Forest certification has become a necessity rather than an option for private forest owners, according to Tom Hickey, Secretary of the Waterford Forest Owners Group and a member of Irish Forest Owners.

Speaking about rapid changes in the sector, Hickey explained that while the market traditionally required around 70% of forestry to be certified, the shift in ownership means the onus is now firmly on private growers. Private and farmer-owned forestry now accounts for 50–55% of Ireland’s forest estate, overtaking Coillte’s dominance.

Certification, he stressed, is market-driven:

if you’re not certified, you’re not getting into the market.

Some wood factories have already stated they will not accept uncertified timber, making certification critical for anyone hoping to sell sawlog or pulp.

Beyond market access, certification underpins high standards in water quality, soil protection, and health and safety, as well as strict on-site waste rules, no plastic, tins, or glass left in the forest.

The government’s new “I Plan”, introduced in 2025, aims to support farmers and forest owners with paperwork and costs. Departmental funding, Hickey said, will almost fully cover certification expenses.

The process typically takes a couple of months, with coordinators and advisory bodies such as Teagasc and Irish Timber Growers/Users available to guide owners.

Forest owners can also get information at the upcoming Woodstock Woodland Show in Co. Kilkenny, on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th August, where Irish Forest Owners and Waterford representatives will be on hand to answer questions.