Funding offers protection from deer

DEER are causing damage to new and existing woodlands around the country.

Now funding is being made available to forestry owners to help them meet the costs of erecting protective fencing.

Forestry Minister Mary Wallace, who announced the grant aid, said the considerable growth of wild deer populations in certain areas is resulting in unacceptable levels of damage to woodlands.

“I am particularly anxious to protect the considerable investment which has been made in forests and in particular in broadleaves in recent years,” said Ms Wallace.

“I am anxious to protect this investment against the extensive damage which can be caused by deer,” she said.

Ms Wallace said her department is prepared to fund 80% of the cost of erecting deer-fences in vulnerable areas.

She urged owners of plantations which were at risk to assess their vulnerability immediately.

She said she hoped as many forest-owners as possible would use this opportunity to erect deer-fences.

Ms Wallace said she has also requested the Forest Service of her department to review the situation before the end of the year with a view to considering what further action might be required.

She also urged landowners and the public to be highly vigilant where the risk of wildfire is concerned in the current warm weather.

The obvious risks are from unlawful burning of vegetation and rubbish, careless use of disposable barbecues and discarded cigarette butts, she said.