CALLING ALL OFFALY FOREST OWNERS: Forestry Advisory Clinic for Tullamore

TEAGASC is running a nationwide series of One to One Forestry Clinics, covering every county, between January 20 and February 12, 2025. Landowners who are considering the range of excellent forest creation options can avail of a free, private and personalised one-to one consultation with an experienced Teagasc forestry advisor.

The Offaly forestry clinic will take place in the Teagasc Tullamore office (R35 TP60)) on Wednesday 29th of January. Consultations will be by appointment only and should be booked in advance by contacting the Tullamore office on 057 9321405

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

The forest creation elements of the current 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. 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 many relevant 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/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 farm schemes. This upcoming Teagasc forestry clinic on January 29 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, empowering you to make informed decisions. 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. Prior booking is essential. Contact the Teagasc Advisory office in Tullamore on 057 9321405 to book your appointment. Please bring maps and other relevant information on the day to optimise the advisory experience and outcome.

This clinic will provide an ideal opportunity to get answers to your forestry questions – don’t miss it.