Teagasc will introduce regular nationwide series of Forestry Advisory Clinics throughout 2017 to facilitate as many farmers and other landowners as possible.
The first series of Forestry Advisory clinics will take place between January 9th and 19th, with two in County Roscommon; at Castlerea and Roscommon town.
Their aim will be to promote the establishment of forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use on Irish farms. These clinics will be held in Teagasc offices around the country from 10am to 4pm on the specific dates. A one-to one consultation with an experienced forestry advisor can be arranged by appointment.
The Forestry Programme offers landowners and existing forest owners many options in relation to forest establishment with a range of attractive grants and annual premium categories available.
Dr Nuala Ni Fhlatharta, Head of Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department said:
“Landowners consider forestry for many reasons, such as supplementing farm income, farm restructuring or developing a retirement fund. Any new farm enterprise can present many questions. The 2017 Teagasc Forestry Clinics are an ideal opportunity to flesh out the details of how forestry might work for you.”
Steven Meyen, Forestry Advisor with Teagasc added:
“The current programme offers very attractive payments to all landowners. 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.”
A land use change to forestry, like any new farm enterprise, will raise many questions. A consultation with your Teagasc forestry advisor will provide independent and objective advice, empowering you to make informed decisions on many relevant issues including the following:
Opportunities for farmers and other landowners under the Forestry Programme 2014-2020
Available grants and premiums
Interaction with other farm schemes, e.g. BPS, GLAS, etc.
How forestry can improve farm income and the environment?
How to apply and get the job done right first time?
Harvesting and timber sales
The forestry programme also offers landowners, who are not farming, the opportunity to avail of the same annual planting premiums as farmers. These forestry clinics provide an ideal setting in which to discuss their particular situation. Although the emphasis for the upcoming clinics is on new planting; existing forest owners, regardless of what stage their forest is at, can also avail of this opportunity to pick up valuable management tips.
Prior booking of a one to one forestry consultation is essential. To book your free consultation, please contact your nearest Teagasc Office. The local Offices and clinic dates are Castlerea, on January 13th – Book via 094 9620160, and Roscommon town, on January 9th – Book via 090 6626166.
Those who intend attending are asked to bring maps and other relevant information on the day to optimise the advisory experience and outcome.
The Forestry Advisory Clinics provide an ideal opportunity to get answers to your forestry questions – don’t miss it!
For further details, visit www.teagasc.ie/forestry or call the Castlerea Office on 094 9620160 or the Roscommon town Office on 090 6626166.