DIGI-Rangeland UK team successfully organised its first National Workshop in Brig O’Turk, Scotland, bringing together farmers, researchers and stakeholders to discuss the role of digital technologies in extensive and rangeland farming systems. The event combined a field visit with an interactive workshop session, providing a valuable opportunity for knowledge exchange and stakeholder engagement.
Farm Visit in the Heart of the Trossachs
The day began with a visit to Venachar Farm, managed by Janet Pringle, located near Loch Venachar in the heart of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Participants had the opportunity to explore the farm’s sheep and cattle systems and to gain first-hand insight into the realities of managing livestock in extensive upland conditions. The visit provided a practical context for discussions on how digital tools and innovative technologies could support farm management in such environments.
Following the field visit, the workshop continued at the offices of the Glenfinglas Woodland Trust. A total of 15 participants attended, contributing to lively and constructive discussions. The DIGI-Rangeland network was formally introduced, highlighting the project’s objectives to foster collaboration and promote the adoption of digital and technological innovations tailored to extensive livestock and rangeland systems.
A key focus of the workshop was to identify farmers’ challenges and needs in extensive systems. Participants discussed issues related to:
Farm management in remote and upland areas
Facilitating land use and land sharing among multiple stakeholders
Enhancing the visibility and recognition of ecosystem services provided by farms
The practical adoption of digital technologies
Through interactive group work, participants identified and prioritised key issues, ensuring that future project activities will respond directly to real on-the-ground needs.
Strengthening the DiGiRangeland Network in the UK
This first national workshop marked an important step in strengthening the DiGiRangeland network in the UK. By combining field-based learning with structured dialogue, the event fostered collaboration between farmers and researchers and laid the groundwork for future co-creation activities. The strong engagement and quality of discussions confirmed the relevance of the project’s objectives and highlighted the shared commitment to supporting sustainable and digitally enabled rangeland systems.
