- Northern Ireland must more than triple its tree-planting rate by 2032 to reach a 12% woodland target by 2050 — it currently has just 8.6% cover, one of the lowest in Europe.
- A new five-year action plan, drawn up by government, the Woodland Trust, forestry groups, farmers and councils, sets 10 strategic actions to boost planting, governance, outreach and research.
- Officials say more trees will help with climate, flooding, recreation and timber jobs — but farmers want choice and simpler grants so planting fits individual businesses.
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