Euroforest to hold information evenings for Mayo forestry owners impacted by storm
The recent hurricane-force winds brought by Storm Éowyn have left nearly every forestry plantation in Mayo impacted by windblown trees. In response, Euroforest, Ireland’s largest independent timber harvesting company, is organising information evenings in South and East Mayo to assist forestry owners in dealing with the aftermath.
Euroforest operates exclusively in the private sector, working directly with forestry owners and developing export markets for logs from ports in Sligo, Limerick, and Dundalk.
The company has been inundated with calls from concerned forestry owners seeking guidance on what to do with their windblown timber and how to handle it safely.
Managing Director Paddy Bruton acknowledged the unprecedented scale of damage, stating, “Such was the strength of this storm that, regardless of how well-maintained a plantation was, there was bound to be damage.”
With an immense quantity of fallen timber to process in a short period, Bruton stressed that swift and sensible action is crucial for forestry owners. “This is not a time to wait for something to happen.
Forestry owners need to take action soon,” he warned.
The Euroforest team will be presenting options and solutions during the upcoming information evenings, aiming to provide clarity and direction for those affected. The meetings will offer a vital opportunity for forestry owners to learn how to manage their windblown timber effectively while maximising its value.
The upcoming meetings will cover crucial topics to support forestry owners, including:
- Timber Pricing and Sales Methods – Guidance on where to start and the best options for selling timber.
- Key Considerations When Selling Timber – Understanding parameters from the time of planting.
- Health & Safety Concerns – The importance of safe practices when dealing with windblown trees.
- Timber Degradation Risks – How quickly windblown timber can deteriorate and why prompt action is necessary.
Bruton stated that while Euroforest has the capability to harvest and export timber, the sheer volume of windblown trees means they “can’t do it all.” However, they are committed to helping forestry owners navigate the situation effectively.
Event Details
Two information evenings have been scheduled for forestry owners in Mayo.
Claremorris Family Resource Centre, Mount Street, Claremorris, Co. Mayo (F12 H2C2)
Date: February 17.
Time: 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m.
Kilkelly Community Centre, High Street, Kilkelly, Co. Mayo (F35 EP60)
Date: February 20.
Time: 5.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m.
For more information, forestry owners can contact Euroforest at 0402 26500 or 087 7167108, visit www.euroforestireland.ie, or email info@euroforestireland.ie.