Wood fuel and wildlife are a warming mix
Landowners in Northern Ireland have an unmissable opportunity to experience the many benefits of native woodland, thanks to funding from the Woodland Trust.
The offer is part of the Trust’s MOREwoods scheme which, unveiled in Northern Ireland in January, saw the creation of 35 hectares (86 acres) of woodland.
Jackie Morgan, the Trust’s advice and partnership manager, says: “We had a fantastic response to the scheme’s launch and provided funding to 48 individuals who are now enjoying their very own woodland, albeit in its infancy. We’re delighted to extend our offer of support, and are inviting people to apply now for planting this winter.”
The Woodland Trust cites compelling reasons for landowners to plant trees, including their ability to provide shelter and shade, enhance the landscape and improve air quality. And these days, according to the conservation charity, wood fuel and wildlife are a particularly warming mix.
With rising energy costs, more and more people are planning to plant for wood fuel. Home-grown firewood can, with careful management, be available within 7 to 15 years of planting, with annual sustainable supplies thereafter. Around 2 to 3 hectares of new native woodland will produce enough fuel to heat a typical three-bedroom house.
Our precious wildlife will thank you too. Native woods are magical places, providing a vital supply of food and shelter for a whole range of wild inhabitants. The benefits start from the actual day of planting, with bugs and insects starting to colonise and attracting birds and mammals higher up the food chain.
The Trust’s MOREwoods programme is aimed at landowners wishing to plant a minimum of 0.2 hectares (0.5 acres) and who are ineligible for government funding. Individuals must be prepared to contribute at least 50 per cent of the cost of the scheme.
“Some landowners will be eligible for grant-aid from Forest Service’s Woodland Grant Scheme. Those who don’t qualify for government funding can apply for support from the Woodland Trust. In either case, we’ll offer straightforward advice and will point you in the right direction,” says Jackie Morgan.
The charity has an aspiration to double native woodland cover over the next 50 years, but recognises that it can’t do it alone. The emphasis is therefore on making it as easy as possible for landowners to experience the beauty and many benefits of woodland.
Applications for funding via the Trust’s MOREwoods project must be received by 19 September 2011 with tree planting taking place this November and December.
To find out more, telephone the Woodland Trust on 0844 543 8700, email woodlandcreation@woodlandtrust.org.uk or visit www.MoreTreesMoreGood.org.uk