By Dave McFadzean

It truly is a thing we all need to do to some degree in our daily lives and at times we really do take it for granted.
Walking comes naturally to us from the minute we rise up off the floor at our crawling stage. In infirmity, illness or old age it may become a bit of a problem but it is still with most of us throughout our lives. 
Farm workers and shepherds of old thought nothing of tramping many miles a day during their toils. Whether working with livestock or during other farm operations legwork is still necessary. 
Yes, nowadays the quad bike, tractor and 4 X 4 are taking more and more of the strain but Shanks’ pony is still usually needed at some stage of the working day. 
As well as the rather obvious health advantages of travelling on foot there are several other aspects that can help both farmers and the wider community at large. Walking can be of benefit to both groups if a little courtesy and common sense is applied by both factions.
Farmland can truly be a bit of a risk for the inexperienced walker. Unexpected intrusions by the unannounced walkers may not seem the most welcome prospect on busy farms at certain times of the year. 
Machinery and livestock are two obvious safety hazards. Farm machine operators are not always aware of hikers approaching from unexpected directions. Bulls, cows with calves, farm dogs and even horses can also prove to be significant risks for unanticipated ramblers. 
With most of these negatives though there really has got to be a positive side. 
Walking and walkers can also provide huge benefits to farmers in a variety of ways. 
The hectic farming lifestyle may not always allow time for leisure activities. Sometimes though, simply a short break from a busy routine can be invigorating. 
Just an hour of some brisk walking can be the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of farm operations. Social interaction with other walkers can also be just as important as the exercise.
Getting away from it all for a short while can be really beneficial. Paths for All promote a network of walking groups throughout Scotland. Here, in Dumfries-shire, there are organised health walks from various locations every weekday. 
Retired farmers or farm workers rehabilitating after illness or injury can also reap the benefits of these hour-long local health walks. 
Taken by trained walk leaders, these are ideal for most abilities. There are opportunities to join these popular walks throughout Scotland. 
Some walks take place at evening. So even if your day has been hectic an evening stroll may be just the thing. 
On the other hand you may like to walk alone for a while. The possibilities thrown up for this on the farm are limitless. 
Servicing the needs of other walkers throws up quite a few possibilities for the farmer to expand their earning potential. Providing Bed and Breakfast is one obvious step.
Weary hikers always need a good night’s rest and where better than right down there on a farm. Good food, a place to lay a weary head and in-depth local knowledge are always on offer. Advice on route finding is usually on hand from friendly enquiries from those in the know. 
Farmers know their countryside better than most folk and can direct hikers safely away from any hazards. Camping and caravan sites offer another welcome income stream from walkers. 
Self catering cottages are also ideal for hikers and many farm buildings are being brought into use for that type of accommodation tearooms and farm shops are also popular with hungry hikers. 
What better than a welcome brew and some farmhouse baking for lunch during your rambles. 
The VisitScotland Walkers Welcome scheme works well for all these types of accommodation and services. It ensures that certain facilities are always on offer by their scheme members. 
Drying rooms, Wifi, weather and travel information, local walks and a packed lunch service are just some of the services the scheme entails.
Possibilities are there for farm based tourism around all types of walking from simple farm tours to long backpacking expeditions using farm buildings for overnight shelter. Luggage transfer between different overnight stopover points is another often much needed service for through route hikers. 
Nobody wants to lug a heavy rucksack today where it really proves unnecessary. 
Heritage rambles and nature walks also attract many hikers to explore our farmland scenery. Farmers will be in the know about historic sites and where the flora and fauna is on their land. They will certainly know the best places on their patch to seek out places from our past and our wonderful wildlife. 
Problems have arisen with unreasonable and careless conduct by some outdoor access takers. Reckless and obnoxious activities by a few people, especially in popular areas, particularly by inconsiderate wild campers, has led to a ban on wild camping for all in certain places. 
Walkers with dogs off the lead is another persistent problem with some farmers. Again, it seems that this is caused by a few thoughtless individuals and most owners keep their pets under control. 
Scotland now has some of the best access laws on the planet. These laws have made us the envy of many other counties. 
With a little mutual respect and understanding both farmers and walkers can keep it that way.