Teagasc has organised three informal online workshops to learn about starting new forestry.
During February and March, landowners can join three, one-hour online workshops organised by Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department, to gain an understanding of what a new forest can offer, learn what’s involved, and how to get started in the planting process.
These sessions will be held through Zoom and the first sessions will be held between February 15 and 24.
Dr. Nuala Ni Fhlatharta, head of Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department, said: “Landowners consider forestry for many reasons. That is why a land use change to forestry, like any new farm enterprise, will raise many questions.
It is also a great opportunity for farmers to understand the requirements of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and other farm schemes before establishing a forest.
“These upcoming online forestry workshops are a great opportunity during the current lockdown to flesh out the details of how forestry might work for you,” she added.
Online workshops
In the first session, benefits of forestry will be discussed. Teagasc has said that landowners will hear about the various and wide-ranging benefits that establishing a forest on the farm can bring.
This will allow people to set their own objectives by considering and discussing what they want or need from their forest.
Soil types will also be discussed.
The focus of the final third session will be on the practical steps involved; grant eligibility, grant structures and rates, interaction with other farm schemes and engaging a forester will be looked at.
Liam Kelly, forestry advisor with Teagasc, said: “There are different forestry support measures available fulfilling different purposes. It is essential that an owner knows and understands their own objectives of what they want from their forest or woodland.”
‘Local’ workshops
Teagasc is recommending that those interested in forestry attend ‘local’ virtual workshops, as discussions regarding locations, possibilities and potential restrictions in the area are more relevant.
Registration for the workshops can be done through the Teagasc website.
All workshops start at 7:00pm.