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| The Lovely Daye Tucker |
You can take the girl out of the farm, but you can't take the farm out of the girl. Claire and I are both farm kids, and naturally wanted to check out the ag scene. We connected with Daye Tucker to arrange a farm tour. Daye is a farmer, community rural leader and embodies true Scottish hospitality.
Daye and her husband purchased 330 acres of land north of Stirling. They run sheep, board horses, and farm some arable land. Land conservation and sustainable farming philosophy are a large part of Tucker's operation.
Daye mentioned we were going to the “Market”. An image of a bustling vendors and locally produced goods came to mind. So when we rolled in and pens of sheep were in windshield view – I discovered we weren’t talking the same kind of market. No Cafe au Lait or breakfast scone for this gal.
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| Sale day at Caledonian Market |
We visited two markets in Stirling. The Caledonian Marts is a farmer owned cooperative. In contrast, United Auctions is privately held. This is emblematic of agriculture in Scotland. Two different camps evaluating what role the private sector ‘supermarkets’ (translation = meat packers / buyers) should have in the industry vs. power back to the farmer.
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| Hamilton Dairy Operation, hello dairy honeys' |
I love milk. My preferred methods of consumption are the chocolate chip cookie or breakfast cereal. And God bless if Scotland doesn't produce a lot of it. This visit was the Hamilton farm operation. These folks produce 500+ head dairy cattle are and farm approximately 1,700 acres arable ground. This is considered a larger farm in Scotland. Tenants typically rent for a minimum of 5 years or not uncommon to rent the land for life. Was very surprised to learn how land rental happens here. Direct descendants (not necessarily land owners) are typically handed down the tenantship from generation to generation. It would be like my dad handing down the ground he rents to me. Key issues are Milk Prices, GMO’s, and Country of Origin labeling. Seems like milk prices are a struggle no matter where you go. Much like the U.S. retail sector remains dominant. The processors have the power to dictate the price paid to farmers. Most producers have a contract with one of four milk processors in Scotland.
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| Kate Edward |
Edward farm is located outside of Fintry Village. These entrepreneurs have built an enterprising creamery, cheese and interior design business. The renowned café sits on the farm attracting visitors from near and far. The Edward's slowly built each enterprise building off the dairy business. Kate had the idea to start a creamery.
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| Enterprising interior decorating business on the farm |
Creamery business grew and Kate was able to pursue her ultimate passion for interior designer. This business is a great asset to farm income. This place was a true inspiration to value add agriculture. People drive people from near and far to enjoy this invitingly rural, rustic, and tastey experience.
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| Hiland cow, George Thorogood style |
Get a haircut and get a real job? If George Thorogood could own a breed of cattle, it would be these bovine gems. Highland cattle are a main breed in Scotland. They are defined by their long hair and red color. The long hair is beneficial to keep rain off the cow while shorter hair underneath keeps the breed warm. Also beneficial for a 80's rocker reunion or looking like you're ready to throw down at the drop of a hat.
