Applicants sought to take over running of long-established Acrehead dairy farm in Dumfries and Galloway

A rare opportunity to take over the running of a long-established dairy farm has been created by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC).

Prospective dairy farmers are invited to submit an application to manage SRUC’s 130-hectare Acrehead farm, near its Barony campus in Dumfries and Galloway.

The opportunity has been created as part of wider SRUC aims to support the future of the industry by prioritising forward-looking issues such as reduced emissions, biodiversity, human health and economic growth.

Following the submission of a successful business plan, the contractor will receive a share of the milk cheque dependent on the performance of the plan, while running the farm and taking part in knowledge exchange activities.

SRUC will maintain responsibility for the condition and legal compliance of the farm and provide the herd and machinery.

Professor Wayne Powell, principal and chief executive of SRUC, said: “This new venture is a unique opportunity and we’re proud to be able to support the future of farming by making SRUC land available to the farmers of tomorrow.

“If you’re a knowledgeable farming entrepreneur seeking a new opportunity, or a farmer early on in their career, ready to take on the rarely available chance of a next step up, we would like to hear from you.”

Acrehead comprises highly productive grasslands, with outputs reaching 12t/ha DM, along with sufficient buildings and infrastructure to support a herd of approximately 210 cows.

The offer includes overwintering facilities, a milking parlour and associated plant, along with a house nearby.

Candidates interested in the opportunity at Acrehead can register their interest with the Scottish Land Matching Service at www.slms.scot/acrehead-dairy.

The closing date for registrations is midnight on Sunday May 11. SRUC is hoping to announce the successful contractor at this year’s Royal Highland Show on June 19.