The hunt is on for a Scottish farmer or crofter who is demonstrating new or innovative ideas in their business.
Entries for the prestigious Future Farming Award, which offers a £4,000 prize, opened last week.
The award, which is organised and funded by the Elizabeth Murray Trust, rewards an “innovative and sustainable farmer” who is sharing their ideas with the farming community and working to improve the industry in Scotland.
This year’s accolade went to renowned sheep breeding family, the Ingrams of Logie Durno Farm, near Inverurie.
Judges praised the family for success in producing superior sheep through careful breeding, genetic recording, feed and land management
Michael Williams of the Elizabeth Murray Trust said previous winners and runners up of the award were “outstanding examples of excellence in the Scottish farming industry”.
“The Future Farming Award seeks to showcase best practice to other farmers and crofters,” he added.
“We are therefore looking for entries that demonstrate new ways in which to secure economic sustainability for their business whilst at the same time nurturing the environment for future generations.”
He said the competition was open to entries from all farmers and crofters, regardless of the size of their enterprise.
“If you are someone, or know of someone, who could be a worthy winner of the award, please visit our website for details of how to enter,” added Mr Williams.
Entries for the award, which is also supported by NFU Scotland and The Quality Scotland Foundation (QSF), close on 15 February, 2015.
The award will be presented at an awards ceremony in June 2015. Visit www.futurefarmingscotland.co.uk to enter.