Conifer Management Event
Preparation and first thinning of Norway spruce
Friday 9 November, arrive between 10.30 am and 12 noon at Tullamore GAA, O Brien Park, Arden Road, Tullamore, Co Offaly
Managing Norway spruce
Norway spruce is a very significant species for timber production, especially in the midlands as Sitka spruce is susceptible to late spring frosts.
The event will take place in a 50-hectare forest that was planted in 1999 with approximately 33 ha of conifers and 17 ha of broadleaves. It received this year's 2018 RDS Production Forestry Award.
Programme
The event will focus on the preparation and first thinning of Norway spruce to improve the quality of the crop maximising future financial return.
Teagasc forestry advisers will discuss various aspects to consider when preparing for thinning. The tour will include stops and discussion on:
- Conifer management
- Planning for thinning
- Thinning intensities
- Timber quality and production
- Timber uses
- Harvesting machinery
We will also visit a new research experiment in which Dr Niall Farrelly of Teagasc will outline different methods of thinning Norway spruce and their impact on the development of the crop.
All conifer forest owners are encouraged to attend, especially those with Norway spruce.
Event details and registration
Event details
- Date: Friday 9 November
- Time: arrive any time between 10.30 am and 12 noon
- Venue: Tullamore GAA, O'Brien Park, Arden Road, Tullamore, Co Offaly. Eircode: R35 XK35. The event will be signposted locally.
Registration, you have two options:
- Option 1: You can pre-register via Eventbrite so that you can use the fast track lane at the event (online registration will close on Wednesday 7 November at 11.30pm) or
- Option 2: You can also register on the day at the event between 10.30 am and 12 noon.
The tour will take approximately 3 hours. Please bring raingear and wellington boots.
All are welcome. Event is free.
Further information
- Contact Liam Kelly, Teagasc Forestry Adviser
- Contact your local Forestry Advisory Staff