Hedge Habitat Zones in a Farmed Landscape: An Introduction to the Hedgerow Appraisal System

As part of National Biodiversity Week 2026 and International Day for Biological Diversity, Woodlands of Ireland and Teagasc will co-host a biodiversity-focused event centred on hedgerows and their importance within Irish farmed landscapes. The Hedge Habitat Zones in a Farmed Landscape: An Introduction to the Hedgerow Appraisal System event takes place on Friday, 22 May from 9:15am – 3:45pm at the Teagasc Crops Research Centre, Oak Park, Carlow, R93 XE12.

Click here to register to attend!

The event will introduce the Hedgerow Appraisal System (HAS), a practical framework developed by Woodlands of Ireland in collaboration with Hedgerows Ireland and funded by The Heritage Council to support consistent surveying, assessment, and management of Ireland’s hedgerow network.

The day will include presentations, discussion sessions, and field-based demonstrations at Teagasc, Oak Park, covering topics such as biodiversity, landscape connectivity, habitat value, and knowledge transfer initiatives linked to hedgerows and wooded landscapes.

Speakers and contributors will include representatives from Woodlands of Ireland and Teagasc, including sessions on biodiversity in farming systems, knowledge transfer activities, and current forestry-related research.

The event will involve both indoor sessions and outdoor field walks. Attendees are advised to bring suitable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.

Additional event information is available on the National Biodiversity Week event page here

Find out more about the Woodlands of Ireland Biodiversity Week events here