Cork farmers reaping big rewards from plantations
Steven Meyen hears from three Munster men combining forestry with farming
WHEN travelling the highways and byways of Ireland, half of all the forests you see are privately owned.
Cork is no different. Of the 94,000 hectares of forest in the Rebel County, 45,000ha are privately owned.
The majority of these forests have been established and are owned by astute farmers and landowners who have seen opportunities to diversify their farming activity and create a complementary enterprise on the farm.
No wonder that with this increasing private forest cover, many enterprises have developed, adding value along the supply chain and supporting the local economy.
These enterprises include tree nurseries, management companies, harvesting contractors, timber processing mills, educational and recreational facilities, furniture makers and various crafts- men and women. Farm forest owners in Cork have developed valuable insights and experiences on forestry.
Engaging with such owners is a rewarding and informative process.
While each story is different, they have a common passion for land-based enterprises and a keen eye for opportunities to diversify and optimise resources.
This is the story of three such farmers.