Agroforestry EFS event at Loughgall

Date published: 28 August 2019

All aspects of agroforestry, including tree establishment, grazing management, biodiversity, soil improvement and economics will be covered at an agroforestry EFS event at the AFBI Deerpark farm, Drumilly Road, Loughgall on Thursday 5 September 2019.

Terence Henry (left) from CAFRE and Gary Spence discuss future management of his EFS agroforestry plot.

The agroforestry option in the EFS (W) scheme has been used by Gary Spence, farming near Annahilt, to plant approximately 600 trees. Commonly agroforestry sites are grazed with sheep. Initially however, in Gary’s plot the land between the rows of trees is currently being actively managed and when the trees are sufficiently tall and strong, he intends to graze the agroforestry with cattle.

Species planted include oak, rowan, silver birch, cherry, maple, alder and hazel. Trees are planted at 400 trees per hectare and the land remains eligible for Basic Payment Scheme with grazing, forage production or active management between the trees. Each tree is protected with a 1.5 m tubular net tree guard and stake and further tree protection measures can be employed. Stock-proof fencing of the site and installing gates and gate posts have also been grant aided under the EFS(W).

The agroforestry event starts at 2pm and is repeated in the evening at 6.30 pm. Options for use with sheep, cattle and forage production will be discussed as well as other EFS(W) options and capital items that are available in the EFS(W). Please bring waterproof clothing and suitable footwear for the field visit.

Further details and registration for the event are on the CAFRE website.

Notes to editors: 

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