Lots of news in latest Landwise

The first Landwise of 2015 is included with The Shetland Times this week, full of a range of news and features.

The Scottish government’s chief agricultural officer writes for Landwise on how the latest reforms to the Common Agricultural Policy have led to the implementation of a new online payments system. Any crofters not sure of how the new system works will want to read his piece.

Drew Ratter writes in his editorial that it is time to maximise the cash you can receive, and he bemoans the lack of action on tackling the polecat problem.

The Brae Building Centre manager Derek Robertson explains why he is now stocking a range of animal feeds, with more stock to follow.

Lochend crofters Pat and Ivor Johnson give Mr Ratter a tour of their operation and explain why half of their Shetland ewes go to a Lleyn-cross ram.

There is also good news from the marts group, with SLMG chairman reporting some busy sales. He’d still like to see more local produce bought by the council and NHS, though.

Peatland management is the focus of a piece on Hazel and Kenneth MacKenzie from Cunningsburgh.

All that, plus lots more crofting and farming news.