The Native Tree Area Scheme is now open for new applications.

This programme is to facilitate small scale planting of native forests, the NTAS scheme allows for the creation of forests without an afforestation licence, subject to the terms and conditions of the scheme.

Within the Native Tree Area Scheme two different options are available to applicants:

• NTA 1 – Creation of Small Native Forests
• NTA 2 – Creation of Native Forests for Water Protection The extent of the area that can be created under this Scheme is limited to 2 ha per farm holding for the duration of the scheme. Both farmers and non-farmers may avail of support under the scheme. Support will take the form of an establishment grant and annual premium payments over a ten-year period totalling €22,060 per hectare for NTA 1 and €22,840 per hectare for NTA 2.