A number of private forest owners will play host to "family-focused events" this month that will be open to the public.

Private forest owners across three counties are opening up their lands to families for free events on a number of dates.

Irish Forest Owners (IFO) is working with private forestry owners in counties Offaly, Laois and Meath to host the events; and is partnering with Teagasc and other experts in the forestry and environmental sectors for the ‘Walk in the Woods’ series.

The events will take place at:

Derrybeg, Co. Offaly - Saturday, May 16;
Dysart, Co. Laois - Sunday, May 17;
Ballybin, Ashbourne, Co. Meath - Sunday, May 23.

The events run from morning time to late afternoon, and places have to be booked in advance.

All three events are supported by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The forest owners are opening their land for the events, which will feature a series of forestry demos, expert talks, and activities.

Attendees will also hear of the value of forestry for the climate, the environment, the economy and the community.

The events will feature guided walks, talks, and interactive sessions in a woodland setting.

Each session must be booked individually and families or individuals can choose to attend one or multiple sessions throughout the day, although some sessions may run at the same time.

Commenting on the events, IFO chairperson Nicholas Sweetman said: "At a time when we are all being affected by climate change in various ways, the value of our forests in sequestering carbon cannot be overestimated.

"Walk in the Woods offers the general public an opportunity to hear about and experience at first hand the value of Irish woodlands in terms of promoting climate resilience, local economic benefit and support for biodiversity, not to mention the social, recreational and wellbeing benefits a visit to the woods can provide," Sweetman added.

Those interested are advised that places are limited for each session, so early booking is recommended.