Demonstrations for forest owners after storm damage

Teagasc recently held a series of timber harvesting demonstrations in Ballymacward, Co. Galway, and Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, to support forest owners dealing with storm-damaged woodlands.

The events come in response to Storm Eoywn, which struck on 24 January, felling an estimated 24,000 hectares of forest. Approximately half of the affected areas are owned by farmers and private landowners.

Galway and Roscommon were chosen for the demonstrations due to the significant forest damage recorded in the west and northwest regions.

Run in collaboration with the Forestry Division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), the demonstrations took place in forests where windblow clearance operations are already underway and tailored response plans have been implemented.

Led by Teagasc forestry advisers, the events guided forest owners through the essential steps of developing a storm response plan. Attendees observed live timber harvesting and on-site processing of logs, highlighting best practices in damage recovery and restoration.

Noel Kennedy, local Teagasc forestry development officer, emphasised the value of storm-hit forests, “A storm-damaged forest remains a valuable asset. Teagasc forestry advisers are here to support you and provide guidance to realise its potential timber value.”

Looking ahead, Teagasc will host its upcoming Talking Timber event on Tuesday, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Clayton Hotel in Sligo.

This year’s programme will place special emphasis on post-storm harvesting strategies and is being held in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Forest Industries Ireland.

For further information, visit www.teagasc.ie/forestry.