The Role of Farmers in Ireland’s Reforestation Efforts: Restoring Forests and Combating Climate Change

Farmers at the Forefront

Ireland, often celebrated for its lush green fields and rolling landscapes, is also a country grappling with a historically low level of forest cover. Despite its natural beauty, Ireland is one of the least forested countries in Europe, with forests making up only around 11% of its land area. In comparison, the European average is 30-40%, highlighting a significant gap. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity, particularly in the face of global climate change.

Farmers, the stewards of much of Ireland’s land, are emerging as vital players in the country’s reforestation efforts. With agricultural land comprising nearly two-thirds of Ireland’s total land area, farmers are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in planting trees, restoring ecosystems, and helping to combat climate change. The Irish government has set a target of increasing forest cover to 18% by 2050 as part of its Climate Action Plan, a goal that cannot be achieved without active farmer participation.

Why Reforestation Matters

Reforestation, the act of planting trees to restore forested areas, is recognised as a powerful tool in combating climate change. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate impacts. Studies show that one hectare of mature forest in Ireland can sequester up to 3.7 tonnes of CO2 annually, contributing significantly to Ireland’s climate goals. Over a typical 40-year lifecycle, this adds up to around 148 tonnes of CO2 per hectare.

In addition to its climate benefits, reforestation also helps with biodiversity restoration, water cycle regulation, and soil health improvement—essential components for sustainable agriculture.

Farmers as Key Players in Reforestation

Farmers are not just passive participants in Ireland’s reforestation efforts; they are active agents of change. Many Irish farmers are recognising the multiple benefits that tree planting can bring to their land, beyond just environmental impact.

1. Agroforestry: Marrying Trees with Agriculture: Agroforestry is an innovative approach that integrates trees into farming systems, allowing for the coexistence of crops, livestock, and forestry. For Irish farmers, this practice provides a win-win situation. Trees planted in pastureland provide shade and shelter for livestock, improve soil health, and enhance biodiversity. In some cases, farmers are planting productive tree species like walnut or hazelnut, which can be harvested for additional income. Through government support, farmers who participate in agroforestry can receive grants of up to €6,220 per hectare.

2. Carbon Sequestration Incentives: With growing awareness of climate change, carbon sequestration—the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide—has become a critical focus. Farmers who plant trees can participate in carbon credit schemes, potentially earning financial rewards for capturing carbon on their land. This adds a layer of financial motivation to environmental stewardship, making tree planting an attractive option for farmers looking to diversify their income sources.

3. Restoring Biodiversity on Farmlands: Reforestation initiatives are crucial for restoring biodiversity, which is often lost in intensive farming systems. By planting native tree species, such as oak, ash, and birch, farmers contribute to the creation of habitats for wildlife, birds, and pollinators. Reforestation on Irish farms can increase local biodiversity by 30-40% compared to non-forested agricultural land. Farmers are also reintroducing hedgerows—natural fences that double as wildlife corridors and carbon sinks. Hedgerows alone sequester an estimated 1.3 million tonnes of CO2 annually across Ireland.

4. Soil Health and Erosion Control: Trees play a vital role in maintaining soil health. Their roots help prevent erosion by holding the soil in place, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. By improving the structure and fertility of the soil, reforestation supports more sustainable agricultural practices. Farmers who plant trees near streams and rivers also benefit from reduced runoff and improved water quality on their land. Research indicates that reforestation can lead to a 30% increase in soil organic carbon over time, significantly improving soil health and water retention.

5. Government Support and Funding for Tree Planting: The Irish government has introduced several incentives and grant schemes to encourage farmers to participate in reforestation. The Woodland Environmental Fund (WEF) offers financial support to farmers who commit to planting native woodlands. Under the Afforestation Grant Scheme, farmers can receive up to €5,600 per hectare for establishing new forests, plus annual maintenance payments of €660 per hectare for the first 15 years. This financial assistance helps offset the initial costs of tree planting, ensuring that farmers can participate in reforestation efforts without jeopardising their livelihoods.

These initiatives help farmers offset some of the initial costs of planting trees, while ensuring they reap long-term rewards—both economically and environmentally.

Success Stories: Irish Farmers Leading the Way

Several Irish farmers have already taken up the mantle of reforestation and are seeing the benefits first-hand. For instance, in County Clare, a dairy farmer who planted native trees along his property’s borders found that it not only improved the microclimate for his cattle but also enhanced the beauty and biodiversity of his land. The trees attracted pollinators, birds, and small mammals, turning his farm into a more vibrant ecosystem.

In County Cork, a sheep farmer integrated agroforestry practices into his grazing fields, planting rows of trees that provided shelter for his flock during harsh weather. He noted improvements in the health and weight of his sheep, likely due to the natural protection and reduction in stress.

These are just a few examples of how reforestation is proving to be a game-changer for farmers across Ireland. By planting trees, they are safeguarding their land for future generations while also playing a crucial role in addressing global environmental challenges.

The Road Ahead: Expanding Reforestation Across Ireland

For Ireland to meet its reforestation targets, it is essential that more farmers get involved. Public awareness campaigns, government support, and partnerships with environmental organisations are all part of this growing movement. Ireland’s farming community, long known for its resilience and innovation, is well-suited to rise to the challenge. The forestry sector already supports around 12,000 jobs in rural areas, contributing €2.3 billion annually to the Irish economy, and expanding forest cover can create even more employment opportunities.

The Irish Climate Action Plan outlines the need for afforestation of at least 8,000 hectares per year to meet the country’s targets for carbon neutrality by 2050. Farmers are central to achieving this goal due to the large amount of agricultural land available for tree planting.

Conclusion

The role of farmers in Ireland’s reforestation efforts is vital to restoring the country’s forests and tackling the global climate crisis. With the support of government incentives, innovative practices like agroforestry, and a renewed commitment to sustainability, Irish farmers are at the forefront of these efforts. By planting trees, they are not just reshaping their own landscapes but also helping to secure a healthier planet for future generations. Every tree planted brings Ireland closer to a greener, more resilient future.

*By Anne Hayden MSc., Founder, The Informed Farmer Consultancy.