Scots farmers will now have to carry out compulsory soil testing on improved land, it was announced yesterday.
Environment Minister Aileen McLeod told an audience of farmers at the second day of the show that £200,000 would be put towards the project in its first year.
Exact details of the new soil testing requirement are yet to be ironed out although it is believed it will apply to all arable and temporary grass.
Ms McLeod said farmers would be required to carry out pH tests on their soils every five to six years, while arable growers would also need to look at potassium and phosphate levels in the soil.
“Details will be worked out with industry. If you are already testing your soil there will be no additional requirements,” she said.
Farmers told they must carry out compulsory soil testing
