Farm Innovation Visits Application Form- Woodland Creation- ROI

Overview

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is offering farmers the opportunity to take part in a Farm Innovation Visit. The visit will focus on innovative approaches and technologies to maximise the potential profit and environmental benefits from Farm Woodland. This study tour is part of the Farm Innovation Visits Scheme which is being delivered by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE).

Farm Woodlands play an important role in helping the agriculture industry meet the requirements of the Climate Change Act, the Environmental Improvement Plan for NI and the Water Framework Directive. Farmers are also being asked to increase carbon sequestration on farm and one method of doing this is by planting new areas of farm woodland and managing existing woodlands. This Farm Innovation Visit (FIV) offers farmers the opportunity to learn about how to manage farm woodlands for the many different environmental benefits but also how to maximise a profitable return on their planted investment. Timber at sale remains tax free and government grant schemes are available, but similar to any farmed crop, timber requires careful management to succeed.

During this trip participants will visit a range of host farmers in the Republic of Ireland who are successfully incorporating woodland into their farming enterprises. From farm foresters who are growing native timber and managing agroforestry, to beef and arable farmers whose woodland provides an alternative income source through a honey enterprise. The group will learn about the production and care of both conifer and broadleaf woodlands, how to deal with storm damage and how timber helps in future proofing farms. We will also consider how to deal with disease – especially Ash Dieback.

The FIV programme has been facilitated by Woodlands of Ireland CEO, Joe Gowran. Joe will accompany the group for the duration of the trip which allows participants an unparalleled chance to learn from one of the most experienced and knowledgeable woodland specialists working in Ireland today. Above all this is an unrivalled chance to meet, travel and network with others who are interested in strengthening the viability of their farm going forward and who are interested in trees and timber.

The group will travel through various parts of Ireland in mid-September 2025 and the visit will be held over three days/two nights. The trip will be a great opportunity to obtain and develop your awareness and knowledge of the value and practicalities of successfully incorporating and managing woodlands on your farm.