Forest Walk on Thinning of Broadleaves

May 11, 2010

Farm Forest of John Jackson, Teevickmoy, Stranorlar

Teagasc and the Forest Service in association with the Donegal Woodland Owners Society were organising a forest walk to the topic: Thinning of Broadleaves at the farm forest of John Jackson.

John Jackson, chairman of the DWOS welcomed all members and interested people from the public. Steven Meyen from the Teagasc introduced the selection process of suitable future crop trees. He explained how to measure the height of a tree and the two stick method which eases the selection of trees to be thinned out. Martin Regan the local Forest Inspector advised that a General Felling License is necessary if any trees are cut. It can be obtained for a maximum of 5 years. Meike Siebel, Forester of the DWOS pointed out that the DWOS offers a range of services which can be helpful such as assisting with the application work, giving advice on the different management options and assisting the practical work by offering competitive rates for fully qualified and inssured chainsaw and machine operators.

During the event it was explained:

• when to consider thinning a broadleaf forest for the first time,
• how to select Potential Crop Trees,
• which trees should be marked for removal and
• how to organise the work