Introduction
The new forestry programme comprises a number of measures including afforestation. Grant and premium rates are specified in detail at the end of this article. There are 12 forest types or FTs included, which provide a grant to cover the establishment of forest areas and an annual tax-free premium paid to the land-owner, based on the area planted and the FT chosen. These range from broadleaf establishment, which will provide a signifcant premium, to more commercial afforestation types with a lower premium such as conifer mixed forests, but which are geared towards cash income from wood sales at an earlier stage. Again wood sales are tax-free. Other options include agro-forestry, where the land-owner can combine livestock, crops, or poultry with tree growing. The option chosen will depend on the owners' intentions, and it also possible to opt for more than one FT on the farm. Other significant benefits include the ability to combine forest premium income and the basic payment under CAP. We have provided brief, easy to read summaries of the FTs. Take a few minutes to read through the options, and you may find one that would work well with your farm enterprise and circumstances.
FT1 – Native Forests
"Creating Ireland’s Native Woodlands"
Native forests play a crucial role in preserving Ireland’s natural heritage and biodiversity. FT1 forests focus on planting native tree species such as oak, birch, and holly, which are well-adapted to the Irish landscape. These forests are typically planted in areas where native species can thrive without extensive management, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Farmers who choose this type of forest contribute to enhancing local wildlife habitats, protecting soil from erosion, and improving water quality. By planting native species, you are creating a forest that supports biodiversity and promotes the natural balance of ecosystems. Native forests are generally planted at a density of 2,500 trees per hectare, with careful selection of tree species to ensure resilience against disease and pests. The result is a low-maintenance, high-benefit forest that will stand for generations to come.
FT2 – Forests for Water
"Forests that Protect Our Waterways"
FT2 forests are specifically designed to protect and improve water quality in areas where agriculture and other land uses may contribute to water pollution. These forests act as natural filters, capturing runoff and sediment before it reaches rivers, lakes, and groundwater. Species like alder, willow, and other water-tolerant trees are commonly used, as they are excellent at absorbing water and nutrients while stabilising soil.
Farmers choosing FT2 forests will be contributing to Ireland’s water quality goals, particularly in areas identified for water protection. These forests reduce the risk of pollution by acting as a buffer zone between farmland and water bodies. They help reduce the levels of nitrates and phosphates entering watercourses, thus protecting aquatic life and making water cleaner for human use. These forests are also effective in controlling flooding, as they absorb large amounts of water, slowing down surface runoff.
FT3 – Forest Creation on Public Lands
"Public Forests for People and the Planet"
FT3 encourages the planting of forests on public lands, which includes lands owned by local authorities, schools, and community organisations. This scheme is aimed at creating multifunctional forests that provide benefits for the environment, local communities, and the public at large. These forests contribute to biodiversity, store carbon to combat climate change, and provide recreational spaces for everyone to enjoy.
By planting trees on public land, you help create a green legacy that future generations can use for leisure, education, and environmental protection. These forests can include walking trails, picnic areas, and educational facilities, making them important for public engagement with nature. Additionally, FT3 forests improve air quality and offer shaded, cool environments in urban and peri-urban areas.
FT4 – NeighbourWoods
"Creating Community Woodlands for Everyone"
NeighbourWoods are forests located close to towns and cities, designed to provide local communities with recreational and social benefits. These forests serve as natural spaces for relaxation, exercise, and education, improving the quality of life for people living in nearby urban areas. Typical species planted in NeighbourWoods include oak, alder, cherry, and beech, creating beautiful, diverse woodlands with year-round appeal.
NeighbourWoods support public health by encouraging outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking. They also provide environmental education opportunities for schools and community groups. By planting a NeighbourWood, farmers and public bodies contribute to the mental and physical well-being of their local communities while also enhancing biodiversity. These woodlands require thoughtful planning to ensure accessibility, safety, and sustainability, but they offer long-lasting rewards for both people and the environment.
FT5 – Emergent Forest / Rewilding
"Letting Nature Take Over: The Power of Rewilding"
FT5 focuses on areas where natural regeneration is taking place, allowing forests to grow with minimal human intervention. Rewilding promotes biodiversity by letting nature determine which tree species take root and thrive, based on the local conditions. Typical pioneer species such as birch, willow, and alder naturally colonise these areas, gradually giving way to more complex forest ecosystems over time.
Farmers can benefit from this scheme by allowing their land to return to a natural, forested state. This approach supports wildlife, enhances biodiversity, and contributes to climate resilience by increasing carbon sequestration. Rewilding also reduces land management costs, as the forest grows and develops with little need for planting or maintenance. FT5 is ideal for areas that are not suitable for intensive agriculture but are still valuable for ecological restoration.
FT6 – Broadleaf (Mainly Oak and Beech)
"High-Quality Oak and Beech Forests for Future Generations"
FT6 is dedicated to planting broadleaf species, mainly oak and beech, to create high-quality timber forests. These forests are aimed at producing valuable hardwoods for future timber markets, which are in high demand for furniture, flooring, and construction. Oak and beech are long-living species, capable of growing for hundreds of years, providing not only timber but also habitats for wildlife.
