Private farmers must help forestry targets to be met, says Teagasc

Government targets to have 17% of the land area of Ireland covered by forest will only be achieved if private landowners and farmers plant trees on their land, according to Teagasc

The Teagasc Forestry Development Department will focus specifically on afforestation and thinning at the Tullamore Show on Sunday.

Forestry development officer Liam Kelly said incentives, including a grant and an annual forest premium payment, are available to encourage private landowners to reach the 17% target.