Hill farmers and crofters have a key role to play

Considering the land and the weather... I think most islands produce stock that the lowland boys seem to love. Always a strong trade round these parts, be it Oban, Dalmally, Islay etc for island stock. And in-fact, without running the risk of offending anyone, a lot of the stock I see (definitely not everything!) out of Tiree, Coll etc is right up there with their West mainland counterparts and prices on the day show it. Long may it continue after Brexit because if the West is hit hard then it will be a massive hit to the boys buying our stock for finishing. If they can survive out here they thrive in sheds. And if there is a big stock reduction in these parts then you're talking decades to breed the hardiness back into them to replenish the place. And I'm not talking wee hairy shites of things, I'm talking quality with a bit of weight about them.

I will say though that it's about time the 'big boys' let us have a bigger bite of the subs apple... We can get quite hungry out here!

I want a Fendt too, you know!!

Forage Trader said:

Without wanting to upset anyone .but if there is a need to plant trees which land should be planted first

Click to expand...

Grade A arable land.

Hilly said:

Grade A arable land.

Click to expand...

Tree planting is such a sensitive subject.
You have to be brave to even bring it up

If someones paying me yearly I'll soon plant some trees. Might end up being blown to Barra mind you...

CollCrofter said:

If someones paying me yearly I'll soon plant some trees. Might end up being blown to Barra mind you...

Click to expand...

do it. cheap wood for me then

It doesn't need to cost a fortune. The trees growing around my house cost £30 and an afternoon to plant them. As a wise man said, "You'll get shelter from one tree".

The Forestry Commission used to give trees to crofters for nothing as they throw out a lot each year. But I think the nurserymen may have put paid to that. Of course, if nobody tells them, they won't know.

Yes, I am aware of the problems of planting trees on the west. There is seems the solution is to plant blocks so the trees get shelter from each other. Oh, and fence out those bloody sheep! If a tree is in the wrong place, it doesn't take long to change that with a chain saw.

Totally agree. It's not really an easy task, but it shouldn't cost all that much once you get the facts in order.