Teagasc hosting spring forest walk near Mullingar

Teagasc in association with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) are organising a forest walk near Mullingar on Wednesday next, April 19, at 11am.

The local walk, which will be held in a young mixed plantation of both conifer and broadleaves, is part of a nationwide series of spring forest walks taking place from April 11 to 28.

The walks will explore the opportunities for new forest creation in the proposed Forestry Programme 2023-2027 and forest type options.

During the walks, forestry experts from Teagasc and the department will explain different forest types in terms of their objectives, design, management, environmental and practical characteristics.

People plant forests for a host of very different reasons and considerations. These may include timber production, biodiversity, recreation, climate mitigation or leaving a legacy.

Forests take many years to mature, gradually delivering more and more ecosystem services which the owner and their family can experience and enjoy.

The forest creation element in the proposed Forestry Programme 2023-2027 encompasses 12 forest types with afforestation grants and annual premiums for farmers and landowners.

The spring forest walks will visit different forest types.

All new forests require active management to become well established and begin the journey to maximising their potential.

For more information on walks in your area and registration see www.teagasc.ie/forestwalks

Please note: all walks start at 11am. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear.