by Sean McGovern

 Where is the oldest forest in the Parish?

The oldest Forest in the parish is Tobberoe – Palmerstown (Derrydonnell) 206 hectares. This was originally planted in 1936 but about 90% of it has been replanted from 1959 to 1973. The old estate of Castle Ellen was reforested around 1950.

Derrydonnell Forest. Photo Copyright: Google Images

Why did Landlords plant Forests around their houses e.g. Castle Lambert and Castle Ellen?

To enhance the appearance of their estates, for privacy, status – e.g. tree lined avenues (still at Castle Ellen) for recreation – to satisfy the shooting needs of the gentry as the woods were stocked mainly with woodcock, pheasant. The trees were planted in large groups with wide spaces between (ride lines) to enable the followers to shoot the game as they were driven from one block of trees to another. These woods also provided fox – coverts as the landlords also engaged in hunting and these old estates initiated the founding of the Galway Blazers. Their first meeting was held in Castle Lambert.

What is the area of state forests at present?

Approx. 340 hectares of state Forestry in the parish (now Coillte Teoranta – a semi-state company).

What variety of trees are most common?

The most common trees are Sitka Spruce, Norway spruce, Hodge pole Pine, Grand Fir and a small percentage of Ash, Beech, Sycamore and Sests Pine.

How often are trees planted and what type of soils suits afforestation?

The Rotation is 40 – 50 years. The best type of soil is marginal agricultural land, e.g. rushy soil as it suits Sitka Spruce, which has the greatest economic potential. Old woodlands are also suitable for re-forestation but crops are costly to establish due to cleaning costs of scrub which is usually standard.

What are the trees used for after being cut?

The trees are used for the following purposes:

1. Pulp wood – small thinning’s and tops of large trees for the manufacture of chip wood. (Under 14cm top diameter).
2. Stake wood – light straight poles.
3. Pallet wood – 14 – 19cm top diameter.
4. Commercial timber – 20cm top diameter and over for building furniture etc.
5. Hurley Ash – roots used for Hurley’s – 1.2 metres in length.

Does the Government own all the plantations in this Parish?

The Government owns approx. 90% of the plantations in the Parish.

How much employment is given locally?

At present there are six working in the parish – 4 of these are on contract.

FLORA

Most of the common flora is present, e.g. Heather, Ferns, Bracken, Briar, Rushes, Bluebells, Wild Strawberry, Herb Roverl, and Wood Sorrell.

FAUNA

Hare, Rabbits, Foxes, Badgers, Field mice, Red Squirrel.