Westmeath has seen a sharp drop in afforestation.
Ireland is seeing a continued decline in tree planting.
Forest Statistics Ireland's 2025 reports shows there's been a 5% drop over the course of 2024.
It's a mixed picture in midlands afforestation.
Last year Laois planted the least amount in the region at just 29 hectares, up from 21 in the year previous.
Offaly follows at 40, up from 31, while 54 hectares of forestry was planted in Westmeath - down from 76.
Laois and Offaly maintain above-average forest cover at 16%, while Westmeath follows at 9.1%.
All three counties have significant ash plantations, with broadleaf planting on the rise.
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