Farmers, crofters and land managers are invited to Rora Dairy near Peterhead for an event which is to promote the growing of trees.
The event will showcase how trees and hedgerows can benefit farms, wildlife and the wider environment.
The Walking and Talking Trees event is being held on Thursday 9 October from 10am to 1pm and is hosted by Bruce Mackie at his organic dairy farm at Middleton of Rora in Peterhead.
It's part of the Integrating Trees Network, a farmer-led initiative supported by Scottish Forestry and the Scottish Government.
The network brings together farmers and crofters from across Scotland who are planting trees to share their experiences, knowledge and advice with others who are considering woodland creation.
Bruce Mackie said:
"Trees are a part of how we farm at Rora. They give our cows shelter, help protect the land, and create homes for wildlife. Planting trees isn’t just about the environment—it makes good farming sense and looks great too!
“I’m looking forward to sharing our experiences at Rora to show how we used trees to boost our local environment and support our business.”
The Mackie family run their organic dairy farm with 250 cows, grow organic wheat and barley as feed, as well as making yogurt on farm under their ‘rora dairy’ brand. “We very much see organic farming, ‘clean label’ (additive free) and the environment as core brand values for our customers – habitat creation is a key part of this” he added.
Over the years, the family has planted trees and hedges across the farm, creating rich habitats that support a wide variety of wildlife.
Speakers from Scottish Forestry will also be on hand at the event to discuss funding opportunities and first steps for those interested in woodland creation.
Lyn White, Scottish Forestry’s forestry and farming development officer added:
“Our farm site visit events are proving popular and are a relaxed way for other farmers and land managers to hear directly from their counterparts who have grown trees.
“It’s a great way to hear about the challenges and benefits which will help farmers decide if trees can work well to boost their own businesses.”
During the event, Bruce Mackie will introduce the Aberdeenshire Sma Wids project, which supports the planting of small woodlands up to 0.25ha.
He will highlight the many benefits of planting trees, particularly along watercourses where they can stabilise riverbanks, reduce flood risks, provide shade for livestock and help protect water quality.
The session will also explore the decision-making process behind woodland planting, as well as the practical challenges farmers may face.
Free tickets for the event are available on the Integrating Trees Network ticket site.
