The James Hutton Institute

World Water Day 2021 Virtual Tour: Being part of the water story

Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences (SEGS) research showcase virtual tour for Scottish Government Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services (RESAS), outside, Reception and Macaulay Room A, showcasing Social, Economic and Geographical Sciences (SEGS) research relating to rural communities and Environmental

Craigiebuckler Facilities Tour showcasing the labs, analytical capabilities and exhibition space

The aim of the CSC is to develop a cropping system that can produce high-quality food, whilst still maintaining a healthy environment. This means using what we understand about ecology to work with the environment to improve the health and physical structure of the soil, minimise the losses of nutrients and chemicals from cultivated fields, and support a rich variety of farmland wildlife. With a balanced system of soil, water, plants and animals, we can, over time, reduce our reliance on chemicals to produce high crop yields and eventually, find a more sustainable way of producing food.

Grieves House is part of the Balruddery farm complex which concentrated on tradition style filed trials which looks at yield and tillage interactions, differing rotation regimes and soil assessments, including strength, structure and chemistry.

Agroforestry is a system of land management which combines livestock farming and forestry: trees are grown for timber on the same land as that used for animal production. The growing of trees on farms diversifies and sustains production leading to increased social, economic and environmental benefits for land users at all levels.