Recent improvements in afforestation licensing are driving increased interest among landowners, as highlighted by the Social, Economic and Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA). The most recent forestry data released by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) reveals that in the first week of October, 17 afforestation licenses were granted for a total of 120 hectares. This brings the total area approved for planting this year to 3,810 hectares, with 453 licenses issued and 496 valid applications received. In September alone, the department granted 73 licenses for new planting, covering 586 hectares. The cumulative area planted so far this year stands at 1,297 hectares, reflecting afforestation that has been paid at the first grant stage in 2021.
“It is heartening to observe a shift away from weeks with afforestation licensing below 50% of the target pace,” remarked SEEFA. While acknowledging the need for further enhancements, the association believes that farmers and landowners can now view afforestation as a more viable land use option, with the licensing process becoming increasingly accessible. Despite the positive trend in afforestation, SEEFA expressed concern over dwindling felling numbers, which have regressed to unsustainable levels. Last week, the department issued 9 private and 34 Coillte felling licenses, bringing the total felling licenses granted this year to 771 for private owners and 851 for Coillte, covering a combined area of 5,361 hectares.
“Felling plays a crucial role in the forestry sector, supporting various industries that rely on its output,” emphasized SEEFA. With the current suspension on log imports from Scotland, the association stressed the urgency of addressing the declining felling rates to avert potential supply disruptions. In addition to afforestation and felling, the department also approved 11 licenses last week for the construction of 3 kilometers of forestry roads. The DAFM data further reveals that 55 kilometers of forestry roads have been built across the country so far this year, facilitating access and management of forestry resources.
