Farmers in Aberdeenshire and in the Highlands are being invited to two events aimed at encouraging the integration of trees into farming businesses.

Both events are free and are being run by the Integrating Trees Network, which is a farmer-led initiative supported by Scottish Forestry and the Scottish Government.

The first event is being hosted by Richard Lockett at the award winning Knockbain Farm in Dingwall on Wednesday 19^th July 10am-1pm.

The second event, organised at Donald Barrie’s Glensaugh, Fettercairn, takes place on Thursday 27^th July 1-4pm. 

Lyn White is Scottish Forestry’s forestry and farming development officer and she is keen to see as many farmers attending as possible. She said:

“The Integrating Trees Network events are a great way for farmers to see first-hand how other farmers have successfully grown trees to boost their business.

“Growing trees can provide shelter for livestock, improve the farm’s environment, diversify the business and provide a future income.

“There are many forestry grants that farmers can take advantage of and we will be able to discuss these in full on the day.  

“The events are informal and provide a no pressure environment for farmers to find out whether tree planting is a good fit for their farm businesss.”

The Aberdeenshire event will be hosted by Donald Barrie, who recently joined the Integrating Trees Network. At Glensaugh he runs two sheep flocks, and herds of Luing cattle and red deer.

Donald is keen to share his knowledge and experience of how the farm’s woodlands have created shelter, shade, marketable timber and improved the biodiversity of his business. He added:

“The are so many positives about tree planting but you have to put the right tree in the right place, and for the right reason. I’m happy to talk through and show other farmers how I planned and chose different species of tree for my farm.”

The Dingwall event will be hosted by Richard Lockett which will focus on the benefits of well designed tree planting around rivers and streams. Discussions will also include what support there is for this type of planting.

Richard said: As well as visiting Knockbain, there’s an opportunity to also visit the nearby River Peffery Re-Meandering Project where riverside trees have recently been planted. We will look at and discuss how these trees and others that have to be planted will play a major part in improving water quality  and reducing diffuse pollution, whilst also providing multiple environmental improvements.”

Booking of each event is available here:

Knockbain Farm: Wednesday 19^th July 10am-1pm.

Glenshaugh Farm: Thursday 27^th July 1-4pm,

More information on the Integrating Trees Network is here.