Close To Nature
In Ireland, Close to Nature Forestry (CTNF)—also known as continuous cover forestry (CCF)—promotes sustainable forest management by working with natural processes and focusing on long-term ecosystem health rather than clear-felling cycles. The following are the top five core principles we use for managing our Druath woodlands close to nature, especially as aligned with Irish practice and guidelines such as those from Pro Silva Ireland, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), and the Forestry Service:
The Core Principles
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Continuous Forest Cover
Maintain a permanent forest canopy by avoiding clear-felling. Instead, Druath forests are managed through selective thinning and small-scale harvesting that mimics natural disturbance.
>Encourages natural regeneration.
>Maintains soil structure and fertility.
>Reduces visual and environmental impact.
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Natural Regeneration and Native Species Preference
Promote natural regeneration using native and site-adapted species wherever possible.
>Encourages genetic diversity and local adaptation.
>Supports Native biodiversity.
>Reduces dependency on artificial planting and external inputs.
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Structural Diversity
Create and maintain multi-layered, uneven-aged stands that include a mix of tree sizes and ages.
>Increases habitat value for wildlife.
>Improves resilience to pests, diseases, and extreme weather.
>Supports continuous productivity.
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Minimal Soil Disturbance
Protect forest soils through low-impact harvesting and minimizing mechanical disruption.
>Preserves soil carbon and microbial activity.
>Prevents erosion and nutrient loss.
>Supports healthy root systems and water regulation.
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Long-Term Ecological and Economic Sustainability
Manage forests with a long-term perspective that balances ecological health with economic viability.
>Timber is harvested in small quantities on a regular basis (single-tree or group selection).
>Enhances carbon sequestration and ecosystem services.
>Builds stable and diversified forest-based incomes.
