Forest Genetic Resources Reproductive Material Scheme

The conservation and development of indigenous forest genetic resources is fundamental to achieving the objectives of Ireland’s national forest policy. The Forest Genetic Resources Reproductive Material measure of the Forestry Programme aims to increase the availability and quality of forest tree seed through supporting the management of seed stands, and the establishment of new seed orchards. The scheme is comprised of two elements:

Element 1 seed stand management: provides financial support to forest holders to encourage the management of their forest for seed production.

Element 2 seed orchard establishment: provides financial support for the establishment of new forest tree seed orchards.

The scheme is open to private and public forest-holders including forest nurseries.

Element 1: Seed stand management

Broadleaf seed stands, and minor conifer seed stands, including Scots pine and Douglas fir, registered on the National List of Forest Basic Material will be considered for funding. The maximum area eligible for funding is 5ha (10ha for oak) although the total area of the seed stand can be larger.

The scheme does allow for new seed stands to be registered on the National Register of Forest Basic Material at which point they will become eligible to apply for support. In particular, the scheme would like to encourage the registration of more sessile and pedunculate oak seed stands, and also seed stands for minor species and understorey species, as listed under the Native Woodland Scheme.

Element 2: Seed orchard establishment

The establishment of new indoor and outdoor seed orchards for key forest tree species shall be considered. The basic material which makes up the orchards must meet the minimum requirements ‘Qualified’ or ‘Tested ‘as set out in the Council Directive 1999/105/EC on the on the marketing of forest reproductive material.

Element 1: Seed stand management

There is a fixed grant of 100% of eligible costs up to a maximum of €750/ha, payable in two instalments. The first grant instalment (75%) is payable when works are completed and verified. The second grant instalment of €150/ha will be paid when evidence is submitted that seed has been produced and collected. You will be obliged to maintain the seed stand for 7 years from the date of completion of works.

Element 2: Seed orchard establishment

Support for the establishment of outdoor seed orchards shall be 50% of the eligible costs of establishment, up to a maximum of €10,000/ha for a maximum of 5ha.

In the case of indoor seed orchards, 50% of vouched eligible costs will be supported up to a maximum of €50,000 per application per applicant.

For outdoor orchards susceptible to deer damage and where deemed appropriate by the Forest Service additional support for deer fencing will be provided. This will be paid in accordance with the rates and densities per hectare as described in the Afforestation Scheme document and set out in the Annex of the scheme document.

All queries and documentation regarding Forest Genetic Resources Reproductive Material: Seed Stand & Seed Orchard Scheme should be directed to: