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Given that the subject has been discussed on Island Blogging in the past, I thought that I should bring your attention to Radio Scotland’s Grassroots programme. This week’s edition is the first of three specials focusing on the crofting way of life.

In programme one, broadcast tomorrow morning, presenter Nancy Nicolson examines the threats to crofting from property speculation. Many people complain that the increasing number of croft land sales is the single most destructive force facing crofting today. But opinion is divided because these areas of Scotland are in desperate need of housing.

Programme two (broadcast 13/10/07) considers crofting identity. Nancy considers this vague and slightly contentious question in the light of the Scottish Crofting Foundation’s bid for UN status as ‘indigenous people’. How true is the stereotype of the scruffy and disorganised crofter? Is there such a thing as a crofting culture? And how have incomers changed the nature of crofting identity?

And in programme three (broadcast 20/10/07), Nancy looks at the spirit of enterprise among modern crofters. A brand is being launched to help market their meat, veg and fruit produce. Opportunities from sustainable energy schemes, as well as forestry and of course tourism, suggest the future may be brighter than many predict.

Grassroots is broadcast on Radio Scotland tomorrow morning at 0630 but if, unlike Hermit, you’re not up at that time you can always catch it via . The programme remains available for seven days after transmission.