The Woodlands of Ireland Conference 2024, with support from CELT (Centre for Environmental Living & Training) and the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), was an outstanding event that brought together experts and advocates committed to the conservation and restoration of Ireland’s native woodlands. The conference featured an insightful field visit to the Crom Estate, managed by the UK National Trust, which provided a practical showcase of successful conservation practices.
Key areas that received significant attention and widespread support during the conference included:
Riparian nature restoration: A growing focus on restoring natural ecosystems along riverbanks, which play a critical role in maintaining water quality, preventing erosion, and supporting rich biodiversity.
Continuous cover forestry (CCF): Advocated as a sustainable forestry practice that maintains permanent tree cover, CCF supports biodiversity, enhances carbon sequestration, and promotes resilience to climate change.
Native woodlands: There was a strong emphasis on the importance of protecting and expanding Ireland's indigenous forests, essential for preserving local biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural habitats.
Coppicing: The traditional woodland management technique of coppicing was highlighted for its role in creating diverse forest structures, enhancing habitat complexity, and providing a sustainable source of timber and other resources.
These approaches reflect a holistic vision for Ireland's woodlands, balancing conservation with sustainable use, and underscoring the need for continued action and collaboration across sectors to protect these vital ecosystems.
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