The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has unveiled the commencement of the third tranche of the Innovative Forest Technology Scheme on this Wednesday, December 18. This new phase, known as Module 2, is designed to bolster commercial forest reproductive material (FRM) suppliers, encompassing forest nurseries and seed collectors, in their efforts to amplify the quantity, quality, and diversity of native tree species. Through this initiative, FRM suppliers stand to secure funding of up to €250,000 to facilitate investments in the production of native forest trees.
The scheme is inclusive, catering to seed and tree suppliers of varying scales, from modest enterprises to well-established nurseries. Moreover, it extends its reach to aspiring newcomers in the sector looking to broaden their business horizons. DAFM has delineated the scope of eligible projects and items for funding, which encompass a range of essential components such as seed collection equipment, seed storage infrastructure, polytunnel infrastructure/equipment, irrigation systems, transplanting systems, grading machines, biosecurity investments like water treatment and refrigeration equipment, general costs associated with the aforementioned items, and the procurement of native tree species seed.
Interested parties are advised that the deadline for submitting applications is set for 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025. For those keen to delve deeper into the scheme and commence the application process, comprehensive information can be accessed on the department’s official website. In response to the launch of the scheme, Senator Pippa Hackett, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, emphasized the significance of the Forestry Programme 2023-2027 in fostering sustainable tree planting practices that yield enduring benefits for climate, biodiversity, and society at large.
Senator Hackett underscored the pivotal role played by the funding made available through this innovative scheme in bolstering the forest tree nursery sector. She highlighted how this support will play a crucial role in achieving ambitious planting targets by ensuring a robust supply of high-quality native trees. The scheme’s emphasis on promoting the cultivation and preservation of native tree species aligns with broader environmental and conservation objectives, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable land use practices and biodiversity preservation.
The scheme’s focus on enhancing the production and diversity of native tree species reflects a strategic approach to addressing climate change challenges and promoting ecological resilience. By incentivizing investment in essential infrastructure and equipment for FRM suppliers, the scheme seeks to fortify the foundation of Ireland’s forestry sector and foster a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both the environment and the economy. As Ireland strives to meet its reforestation targets and combat the impacts of climate change, initiatives such as the Innovative Forest Technology Scheme play a crucial role in advancing a greener, more sustainable future for the nation.
