Forestry, second most profitable land use
In an era of climate change and sustainability, forestry will compliment the overall farm mix through enhanced returns and environmental protection (soils, water, flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, and enhanced biodiversity). There are many choices out there for farmers as to the woodland type or mix that will best suit their needs, be it commercial woodlands, native woodlands, flood protection, community and tourism and there are many incentives and schemes so farmers can chose the woodland mix that best suits their requirements. With the advent of CAP2020 and the strong focus on the environment and climate change, forestry in Ireland is evolving and Western Forestry Co-op will continue to advocate on behalf of farmers and landowners so that they will have a suite of options to select the woodland type that will best suit their circumstances.
We continue to support farmers in afforesting and managing their forests, with the objective that farmers receive the best return from their forests and for those benefits to compliment farming and in turn benefit their local communities. Forestry has been shown by research conducted by Teagasc to yield the second highest level of returns over its lifetime after dairying.
Furthermore it is looking more likely that paying into a pension is going to be compulsory. Why not have full control of your own pension by planting some of your land, collect income tax free premiums and watch your pension fund increase in value as your trees increase in volume yearly.
For farmers in GLAS, is forestry something you might consider when GLAS is finished? A technical approval is now valid for 3 years so you can apply for one today, it is not a contract to afforest but gives you another option.
The co-op encourages farmers to hold on to ownership of your land, consider becoming a forest owner, own the trees and most importantly still own the land. You’ ll receive a yearly tax free premium and you can do as much work or as little as you like. Look out for the newly organised KTG groups that Western Forestry Co-op run and learn more about your forest. Thinking about after Glas?
Want to control your own pension and watch it grow? Want to play your part in fighting climate change? 12 different species categories to choose from Technical approvals now valid for 3 years.
Annual income tax free premium of up to €275/acre for 15 years Retain your entitlements in the Basic Payment Scheme Free Inspection & application
Forest establishment 100% grant aided
Call 071-9161458 or your local co-op forester Colm Gilheaney on 086-2008354 for more information.