Ireland, though often perceived as largely treeless, does possess forests. Extensive historical deforestation significantly reduced its forest cover, but efforts are underway to expand and diversify them. The current landscape reflects centuries of human activity that transformed a once heavily forested island.
Ireland’s Forest History
Around 6,000 to 9,000 years ago, forests covered over 80% of Ireland, primarily with oak woodlands in lowlands and pine forests on poorer soils. Early settlers began clearing these forests for agriculture during the Neolithic period, a practice that continued through the Bronze and Iron Ages to meet the demands of a growing population.
The decline intensified during the Middle Ages, with Normans clearing land for livestock grazing and construction. Deforestation continued in the 16th and 17th centuries as English settlers cleared vast tracts for pasture and crops. By 1600, forest cover plummeted to less than 20%, driven by agricultural expansion and demand for timber for shipbuilding, barrel production, and charcoal. Oak was even exported to rebuild London following the Great Fire in 1666.
By the end of the 19th century, Ireland’s forest cover was reduced to less than 1%. This reduction resulted from overexploitation and livestock grazing, which prevented natural regeneration. The early 20th century marked a shift, with the newly independent Irish State initiating afforestation programs on marginal lands to increase timber self-sufficiency and provide employment.
Tree Species and Distribution Today
Ireland’s current forest cover stands at approximately 11.6% of its total land area. Conifer species dominate these forests (69.4%), with broadleaf species accounting for 30.6%. Commercial forestry relies on introduced conifers like Sitka spruce, Norway spruce, and Lodgepole pine. These species are favored for their rapid growth and adaptability to Ireland’s wet, infertile, or exposed sites.
Native Irish tree species, including oak, ash, birch, hazel, Scots pine, alder, and willow, are found throughout the country. Naturally established native forests, which support extensive biodiversity, comprise approximately 1% of Ireland’s land area. These native woodlands are found in specific locations like Killarney and the Glen of the Downs, as well as in hedgerows and scattered individual trees.
Forests are geographically dispersed, with counties like Leitrim having 20.1% forest cover, while Cork holds the largest total forest area. The majority of Ireland’s forests (about 70%) consist of trees 30 years old or less. Forests are a mix of state-owned and increasingly privately owned, with a focus on diversifying species and promoting broadleaf plantings.
Promoting Future Tree Growth
Ireland promotes tree growth through initiatives to increase forest cover and enhance biodiversity. The government’s policy aims to expand the forest area to 17% by 2030, with a long-term target of 18% by 2050. This ambition is supported by the Forestry Programme 2023-2027, which provides financial incentives and grants for landowners to establish new forests.
Key schemes include the Afforestation Scheme, supporting diverse forest types, and the Native Tree Area Scheme, for creating small native forests without a full afforestation license. These programs encourage planting for climate change mitigation, timber production, and biodiversity enhancement. Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) principles are integrated into forestry practices, balancing economic, environmental, and social functions.
Beyond government incentives, organizations like Coillte Nature and community planting projects contribute to reforestation efforts, sometimes transforming peat production lands into native woodlands. There is a growing emphasis on diversifying species, moving beyond monoculture plantations, and prioritizing native broadleaf trees to foster richer ecosystems. These efforts aim to expand and sustainably manage Ireland’s forest resources.