Teagasc forestry advisory clinic in Westmeath this month
Teagasc are running a series of 36 one-to-one forestry clinics in all counties between January 22 and February 13, when landowners who are considering forest creation options can avail of a private and personalised consultation with experienced Teagasc forestry advisers.
The Westmeath forestry is at the Teagasc Mullingar office (N91 PK10) on Monday January 22. Consultations are by appointment only and should be booked by contacting the Mullingar office on 044 9340721.
This clinic is one of a series organised by the Forestry Development Department of Teagasc, which promotes informed decision making on forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use option.
The forest creation elements of the new Forestry Programme 2023-2027 offer landowners many options in relation to forest establishment and there is a range of attractive grants and annual premium categories available.
Tom Houlihan, acting head of the Teagasc 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 questions, whose answers are important in supporting future decision making.”
Liam Kelly, Teagasc Forestry adviser, 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 farm schemes. The forestry clinic on January 22 is an ideal opportunity to find out how forestry might work for you.”
A consultation with a Teagasc forestry adviser will provide free independent and objective advice, empowering landowners to make informed decisions. Factors will include:
• Options provided for forestry creation under the Forestry programme 2023-2027;
• The difference between the Forest Types and Native Tree Area Scheme options;
• Grants and premium supports available;
• How forestry will interact with other enterprises and farm schemes, e.g. BISS, CRISS, ACRES;
• How forestry can 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.
Booking is essential. Contact the Teagasc Advisory office in Mullingar on 044 9340721 to book an appointment. Please bring maps and other relevant information on the day to optimise the advisory experience and outcome.