Frequently Asked Questions — Treecore

What areas do you cover?

We’re based in Westport and serve West Mayo and wider County Mayo, including Castlebar, Newport, Mulranny, Louisburgh, Achill, Ballycroy, Islandeady, Ballintubber, and surrounding towns and townlands.

Are you insured and qualified?

Yes. Our tree surgery team is trained and fully insured, and our forestry work is led by a registered forester in Ireland.

What tree services do you provide?

  • Tree surgeon call-outs and safety inspections

  • Tree cutting, sectional dismantling, and felling

  • Tree pruning (crown reduction, thinning, lifting) and deadwood removal

  • Stump removal and site clearance

  • Planting, protection, and aftercare plans

Do you offer emergency storm response?

Yes. We prioritise storm-damaged or dangerous trees and can make sites safe, handle sectional dismantling, and manage traffic/pedestrian safety where required.

Can you help me choose the right trees to plant?

Absolutely. We recommend species suited to Mayo’s coastal winds, soils, and exposure, with a focus on native species for biodiversity and resilience. We also supply, plant, stake/guard, and provide aftercare plans.

What forestry services do you provide?

  • Native woodland establishment via the Native Tree Area (NTA) scheme and the Afforestation Scheme

  • Mapping, applications, and grant/premium management

  • Fencing and protection specifications

  • Management plans for privately owned woodlands

Do you provide free quotes?

Yes. We offer prompt site visits and clear, written quotes. For forestry schemes, we also provide projected grant/premium schedules.

How much does tree work cost?

Costs depend on tree size, access, complexity (e.g., working near buildings/roads), waste removal, and equipment needs. After a quick survey, we give a fixed, itemised quote.

Will you tidy up after tree work?

Yes. We chip or remove arisings as agreed, sweep/hard‑rake the work area, and can leave woodchip or logs on site if you prefer.

Do I need permission to cut or prune a tree?

Some trees are protected (Tree Preservation Orders) or fall under seasonal wildlife protections. We advise on permissions and schedule works accordingly to stay compliant.

When is the best time to prune?

It varies by species and objective. Many trees are best pruned in late winter, but we plan around species-specific needs, nesting seasons, sap flow, and disease considerations.

Can you work near power lines or public roads?

Yes. We coordinate with utilities and local authorities when required, put traffic/pedestrian management in place, and use sectional dismantling techniques for confined spaces.

Do you remove stumps?

Yes. We offer stump grinding to below ground level and can backfill with grindings or topsoil for replanting.

Can you help with tree diseases and pests?

We assess symptoms, recommend management options, and carry out pruning or removals where necessary. For forestry, we include biosecurity and species-resilience planning.

What is the Native Tree Area (NTA) scheme?

It’s a government-supported scheme to create small, high-nature-value native woodlands with simplified approvals and attractive payments. It suits smaller parcels or field margins and supports biodiversity, water protection, and carbon storage.

What grants and payments are available under the NTA?

Current guidance indicates:

  • Establishment grant: €6,744/ha (paid in two stages)

  • Annual premiums:

    • NTA 1 (small native forests): €2,206/ha for 10 years

    • NTA 2 (water protection): €2,284/ha for 10 years

  • Additional supports: deer tree shelter grant (up to €1,600/ha) and fencing grants (rates depend on fence type and scheme option)
    We confirm exact, up-to-date figures during your application and provide a clear cashflow for your site.

Who can apply for the NTA scheme?

Both farmers and non‑farmers can apply, subject to site suitability and scheme terms. We handle eligibility checks, mapping, and all paperwork.

What’s the process to enter the NTA scheme?

  • Site visit and suitability assessment

  • Mapping and species/design plan

  • Application and environmental screening

  • Planting, guards/fencing, and establishment works

  • Inspections and grant drawdown

  • Maintenance and annual premium claims over the premium period

How do I get started?

Contact us to arrange a site visit in Westport or anywhere in West Mayo/County Mayo. We’ll assess your needs, provide advice, and send a clear quote or scheme plan the same week in most cases.