Forestry seminar identifies wood from the trees
They were able to engage with and build linkages with the sector, represented by over 40 trade standholders at the events.
Dr Nuala Ni Fhlatharta, head of Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department, said: “It was most encouraging to see the level of interaction between forest owners and the wide range of organisations and companies across the timber-processing sector.”
Both events also gave forest owners a better appreciation of how the timber-selling process works. They were told the focus in thinning must be on improving the crop.
Over-thinning may give some short-term gain but can result in serious long-term devaluing of the crop.
Thinning creates access, provides increased growing space for trees plus some income. It removes inferior material, and concentrates growth in quality stems.
Without thinning, there is a high wind-blow risk, and the cost of access to the crop can be prohibitive.
Grant aid may be available for broadleaf thinning (€750/ha).
Before thinning, inspection paths, forest roads, and a felling licence need to be in place, timber measuring completed, and a suitable contractor/ buyer identified.
During thinning, the operation should be supervised by the owner, and damage to the drainage system or forest roads repaired after.
An application must be made to the Forest Service for the felling licence permission to cut trees.
Two maps are required with the application; allow six months for processing of the application.
For forest road building, permissions are required from the Forest Service and local authority. Grant aid may be available.
It must be decided if the thinnings are sold standing or at the roadside (or delivered). Standing sales avoid significant cash outlay, but the price may be lower. Roadside selling usually requires employing a contractor, and there is a theft risk.
The forest owner should seek quotes and references from at least two contractors/ buyers.
The forest owner should also ensure a contractor/ buyer has adequate insurance, is qualified and certified. A written contract is important. Ensure that health and safety regulations are adhered to.
Those attending the Teagasc events were advised to work with neighbours, to benefit from shared experiences, achieve economies of scale, and for marketing strength.
Timber can be sold by private tender or local arrangement; websites like www.timbersales.ie can be used.
Likely buyers are sawmills, forestry companies, foresters, harvesting contractors, energy businesses, firewood merchants.
Calculation of price will depend on factors such as timber size and quality, harvesting type, marketing conditions, site factors, size of the sale, access to the site, and haulage distance.
