Forestry advisory clinics scheduled for Macroom and Skibbereen

LANDOWNERS who are considering establishing a forest can avail of a private and personalised one-to one consultation with an experienced forestry adviser at two upcoming advisory clinics. 

These forestry advisory clinics take place in the Teagasc offices in Macroom on Wednesday next, January 23rd, and in Skibbereen on Thursday, January 31st. Consultations are arranged by appointment.

These clinics are part of an extensive nationwide series of forestry advisory clinics organised by the Forestry Development Department of Teagasc, promoting the establishment of forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use on Irish farms.

The Forestry Programme offers landowners and existing forest owners many options in relation to forest establishment with a range of attractive grants and annual premium categories available.

Dr Nuala Ní Fhlatharta, head of Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department, said: ‘Landowners consider forestry for many reasons, such as supplementing farm income or creating a biodiverse native woodland. That is why a land use change to forestry, like any new farm enterprise, will raise many questions.’

John Casey, local Teagasc forestry adviser, added: ‘It is important to get answers to your questions before creating a farm forest. You need to understand the requirements of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and other farm schemes. These Teagasc forestry advisory clinics are an ideal opportunity to flesh out the details of how forestry might work for you.’

A consultation with your local Teagasc Forestry adviser will provide independent and objective advice, empowering you to make informed decisions. For instance:

•  What options are provided under the Forestry Programme 2014-2020?

•   What grants and premiums are available?

•  How does forestry interact with other farm schemes, e.g. BPS, GLAS, etc?

•  How can forestry improve farm income and the environment?

•   How to apply and get the job done right first time?

•  What to expect from harvesting and timber sales?

Although the emphasis for the upcoming clinics is on new planting, existing forest owners – regardless of what stage their forest is at – can also avail of this opportunity to pick up valuable management tips.