Thurso crofter among new directors at Scottish Crofting Federation
An experienced crofter from Thurso is among a new quartet joining the board of the Scottish Crofting Federation.
Michael McGettigan has been involved in crofting for many years, gaining expertise in animal husbandry, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable land management. He runs a consultancy that supports small businesses with policy development, project management, and the delivery of socio-economic initiatives.
He is particularly interested in integrating permaculture and innovative land management into crofting. As a member of the board, Michael aims to address current challenges, support new entrants, and explore ways to include innovation with traditional crofting practices for a more sustainable future.
He is looking forward to contributing to the Scottish Crofting Federation’s mission and the evolving landscape of crofting.
The others joining the board are Jo Hunt, Annie MacDonald and Rob Black.
Jo Hunt is a consultant economist turned crofter, who looks forward to the end of rampant capitalism and its exploitation of nature and people. In the meantime, Jo runs Knockfarrel Produce on the family croft at Knockfarrel, near Dingwall.
The croft feeds 220 local families with healthy organic veg, fruit, eggs and pork. Since planting 30,000 trees in 2012, the croft is carbon negative by 72 tonnes CO₂E each year. Jo also has 20 years’ experience providing agricultural business and policy advice, and trains and mentors new farmers.
Annie MacDonald was brought up on a croft in Rhulios on the Isle of Barra before leaving the islands to study nursing at university. She worked as a nurse on the mainland for six years before moving back to the islands to settle in South Uist. Having recently purchased a croft, she is excited to start her own crofting journey, and to join the SCF and represent the crofting communities where she lives. Crofting is a vital and integral part of agriculture in Scotland and one that Annie is very proud to be a part of.
With considerable experience in the rural industry and a deep understanding of crofting matters, Rob Black, based near Oban, is dedicated to supporting and advocating for crofters across Scotland. He hopes his strong background in this field allows him to contribute meaningfully to the Scottish Crofting Federation and members, aiming to enhance the livelihoods of crofters and promote sustainable practices in the crofting counties. He is passionate about making a positive difference and helping to secure the future of crofting communities.
SCF chair Jonathan Hedges said: “We are delighted to welcome Jo, Annie, Rob and Michael to the board and look forward to working with them. We are, however, still keen to see more women appointed to the board and are still looking for board representation from Shetland and Orkney. To that end, if you, or someone you know, has the skills, experience and enthusiasm for the role, please get in touch.”
