A beef and sheep farmer from Grantown will swing open the gates of his enterprise for a special event next month aimed at boosting farm efficiency.
Robert MacDonald, who keeps 110 suckler cows and 470 commercial ewes at Castle Grant Home Farm on Reidhaven Estates, will host the open day on Tuesday, July 5.
The event, which has been organised by SAC Consulting with support from the Scottish Government’s Farming for a Better Climate Programme, sets out to help farmers find more efficient ways to manager suckler cows and breeding ewes by providing tips and advice on how to increase the crop of beef and lamb on their farms.
Visitors will get the chance to tour Mr MacDonald’s farming enterprise, and the day culminates with a panel session with industry leaders including auctioneers, agri-politicians and producers.
SAC Consulting beef and sheep consultant, Kirsten Williams, said: “Robert MacDonald’s philosophy is to keep the system simple and ensure he can manage the land and animals himself for the majority of the year.
“He has tailored his cattle and sheep enterprises around this philosophy, with choices about breeds or management made to suit his system and the location of his farm. After hearing from Robert visitors will also be able to question a panel of well known industry figures on their view of the best way forward.”
She said the aim of the event was to highlight production methods which could aid efficiency while also helping farmers react to climate change.
“Farmers will hear from SRUC and industry specialists who will discuss the health and nutrition of cattle and sheep, post weaning management, soil and grass management. Comments from the panel should add to the fun,” added Ms Williams.
The panel will include: Dingwall and Highland Marts managing director Ian Tolmie; Scottish Sheep Farmer of the Year Joyce Campbell, of Armadale; well-known Huntly farmer John Gordon, of Wellheads; and NFU Scotland livestock committee chairman Charlie Adam.
The open day kicks off at 10.30am, and while the event is free producers are asked to register their attendance by contacting the SAC Consulting office in Inverness on 01463 233266.