Events

2010 Annual Gathering Oban

Crofting is as an important part of our cultural heritage, and an important part of our future, supporting a unique way of life, a diverse and rich environment, and a rural population in some of the most fragile areas of the Highlands and Islands.

In “A Charter for Crofting”, published by the SCF in 2007, four key issues were identified as being central to the future of crofting.

These were –

• Environmentally sound and economically viable crofting land use

• A well-regulated, well-supported crofting system

• Access to economic opportunities and services

• A strong local food economy

These issues highlight the many dimensions to a viable future for crofting and underline the need for a joined up approach to public policy in relation to crofting, where “One Size doesn’t fit all.”

The Gathering will be addressed by a wide range of speakers including the Minister for Environment Roseanna Cunningham MSP George Lyon MEP, Brendan O’Malley IFA and members of the recently formed SCF youth group.

We also plan to hold a number of participatory workshops at the gathering to specifically look at how the SCF can establish a clear and forward looking agenda for the future of crofting. The results of these workshops will be used in conjunction with the recent membership survey to inform and focus the work of the SCF, develop our capacity to lead from the front and build on our position as a major influence on the policy agenda for the crofting counties.

Growing Renewable Opportunities on Croft Land - 5th June

The Scottish Crofting Federation has organised a renewable energy event to raise awareness of the opportunities available to individuals and townships for renewable developments on in-bye and common grazing. The new feed-in tariff (FIT), coupled with the generation potential of crofting areas, should provide the incentive for townships and individuals to generate their own electricity. The programme is designed primarily for crofters, grazing's shareholders, grazing's clerks and members of crofting communities and will include presentations from crofters who have themselves successfully embraced renewable energy technologies.