CELEBRATE
NATIONAL TREE WEEK!
SUNDAY 3RD MARCH TO SUNDAY 10TH MARCH 2024
A week-long programme of events to celebrate all things trees!
National Tree Week is an annual event organised by the Tree Council of Ireland in partnership with Coillte. It is the largest tree celebration in the country, providing a unique opportunity for
people to come together and celebrate the beauty and importance of Ireland's trees!
This year, the event's theme Planting Trees for a Greener Future aims to emphasise the importance
of trees and forests in helping to mitigate climate change and promote biodiversity.
Sapling trees are provided by Coillte to County Councils for distribution to Communities across the country. If you are hosting a National Tree Week event and would like to acquire
trees, please get in touch with your local County Council
The Annual Augustine Henry Forestry Lecture
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Pictured: Former President of the Tree Council of Ireland, John Mc Loughlin with Dr Mark Johnston
The Annual Augustine Henry Lecture which takes place in National Botanic Gardens and organised by the Society of Irish Foresters is a highlight event of National Tree Week.
This Year's Guest Speaker
Dr Mark Johnston
Urban Forestry in Ireland - Planting an Idea.
The concept of urban forestry emerged in North America in the late 1960s as a radical new approach to urban tree management. It emphasises the importance of a planned, systematic and integrated approach to managing the urban forest, all the trees and woodlands in and around a town or city. Urban forestry aims to maximise the environmental, economic and social benefits of urban trees for the benefit of everyone who lives and works in urban areas.
Official Launch of National Tree Week
Heritage House, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois on Sunday 3rd March
President of the Tree Council, Cormac Downey, Pat Neville, Communications Manager from Coillte,
Abbeyleix Tidy Towns and special guest Dr Niamh Shaw gathered with
Members and Friends of the Tree Council to celebrate National Tree Day.
The occasion was marked by planting a ceremonial tree on the grounds of Heritage House in Abbeyleix.
Photo Competition!
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...and the Winners of the Class Trip to
Coillte's Beyond the Trees, Avondale Forest Park
are...
Thank you to everyone who took part!
Leinster
3rd Class - St Helens Senior National School, Portmarnock, Co Dublin
I choose this photo simply because I love how green the photo is. It looks magical with the bridge and the river and all the green reflecting off the river.
I would love to bring my class to Avondale because they are all very enthusiastic about the competition and we have recently done a tree identifying lesson with all the different twigs and they were really interested in it.
Connaught
Kilbannon NS Tuam Co. Galway
This tree in Knockma Forest, Castlehacket is our favourite tree because we love how old and twisty it is. We planted a fairy door there and made a short film there in 2020. We got to dress up and dance, sing and play music in the trees.
We love to run , play hide and seek and climb the trees. We love the squishy moss under the trees at this time of year. We enjoyed visiting again to take these photos.
Munster
6th Class - Corofin National School, Corofin, Co.Clare
This is a tree in the field where we walk our dogs. We like this tree because we thought it looked like an eye! COOL 😎
Ulster
3rd Class - All Saints' N.S. Doohamlet, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan
Edward 1 and 2 - Loves going down to Rossmore Park. It is his favourite place to go for a walk.
Planting Trees for a Greener Future
Planting and establishing trees is widely recognised as a crucial component of addressing environmental challenges and promoting a sustainable future. Trees play a vital role in various aspects of the ecosystem. Here are some reasons why establishing more trees is considered essential for our future.
If you are Planting Trees consider...
Efforts to plant and establish trees and conserve existing forests are integral to achieving environmental sustainability. Governments, organisations, and individuals can contribute to these efforts through planting trees and woodlands, sustainable land management practices, and responsible consumption of forest resources. Planting trees is indeed an investment in the future, fostering a healthier planet for us and for generations to come.
To maximise the impact of tree planting efforts, it is important to consider factors such, as ensuring proper land management practices and involving local communities. Collective and sustained efforts are essential to creating a greener and healthier planet for future generations.
Remember, the benefits of planting trees extend beyond the immediate environment and have a positive impact on global well-being. Every tree planted is a step toward a healthier and more sustainable future.
SPECIES CHOICE
Select trees that contribute to your planting goals. Native trees are good for biodiversity; conifers and commercial forests are efficient at carbon capture.
PLAN PROPERLY
Consider factors such as soil type, aspect and available space before planting. Proper planning increases the likelihood of successful tree growth.
MAINTAIN CARE
Newly planted trees require care and attention. Water them regularly, protect them from pests, and provide necessary nutrients.
GET INVOLVED IN COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
Join local tree-planting programmes or environmental organisations to contribute to larger-scale efforts and make a more significant impact.
EDUCATE OTHERS
Raise awareness about the importance of trees and encourage others to participate in tree-planting initiatives.
PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Advocate for sustainable land use and forestry practices that prioritise the long-term health of ecosystems and the combating of climate change.
For National Tree Week Why Not Visit!
Journey beyond the trees at Avondale House and Forest Park, as you enjoy a truly immersive and unique experience in our forest.
Begin with a leisurely stroll along the fully accessible 1.4km walkway. Weave your way up and down through the trees, and as the forest floor falls away towards the valley, you will gently rise above the canopy. Awaken all your senses, as you find yourself surrounded by Yew, Larch, Fir, Oak, Spruce, and the magnificent Giant Redwood trees, to name just a few.
Children’s play areas, and interpretive points along the way, will introduce you to a new perspective of the forest. You will learn about the trees, plants, birds, and animals that will be all around you, along with the history of Avondale, its important role as the birthplace of Irish forestry, and how Coillte is caring for this forest so that it is here for generations to come.
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When the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, something enchanting happens at Beyond the Trees Avondale. We’re thrilled to introduce “Treetop Night Lights,” a captivating nocturnal adventure that unfolds among the majestic trees of Avondale Forest Park.
Tree planting is one thing but the list is varied of ways to celebrate National Tree Week.
You are only limited by imagination!
IDEAS TO CELEBRATE TREES! 😁🌳
Enjoy the outdoors. Visit a local park or woodland and take a nature walk...
Click the link to find a woodland in your county...
Learn about Shrinrin-Yoku, the art of Forest Bathing and reconnect with Mother Nature.
Click the link where we explain more.
Events of 2024 marking
National Tree Week
WOODLAND WALKS
During National Tree Week everyone is encouraged to take a moment in time and visit one of our numerous woodlands to explore the wonderful world of trees!
There are so many marvellous forests throughout Ireland that one is spoilt for choice.
We have drawn up a list of just some to consider...
