The North East Forestry Group (NEFG) is set to host an informative event on ash dieback at a member’s forest in Robinstown, Navan, Co. Meath next month. The aim of the event is to provide forest owners with guidance on the most cost-effective methods of removing dead or infected trees, while also salvaging some income from the operation. The meeting is scheduled to take place on Thursday, August 17, at 7:00 p.m. and is open to both existing and new members. Those interested in attending can contact the NEFG for further information.
During the event, forest owners will have the opportunity to discuss the specific issues and solutions related to their own woodlands. The focus will be on how to effectively remove diseased ash trees and replant with new ones. Thomas Loughran, a forest owner who has already undergone this process, will share his personal experience with the group. Topics to be covered include methods of felling and removing infected trees, selling the removed timber and determining its price, replanting new trees, weed control, and the various grant supports available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) for forest owners.
Manus Crowley, who serves as Thomas Loughran’s approved forester, will discuss how soil conditions and the overall forest environment influenced the decision-making process when it came to selecting the appropriate new trees for replanting. Kevin O’Connell, a forestry advisor from Teagasc, will provide clear and concise guidance on how forest owners can best approach the operation, as well as information on the new and existing grant supports offered by DAFM. As the event will be held outdoors, attendees are advised to wear suitable footwear and rainproof clothing due to potentially uneven ground.
The NEFG represents private forest owners in counties Cavan, Louth, Meath, and Monaghan, and currently boasts over 90 members, four of whom have been recipients of RDS Forestry Awards. The group is responsible for operating the only private forest owners’ FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) Certification Group in Ireland, and is also a member of the Irish Forest Owners. In an effort to promote the benefits of forest ownership, the NEFG has encouraged members to bring along the next generation of their families to the meeting.
Overall, the ash dieback event organized by the NEFG promises to provide valuable insights and practical advice for forest owners in dealing with the challenges posed by this disease.
