Ministers Heydon and Collins announce successful forestry organisations in forestry promotion projects launch

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Forestry, Farm Safety and Horticulture, Niall Collins TD, have announced the organisations awarded funding under the Department’s Forestry Promotion Projects Open Call.

Minister Heydon said:

“It is important that the Department supports innovative projects that promote forestry

as a valuable opportunity for farmers and landowners to diversify their land holdings and income.”

Minister Collins met representatives of the organisations awarded funding at an engagement event in Agriculture House yesterday. The event brought together organisations from across the sector who will deliver the forestry promotion projects over the coming months.

Speaking at the event, Minister Collins said:

“I am delighted to meet those awarded funding today, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these initiatives will have in promoting the many benefits of forestry. My Department is pleased to support these projects, which will help farmers and landowners to understand what forestry can offer and how it can fit with their plans, so that they can make informed decisions about how they use their land. Today’s event also highlights the value of bringing organisations together to share ideas, build connections, and support a co-ordinated approach to forestry promotion.”

The Department’s Forestry Promotion Projects Open Call provides funding for projects that highlight the benefits and opportunities of forestry, including those for climate, nature, people, and the rural economy, and encourage landowners to consider planting trees.

The projects reflect the diversity of Ireland’s forestry sector, ranging from large scale events and public engagement activities to targeted knowledge-sharing initiatives focused on specific topics such as afforestation, forest certification, agroforestry, continuous cover forestry and native woodlands.

Minister Collins added:

“Following the mid-term review of the forestry programme earlier this year, farmers and landowners now have access to more schemes and supports than ever before. Whether integrated with existing farming systems or developed as a standalone enterprise, there are options to suit different farms and circumstances, with strong financial supports available. It is critical that we reach farmers and landowners across the country and communicate this message effectively. The varied approaches in these projects, including events, educational initiatives, videos, podcasts, and online content, will help to achieve this.”

A total of €145,632.73 has been awarded to ten projects to be delivered this year.