Have your say about Armagh forests and woodlands

Forest Officer Breandan Mulholland said: “Our forests are a vital natural resource which are important for tourism, health and wellbeing, industry and the environment.  

"We know from previous consultations that people understand the value of our forests.  Each year there are nearly nine million visits to DAERA owned forests across Northern Ireland, and over the last year we have seen a huge increase in visitors to forests during the lockdown. 

"The benefits of forest based recreation for physical and mental health is increasingly recognised.  Forest Service continues to work with our partners in local councils, and with others, to develop recreation facilities.

"We want to hear views and opinions regarding all aspects of forestry including landscapes, water and protecting habitats”.

Forests in County Armagh are also working forests that produce timber for the Northern Ireland wood processing industry.  Each year Forest Service supplies around 29,000 cubic metres of timber - that is about 1000 lorry loads of timber every year – from County Armagh.  As part of sustainable forest management Forest Service has planted around 750,000 trees in the county in the last five years.

Reviewing our forest plans ensures they continue to meet the diverse and sometimes competing needs of people, wildlife and wood processing industries. We are keen to hear from all stakeholders to ensure that all interests are considered.

The consultation starts on 3 March and ends on 30 April 2021.  It can be accessed online via the departmental website.