The prestigious RDS Irish Forest and Woodland Awards have officially opened for entries, offering a substantial prize fund of €12,000. These awards aim to commend and incentivize farmers and woodland owners who have implemented climate-smart agricultural practices on their lands. Such practices encompass effective commercial management, environmental conservation, and the preservation of biodiversity.
The Royal Dublin Society (RDS) emphasized that advocating for the economic and environmental advantages of sustainable forestry and farming practices is a core element of its agriculture and rural affairs agenda. This initiative is backed by key stakeholders such as the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Teagasc, and Woodlands of Ireland.
The national forestry awards are structured into four primary categories, designed to showcase and honor individuals leading the way in driving economic, environmental, and community progress within the forestry sector in Ireland. The categories for this year’s awards include the Silvicultural Excellence Award, the Teagasc Farm Forestry Award, the Community Woodlands Award, and the Native Woodland Conservation Award.
Each category winner will be granted a cash prize of €2,000, an RDS silver medal, and a bespoke trophy. Meanwhile, the runner-up in each category will receive €1,000 along with an RDS certificate of merit. The deadline for submissions is set for 12:00 p.m. on Monday, September 9, 2024.
Derek McCabe of Mountnugent, Co. Cavan, along with his children Alanna and Calum, was crowned the overall victor of the 2024 RDS Teagasc Farm Forestry Award. The RDS stressed that any applications received after the deadline will not be considered due to the judging schedule. Following the deadline, a shortlist of entries in each category will be announced, with all unsuccessful applicants receiving personalized feedback from the judging panel.
The announcement of the award winners is scheduled to take place at the RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Awards ceremony, slated to be held in the RDS Concert Hall the following year.
