Arable Scotland Conversations: Staying Profitable on Lower Inputs
Maximising net returns with fewer inputs has always been an issue and now, potentially more than ever, the second conversation will centre on the opportunities. Soils are widely believed to be one of the foundations for this. Improved soil health has the potential to develop soils both more resilient and biologically diverse, improving nutrient cycling.
Regenerative agriculture may solve some of these problems, but are there other approaches that can be taken? What is the role of more resilient crops? What varieties are currently available that require less fertiliser and fewer pesticides? Also, what will happen if specific herbicides are banned, for example, glyphosate, and what will this mean for minimum and no-tillage systems? The method used for soil cultivation is a potential option within future conditionality payments.
Discussing the issue will be Roddy McLean (agricultural director within RBS), and agricultural consultants David Brewster, who will chair the discussion, and Julian Bell. Balancing all this will be Stuart McNicol, a farmer from East Lothian, who will share his thoughts on the topic and highlight potential concerns on what the future might bring in a lower input system.
Scotland’s Farm Advisory Service (FAS) is funded by the Scottish Government, providing information and resources aimed at increasing the profitability and sustainability of farms and crofts.
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