Longford farmers set for series of Spring forest walks

Teagasc in association with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) are organising a nationwide series of Spring forest walks from 11th to 28th April. 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.

The local walk will be held in Westmeath near Mullingar on Wednesday19 April at 11am.we will be visiting a young mixed plantation off both conifer and broadleaves. For details and the meeting point please register on see www.teagasc.ie/forestwalks

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 including Forest Type1 Native Forests, Forest Type 8 Agroforestry and Forest Type 12 Mixed high forests with mainly spruce.

Whatever forest type you would like to plant, all new forests require active management to become well established and begin the journey to maximising their potential. If a young forest is not well looked after, the achievement of your objectives – economic, environmental, social and practical risks being compromised. It is therefore very important to look after a young forest from the moment of planting and that owners know what needs to be done each year.

If you are interested in planting a new forest don’t miss the Teagasc Spring Forest walk in your area!
For more information on walks in your area and registration see www.teagasc.ie/forestwalks
Planting trees and forests is more important than ever and there is a forest type to suit everyone.
Please note: all walks start at 11am. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear.