The Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has emphasized the critical importance of salvaging windblown timber in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn. Padraig Stapleton, the IFA Farm Forestry chair, underscored the necessity of prioritizing this task. At the recent meeting of the Forest Windblow Taskforce on February 14, 2025, Stapleton reported positive engagement with the newly appointed Minister of State responsible for forestry, Michael Healy-Rae. The IFA drew attention to successful responses to similar national emergencies in countries like Norway and Germany, stressing the need for international assistance.
Stressing the urgency of the situation, the IFA highlighted the forthcoming completion of a satellite imagery assessment to provide an accurate overview of the extent of the damage. The Forest Windblow Taskforce, comprising stakeholders from forest ownership, forestry companies, Teagasc, and Coillte, is tasked with coordinating efforts to address the aftermath of the storm. The group will focus on prioritizing felling licenses for storm-damaged areas and addressing challenges related to harvesting, haulage, and processing of fallen trees.
The Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine (DAFM) has issued guidance for forest owners affected by windblow and storm damage, including the development of an interactive forest planning model software to assist in decision-making. Stapleton stressed the need for a coordinated approach to salvage as much timber as possible, citing a lack of expertise within Ireland to manage the clean-up effectively. He also expressed concerns about the potential market impact, anticipating a significant drop in timber prices due to increased supply and storage challenges.
According to Stapleton, awaiting further guidance from the department and ensuring that commitments made by Minister Healy-Rae are implemented are crucial steps moving forward. The forestry chair called for additional support from experts experienced in crisis management to aid in developing an emergency response plan. The need for clarity on the scale of the damage and the practical implications of the minister’s commitments remains a top priority for stakeholders in the forestry sector.
