Field Talk: A Monitor Farm Scotland Podcast
Welcome to Field Talk, the Monitor Farm Scotland Podcast. Each episode will follow one of the nine farms chosen to take part in the four-year programme. The Monitor Farm Scotland programme is farmer led and farmer driven, with support from specialists and experts to assess farm performance, explore opportunities, and develop solutions to the challenges farmers face. Our host, Wallace Currie, will speak with farmers about what they've been implementing on their farms, sharing both their successes and the challenges they've faced. We’ll also bring in industry experts to dive deep into key topics and offer valuable insights.
Field Talk: A Monitor Farm Scotland Podcast
Series 4 Episode 5: Deeside Decisions - Growth, graft and good farming
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In this episode, we’re joined by Keith Stewart, previous Chair of the Deeside Monitor Farm Management Group, to explore how his involvement in the programme is shaping both his own farm and the wider Morrison’s enterprise. Keith talks us through when and why he stepped into the role, what farming in the North East looks like today, and how he balances the demands of a young family with a growing, evolving farm business.
Keith reflects on the practical changes and mindset shifts inspired by the Monitor Farm Programme — from peer learning and benchmarking to navigating new ideas and pressures within his own system. He shares the value he’s found in open discussion, collaboration with specialists, and leading a group that’s driving change across the region.
We also look ahead to what’s next for Keith, the Deeside group, and the Morrisons, and hear his perspective on where North East farming is heading in the years to come.