Andrew Whiteford of Ulzieside Farm, near Sanquhar, is inviting farmers and land managers to his farm to see how planting trees has boosted his business.

Andrew is hosting a farm visit as part of the award winning Integrating Trees Network initiative to talk through his family’s venture into growing trees and the many benefits it has provided his farm.

The free event, Walking and Talking trees. A practical look at woodland creation, infrastructure and felling, is being held at Ulzieside Farm on Tuesday October 8, between 10 am – 1 pm.

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Andrew said: “I’m really looking forward to inviting farmers and others with an interest in growing trees to our family farm.

“It’s always very useful for others to talk directly to people who have gone through the whole tree planting process and find out the benefits as well as the challenges.

“I’ll be pleased to show all those how I have planted trees to help our sheep and cattle and create a stronger business.”

During the visit to the 3500 acre hill beef and sheep farm, Andrew will highlight his initial thought processes for growing trees and his work with Scottish Forestry to access funding through the Forestry Grant Scheme’s Sheep and Trees grant.

Scottish Forestry staff will also attend to give advice and support on all the grants available and the first steps in establishing a new woodland.

Lyn White, forestry and farming development officer with Scottish Forestry added:

“The Integrating Trees Network farm visits provide an informal way for farmers and land managers to see how others have successfully started growing trees to add value to their business.

“The on-site visits are very popular and have provided many farmers with the information and contacts so that they can take that first step on the tree planting ladder.”

The Integrating Trees Network operates throughout Scotland and is supported by Scottish Forestry and the Scottish Government. Through a network of volunteer host farmers, the initiative demonstrates how tree planting can add value to farm businesses.