Have a spare section of land? You might consider this.
For growers with land of which they are unsure of what to do with, forestry can be an economical and environmental investment.
16 August 2017
You may not have ever considered forestry to be a part of your plan for your land, but maybe it should be.
In the latest Forestry Advisory Newsletter from Teagasc they explore the planting options that many land owners have and the benefits that comes hand-in-hand with forestry.
Over the past 25 years, 19,000 landowners – mainly farmers – have decided to convert some of their land to forestry as a very good economic and productive option to complement their farm or enterprise. This of course can be extended to professional growers as well.
Returns from well-managed forests are highly attractive, according to Teagasc. Forestry is a rapidly-expanding competitive sector, from planting to harvesting and timber processing.
There is increasing recognition of the economic, social and environmental contribution from forestry, including its crucial role in greenhouse gas mitigation.
Over one-third of landowners who planted in the last ten years went on to plant again, a great measure of its success!
Teagasc forestry advisers can help you explore the range of forestry options available to you. Teagasc are available to provide advice and information, including one-to-one consultations and site visits.
Just check out some of the benefits that can be associated with forestry in Ireland.
- Forestry is a great land use option, making marginal or fragmented land work for you.
- Forestry is a great tax- and labour-efficient enterprise.
- Establishment grants generally cover the cost of planting, with 15-year annual premium payments offering a great secure annual income.
- The interaction of forestry with the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) is great; eligible land parcels planted since 2009 are also eligible for
BPS payment. - Appropriate forest design, scale and management will help ensure great crop quality, timber value and environmental
benefits.
For more information be sure to check out Teagasc’s Forestry Development Department which provides advice, training, and research on farm forestry and related matters.
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