Support our Nation today - please donate here
News

Welsh Government hikes payment rates to farmers for woodland creation

25 May 2023 2 minute read
Tree planting

The Welsh Government has increased payment rates for woodland creation and is calling on all farmers in Wales to help tackle the climate emergency by planting trees.

Climate Change Minister Julie James and Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales Lesley Griffiths confirmed today that payment rates will be increased to pay 100% of 2023’s actual costs as part of the drive to plant 86 million trees by the end of the decade to combat climate change.

Julie James said: “We are in a climate emergency and trees are our lifeline, by planting trees it removes greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere through carbon storage.

“Earlier this year, we spoke to the farming and forestry sectors to better understand potential blockers to woodland creation.

“Payment rates were an issue; we listened and are very pleased to confirm a substantial uplift today – we will now keep the rates under review, particularly while inflation remains high.”

Right place

Lesley Griffiths, added: “We want to work with farmers on the principle of ‘the right tree in the right place’.

“Planting trees can also become an asset over time – such as by providing shelter for livestock or income from the timber.

“Funding is available now and the higher rates should make it a more attractive proposition to farmers.

“We would encourage farmers throughout Wales to take advantage of the support now both in terms of funding and guidance, so we can all play our part in tackling the nature and climate emergencies, and help secure the sustainable future for the industry.”

Full details of the Forestry grants scheme are available here…….


Support our Nation today

For the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help us create an independent, not-for-profit, national news service for the people of Wales, by the people of Wales.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest
3 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
Frank
Frank
1 year ago

I travel extensively all over Wales and I cannot see a shortage of trees anywhere. I think the money could be spent on other more deserving projects.

Sion Pennant Tomos
Sion Pennant Tomos
1 year ago
Reply to  Frank

Wales has one of the lowest tree coverage areas in Europe at only 19.2% well below the average for the continent.

c3to148u00s61.png
Riki
Riki
1 year ago

Trying to hide all those ruins of ancient Brythonic cities and Caers. The best example of this is just over the river from Caerlleon.

Our Supporters

All information provided to Nation.Cymru will be handled sensitively and within the boundaries of the Data Protection Act 2018.