FARMERS in Dumfries and Galloway are being urged to sign up to the successful Integrating Trees Network (ITN) initiative as they look to expand.
The initiative aims to raise awareness of the multiple benefits that trees can bring to farming and crofting businesses.
They hold on farm visits and online events, led by the host farmers, backed with support from the Scottish Government and Scottish Forestry.
At the previous 24 events, hosts have shared their practical knowledge, ranging from why they wanted to grow trees, their practical experiences of planting and managing trees, and what they have learnt along the way, to the benefits trees bring to their business.
Discussions have included integrating trees at every scale: shelterbelts; croft woodlands; small scale woodland creation and commercial scale projects.
Scottish Forestry experts are also always on hand to back up the hosts with advice on forestry grants and experts are brought in to discuss technical topics.
As the host farmers have played such a pivotal role in making the initiative a success, the plan is to boost their number.
Lyn White, Scottish Forestry’s forestry and farming development officer, said: “The Integrating Trees Network is a fabulous way for farmers and crofters to see and hear directly from their counterparts about tree planting.
“The events are informal and the beauty is that all those taking part can get practical advice and support, and make contacts, to help them integrate trees into their businesses.
“The current network of hosts have been brilliant and offered so much expertise to others who are considering growing trees for the first time.”
* To find out more, contact her at [email protected].
