Rhynie Farm takes the arable crown

You could have heard a pin drop in the main ring at AgriScot as the winner of this year’s Scottish Arable Farm of the Year was about to be announced. The three finalists waited in anticipation after progressing through from nominations to shortlisting and then into the final stages which included an on-site visit from the judges.

Fifth generation farmer Donald Ross runs Rhynie Farm, Tain in Ross-shire and takes the award home this year. He was commended for his detailed understanding of his costs, his passion for collaboration and his zeal for soil health, as well as his constant drive to improve his business.

There were two other very strong finalists in the Arable category: Learielaw Farm in West Lothian – owned and managed by Walter Dandie & Sons and Sweethope Farm near Kelso – family owned and managed by David Fuller-Shapcott.

SoilEssentials congratulate all three finalists for giving the judges such a difficult decision to make and for being fantastic advocates for the arable industry and we are very much looking forward to working with Donald over the coming year.

Donald himself was delighted to receive the Award, although somewhat surprised.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to win this award, especially among such stiff competition. My father has always been a strong influence on me, so I’d like to thank him, and all my family for their support, I could never have won this Award on my own. I am also looking forward to using the SoilEssentials sponsorship to improve Rhynie further.’

After an initial visit and discussion with the winning farm, we will provide a tailored precision package suited to Donald’s business to help improve and enhance its operations moving forward.