Surge in Logging as Éowyn Timber Recovery Accelerates

Forestry operations across Ireland have significantly ramped up in response to the widespread damage caused by Storm Éowyn, with more than 90% of both private and Coillte harvesting capacity now focused on windblown sites.

Minister of State for Forestry, Michael Healy-Rae TD, confirmed that the scale of the damage has prompted a national response from the sector. “The figures we see now from the private sector and from Coillte show a major step up in harvesting activity over recent months,” he said.

The number of harvesting machines operating in Ireland continues to rise, with many working double shifts to accelerate timber recovery efforts in affected forests. The mobilisation is seen as crucial to salvaging valuable timber and limiting long-term economic loss for forest owners.

“This significant increase in harvesting capacity is really good news for forest owners with trees on the ground,” the Minister added. He encouraged owners to seek professional guidance from registered foresters or Teagasc forestry advisers, stressing the importance of having robust legal and security measures in place during timber sales.

Healy-Rae also highlighted the importance of using a formal Timber Sales Contract and Dispatch System to protect all parties and ensure accountability in timber movements. Templates for both are available on the Irish Timber Growers Association website.

Storm Éowyn, which swept across Ireland on 24 January, caused widespread windthrow damage in commercial plantations, particularly in western and southern counties. Salvage operations are now regarded as a national forestry priority.