Scottish farmers used the SNP Party Conference to highlight how the industry is adopting agri-tech to prepare for life outside the EU.
Farmers and crofters attended a fringe event on Monday (8 October) to say how they are taking "steps to change" as they prepare for a post-Brexit future and life beyond the CAP.
Speaking at the event on the rural economy, NFU Scotland President Andrew McCornick said the industry had an "excellent track record" in adopting new techniques and innovation to drive efficiency.
Agri-technology can assist the industry to a point, but well-informed farmers supported by skilled and trained staff will still be an essential element of profitable and productive farming for the foreseeable future, he said.
In the union's ‘Steps for Change – A new Agricultural Policy for Scotland’ document, launched in late March, NFU Scotland said productivity measures are required to increase the viability and competitiveness of all sectors.
These include investment in innovative agricultural practices and technology; increased knowledge exchange and improved technical and managerial skills.
Other panel members at the fringe event, organised by Holyrood Magazine, were Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy Fergus Ewing and Craig Michie of the Institute of Engineering and Technology.
NFU Scotland President, Andrew McCornick said: “There is a huge role for agri-tech supporting our farming sector as we strive to become more efficient and more competitive and Scotland has a good track record in adopting technology and innovation.
“While these tools can help make our rural economy more successful, keeping people in our industry is absolutely vital.
“Agri-tech provides tools and techniques that can support farmers but, in many areas, robots or machinery can’t replace people on the ground, and for particular tasks like fruit picking, we will still need people to do these jobs.
He added: “Innovation and technology can be the gateway to change, but that requires the buy in and the investment from farmers. They need to be reassured that cost and investment in technology will generate a return.
NFU Scotland is now preparing its Autumn conference, which will include sessions on taking steps to change and horizon-scanning.
