The impact of Storm Eowyn is still being assessed. Until a definitive volume and area is determined, a rescue package cannot be issued. It is forecast that a definitive calculation of the area will be provided by the end of March. At that point, a strategy will be employed to deal with all the timber.

Early indications, subject to confirmation, are that current thinning licences can be extended to include clearfell of areas badly affected. Other sites without a licence will be expedited through the system. Given the projection f timber that was damaged, it is suggested it might take up to 3 years to clear the volume.

It is important that the industry rallies together to ensue the long term future of the private forestry estate. Sawmills need to maintain their prices as best they can in light of the increased volume. Haulage across the country will be a challenge too, given the proximity of the material centralised in a the North and North West predominantly.

In these times of uncertainty, we encourage you to get in touch. Green Belt's foresters will assess your forest, identify the area affected and help you plan your way out of this problem and back to productive forestry.

Contact your local forester