From my desk in Scene & Herd HQ, I can hear the pink-footed geese starting to arrive. As their numbers increase, the sound, especially at night, is incredible. I love autumn, particularly the array of local seasonal fare, including pumpkins, pears and pheasant (The Eat Game has an interesting recipe for pheasant and partridge harissa kebabs).
Although I enjoy this time of year, I know many people dread the early evenings and unpredictable weather, so do check in with your friends, co-workers and neighbours this autumn.
A carpet of fallen leaves on Balmoral Estate by Chris Flexen on Unsplash
Rural Scotland Unpacked: Your Latest News & Opportunities
SECTOR NEWS:
Food Security Warning as Farm Worker Visas Scrapped
Scottish farmers are warning that the UK’s food security is under serious threat following a UK Government decision to remove Skilled Worker code 5111. This change, introduced on 22 July 2025, effectively blocks farms from recruiting skilled overseas workers.
Taking skilled farm roles off the Temporary Shortage List is leaving dairy, pig, poultry, and horticultural producers struggling to fill vital jobs. In Dumfries & Galloway alone, over 25 dairy farms rely on staff from the Philippines and other nations just to keep operations running. Read more.
Scottish Organic Producers Association Appoints New Chairperson
In August 2025, Roger Baird concluded his three-year tenure as SOPA Chairman bringing about financial stability, enhanced membership services, and a strategic plan that provides clear direction for the next five years. Following five years as a board director, Jean McLean has recently been appointed as the new Chairperson and has already hit the ground running, supporting the team and the board. Read more.
£3M Investment Boosts Plant Innovation
The James Hutton Institute has received a £3 million investment from Scottish Enterprise for its new high-throughput phenotyping facility. This cutting-edge technology, part of the Advanced Plant Growth Centre (APGC), will allow researchers to assess plants’ architecture and health using sensors and lasers. Housed in the new Crop Innovation Centre (CIC), the facility will map plants in detail, helping to understand how their genetic make-up and environmental changes influence them. Read more.
Scottish Funding for Sustainable Palm Fat Replacement
A team of food researchers who developed an innovative new replacement for palm fat in the bakery industry has received a welcome funding boost from the Scottish Government. This move will allow the team to progress commercial opportunities with new industry partners. The goal is to provide healthy, sustainable solutions for the food industry and reduce reliance on palm fat. Read more.
EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES:
SOPA's Organic Event: Profit & Purpose
Join the Scottish Organic Producers Association (SOPA) for a full day of insight, inspiration, and action at Scotland’s leading organic event. This year’s theme, Profit & Purpose, explores how organic food and farming can deliver real value - economically, environmentally, socially, and nutritionally. As the demand for sustainable and transparent food systems grows, organic has a critical role to play in shaping a healthier future. Tickets and Info: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/scottishorganicproducersassociation/1829938
OnFARM Podcast is Back!
We’re excited to announce that the OnFARM podcast has returned with a brand-new series proudly sponsored by Scottish legal firm, Gillespie Macandrew. Join us every fortnight as they share stories from across Scotland’s farms, food producers, and rural communities—from innovation on the land to the people who make Scottish agriculture thrive. Episodes will be available wherever you get your podcasts.
Have Your Say: Fish and Shellfish Farm Regulation
The Scottish Government has published a consultation paper seeking views on changes to the regulation of deposits from fish and shellfish farms. This is to clarify the consenting process for new developments. The consultation closes on 16 December. Read the full details and submit your views: https://www.gov.scot/publications/regulation-fish-shellfish-farm-deposits-consultation/
UPCOMING AWARDS
Recognise the best of rural life and outdoor culture by nominating your heroes!
Award Focus Closing Link The Great Outdoors Reader Awards Best of British outdoor culture 31/10 enter The Countryside Alliance Awards Best rural businesses 12/12 enter Gift of the Year awards Best new products & talent 30/11 enter
STAY CONNECTED:
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From World Vegan Day to Black Friday. November is a vibrant tapestry of seasonal celebrations, insightful observations, and delicious delights! Let's dive into the calendar and explore the opportunities to connect with potential customers
Remember to:
By following these tips and incorporating these content ideas, you can create a memorable and engaging social media campaign for November.
Anna Davies: Email: anna@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
Ross (Monty) Montague: Email: monty@sceneandherdpr.co.uk
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