SRUC | SAC Consulting

Independent advice. Trusted expertise. Driving sustainable growth.

Over decades we have served farmers, crofters and rural estate owners, as well as we have SME's multinationals and governments. As demands, diversity and expectations around land management have evolved, so have we - advising as expertly on the carbon footprint of lamb production as on lambing itself; on energy storage as on the storage of potatoes; on natural capital assessments as on soil nutrient budgeting; on product development as on reducing carbon in your supply chain.

SAC Consulting is uniquely placed as part of SRUC to support the sustainable growth and prosperity of agriculture and land based businesses; working across food supply chains as they collectively rise to the challenge of climate change, biodiversity loss and food security. Our consultants offer technical advice which is grounded in the latest research, providing valued and trusted support to businesses and public sectors alike.

With roots that go back over 100 years, our trusted teams offer nationwide experience and local support through 24 offices across Scotland and Northern England, tailored to your business. Always working to build value through long-term customer relationships - we are ready to help you meet your next challenge and your next opportunity.

What can we do for you?

Working with you

Whether you are a crofter, a farmer, a rural estate or landmanager or a business looking for consultancy support, we have trusted experts to help you move your business forward.

Find the support you need

Explore our work

From publications to projects or case studies, we've got decades of experience and a range of work to show you just how we are helping businesses like yours.

See some of our work

Our expert teams

Our diverse teams of advisors and specialists cover a lot of ground. Explore our teams to see what skills, support and specialist solutions we may be able to offer you.

More about our expertise

Understanding our work

Reducing pesticide usage without risking yield

Nested within regenerative and lower input systems are the integrated pest management practices which reduce the risks of pest and disease outbreaks and yield losses. Sustainable and stewarded use of pesticides is integral to our current crop production systems, where they are used to protect yields and, by extension, food security.

Harnessing nature for more resilient agriculture

Healthy ecosystems that support a diversity of species are more effective at recycling nutrients, at providing pollination services, and at regulating pests. In arable systems, focus is typically on actions to improve soil health; cover crops, livestock integration, reduced tillage, incorporating organic matter and reducing synthetic inputs.

Crop Updates (6 June 2024): Despite late start, rapid crop growth in spring barley

Our regular round up of the issues affecting crops around Scotland, summarises how crops are developing and what weather and other issues are affecting them. The update provides information on the progress with key field work activities as well as news on the pest, weed and disease problems being noted in crops. The health issues being seen in crops are a key part of the topical update and lets growers and agronomists adjust management practices appropriately.

Crop Updates (23 May 2024): Fresh outbreaks of yellow rust in wheat

Crop Updates (9 May 2024): Rhynchosporium in winter barley crops

Ideas are easy – making them work is what counts

Dragon’s Den is a pop culture cauldron full of new ideas. We watch with bated breath as the intrepid entrepreneurs face the formidable Peter Jones and the team to pitch their business plans.