Forestry Advisory Clinic to take place in Westmeath

Teagasc are running a nationwide series of one-to-one forestry clinics, covering every county, in January and February. Landowners considering the range of forest creation options can avail of free, private and personalised consultations with experienced Teagasc forestry advisors.

The Westmeath forestry clinic is at the Teagasc Mullingar office (N91 PK10) on Monday 20 January. Consultations are by appointment only (details below).

It is one of 37 clinics organised by the Teagasc Forestry Development Department, which promotes informed decision making on forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use, which they say can be a good fit on most farms.

The forest creation elements of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 offer landowners attractive options in relation to forest establishment and a range of grants and annual premium categories is available. Qualifying applicants will also retain the capacity to draw direct payments on planted land parcels.

Tom Houlihan, acting Head of Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department, said: “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 questions whose answers are important in supporting future decision making.”

Liam Kelly, Teagasc forestry advisor, added: “It is important to get informed answers to your questions before creating a forest or woodland. For example, you need to understand how forestry can fit in at farm level, including its interactions with the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) Scheme and other schemes.

“The Teagasc forestry clinic on January 20 is 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; for example, important question 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 the environment?

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

The emphasis for the clinic is on new planting but existing forest owners are also welcome to engage.

Booking is essential – contact the Teagasc office in Mullingar on 044 9340721. Please bring maps and other relevant information on the day to optimise the advisory experience and outcome.