The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) issued 655 forestry licences in the first three months of the year.

This is a 24% increase on the 527 licences granted by the department in the first three months of 2025.

This year to date, 115 afforestation licences have been issued, 300 private felling licences, 50 Coillte felling licences and 190 roads licences.

The total number of valid forestry licence applications received this year to date is 1,104.

DAFM figures show that up to March 27, a total of 256 hectares have been planted, with this figure reflecting afforestation that has been paid at first grant stage this year to date only, including the Native Tree Area Scheme (NTAS).

Some 23km of forestry roads were constructed up to March 27.

Forestry schemes

The latest data also shows that 124 applications were approved so far this year for the Reconstitution of Ash Dieback Scheme, covering 395ha.

46 applications have been approved for the Woodland Improvement Scheme covering 340ha.

40 approvals were issued for the NTAS relating to 40ha, and 35 for the Deer Tree Shelter scheme (105ha).

Thirteen applications have been granted for the Climate Resilient Reforestation Scheme relating to 70ha.

Six licences were issued for the Native Woodland Conservation Scheme for 44ha.

DAFM has also received 12 appeals relating to afforestation so far this year, nine for tree felling and four for forest roads.