Forestry Services are committed to carrying out all activities in an environmentally friendly manner. Our ecologists are experts in all aspects of forestry and applying site-specific mitigation.
Forestry Services Ltd. offer a range of ecological services which include:
Grant aid is available to support the cost of additional environmental reports, where required with afforestation licence applications. This is paid following satisfactory completion of the planting. The grant rates per application are
€450 per ha for first ha
€400 for second ha
€350 for third ha
€50 per ha for subsequent hectares to a maximum of 20 Hectares
Irelands natural woodlands which covered the majority of Ireland, developed in the millennia after the islands last glaciers melted away. The tree species found in these original woodlands colonised Ireland naturally and are today referred to as native tree species. Woodland clearance drastically reduced Irelands native woodland resource, as these woodlands were lost so were the plants, insects and animals that relied upon them.
The biodiversity value of Irelands native woodlands are well recognised, they provide food and habitat for hundreds of organisms. Planting of ‘native woodland’, which is composed of native Irish tree species, has become a popular option among landowners. With proper management, these new native woodlands will provide an important habitat for many woodland species into the future.
Conifer plantations constitute approximately 70% of Irelands total forest area. Species richness in conifer plantations can be high, the dominant tree species in these plantations differs from native woodlands and so do the species the habitat supports. Conifer forests represent an important opportunity to conserve and enhance biodiversity. Areas for biodiversity enhancement are included within conifer forests, these areas include open space and retained habitats such as hedgerows. The provision of biodiversity is an integral component of Irish forests
Type: Mature broadleaved woodland
🗓️ 15 Jan 2026 • 🕚 11:00am
📍 Calverstown Demesne, Kildare, R56 AY82
Type: Conifer plantation with adjacent ponds and mature trees
🗓️ 10 Feb 2026 • 🕚 11:00am
📍 Knockshann, Macroom, Cork, P12 YH01
Type: Recently planted emergent woodland with scrub & open habitats
Host Farmer: Denis Lucey
🗓️ 12 Mar 2026 • 🕚 11:00am
Find all dates and details of our upcoming Biodiversity and Wellness Walks in one place.
Discover practical tools, real stories, and expert guides to help you make biodiversity a priority on your land. All resources are free to download and share.
Your complete reference to Ireland’s woodland habitats, species, and forestry practices that support nature.
Explore how Brian Nicholson (Kilkenny) and Fintan Rice (Tipperary) are showcasing the biodiversity value of their farm woodlands. These profiles provide a simple, farmer-friendly overview of habitats, wildlife, and management practices, highlighting how trees and woodlands contribute to nature on working farms.
Plan your year with biodiversity in mind. Seasonal actions, key dates, and steps to improve habitats and protect wildlife
For more information