Ministers Martin Heydon and Michael Healy-Rae have announced €1.53 million in funding for 48 forestry promotion projects under the 2025/2026 Open Call.

The nationwide initiative aims to support everything from afforestation and climate-resilient forestry to timber use in construction, agroforestry, and biodiversity awareness. Funded projects span educational campaigns, field events, CPD training, and initiatives supporting women’s involvement and youth careers in forestry.

What’s being funded?

A forestry village at the National Ploughing Championships
Campaigns promoting forestry careers and timber construction
Agroforestry demo days in Roscommon, biodiversity days, and afforestation drives
Peer-to-peer learning, video series, and podcasts for landowners and farmers
The “There’s a Forestry Project for You” 12-month outreach campaign

Groups involved range from Coillte, Pro Silva, and Crann to Hometree, Mná na Coille, and the Society of Irish Foresters. Projects will run across every province, with a strong focus on climate action, sustainability, and farmer engagement.

Minister Heydon called the response to the call “excellent,” while Minister Healy-Rae noted the vital role of collaboration and local leadership: “These projects will support sustainable forestry targets, benefit rural communities, and tackle climate change.”

The projects cover themes such as farmer-focused afforestation; timber as a climate solution; and sustainable forestry & biodiversity.

Full list of projects and details available on gov.ie

Share this WeathÉire story: