Farm Wildlife Walk – Bute

Join us for a farm walk focused on biodiversity auditing, habitat enhancement opportunities, and the support available for nature-friendly farming practices.

This farmer-led event brings together practical farming experience and ecological expertise to explore what successful nature-friendly farming looks like in practice. These events showcase real-world decisions, challenges and achievements, providing valuable insights that attendees can apply to their own farms and land management projects.

Host farmer, Rob Sweeting, has identified a series of issues and opportunities that, if addressed, will build nature into his business while complimenting his farming activities. We will explore plans for species-rich grassland creation and restoration, wild bird cover crops, hedge creation and management, and the role of water margins along Loch Ascog in supporting wildlife and improving habitat connectivity.

What will you learn?

• Develop the skills to identify and assess habitats on your own farm.
• Understand how biodiversity audits can help prioritise actions that deliver benefits for wildlife and complement farming operations.
• Learn which national biodiversity priorities and environmental objectives your farm could contribute towards.
• Gain practical insight into habitat creation and management options, including grasslands, hedgerows, bird cover and water margins.
• Understand the environmental funding and support available for nature-friendly farming projects.
• Build confidence in navigating environmental contracts, schemes and management commitments.
• Hear first-hand experiences from a working farm, including lessons learned, challenges encountered and successful approaches.

Why attend?

This event offers an opportunity to:

• Discover practical, achievable actions that can enhance biodiversity on your land.
• Identify opportunities to access funding and support for environmental improvements.
• Improve your understanding of how nature-friendly farming can contribute to farm resilience, environmental outcomes and long-term business sustainability.
• Exchange ideas and experiences with fellow farmers, advisors and ecologists.
• See real examples of habitat management in action and discuss their costs, benefits and practical implications.

This is an opportunity to learn directly from practitioners, ask questions in the field, and leave with practical ideas and greater confidence to assess opportunities on your own farm.

A light lunch and refreshments will be provided. Places are limited and booking is essential.

The event will primarily be held outdoors and involve walking over uneven ground.
Suitable footwear and clothing are essential.

What3Words location: Windyhall Farm.