So how does the forestry payments scheme work?

mrcheez

I have a few hectares of land that could be used for forestry and I heard on the radio about the new forestry scheme.

I assumed the grant was simply there to pay for the planting, but do you also receive a payment for keeping the trees on your land?

ofearghp

They pay for the planting, which includes forester cost, contractors, the actual trees, and fencing. If you have deer locally they will pay for a deer fence depending on the forest type.

They then pay you a premium for 20 years if you're a farmer, or 15 if non farmer. https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/forestry/grants/overview-of-forest-establishment-grant-rates/

If you only want to plant 1HA, this could be an option as there is no long applictaion process and you get the money twice as fast: https://www.teagasc.ie/crops/forestry/grants/native-tree-area-scheme/

Once forestry is established it needs to be there forever, ie if you clearfell you replant. Forest is defined as 20% cover where trees are over 5ms. Agroforestry is an option for that low level for example.

mrcheez

Thanks... do we get someone out to inspect the land first to check suitability ?

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/121086428#Comment_121086428

You have to find a registered forester to inspect and do the planning and paperwork.

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/205869-list-of-registered-foresters/