The call for entries is now open
Application deadline is December 19, 2025
In 1987, the RDS organised the first Forestry Awards Ceremony, known as the Irish Forest & Woodlands Awards which sought to recognise the importance of forestry in the rural and national economy. That tradition continues in celebrating farmers and woodland owners that have adopted Climate-Smart Agricultural practices on their properties in Ireland. With a prize fund of €12,000 the awards promote the economic, environmental and social benefits of good forestry and farming. From magnificent historic woodlands, to innovative commercial forests, the awards reveal inspiring examples of the benefits and diversity of forestry in Ireland.
Award Categories:
- Silvicultural Excellence & Innovation Award
- Community Woodland Award
- Teagasc Farm Forestry Award
- Native Woodland Conservation Award
Native Woodland Conservation Award
The Native Woodland Conservation Award aims to recognise excellence in the conservation and management of native forests and semi-natural woodlands which are regarded as ancient or long established* (See description below) and managed in a sustainable way that is both beneficial to biodiversity and the local economy. Woodlands of Ireland proposed the idea of the native woodland conservation award and worked with the RDS to develop its introduction in 2024.
RDS Irish Forest and Woodland Awards 2024
RDS Irish Forest and Woodlands Award 2025
Prizes:
- The winner in each of the below categories will receive €2,000 and an RDS Silver Medal. Category winners will also receive a specially commissioned trophy.
- The runner-up in each category will receive €1,000 and an RDS Certificate of Merit.
- The shortlisted is each category will be announced in local newspapers and on the RDS social media channels.
- All the unsuccessful applicants will receive a letter from the judging panel to share constructive feedback.
- Award winners will be announced at the 2026 RDS Spring Agriculture and Forestry Awards ceremony which will take place in the RDS Concert Hall in April.
Native Woodland Conservation Award Winners 2025
Watch Video of Award Winners 2025
Winner – Hazelwood (Coillte), Co. Sligo | Runner up – Paul Maguire, Co. Mayo
Note: *Areas must be ancient or long established as described in ‘A provisional inventory of ancient and long‐established woodland in Ireland’ (NPWS 2010) pages 5-6 in the link below: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/IWM46.pdf