But such opportunities are not likely to make a significant impact. The oil industry, and especially the establishment of rig-building yards in the north and west, was for a while of great importance, but is declining as oil prices fall. The exploitation of natural resources is usually controlled from outwith the crofting areas. Accordingly, the pattern of employment is dictated by circumstances which pay little heed to the needs of crofting, or local communities. So even the natural resources, which might provide the balance needed for employment, are not yet being utilised for the benefit of crofters and the crofting areas.
Self employment is attractive to crofters.
It allows independence. Emerging industries like mussel farming require comparatively small capital outlay but also require some transfer of expertise to allow them to be successfully exploited. He stresses the success of crofting as a social and economic system. Crofting ensures that communities and what is precious in them will survive. For too long crofting and crofters, and the lands on the edge have been treated as if they were consigned forever to a showcase illustrating the romantic past.