FRA claims Irish forestry investment is a ‘good bet’

The sale of 20 forestry plantations in Ireland has received the backing of FRA, which supports investment in sustainable forestry projects around the world.

Seattle, United States, January 19, 2012 — The sale of 20 forestry plantations in Ireland has received the backing of Forestry Research Associates (FRA), which supports investment in sustainable forestry projects around the world.

The research and analysis consultancy claims that the selling of 20 plantations across several counties in Ireland is a great opportunity for foreign investors, as the trees are currently at 50 per cent maturity and will grow further, generating returns.

An agent called DTZ Sherry FitzGerald is offering the 20 sites for sale or investment, at a cost of EUR 4,900 per hectare, which totals some EUR 4.5 million for the entire 371-hectare portfolio. The forest areas are located in eight counties, including County Clare and Leitrim, which has three and seven plantations each, respectively.

FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins, said the forestry plantations in question have sensibly managed the age range of the trees to maximise the continual maturity that will ensure cash keeps being generated for the investors.

“This is also central to the sustainability of a managed forest and will ensure that forests are productive, while remaining standing for years to come if managed properly,” explained Mr Collins.

He added “We think this opportunity is a solid one for those looking to invest in forestry, as the direct investment model will help to provide investors with genuine diversity within their portfolio, which will protect them from the volatilities of the equity markets.”

FRA supports other similar plantation schemes in developing countries where these kinds of projects can help to reduce destruction of the local forests. Greenwood Management’s plantation schemes in Brazil, for example, plant non-native timbers, which grow quickly and can be used in the production of charcoal for the steel industry. FRA claims that this reduces the deforestation of native forests to meet the demand for charcoal from the booming steel market.

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Tel: (206) 316 8394
E-Mail: info@forestry-research.com
Web: http://www.forestry-research.com