Research project to explore agricultural policy impacts on island communities Islanders can share their views on changes to agricultural and land use policies10 January 2024 10 January 2024 3 minute read 3 minute read By: By: Scotland’s Rural College EuropeScotland's Rural College (SRUC) has been awarded a £100k research grant to gather the views of island communities in Orkney, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides on the forthcoming agricultural and land use policy changes. Led by Steven Thomson, Professor in Agricultural Economics and Policy at SRUC, the project will consider the risks and opportunities for these island communities arising from the proposed agricultural policy changes, as support becomes increasingly ‘conditional’ based on climate and biodiversity outcomes. It will also consider the relative importance of agriculture, underpinned by agricultural support payments, to the islands’ economies and communities. Professor Thomson said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for us to take a close look at the agricultural situation in these island communities, identifying concerns and opportunities. “It is really important that people now engage with SRUC through their local SAC Consulting office to ensure that this work meets its purpose by capturing the key issues facing island agricultural communities.