Waterford woodlands shortlisted in coveted RDS Forestry Awards

Crough woodlands in County Waterford has been shortlisted in the RDS Forestry Awards, which recognise and reward farmers and woodland owners that have adopted Climate-Smart Agricultural practices on their properties. 

These practices include sound commercial management, environmental protection, and biodiversity. The twin goals of promoting the economic and environmental benefits of good forestry and farming are fundamental to what the RDS hopes to achieve through its agriculture and rural affairs programme.

The awards will take place on Thursday, April 10, as part of the ‘Finding Common Ground’ festival in the RDS in Dublin.

Crough Wood, located in Kilmacthomas, Waterford, has been shortlisted for this prestigious award in the Community Woodland Award Category, which is designed to encourage and reward projects involving the communal ownership and management of forests and woodlands, which have been established and managed in a sustainable way. 

Formed in 1996, the Comeragh Community Development group has developed the Crough Wood Walk for locals and visitors to enjoy and for nature to thrive.

The ‘Finding Common Ground’ festival, which takes place over two days in the RDS in Ballsbridge, is being delivered as one of the RDS Foundation social impact programmes. It will bring together scientists, researchers, policymakers, industry professionals, practitioners, advocates and RDS members to explore how Ireland can harness the benefits of our natural resources and the circular economy with a view to creating increased awareness, education and identification of solutions.

A series of talks and panel discussions will focus on the latest advancements and challenges in areas, such as land use, forestry and the bioeconomy. The broad programme will also explore topics, such as decarbonising construction, how to use the arts to engage with environmental societal change and primary science education.