The new draft forestry programme which will cover the period 2014 – 2020 includes a number of measures which may be used to conserve and protect the valuable habitats and ecosystem services provided by Ireland’s ancient woodlands.
1. Measure Number 6: The
Native Woodland Conservation Scheme (NWS Conservation)
supports the protection and enhancement of existing native woodlands, primarily to protect and enhance native woodland ecosystems. Specific forest types targeted by this scheme include;
- Woodlands designated as a cSAC, NHA, pNHA or SPA;
- Old Woodland Sites, whereby original 6 inch Ordnance Survey maps show continuous woodland/forest cover since the 1830s;
2. Measure 10: The Forest Genetic Reproductive Material Scheme calls for new suitable seed stand to be identified and registered in the National Catalogue of Seed Stands. These seeds stands may then be eligible for support under this scheme where aid will be provided to improve the management and protection of these important sites. Existing registered seed stand from which seed is not currently being collected will also be eligible for this support. The objective of this scheme will be to increase production of quality seed leading to better adapted, more resilient and productive forests.
3. Measure Number 11: Forest Management Plans. Support under this measure is primarily aimed at forests planted under the afforestation scheme. However, as part of the public consultation process consideration could be given to the suitability of this measure to include ancient woodlands.
The programme itself is now undergoing a second round of public consultation at which point careful consideration will be given to submissions made.
