Farmers and crofters have been asked to bring a spadeful of their poorest soil to one of two free events in the north and north-east next week.
The Soil, Muck and Money events, organised by organic certification body Soil Association Scotland, will feature presentations from grassland guru Charlie Morgan and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany’s (NIAB) head of farming systems, Liz Stockdale.
The events take place on Tuesday at the Thainstone Centre, Inverurie, and Wednesday at the Standing Stones Hotel in Orkney.
Both events run from 10am to 3pm and are free to attend.
Farmers are asked to bring along some soil for expert analysis and advice.
“We want people to bring along their poorly performing soil – we want the bad stuff. Our two experts are at the top of their field, pardon the pun, and physically pull the soil apart to analyse it and make suggestions,” said Soil Association Scotland’s farming and land us manager, Lyn White.
“With Scottish farmers struggling with the weather, particularly wet summers, improving soil health by addressing compaction, for example, can extend the growing season. It’s all about optimum profitability.”
Those wishing to attend the events are asked to contact Ms White on 07899 791748 to book their place.