Struggling Scots dairy farmers are being urged to sign up to a specialist dairy marketing scheme.
The founder or Free Range Dairy – an organisation which aims to promote milk from cows which have been grazed outside for at least 180 days of the year – is on the hunt for new members.
Neil Darwent, who manages farms in Somerset, says there is an opportunity for farmers with grass-based systems to differentiate themselves and their produce.
He says there is no reason why milk cannot be marketed in the same way as eggs, with different options and price points for consumers based on how the milk has been produced.
“I really would like farmers to sign up now because I think there is a real opportunity to get in front of the public and people who are buying milk,” said Mr Darwent.
“We have to define the value in our farming system – if we commit to grazing our cows for six months of the year we want an additional reward.”
He said derogations were available in the event of bad weather to bring the cows inside and graze them for less than 180 days.
“We don’t insist on farmers keeping cows out if it’s going to compromise the health and wellbeing of the cows. We also allow a 14-day transition period to get the cows outside,” added Mr Darwent.
He said the brand the Free Range Dairy branding was already being used by a small number of dairy companies, however none of them are based in Scotland.
“The big problem is finding processors,” said Mr Darwent.
“What’s vitally important now is that we have got consumers who want free range milk, but we need that critical mass of farmers to convince the processors that it can be done. Having more farmers sign up now gives us that voice.”
Membership costs £50 a year for farmers with less than 200 cows and £100 for those with 200 or more.
Those interested in finding out more are asked to visit the organisation’s website at www.freerangedairy.org