Irish timber production from private forests set to soar

Timber production in Irish private forests is forecast to increase nearly sevenfold in the next 19 years, according to a new report funded by the National Council for Forest Research and Development (COFORD).

The geospatial interim forecast predicts total roundwood production from private forests to rise from 0.52 million m³ in 2009 to 3.86 million m³ in 2028.

The net forecast volumes (allowing for losses due to stocking, attrition and harvests losses) are 0.38 million m³ rising to 2.95 million m³.

Forecast roundwood production more than doubles within the first 10-year period and then trebles within the second 10-year period.

By category, the 7-13cm log size represents 26% of volume during the forecast period, with the 14-19cm bracket making up 24% and 20cm-plus logs at 30%.

State forester Coillte’s own forecast for the same period indicates a 20% share of production for the 7-13cm logs, 31% for 14-19cm and 49% for 20cm-plus.

The 20cm-plus category shows a large increase in the last five-year period, in line with rises in clearfell areas from 2023 onwards, reflecting the pattern of private afforestation during the mid to late 1980s.

Spruce accounts for 19.6 million m³ or 78% of the total production, with pine accounting for 2.8 million m³ (11%) and other conifers 1.41 million m³ (6%).

The report said the interim forecast represented a major advance on previous forecasts, but highlighted an “urgent need” for a comprehensive forecast to support the development of the forestry sector.