FLS publicises 17 sites open to new entrants to farming

Friday, 06 February 2026

Forestry and Land Scotland has published a list of 17 sites suitable for new entrants to farming and is now looking for applications.

The locations – which total 325 hectares - range in size from just over 1 hectare to 53 hectares and are to be leased as grazing land for sheep or cattle.

The boost for new entrants to farming was announced by Agriculture and Connectivity Minister, Jim Fairlie at last year’s Agriscot in November.

Mr Fairlie, said;

“I am pleased to see that Forestry and Land Scotland has found a total of 17 locations and made them available to young farmers and new entrants to the industry.

“The range of options available will suit a variety of applicants and will accommodate a broad range of ambitions and experience.

“I would urge young farmers and new entrants to assess what is being offered and to take the opportunity to take advantage of this boost to their fledgling careers.”

FLS continues to work closely with existing new entrant tenants to support the growth and development of their farming business.

The latest advertised opportunities are being promoted now so as successful applicants will be able to align their plans with the farming year and also access farm support. 

Balancing multiple objectives, including timber production, conservation, nature restoration and agriculture, underlines FLS’ commitment to its vision of integrated land management as being central to its wide-ranging objective to make the best use of Scotland’s public forest and land.

FLS is exploring ways to further expand the range of sites available in future years  by integrating farming opportunities into strategic plans for the National Forests and Land.

Notes to Editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
  2. Since the Scottish Government established the Farming Opportunities for New Entrants Scheme (FONE) in 2016, FLS has offered 136 farming opportunities to new entrants. In addition FLS currently manages 225 existing agriculture agreements on Scotland’s national forests and land (covering 24,751 hectares), 53 of which are held by new entrants.
  3. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS