Coillte's Farm Partnership Scheme has proved extremely popular since its introduction in 1992. To date over 10,000 hectares have been planted in partnership with farmers throughout the country. By entering into a Farm Partnership with Coillte, you retain ownership of your land and will receive a tax-free income for the life of the crop as well as an advance payment of up to €635|?500 per hectare (€254 (?200) per acre). You benefit from Coillte's management and marketing skills throughout the life of the crop and you receive the larger share of the clearfell profits.
The key features of the scheme are as follows:
The farmer retains ownership of the land.
An advance payment of up to €635|?500 per hectare is made at the start of the scheme.
A Forest Premium is paid by the Forest Service for 20 or 15 years depending on the landowner's qualifications (Farmer/Non-Farmer).
The farmer receives 80% of thinning profits. This amount will be paid annually from the time the premium payments cease until year prior to clearfell. This is known as the thinning annuity.
The farmer receives 55% of clearfell profits.
Alternatively you can increase your annuity by bringing forward part of your clearfell profits.
Professional management for the life of the crop.