A dynamic project to encourage more people into organic horticulture will continue for another year thanks to a second phase of part-funding from Scotland Food and Drink in association with Scottish Enterprise [1].
As Soil Association Scotland publishes the results of the first year of its Organic Horticulture Support Programme today, the organic charity says the new funding will be used to further develop tailor-made workshops and resources [2]. These are aimed at helping Scottish growers meet an ever-increasing demand for locally produced, organic fruit and vegetables [3].
Anna Ashmole, on behalf of Soil Association Scotland, said: "We are delighted that Scotland Food and Drink are continuing to support the horticulture programme. The organic industry must continue to develop and expand to meet rising demand. Because of the two-year delay in converting land to organic production, and the need for a very different skill-set, organic producers need practical advice and support to make that transition.
"A report for the Scottish Executive in 2006 found that only half of the organic fruit and vegetables sold in Scotland were, in fact, produced here. The shortfall in supply means consumers who are looking for local, organic produce face a quandary: they can buy organic or local – but not both [4]. Scotland can meet this demand and our programme gives people the support they need to get started in horticulture or expand an existing business."
This year's programme will include three technical events, three marketing events, a learning tour to a top UK box scheme, and up to 15 'fix-it' consultancy visits to individual farms from leading UK producers Iain Tolhurst and Alan Schofield.
