Join your guide and host Dr. Fred Smith on this spectacular farm/forestry tour. Enjoy the dramatic beauty of the Irish and Scottish countryside. Be amazed at the living history. Explore the dynamic cities, tranquil forests, rolling fields dotted with sheep, and the wild coast. Discover Ireland’s well preserved parks, and Scotland’s moors and castles.
Learn about the forest industry. Study the successful blend of farming and forestry. Visit forests, mills and research centers. Meet and interview foresters, farmers, industry leaders, scientists, and professional colleagues.
Our Thirteen day tour departs
Seattle Saturday, May 3, 2008
Sunday, 04 May
Arrive Dublin. Welcome at airport by Anglatin and our Irish Hosts. Transfer to hotel in Dublin. Guided tour of Dublin including St Patrick’s Cathederal, Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Afternoon free to explore the neighborhood. Welcome dinner. Overnight Dublin
Monday, 05 May
Breakfast. Workshop with forestry consultant including an overview of the Irish forestry industry, the rapid expansion of plantings and the role of forester’s tax free status. Guided tour of Wicklow Evergreen State Forest including Sitka Spruce and Japanese Larch plantings. Interview with state forester. Tour of Glendalough deep in the Wicklow mountains. Return to Dublin. Dinner in one of Dublin’s popular restaurants. Overnight Dublin
Tuesday, 06 May
Breakfast. Visit of forest industry equipment and service supplier. Interview with management regarding new products and methods. Tour of Christmas tree farm producing Norway Spruce and Noble Fir. Interview with owner. Guided visit of Kilkenny Castle, one of Ireland’s most famous. Continue to Kilkenny. Group dinner with entertainment. Overnight Kilkenny
Wednesday, 07 May
Breakfast. Tour of a modern tree nursery. Interview with manager and learn about their work improving native species. Visit the Waterford Crystal Glass company, and buy a glass to use at the next visit! Tour of Old Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery. Sampling included. Group dinner in traditional local setting. Overnight Cork
Thursday, 08 May
Breakfast. Meet with forestry advisor of the State Agricultural Service. Discuss the services they provide and learn about forestry challenges in Ireland. Visit a commercial hardwood forest featuring native Ash. Interview the forest manager about his silviculture practices. Workshop with SWS Services, a consulting company providing tree farm establishment, maintenance, management, harvest, and other services. Visit local dairy farm and visit with the family about farming, farm life and local politics. Group dinner in a popular Killarney restaurant. Overnight Killarney
Friday, 09 May
Breakfast. Visit modern wood processing plant. Interview plant manager. Visit Garnish Island in Bantry Bay, a famous historical site. Group dinner and a relaxing evening. Overnight Killarney
Saturday, 10 May
Breakfast. Make the Circuit of the Ring of Kerry, a must experience for first timers in Ireland. Tour newly planted forest and talk with the manager about his plans. Tour Muckross Mansion and gardens, a delight for plant lovers. Group dinner. Overnight Killarney
Twelve breakfasts
