Hi I'm
Dr Lorna Cole

Hi I am Lorna Cole, a Senior Ecologist working in the Environment Team at SAC Consulting. I draw on over 25 years of experience as a researcher at SRUC, and have a strong publication record in this field. Recognising the value of ensuring research reaches the people on the ground, I recently moved to SAC Consulting. 

It is an exciting time to be an agricultural ecologist with regenerative agriculture gaining momentum from the farm to the boardroom. Farmers and crofters are interested in how regenerative practices can build resilience into their farming enterprise, while the wider food and drinks sector are exploring how it can help them disclose and mitigate against climate and nature-based risks. At SAC Consulting we are working with a range of clients to help them explore how to quantify farmland biodiversity and provide recommendations on how biodiversity can be enhanced without adversely impacting on food production. Having undertaken research on farms across Scotland, I have gained an insight into the different farming systems Scotland supports. This has helped me to understand the opportunities and challenges faced, helping to ensure that advice is tailored to meet the needs of individual landowners.

I work closely with my academic colleagues at SRUC providing agroecological support to a range of projects. I co-supervising four PhD Studentships and have fully enjoyed watching them grow in confidence and knowledge.

Outside of work, I like to experience new things and love to travel to new places. I like to be outside walking or cycling in the countryside.