The next generation of Welsh farmers will be encouraged to seize the benefits of planting trees on their land at an important agricultural event later this month.
Members of the Wales Young Farmer’s Club will gather for an event at Welshpool Livestock Sales on Saturday, 16 April, during which the Senior and Junior stock judge of the year will be announced.
During an action packed field day, the young farmers will also be competing in an ATV challenge and will demonstrate their skills in a fencing competition.
The attendees will also be offered free advice on how to apply for grants to plant new woodlands through the Glastir woodland creation scheme, which was developed by Forestry Commission Wales on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government.
FC Wales Woodland officer Ken Smith will man a stand at the event and will promote the benefits of tree planting on farms.
He said, “In addition to providing timber and fuel, trees can be used to create shelter for crops, stock or buildings and can prevent run-off and reduce soil erosion.
“It really is a win-win situation for farmers. As well as helping to tackle climate change by locking up carbon dioxide, woodland can also enhance the value of farms by offering an opportunity to generate income from shooting.”
The new grant, which was launched at the end of October, aims to help fulfil the Assembly Government’s commitment to increase the amount of tree cover in Wales, as well as the range of tree species.
The increased level of grant on offer reflects the Assembly Government’s strategy, Woodlands for Wales, which emphasises the need to plant more woodlands.
Under the new scheme, farmers could get up to £9,000 per hectare to plant new woodland. Landowners do not need to have applied for the Glastir All-Wales element and it will not have any effect on any future application to Glastir.
It includes an establishment grant over three years, a fencing grant and a payment for 15 years which compensates the landowner for the loss of agricultural income.
Kay Lewis, Rural Development Officer for Wales YFC, said, “Woodland has a range of benefits for farmers and Wales YFC is promoting and encouraging its members to take up the new planting grants.”
Wales YFC is a voluntary organisation that represents 6,000 young people in rural Wales. Although the name refers to “Young Farmers”, members include young people from all walks of life.
Kay said, “You don’t need to be a farmer to be a member – in fact, if you’re aged between 10 and 26 years old and want to live a little and learn a lot, then Wales YFC is most definitely for you!”
The event starts at 10.00am and entry is free. Only Wales YFC members can enter the competitions.
During the day, Ken will also be stressing the importance of contacting the Forestry Commission before felling trees to check if a Felling Licence is required.
To receive more information on grants for new planting, ring 0300 068 0300 and ask for the Forestry Commission Glastir Woodland team, e-mail [email protected] or look online at www.forestry.gov.uk/glastirwoodland
