We were pleased to welcome Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, to the Argyll Monitor Farm on Islay on Wednesday! Hosted by Craig and Petra Archibald, the event offered valuable updates on the Monitor Farm Programme and the unique aspects of farming on Islay.

Key agenda highlights included updates on the Argyll Monitor Farm project, discussions on wildlife management support, and the important role of ferry connections for island farming. Attendees also participated in a farm walk, which showcased Aberdeen Angus suckler cows on newly established rotational grazing systems and explored diversified farm businesses like the Oyster Shed café, which features the farm’s home-reared beef, lamb, and oysters.

The event was joined by Jenni Minto, Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health and MSP for Argyll and Bute, along with members of the Islay Monitor Farm Steering Group and local farmers and community members.

L-R Jenni Minto MSP, Jim Fairlie MSP, Craig Archibald, Tony Archibald.

L-R Stuart Lamont Farmer, Scott McLellan-Farmer, Neil McLellan-Farmer, Beth Newman-Vet/Farmer, Christine Cuthbertson-Monitor Farm, Jenni Minto MSP, Jim Fairlie MSP, Garry MacLean-NFU Scotland, Craig Archibald-Farmer, Tony Archibald-Farmer, Ross Dunsmore-Scottish Government, Morven Laurie-NatureScot.