Knoydart Farm CIC is a community-driven initiative based on the remote Knoydart peninsula in Scotland, an area accessible only by boat. Our mission is to create a resilient and sustainable food system that integrates local food production, education, and biodiversity. Founded in 2023, our primary goal is to address the challenges posed by the area's extreme isolation, which frequently disrupts food supply chains and exacerbates the local cost of living crisis. By growing organic, healthy vegetables and offering educational workshops, we aim to reduce the community’s reliance on expensive, imported food and foster long-term food security.
Our work is critical because it tackles multiple issues simultaneously: food insecurity, environmental sustainability, and community cohesion. This year the farm began providing fresh, locally-grown produce, reducing food miles and improving the quality of life for residents. Moreover, through our educational programs, we aim to empower the community with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in sustainable practices, enhancing overall resilience and well-being.
In our first year, we have successfully established key infrastructure, including two commercial-sized polytunnels, and have sold our first crops via the local community owned Pub and Shop and also further afield in the Mallaig community hub. We are also selling produce to local businesses which have really welcomed the initiative. We have engaged with the community through open days and workshops, receiving significant support and enthusiasm. As we move forward, we plan to expand our operations, increasing our production capacity and the scope of our educational offerings.
