Research into the problems facing farm and croft families in Caithness is to benefit from significant new funding from the Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust.
A joint research project team from the Arkleton Centre for Rural Development Research at the University of Aberdeen, North Highland College and Sahbal Mor Ostaig, Skye will now shortly start their research following a £25,000 grant from The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust. The project team will investigate and report on the nature and scale of problems faced by the farming and crofting communities of Caithness and adjacent areas of Sutherland; assess the possible consequences of these problems and identify practical solutions with a view to keeping these rural communities alive.
Professor John Bryden, Director of the Arkleton Centre for Rural Development Research at the University of Aberdeen and project leader said: "This project is mainly a listening one. We want to hear what farmers, crofters and their families have to say about their present situation, future opportunities and the barriers they face when trying to tackle their current problems. Also, because young people are so important for the future we will pay special heed to what they have to say to us."
Jasmine Grant of the North Highland College in Thurso will be responsible for the fieldwork in Caithness and adjacent areas of Sutherland. Previously a shepherd and now lecturer in Land Use and part-time crofter, Jasmine is well known amongst the farming and crofting communities. Ms Grant said: "I am delighted to be involved in this project as I feel it gives the farming and crofting communities of Caithness the unique opportunity to express their personal concerns and aspirations of the future. I am confident that farmers and crofters will fully support this grass roots project and embrace the opportunity to air their views."
This project is one of several ongoing initiatives between the University of Aberdeen and the University of the Highlands and Islands.