What is a croft?
A croft is a small land holding used for food production, primarily in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands. It has been a traditional approach to agriculture since at least the 1880s.
Do Scottish farmers and crofters want to plant more trees on their land?
Yes! We worked with Scottish farmers and Soil Association Scotland to create our vision for more trees on farms. Farmers’ involvement directly informed our recommendations – after all, Government support for trees on farms and crofts will only be a success if land managers make use of it.
How exactly would the Scottish Government support farmers and crofters to plant trees on their land?
A new support framework within the five-year Rural Support Plan will provide financial and other assistance. This new Plan is a requirement under the Agriculture and Rural Communities (Scotland) Bill passed in June 2024. The support framework, covering farming, forestry and rural development, is being drafted as secondary legislation and will become law once passed. That’s why it’s so important for you to show your support now.