Family-Owned Forestry

Over half the forested land in Ireland is in private ownership, the majority of which has been planted by farmers within the last 30 years.

Forestry is a valuable asset to any farming enterprise, working as a pension, a college fund or a savings account, as well as a carbon store, a space for biodiversity and a legacy for future generations.

As our forests mature, the potential grows for forest owners to maximise the economic returns from their forests through the sustainable production of materials for our construction and energy sectors, to develop new markets for both wood and non-wood products, and to provide ecosystem services for the broader society, such as space for biodiversity and habitats, and carbon storage.

As forest owners, it is up to us to engage with, develop and protect our valuable forestry asset.

Irish Forest Owners has produced a booklet providing a snapshot of the opportunities and potential of family-owned forestry in Ireland.