Plant Trees, Grow Your Future

Discover how forestry can boost your income, support your farm, and secure your family’s future.

Teagasc, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), invites farmers and landowners to a series of four free “Let’s Talk Trees” events taking place from October 21 to November 11, 2025.

Each evening will be hosted by Minister of State for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae T.D., and will explore how forestry can become a valuable part of a modern, resilient farm business.

Dates and locations are as follows, with each meeting beginning at 7pm, with no need to register ahead.

Why you should attend

If you’re considering forestry, or simply want to learn more about the opportunities available, these sessions will help you:

• Earn more from your land through forestry grants and annual premium payments
• Diversify your income and create a growing asset on your land
• Hear from farmers who have planted trees and have seen the benefits
• Get personal advice from Teagasc and DAFM forestry specialists

Minister Healy-Rae said, “I would urge all landowners who are interested in planting trees to attend these events. Forestry can complement farming, diversify income, and provide long-term financial support. These meetings will show the grants, premiums, and supports available — and how planting trees can strengthen your farm business.”

Hear from farmers who have planted some land

Each event features a conversation between Minister Healy-Rae and a local forest owner, sharing first-hand experience of how forestry has worked on their farm – the challenges, rewards, and benefits for both land and livelihood.

Each event begins at 7pm and includes:

• Two short presentations from DAFM and Teagasc on:
  • Forestry grants and premiums under the Forestry Programme 2023–2027
  • How forestry complements other farm enterprises

Followed by;

• A farmer-led discussion with Minister Healy-Rae and a local forest owner
• One-to-one support clinics with professional forestry advisors

Your forestry options

The Forestry Programme 2023–2027 offers a range of options to suit different land types and farm goals:

• Afforestation Scheme – 11 forest types available, with attractive grants and premiums for both farmers and non-
• Native Tree Area Scheme (NTA) – Create up to two hectares of native woodland, enhance biodiversity, and protect water quality — no licence required.

With careful planning, forestry can add value to your land, complement your current enterprises, and secure a more resilient future for your family farm.

Take the next step

These evenings are a chance to ask questions, explore opportunities, and plan your forestry future with the experts.

For more details, visit the Teagasc website or contact your local Teagasc forestry advisor.

Forestry is about more than planting trees, it’s about growing opportunity, income, and resilience for the next generation.