Explore Forestry Opportunities at Nationwide Teagasc Forestry Advisory Clinics
A nationwide series of One to One Forestry Clinics, covering every county, will commence on January 20th. Landowners who are considering the range of excellent forest creation options can avail of a free consultation with an experienced Teagasc forestry advisor. Liam Kelly tells us more.
A nationwide series of 37 forestry clinics, organised by the Teagasc Forestry Development Department, will run between January 20th and February 12th, 2025. These clinics will support informed decision making on forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use option, which can be a very good fit on many farms.
The forest creation elements of the current DAFM Forestry Programme 2023-2027 offer landowners many attractive options in relation to forest establishment with a range of attractive grants and annual premium categories available. Eligible applicants can also retain the capacity to draw Direct Payments on planted land parcels.
Landowners consider forestry for many reasons, such as supplementing farm income and/or creating a valuable woodland resource. A land use change to forestry, like any new farm enterprise, will raise many relevant questions whose answers are important in supporting future decision making. According to Liam Kelly, Teagasc Forestry Advisor, “It is important to get informed answers to your questions before creating a forest/woodland. For example, you need to understand how forestry can fit in at farm level, including its capacity to provide and attractive additional income stream and its interactions with the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) Scheme and other farm schemes. This upcoming Teagasc forestry clinic series provides an ideal opportunity to find out how forestry might work for you.”
A consultation with your Teagasc Forestry Advisor will provide free independent and objective advice, empowering you to make informed decisions. For example, important questions to address will include:
- What options are provided for forestry creation under the Forestry programme 2023-2027?
- What’s the difference between the Forest Types and Native Tree Area Scheme options?
- What grants and premium supports are available?
- How will forestry interact with other enterprises and farm schemes, e.g. BISS, CRISS, ACRES, etc.?
- How can forestry improve farm income and enhance the environment?
- How to apply and get the job done right first time?
While the emphasis for these upcoming clinics is on new planting, existing forest owners are also very welcome to engage.
Please bring maps and other relevant information on the day of attendance at your clinic to optimise the advisory experience and outcome.
Prior booking is essential. Contact your local Teagasc Advisory office to book your appointment.
This clinic will provide an ideal opportunity to get answers to your forestry questions – don’t miss it!