The results of its comprehensive audit (2002), into the economic and environmental contribution of land-based communities (in addition to farming and forestry), to the Scottish Borders, provided a wealth of information. Importantly, it revealed the existence of a ‘hidden' rural economy (worth £41million and 4,000 jobs) supported by an unrealised ‘Countryside Management Industry'. It confirmed the need and interest in sustainable rural development through farm diversification.

As tends to be the nature of disaster, the onslaught of Foot and Mouth Disease catalysed opportunities for change. Requested by the Scottish Borders FMD Recovery Group, BFRS encouraged by the results of its audit, devised and implemented its Farm Venture Groups (FVGs) which now involve some 30 farm holdings and 40 individuals at various stages of exploring in collaborative groups, opportunities for alternative enterprises on their farms and in their communities.

FVGs work on the principle of self–motivation and group ownership of ideas, successes and risks. BFRS initiate the groups and than simply light the ‘touch-paper' of innovation and enterprise within them, fan it a little and than leave the groups to their own resources and skills. It is an exercise of gentle enablement in a business environment fraught with complexity and regulation.

We acknowledge with gratitude our public and private sponsors of the Countryside Management Audit including Scottish Enterprise Borders, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forward Scotland, Scottish Borders Council and European Leader 2 and also the support of SEB towards the Farm Venture Groups.

We are planning to extend our FVGs for a further three years and continue to explore initiatives to encourage the sustainable use of our countryside.