Farm fragmentation can be a major limiting factor for the growth or expansion of Irish farms, especially since the average farm in Ireland consists of 3.5 land parcels. If a farm is fragmented, it can reduce the efficiency of the operation, with additional costs in labour, farmer and stock movement and the travel time needed to inspect animals, as well as additional facilities and/or machinery. Some farmers have taken to consolidating or growing their land banks by permanently removing forestry, which is permitted in certain limited circumstances.

But what are the pitfalls of this decision and is the time and effort required worth it? Farmers engaged in this process say it is not a simple job and there are many issues. Land is devalued once placed under forestry and it is very costly to return it to productive agricultural land. The land that is deforested, depending on the length of time it has been under forestry, can also be very low in fertility and may take some years to bring it back to its full potential.

Where a farmer is deforesting one area of land to convert it to grass, afforestation of alternative land is required. Farmers need to be aware that the afforested land can draw no premium and cannot be used for basic payment entitlement. It also appears that as this measure was initially designed for the construction of buildings, planning permission is required, even when no concrete will be poured. Planning is not easily obtained either, with some farmers trying to replace afforested land unable to get planning to plant on alternative sites.

Some farmers have been waiting an excessive period for forestry licences, particularly for felling. Felling licence applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis on their own individual merit. In certain cases, refunding of grant and premium payments already paid by the Forest Service of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is required.

Teagasc has compiled a summary of the six main scenarios where tree removal is permitted, and whether or not alternative afforestation and/or the repayment of grants and premiums are generally required (see Table 1).

  • Note 1: If yes, the alternative site must be of an area equivalent in size. If the forest area proposed for permanent removal is still in receipt of premiums and/or is still in contract under the Afforestation Grant and Premium Scheme, the alternative site may be eligible under the Afforestation Grant and Premium Scheme.
  • Note 2: If yes, the refunding of any afforestation grant and premiums already paid out by the DAFM is required if the forest area proposed for permanent removal is still in receipt of premiums and/or is still in contract under the Afforestation Grant and Premium Scheme. In addition, if premiums are still being paid, premium payments on the area will cease.
  • Note 3: Alternative afforestation is required, except in relation to small community-focused projects and for the purpose of building a home for an immediate family member.
  • Note 4: The DAFM may consider conversion to agricultural land in limited instances, having regard for the scale and character of the area proposed for deforestation.
  • Note 5: Various public authorities may be exempt from the requirement to apply for a felling licence.