Our Second Orkney Visit To Nuffield Scholar Steven Sandison

Iona Smith, Cora Cooper & Julie McLaren

After enjoying a delightful lunch, we had the pleasure of visiting the Sandison family at Millburn Farm. They have developed an impressive farming operation that spans 330 acres, featuring a herd of 90 Simmental and Salers cross cows, along with a flock of 150 ewes.

Steven, a Nuffield Scholar, has traveled extensively to explore fertility and efficient breeding practices in beef herds. Steven and Lorraine have three children: Carmen, Callie, and their son Glen. During our visit, Glen shared his experiences growing up on the island, along with his aspirations and goals, offering us valuable insights into the perspectives of the next generation and the future of agriculture.

“Never been a better time in living memory for young people to thrive in agriculture” Steven Sandison

Steven’s farm, located in Harray on the west mainland of Orkney, was the first Monitor Farm in Orkney from 2012 to 2015, a program he found to be highly successful and impactful.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Sandison family for their warm hospitality and generosity. It was truly inspiring to witness their passion for farming and dedication to their work.