The 16th SUP AGM took place at the Yarrow Feus Hall on 28th June 2017 and it was an interesting event with high attendance, excellent speakers and some useful discussion.

Professor Sarah Skerratt  shared a wealth of information on policy relating to rural community development.  Her presentation is available  for those who would like to see what she covered.

Jim Shanks gave a frank account of the journey he and his family had taken to get from a traditional Borders farm to a high-tech tomato, cheese and energy producing business. A path that others may be considering following as Brexit gets closer.

Professor Wayne Powell, CEO of SRUC, explained how he was keen to see SRUC getting closer to land managers so that research and practice were better integrated.

Fergus Tickell of Sgurr Energy,  gave a really interesting view of the many ways that Brexit could impact on the forestry and renewables sectors.

The AGM also saw John Thomson stand down as Convenor of the Partnership after 6 years in the role. John has been amazingly energetic over all that time, and we will miss his guidance and advice. We are delighted that Andy McNab has agreed to take on the role and bring his considerable consultancy experience and local knowledge to bear.