The North East Forestry Group (NEFG), jointly with Teagasc, held an informative windblow replanting event at Kilmainhamwood on Peter Farrelly’s forest. The site suffered windblow in 2025 and was replanted in February 2026. NEFG had also visited the property in February 2025, giving members an opportunity to see its progress since the storm.

Attendance and contributors

Over 25 NEFG members attended. Kevin O’Connell of Teagasc co-hosted the event and outlined the challenges and benefits of replanting, together with grant structures and compensation arrangements.

Lara and Sean from None So Hardy brought three samples of planting stock commonly used by forest owners. The forestry inspectors for Meath and Cavan also attended, along with Paddy, the forester who carried out the replanting.

Mounding and pit planting

Members discussed the relative merits of mounding and pit planting. Pit planting can create challenges with weed control, while mounding can make replanting difficult and introduce safety concerns for planting crews, particularly on windblown ground.

Weed control and tree establishment

Peter described serious weed competition earlier in the year. Workers had to return with strimmers and slash hooks to locate and clear the young trees, followed by further herbicide spraying. The experience underlined the importance of timely follow-up management.

Pine weevil protection

Possible pine weevil activity was identified during the visit. The original replanting stock had been treated for weevil by None So Hardy. Lara explained that Sitka spruce planting stock is now commonly purchased pre-treated, with protection typically lasting approximately nine to twelve months. Continued monitoring remains important.

Replanting supports

Kevin O’Connell explained the practical challenges and benefits of replanting after windblow, including the available grant structure and compensation for replanting. Members had many questions about the process.

Member engagement and future events

The group was highly engaged, with plenty of questions and useful exchanges of experience. It was an excellent networking opportunity.

NEFG also looks forward to hosting a hardwood-focused event to encourage members to become more involved in managing their hardwood plantations. We hope that more members affected by windblow will be able to replant their forests over the coming year.

Thanks and acknowledgements

Sincere thanks to Peter Farrelly for once again making his forest available and arranging tea and biscuits, and to Ciarán Clarke for bringing hot water for the tea and coffee. Thanks also to Kevin O’Connell and Teagasc, Lara and Sean from None So Hardy, the forestry inspectors, Pat, and all the NEFG members who attended.

John Sherlock
North East Forestry Group

Event photographs

Photographs by John Sherlock