TEAGASC forestry field evenings

TEAGASC is running a series of 35 field evenings between June 22 and July 1, aimed especially at landowners who have recently planted or are considering forestry.

Run in conjunction with the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture and Food, they will feature the up-to-date position on the forestry concessions under the new EU agriculture policy as well as expert advice on the planting, management and economics of forestry.

Jim Reidy, Forestry Development Officer with Teagasc, said the concession that farmers can plant up to 50% of their land and continue to receive their full decoupled payment from January, 2005, has substantially increased interest in forestry.

Mr Reidy said recently planted forests should be inspected regularly and failures should be replaced during the autumn.

While the planting grant and premium payments for forestry are generous, farmers should always remember the land on which the forest is planted is still the biggest investment.