Forestry Information for Newcomers
Let Trees Work For You
Welcome to our Forestry for Newcomers webpage. You have taken the first step in what we hope will be a very rewarding new chapter for your farm enterprise or land holding.
We have produced a number of case studies featuring farmers from around the country talking about their forestry experience. You can find these stories under the Forestry Ambassadors' Tab. There is also a case study from a community project perspective.
A variety of forestry leaflets are available to download that provide information on the different Forest Type planting options on offer. If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
There are over 19,500 farmers involved in forestry. Trees play an important role in their farm enterprise. Forests also support over 9,000 jobs by producing valuable, sustainable timber for construction and other industries; strengthen biodiversity and wildlife by providing habitats for birds, animals, and insects; and enhance our landscape and provide recreation spaces for our leisure and well-being.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon
Grow Your Income And Resilience
For many farmers, planting a forest makes financial sense and provides for a more diverse farming enterprise. It is a long-term investment that is often inherited by the next generation.
The Department covers 100% of the costs to establish the forest, and all payments and earnings are income tax-free.
Planting Native Forests featuring a mix of trees such as oak, birch, and holly will guarantee more than €1,100/ha in annual payments for 20 years when established successfully. Similarly, a well-managed mixed high forest of mainly spruce with broadleaves delivers an annual payment of €746 for 20 years, as well as providing an income from harvested wood when your forest matures.
Alternatively, keep your livestock on the land with Agroforestry (silvopastoral) that features €1,170/ha payments for 10 years; you can also qualify for payments under the Department’s organics scheme. Top-ups are also available for certain forest types, e.g. the Woodland Environmental Fund includes a one-off payment of €1,000/ha once planting is complete.
Planting a forest does not affect your entitlements under CAP, and you can continue to claim the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) Scheme on your forested land, subject to the terms and conditions of the BISS Scheme.
Contact Details
Address:
Forestry Approvals Section, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine,
Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford Y35 PN52
Telephone: (053) 916 3400 or (053) 916 3425
Email: forestryinfo@agriculture.gov.ie
- Published on: 16 April 2026
- Last updated on: 16 April 2026