McGregor Farms are Scottish Arable Farm of the Year

Berwickshire-based, Colin McGregor took on the daily running of the family business in 1989 at the age of 21 when the farmed area was 300 ha and specialised in pre-packed potato production.

In the past 23 years, his business has reached agreement to contract farm nearby neighbouring land and there are now 15 agreements covering a managed area of 3445 ha.

The arable operation predominantly grows winter wheat and oilseed rape, but winter barley, spring barley, spring oats, spring beans, potatoes and vining peas are also grown. Every farm has an individual rotation to suit its soil type, infrastructure and location, with Colin and his team focusing on building fertility and soil health to maximise yield and reduce risk.

The business is a LEAF Farm with all farms involved. It also participates in environmental schemes. Precision farming technology is used extensively with regular soil sampling including organic matter testing. Organic manures are utilised where possible.

SoilEssentials, as sponsor of the award, will visit Colin at Coldstream in the near future, to deliver the official outdoor farm sign and take the opportunity to discuss a bespoke precision farming prize.