Open Country Ardtornish
8 snips
Nov 27, 2010 Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Ardtornish Estate, a family-run treasure in the Scottish Highlands. Listen in as the estate's steward discusses eco-friendly innovations, including harnessing the River Ranach for sustainable energy. Delve into the revival of community ties and the shifts in farm life that respect tradition while embracing modern challenges. Gardening, local sourcing, and the legacy of stewardship come to life through personal stories and insights that celebrate both continuity and change in this stunning region.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Estate's Economic Evolution
- The estate shifted from a sporting retreat to a diverse business needing economic sustainability.
- Ecotourism, high-quality food production, and renewable energy now offer strong economic opportunities.
DIY Hydro Scheme Beginnings
- Angus Robertson used basic tools and homegrown methods to measure the river's water flow.
- This hands-on approach began early, inspired by the area's high rainfall.
Hydro Scheme's Financial Model
- The hydro scheme generates enough electricity to power the local community.
- However, the estate sells electricity to the national grid and buys their power back, financially benefiting without direct consumption.