Farmers who choose FT6 will benefit from the long-term investment of planting high-value species. Though these trees take longer to mature compared to conifers, they offer premium timber products. Oak and beech forests also support biodiversity by providing habitats for a wide range of animals, birds, and insects. This forest type requires careful planning and management to ensure that trees are spaced correctly (2,500 stems per hectare) and receive the necessary care to grow into strong, healthy timber trees.
FT7 – Diverse Broadleaf
"Diverse Broadleaf Forests for Rich Biodiversity and Quality Timber"
FT7 supports the creation of forests with a wide variety of broadleaf species, including alder, cherry, sycamore, and beech. These forests are designed for both ecological and economic benefits, as diverse species help create resilient ecosystems while providing high-quality timber for future markets. By planting a mix of broadleaf trees, farmers can enhance biodiversity, create habitats for wildlife, and improve the aesthetic value of their land.
This forest type is ideal for those looking to balance timber production with environmental stewardship. By mixing species, FT7 forests are more resistant to disease, pests, and changing climate conditions, ensuring long-term sustainability. Farmers can expect timber from different species to mature at various times, providing a more flexible harvest schedule. FT7 forests are planted at a rate of 2,500 trees per hectare, with careful consideration of species compatibility and site conditions.
FT8 – Agroforestry
"Combining Farming and Forestry for a Sustainable Future"
FT8 promotes agroforestry, a system where trees are integrated into traditional farming activities. This could involve planting trees alongside crops or grazing animals, creating a multifunctional landscape that provides both agricultural products and timber. Trees in agroforestry systems offer shade for livestock, improve soil health, and provide windbreaks, making farming more sustainable.
Agroforestry helps farmers diversify their income by providing timber and other tree products, while still maintaining their primary farming activities. Trees are planted with wider spacing (400 trees per hectare), allowing enough room for crops or livestock to thrive between the rows. This system is particularly beneficial in areas with marginal soils, where trees can improve productivity by enhancing soil structure and water retention.
FT9 – Seed Orchards
"Growing Ireland’s Future Forests from High-Quality Seeds"
FT9 focuses on the creation of seed orchards, which are specialised plantations where carefully selected trees are grown for the purpose of seed production. These seeds are used to plant future forests, ensuring that only the best genetic material is passed on to the next generation of trees. Seed orchards play a vital role in maintaining forest health and productivity, as they allow foresters to select trees that are more resistant to disease, pests, and climate change.
Farmers and landowners involved in FT9 contribute to the long-term sustainability of Ireland’s forests. By producing high-quality seeds, they help create resilient forests that can withstand the challenges of the future. Seed orchards are carefully managed to ensure the best possible conditions for seed production, including proper spacing, pruning, and protection from pests.
FT10 – Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF)
"Sustainable Forestry with Continuous Growth and Harvest"
FT10 promotes the practice of Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF), a method where trees are harvested selectively while maintaining a permanent forest cover. Unlike traditional clear-cutting methods, CCF ensures that the forest remains intact, providing continuous habitat for wildlife and protecting the soil from erosion. This method promotes biodiversity and allows for sustainable timber production over time.
Farmers who choose FT10 can harvest timber regularly without disrupting the overall structure of the forest. By maintaining a diverse age range of trees, CCF forests are more resilient to disease and climate change. This method requires careful management to ensure that the right trees are selected for harvest while younger trees are given space to grow.
FT11 – Mixed High Forests: Diverse Conifer, Minimum 20% Broadleaves
"Balanced Forests with Conifers and Broadleaves for Timber and Biodiversity"
FT11 forests are mixed high forests that combine diverse conifer species like Douglas fir, Scots pine, or larch, with a minimum of 20% broadleaf species such as oak, birch, or beech. This mix of tree types provides both economic and environmental benefits. Conifers grow quickly and provide timber for construction, while broadleaves support biodiversity and contribute to long-term sustainability.
Farmers who opt for FT11 benefit from a balanced forest that is both productive and environmentally friendly. The broadleaf component improves soil quality, provides habitats for wildlife, and adds diversity to the forest ecosystem. Trees are planted at a density of 2,500 per hectare, with careful consideration given to species compatibility.
FT12 - Creating a Forest with Sitka Spruce and Broadleaf Trees
Understanding FT12 Forest Planting Guidelines
FT12 forests are designed to include a mix of Sitka spruce trees along with at least 20% broadleaf trees, ensuring diversity and sustainability. In addition to Sitka spruce, you may also include Lodgepole Pine in the forest. The broadleaf trees must make up at least 20% of the total area of the forest. These broadleaf trees can either be spread evenly throughout the forest or planted in distinct groups, as long as they are compatible with the main conifer species like Sitka spruce.
When planting FT12 forests, all trees—both conifers (like Sitka spruce) and broadleaf trees—must be planted at a density of 2,500 trees per hectare. This means there should be a space of 2.0 meters by 2.0 meters between each tree.
There are specific broadleaf species that are recommended for FT12 forests, which are listed in Section 8.1, Table 8.4 of the Forestry Standards Manual. However, if you want to plant different broadleaf species, you can make a request for approval. This mix of trees promotes biodiversity and supports a more resilient forest ecosystem.
