Alison Mann

CONSERVATIONISTS have published a report stating that reintroduced beavers have "adapted well" to life in Scotland - but NFU Scotland has reiterated its opposition to any plan to widen the reintroduction.

AS SCOTTISH farmers get to grips with new CAP rules and reportedly struggle with the new computer system amidst fears that payments will be late, farmers across Europe are facing similar challenges.

EU MEMBER States would be allowed a national opt-out from the circulation of GM food and feed products on their territory under new proposals put forward by the European Commission.

SCOTTISH PORK'S fortunes could finally be on the mend, with fresh demand set to be created by the upgrading of Brechin abattoir, which is due to be completed by the end of the year.

BEEF PRODUCERS have been facing a slump in prices recently but red meat body Quality Meat Scotland is keen for the industry to keep a positive outlook.

To ALL intents and purposes Alastair and Janet Taylor are the ideal new entrants - young, building up a farm, living in a rural community and working hard to make their business a success.

BEEF PRODUCERS are facing delays getting animals slaughtered, while also suffering prices lower than the same time last year.

AN ELGIN farmer has spoken out to highlight problems with Scotland's reformed CAP regime which could leave already struggling farmers fighting for their businesses - or leaving the industry altogether.

BEAVERS ARE causing devastation to agricultural land and should instead be confined to non-food-producing areas.

SCOTTISH FARMERS aren't the only ones facing computer problems in their efforts to access the reformed CAP - the English Rural Payments Agency has admitted defeat and abandoned its 'online-only' payments system, throwing English farmers' applications into turmoil.