Native Trees and Forests of Ireland

Ireland's native trees and woodlands have been with us for the last 10,000 years. Where once they covered the whole island, today, they cover less than one per cent. But the woodlands that have survived are some of the richest ecosystems in the country, providing the perfect environment for many species of native animals and plants. "Native Trees and Forests of Ireland" is a celebration of the precious heritage of Ireland's trees and woodlands. This is a story with a future, as well as a past and a present. David Hickie recounts the history, the tree species, the folklore and superstitions of our native woods, as well as the traditional uses of timber products. He looks at the future of Ireland's native trees and forests, how to manage and protect them and plan for their further development. Photographer Mike O'Toole spent a year shooting these extraordinary photographs. Accompanied by an excellent and informative text, "Native Trees and Forests of Ireland" is an important and beautiful record of a unique part of Ireland's heritage. Some tree organisations in Ireland are: The People's Millenium Forest facts; Coilte; Crann, and The Tree Council of Ireland.