The 2024 campaign to find Scotland’s diversified farm of the year is underway with the winner being honoured at this year’s Scottish Agricultural Awards ceremony.
SAC Consulting, part of Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), is again sponsoring this keenly contested category that seeks to showcase excellence within the agricultural sector.
The award celebrates businesses which have invested time and resource into diversifying and, as a result, developed additional income streams alongside day-to-day farming practices.
Last year’s award was won by Kenneth Bone of Glenkiln Farm, whose family run farm demonstrated excellence in diversification and sustainability practices. The Bone family not only transformed the business through diversification, but their efforts also support the local Arran community.
Calum Johnston, of SAC Consulting, commented: “This is an important category as it recognises and celebrates the innovative spirit of Scottish farmers who are adapting their operations to thrive in today's challenging agricultural landscape.
“Last year’s winner Kenneth has also been working on creating affordable homes using his land near Lamlash, offering a model for other rural areas facing housing challenges. As he puts it, 'My businesses must be profitable, but also address the island's needs: affordable homes, energy, food, and amenities.'
“Entrants for the 2024 Diversified Farm of the Year have the chance to showcase and shine a light on the hard work that has been done and the important contribution that farming makes to the wider economy. We are very much looking forward to seeing what is on offer and shining a light on it.”
READ MORE | The Scottish Agriculture Awards is open for entries for the 2024 event
Any farm from across Scotland can enter the Diversified Farm of The Year category, with nominations now open and running until July 11.
The judges will be looking for businesses which have taken on the challenges of modern farming by growing different revenue streams, excelling in customer service, and collaborating, as well as supporting their local communities,
The awards ceremony on Thursday, October 24 will be held at DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow Central, and promises to be an inspiring night of celebration and success stories, highlighting the resilience and achievements of Scotland's farming community.
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