Forest Service has reopened two forestry grant schemes, designed to support landowners to plant new woodlands for environmental and economic benefits.

Forest Service Chief Executive, John Joe O\Boyle said the Forest Expansion Scheme and the Small Woodland Grant Scheme, which are now open, will also help tackle climate change.

He said: "Planting new woodlands is widely recognised as having an important role in mitigating impacts of climate change. The trees absorb carbon as they grow and store it when the timber is processed into wood products, used for example in building construction. They can therefore play a part in helping us meet our net zero targets.

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"Well designed new woodlands also enhance the landscape, environment, create new habitats and support farm business sustainability and contribute to our Forests for the Future project."

The Forest Expansion Scheme aims to encourage landowners to plant a wide range of sustainable new woodlands of three hectares and larger. Some landowners may wish to establish woodlands to produce timber primarily from conifer species, while others tend towards native woodland to enhance environmental and other characteristics of their holdings.

The Forest Expansion Scheme funds successful applicants for these woodland types at up to 100% of the establishment costs and annual premium payments for a 10-year period.

The Small Woodland Grant Scheme is particularly designed to support landowners to plant smaller scale new native woodlands that are at least 0.2 hectares in size. The scheme funds planting of trees, new stock fencing where required and annual premium payments for a 10-year period.

Landowners who wish to plant this Winter are reminded that all applications must be submitted to Forest Service before 3pm on Thursday 31 August 2023. Early applications are encouraged.

Small Woodland Grant Scheme applications must be submitted through DAERA Online Services by 10pm on Thursday 31 August 2023.