Storm Éowyn Sparks Surge in Timber Recovery

In the wake of Storm Éowyn, which swept across Ireland earlier this year leaving a trail of downed trees and disrupted infrastructure, the national forestry sector is making strong progress in recovering windblown timber from affected areas.

Minister of State for Forestry, Michael Healy-Rae TD, has praised the coordinated response of the forestry sector and the ongoing work of the Windblow Taskforce, which met this week to review the latest developments.

Storm Éowyn, which brought severe winds and heavy rain, caused widespread damage across parts of Munster, Leinster and the west, felling thousands of hectares of forestry and posing major challenges for forest owners, sawmills, and timber logistics. Roads were blocked by fallen trees, rural power outages were reported, and concerns were raised about the risk of pest infestations and fire hazards from uncleared windblown timber.

The Taskforce reported that:

• Dozens of additional harvesting machines have been imported to help tackle the backlog;
• Over 80% of national harvesting capacity is now focused on windblown areas;
• Sawmilling capacity and output have risen significantly to meet the sudden influx of storm-felled timber.

Minister Healy-Rae stated: “I really want to thank the members of the Taskforce for their proactive and positive engagement since Storm Éowyn. It is encouraging to see windblown material moving to both well-established local markets and via newly established trade routes to markets outside Ireland.”

He also urged landowners not to rush into selling their timber:

“Forest owners may have a valuable crop on the ground. Before making any sale, I urge landowners to seek professional advice from a registered forester or local Teagasc forestry adviser. It’s important to have a strong contract and a proper timber security system in place.”

Professional guidance and resources for landowners affected by windblow are available through Teagasc Forestry.