Grant schemes return

FIVE grant schemes aimed primarily at existing forest owners have been re-opened.

Support is offered for improving access to forests, restoring forests, shaping broadleaves, pruning conifers, and for thinning, through the Forest Road, Reconstitution of Woodlands, Shaping of Broadleaves, Woodland Improvement, and High Pruning of Conifers schemes.

Minister of State with responsibility for Forestry Mary Wallace said there has never been a better time for landowners to consider forestry, given the emphasis on its environmental benefits, and the growing market for renewable energy.

IFA Farm Forestry Committee chairman Pat Hennessey recommended farmers take full advantage of the schemes.

“The difference between a well-managed broadleaf crop could be as much as €20,000 per hectare,” he said. “It is recommended that you build your road at least two years in advance of thinning to give the road ample time to settle.”