The month of October brought a mixed bag of results for forestry licensing in Ireland, as reported by the Social, Economic and Environmental Forestry Association of Ireland (SEEFA). During this period, 70 afforestation licenses were granted, covering a total of 443ha. However, SEEFA highlighted that this figure falls over a third below the monthly target. Moreover, only 143ha were actually planted, marking an alarming 80% shortfall compared to the annual target pace of 8,000ha. This data was disclosed in the latest forestry report released by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).
As of November 1 this year, DAFM has greenlit a total of 4,157ha for planting, with 506 licenses issued and 519 valid applications on hand. With the planting season now in full swing, SEEFA emphasized the urgency of improving these figures to align with the nation’s forestry goals. The association urged the department to capitalize on positive trends observed in the months leading up to October, aiming to maximize tree-planting endeavors during this crucial period. SEEFA actively promotes the idea of landowners considering afforestation, underscoring the substantial environmental, economic, and social advantages that forestry offers.
The cumulative area planted thus far in 2021 stands at 1,400ha, as per the department’s records, which only accounts for afforestation that has received initial grant payments this year. SEEFA also expressed apprehension regarding the dip in performance witnessed in October, particularly in terms of reduced numbers for felling and road licenses. Year-to-date, the department has issued 832 private and 898 Coillte felling licenses, along with 741 road licenses encompassing 279km. Notably, 61km of forestry roads have been constructed over the course of this year. Furthermore, data indicates that 652 licenses have been granted under the Reconstitution of Ash Dieback Scheme for a total of 2,345ha. Additionally, 305 licenses have been approved for the Native Area Tree Scheme (NTAS), covering 332ha. The Deer Tree Shelter scheme (DTS) has seen 188 licenses issued for 826ha, while 159 licenses have been granted under the Woodland Improvement Scheme (WIS) for 874ha.
In conclusion, the forestry sector in Ireland faces both challenges and opportunities as it navigates through the complexities of licensing, planting, and conservation efforts. The month of October served as a reminder of the importance of staying on track with targets and objectives to ensure a sustainable and thriving forestry landscape for the future generations of Ireland.
