Forestry to provide increased potential revenue for landowners

Forestry now a central pillar of Government renewable energy policy

THE forestry sector is on the cusp of another increase in potential revenue for landowners due to a raise in grants and premiums for a host of species.

We are weeks from an official announcement of additional funding being provided towards increasing forest cover by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The grant and premium improvements are part of the Government’s encouragement and backing of continued afforestation.

Afforestation is still one of the most important policies that the Department currently has to try to combat climate change, renewable energy, carbon and offset increased emissions from high intensity grazing systems. Forestry is naturally the most suitable mitigatory measure to the carbon footprint which, if not addressed, may lead to Ireland suffering significant fines from the EU. The fines would be a result of Ireland breaching its commitment to carbon sequestration and renewable energy targets.

Changes are due to be announced in the coming weeks to the forestry scheme which will see an increases in premium rates of 5% for diverse conifers, broadleaves and native woodlands. Forestry can offer a safe, sustainable income which can help to support farming practices by providing a secure annual income, whether it be considered on marginal land, difficult to farm land or an area which would benefit from the habitat enrichment.

Forestry is a viable and profitable land use change and most land types can be considered for planting.

The figures in the panel reflect the changes due to be released in the coming weeks and are the new Grant Premium Category (GPC) rates which are paid annually for a period of 15 years. Entitlements such as the Basic Payment Scheme can continue to be claimed, along with the forestry premium on the same parcel of land.

If you are considering forestry as a land use option, now is the time for landowners to submit a planting application and apply for afforestation approval.

For a free consultation please contact your local representative: Gerard Moroney on 086 8380915 / Email: gmoroney@ greenbelt.ie

*also proposed is further 2% increase for all plantations greater than 10ha. (Rates are draft figures to be publicly confirmed soon)