
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