Re-launch of Forest Expansion Scheme broadens tree-planting horizons.
Farmers and landowners in Northern Ireland can once again make the most of a government forestry grant.
The Forest Expansion Scheme (FES) – comes from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and is the next stage of the Forests for our Future programme launched by Environment Minister Edwin Poots. The first tranche opened on Monday 8 June, but be quick – the closing date for applications is Friday 28 August.
The FES is part of the Department’s Rural Development Programme and is designed to tackle specific environmental needs, mainly relating to water quality and biodiversity.
The grant covers the creation of woodland of 3 hectares (7 ½ acres) and larger, including tree protection, fencing costs and retention of area based basic payments for the lifetime of the scheme. It also adds to a whole suite of grants and offers that support the creation of traditional orchards; native hedgerows; and new native woodland on areas less than 3 Hectares (7 ½ acres) .
Gregor Fulton, Northern Ireland estate and outreach manager said: “This is an unmissable opportunity for farmers and landowners.xa0 We hope they’ll be inspired to enquire about, and make the most of, the grants on offer.
“The benefits of planting native trees are endless, providing winter shelter and summer shade for livestock; shelter for crops; or sustainable supplies of wood fuel.xa0 And native trees planted along riverbanks can help the environment while stopping money from, literally, going down the drain.xa0 They help by filtering the run-off of manure and fertiliser, especially following heavy rainfall.
“Here at the Woodland Trust we’re committed to addressing Northern Ireland’s lack of woodland cover.xa0 And we ourselves offer expert advice and, in some cases, funding to help bring the beauty and benefits of native woodland to your door.
“The MOREwoods scheme is for landowners who aren’t eligible for government funding and who wish to plant more than 0.5 hectares (1.25 acres) – we’ll contribute at least 60 per cent of the costs.”
In 2019 the Woodland Trust Northern Ireland supported landowners to plant in excess of 200 Hectares (500 acres) of native woodland.
You can contact the Trust’s woodland creation team on 0330 333 5303 or email :
for impartial advice on the full range of grants available.
Get in touch and the Woodland Trust will point you in the right direction.
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