Changes to Schemes make Forestry Attractive

“The introduction of the new Forest Environment Protection Scheme (FEPS) means that there has never been a better time for farmers to consider a forestry enterprise on their farm”, according to Dr Nuala Ní Fhlatharta, Head of Forestry in Teagasc.

To highlight the opportunities that this new scheme offers farmers, Teagasc and the Forest Service have organised a series of twenty eight information meetings countrywide. The first in the series takes place in the Teagasc office, Letterkenny, County Donegal on Wednesday next, 21 February.

Dr Ní Fhlatharta said that the launch of FEPS provides great opportunity for forestry to be integrated on REPS farms. “This will allow the true environmental benefits of forestry to be realised and in addition, the generous increases in the grant and premium rates makes afforestation more attractive than ever.” she said.

The series of meetings will be held during February and March and will inform farmers of the Afforestation Scheme and FEPS. Anyone interested in forestry as a new farm enterprise is advised to attend at one of the meetings. The local Teagasc REPS planner, Forest Service inspector and Teagasc forestry adviser will be on hand to discuss and advise. Teagasc REPS planners will undergo training on this new FEPS scheme.