Working group on alder

By Donal Magner

COFORD - the National Council for Forest Research and Development - has established a working group to examine a number of issues relating to the species common alder or fearnóg in Irish. It is a native species and is now widely planted. It has grown in popularity in recent years because compared to other broadleaf species, it is easy to establish, even in relatively poor soils. In addition, it is not as vulnerable to hare, rabbit, deer and squirrel damage. Although a number of large alder specimen trees exist in Ireland it is a short lived species so these are rare. This wasn't always the case. While it was only classed as a 'commoner of the wood' under the Laws of Neighbourhood in ancient Ireland, it grew to be a very large tree in the primeval forests. For example, there is an alder wooden shield mould in the National Museum measuring 45 cm in diameter.

The setting up of the working group is timely, because since 1998, the demand for alder transplants and seed has risen significantly. According to COFORD, the group will examine the current supply and demand for seed and plants of the species and the need to develop suitable seed sources to meet a projected increase in future demand on a sustainable basis.

The group is currently carrying out a survey of alder stands throughout the country. If readers know of any stands of alder - regardless of age - and wish to participate in this survey, check the COFORD web site (www.coford.ie ) for details where it is possible to download the survey form.

This should be completed and returned to John Fennessy, COFORD, Agriculture Building, Belfield, Dublin 4 (Tel 01 7167700). Alternatively, email it to john.fennessy@coford.ie .

The information required is not too detailed. At this stage, the working group need to know the location, area and age of the alder stands, the names of the owners and some information - if available - on the seed source and whether the wood was planted or naturally regenerated.