Group bids to boost forest earnings

A LARGE attendance of forest owners at a meeting convened by the West Cork Forestry Group heard that there is now almost as much forest in private ownership as Coillte-owned in Co Cork, and pooling their contracting work and timber sales offers major potential.

Teagasc forest development officer John Casey told the meeting it is very difficult for most private owners operating in isolation to earn high forestry returns.

Teagasc has helped to set up successful forestry producer groups in Donegal, Clare and Kilkenny.

Traolach Layton, forestry director with timber processors Palfab, said that all processors are experiencing shortages of logs, and industry development now depends on supply from private forest owners. By co-operating, these owners can professionally manage and plan, produce reliable supplyforecasts, adopt industry standards and certification, develop a forestry culture and skills, efficiently avail of skills and services, and develop markets and relationships with processors. He praised the Group’s efforts to unite private growers.

Group treasurer Abraham Kingston indicated LEADER funding may be available to support the group’s initiatives.

Forest owners interested in joining the West Cork Forestry Group (the cost of membership is €50) should contact group secretary William Melville (telephone [phone]) or group chairman Tim McCarthy (087-6780149).