Today, Thursday, 21 March is ‘International Day of Forests’ and Teagasc are highlighting the multiple benefits of well-sited and sustainably managed forests and woodlands, in particular as a viable on-farm resource. These benefits extend from forest owners to local communities and to the wider society.
In marking this important day, Dr. Nuala Ni Fhlatharta, Head of the Teagasc Forestry Development Department said: “Farmers in all counties in Ireland have already benefited from forestry as a complementary enterprise on their farms. Following a very busy countrywide series of one to one advisory clinics this spring, Teagasc forestry advisors continue to be available for farmers and landowners who wish to explore the forestry option and how it may be integrated on their holdings, where appropriate”.
Dr. Ni Fhlatharta continued: “As we are also approaching National Tree Week, Teagasc, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), have a range of initiatives, both on-going and in preparation, to help raise awareness of new opportunities.”
- Teagasc forestry staff are linking in with local schools and other local initiatives during National Tree Week to highlight how forests can make a difference to society.
- Teagasc ConnectED continues its Spring Webinars Series 2019. The theme for the webinar on April 9 is ‘Can farm forestry be an ally in the quest for agricultural sustainability’. For further details log onto: www.teagasc.ie/connected
- Teagasc continues to sponsor the Farm Forest Award Category as part of the RDS Spring Awards. The goal of the RDS Agriculture and Rural Affairs programme is to promote best practice and efficiency in farming to ensure farm household profitability and sustainability in Ireland. The 2019 RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Awards will take place in the RDS Concert Hall on Wednesday, April 24, 2019.
- Teagasc and DAFM are also busy preparing for a countywide series of farm forest walks from April 29 to May 9, focusing on the promotion of sustainable management of young forests to achieve multiple benefits. These walks will also provide an ideal opportunity for farmers and landowners to see at first-hand how forests may be integrated as a rewarding enterprise and as part of the overall farming mix.
In conclusion, Dr. Ni Fhlatharta stated that Teagasc are keenly aware of the importance of sustainable forests, both locally and nationally, and from an economic, environmental and social perspective. Teagasc will continue to work with DAFM and the wider sector to help facilitate the realisation of their full potential. For further information on all Teagasc events and initiatives, visit www.teagasc.ie or contact your local Teagasc Forestry Staff.
