Crichton Conversation with Roger Crofts

This evening’s Conversation has a different format as we welcome Professor Roger Crofts who will chair a discussion on new approaches to looking after our land. The current Scottish Government proposals for land reform have generated a new debate on who should own the land and what rights and responsibilities should be enshrined in legislation. However, how the land should be looked after, or stewarded, to use a resonant word, is a fundamental element of this debate which is being ignored.

Roger, for many years Chief Executive of Scottish Natural Heritage, will introduce the subject and reflect on the late Dick Balharry’s valedictory challenge to land owners. Thomas MacDonell, the Director of Conservation at Wildland Ltd, the Danish owned enlightened estate owners in the highlands, including Glenfeshie, will talk about their vision and what is being achieved. In addition, Jo Pike from the Scottish Wildlife Trust and also project director of the World Forum on Natural Capital will place the debate in the wider global context of the need for improved care of our natural assets, especially the land.

Hopefully this will inspire a thoughtful debate, facilitated by Roger, on looking after our land.

The Crichton Foundation is grateful for the generosity of our sponsors for the Conversation series: Dumfries and Galloway College, Farries, Kirk and McVean, the Open University in Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scotland’s Rural College, University of Glasgow, University of West of Scotland and Watson Birds.