Visit local forests this Christmas - Coillte

Coillte is encouraging the people of Westmeath to enjoy their local forest over the Christmas period.

According to a new survey commissioned by Coillte, the semi-state forestry company, 86% of those surveyed agree that getting out into nature and exploring their local forest has a positive impact on their physical and mental wellbeing, while 82% believe forests are important for nature and biodiversity.

Of all respondents, (81%) say Ireland needs to grow more trees to combat climate change, while 74% agree that having a mix of trees, such as conifers that grow quickly and capture carbon at a high rate, along with broadleaves that provide a long-term store of carbon, is important for climate action.

In terms of tackling climate change, the majority surveyed (66%) are in favour of using Irish wood as an alternative building material to high-carbon materials such as concrete and steel.

Speaking about the survey, Paul Jordan, Regional Manager Coillte, said, “At Coillte we recognise the importance of nature and forests in supporting our overall wellbeing and it’s encouraging to see that the majority of the Irish public agrees, as revealed in our recent survey. Westmeath has a range of beautiful Coillte forests for people to enjoy, including the beloved Mullaghameen Forest and Carn Park bog near Athlone. We are encouraging people to explore their local Coillte forests over the coming months where possible, especially during the festive season, and spend time reconnecting with nature.”

Located nine kilometres from Castlepollard, Mullaghameen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. It is a popular wood that’s renowned for its beech trees and rich mix of ash, hazel, birch, oak, Scots pine, silver fir, Monterey pine, and larch.  The forest is home to an array of wildlife, including squirrels, badgers and even long eared owls.

The summit of Mullaghmeen provides magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin and into the neighbouring county of Cavan. The area also has an extensive network of way marked trails for varying levels of fitness. There are three looped walks and a multi access trail in a broadleaved forest setting for visitors to explore.