Woodland Creation on Public Lands

The Woodland Creation on Public Lands scheme was launched by the Forest Service in 2020 and its main purpose is to encourage Public Bodies to establish new native woodlands on suitable bare land. It aims to conserve nature by promoting the establishment of permanent non-commercial native woodlands on public land.

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/4b0e6-creation-of-woodland-on-public-lands-scheme/

Native woodlands are an important part of Ireland’s heritage and they provide valuable habitats for numerous species including pine martens, red squirrel, foxes, bats, bees and badgers. They also perform several eco-system services such as carbon sequestration and water protection.  They enhance the look and feel of local communities, and improve the health and wellbeing of the people.

The scheme is aimed at all Public Bodies, including: Government Departments and State
Sponsored Organisations; Higher Education Authorities; and Local Authorities.

The scheme comprises four separate funding elements:

Planting Elements 1 and 2 relate to native woodland planting,

Source: “Woodland Creation on Public Lands, May 2021”

Recreation Elements 3 and 4 (both optional) relate to recreational facilities.

Source: “Woodland Creation on Public Lands, May 2021”

A registered forester is required to complete the application form.  SWS Forestry have registered foresters located nationwide who can assess the site and advise on its suitability for planting native broadleaves.  We will complete all paperwork and maps associated with the application. The forester will draw up a plan for the site including all setbacks, biodiversity areas, fencing, timing or works and vegetation management.

We also have two in-house ecologists who can assist with the application and produce a pre-screening report or Natura Impact Statement if required.

SWS Forestry have planted Native Woodland for Coillte, Bord Na Mona, County councils, Town councils, corporate investors, individual investors and private landowners.

Click here to view our team.

There are 5 scenarios available under the scheme. The forester will advise on which scenario will be best suited for your site depending on soil, elevation, existing
vegetation and other site factors. These scenarios are also used under the Native Woodland Scheme.

Scenario 1: Podzols (Oak-Birch-Holly Woodland)
Scenario 2: Brown Podzolics (Oak-Birch-Holly with Hazel Woodland)
Scenario 3: Brown Earths (Oak-Ash-Hazel Woodland)
Scenario 4: Gleys (Alder-Oak-Ash Woodland)
Scenario 5: Highly Modifed Peat & Peaty Podzols (Pioneer Birch Woodland)

Source: “Woodland Creation on Public Lands, May 2021”

What’s the first step?

Contact SWS Forestry on 1800 928 900 or info@swsforestry.ie and we can discuss the scheme with you in more detail and can assess your potential site(s) for suitability for the scheme.

Contact SWS Forestry on 1800 928 900 or info@swsforestry.ie and we can discuss the scheme with you in more detail and can assess your potential site(s) for suitability for the scheme.

Read the Forest Service Press release here.

  • Provide structural variety in the landscape to support different species in their habitat and food needs
  • Create connection pathways for bats who prefer to fly over mature broadleaf trees and hedgerows
  • Reduce habitat fragmentation by enhancing links between various habitat types
  • Planted near watercourses, trees stabilise the soil and act as a buffer for any potential runoff. This helps protect water quality and give protection to aquatic species who are susceptible to changes in water quality
  • Provide a canopy and habitat for wildlife. Oak and birch provide excellent homes and food for birds, bees and a vast array of wildlife
  • Moderate the effects of sun, wind, rain and cold and create micro climates which support a range of various species
  • Help prevent invasive plant species taking over an area, particularly where there is exposed earth
  • Can enhance the look and feel of local communities, and improve the health and wellbeing of the people
  • Provide refuges for animal & bird species in urban areas
  • Help reduce dependence on pesticides by providing habitat for natural predators such as birds and bats, which in turn helps to increase biodiversity

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