UK farmers are dropping arable crops for dairy herds, as milk prices rise. High fertiliser costs are pressuring cereal grower profits in England and Scotland, while profit margins tighten. Fertiliser prices fell but remain unaffordable for many, and many growers strive. In Scotland, wildfires near Aviemore forced evacuations and kept firefighters occupied in dry weather, the heat has also parched the land. The blazes hit local farms and highlighted safety issues, local communities watch. Paul Burke now directs England’s Horticulture Council after taking over as chair, he replaced his predecessor. Some West Midlands growers are sowing trees instead of wheat, as part of a trend. Low subsidies and high bills make growing crops tough for many families facing rising costs. Near Westmeath, a beef farmer will expand forestry as arable farming fades, aiming to balance income loss.