Changes to Forestry Programme merit a fresh look at forestry
The Teagasc Forestry Development Department very much welcomes the results of the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027. The ambition of the review was to examine any potential to improve existing forestry schemes and measures, and also consider other areas such as improvements to communications and training.
In delivering the outcomes of this review, Minister of State for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Michael Healy-Rae TD announced a range of increased financial incentives, increased scheme flexibilities, and proactive training and engagement initiatives aimed at better supporting farmers, landowners and foresters. These targeted interventions will allow the sector to ‘build on the progress made over the last two years’.
Key highlights the Mid-Term Review include:
- Increases to existing fencing grant rates & allowances, and agroforestry premium rates for the Afforestation Scheme;
- Increases to existing grant rates for the Climate Resilient Reforestation Pilot
- Increases to the Forest Road Scheme- rate per linear metre
- Increases to existing fencing rates for the Native Tree Area Scheme;
- Increases to existing fencing rates & allowances and expansion of the Deer Tree Shelter, Hare and Deer Fencing Scheme;
- Increases announced, range from 10% to 20%, depending on the scheme.
Further details of the MTR and the resulting changes to schemes and measures under the Forestry Programme can be found at Mid-Term Review of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027.
Simplified farmer definition
Complementing these review enhancements, Minister Healy-Rae also announced simplifications of the farmer definition in order to qualify for a 20 year premium payment period. This means that an applicant will “now simply have to pass the Department’s “Active Farmer check” and have received a valid payment under the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) scheme prior to the completion of planting. This will lessen the burden for applicants, whilst keeping a protective mechanism in place.”
Further information
These announced improvements will be of interest to both farmers and landowners considering the attractive suite of forestry creation options within the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 as well as existing forest owners. They will apply to where works have not yet started and will remain in force for the remainder of this current Programme.
Teagasc Forestry will raise awareness of these new enhancements in future engagements with landowners to facilitate informed decision support on the range of forestry options available.
You can contact your local Teagasc Forestry advisor for guidance on this reviewed Forestry programme.