Planting begins on new Navan woodlands project
Meath County Council has officially commenced planting on its new 'Woodland Creation on Public Lands' project outside Navan.
Earlier this year, the Department of Agriculture Food and Marines’ (DAFM) approved Meath County Council's application to establish new native woodland on a 19.5 acres site in Liscartan, with Greenbelt appointed as the project's foresters. Greenbelt will oversee the woodland establishment process ensuring best practices in ecological restoration and sustainable forest management.
Oak, beech, hazel, and alder trees are set to be planted in the area which will recreate lost native woodland habitats, rich in biodiversity and cultural significance.
DAFM's Woodland Creation on Public Lands Scheme recognises that native woodlands are an important part of Ireland’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage, and are unique in terms of their biodiversity.
They are home to specialised woodland animals, birds, insects, and plants, including red squirrel, pine marten, great spotted woodpecker, narrow-leaved helleborine and wood millet, to name but a few.
As well as on-site biodiversity, they provide many ecosystem services, including carbon capture, the protection and enhancement of water quality, wider habitat linkage, landscape enhancement, and opportunities for outdoor recreation, which itself promotes contact with the natural world, physical and mental well-being, and outdoor learning.
Speaking about the initiative, Mayor of Navan Cllr Edward Fennessy said: "I am absolutely delighted to be here today to help launch this fantastic project. There are almost too many benefits to mention when it comes to the restoration of native woodland habitats - natural, cultural, historical, educational - as well as the promotion of health and well-being among the local communities who will benefit immensely from this space."
Chief Executive of Meath County Council Kieran Kehoe said: "Our Climate Action Plan highlights the need for nature-based solutions to address climate change, and this project is a key step in that direction. By establishing and restoring native woodlands, we are capturing carbon, protecting our water sources, and creating rich habitats for wildlife while also enhancing the natural beauty of our public lands.”