Native woodland scheme is aimed at protecting and expanding Irelands native woodlands resource and associated biodiversity.

Native woodlands are usually described as woodlands in which native tree, shrub and herb species dominate.
The scheme is divided into two elements

Element 1

Conservation: which provides funding for the protection and enhancement of existing native woodlands. This also provides for the conversion of non-native forest to native woodland status.
The scheme includes a conservation grant for all work carried out and also premiums (€120 per ha) for up to 20 years.

Element 2

Establishment: which provides funding for the establishment of new native woodlands on open sites through planting or natural regeneration. This includes the establishment grant and premiums for 20 years.
Where the applicant is a REPS farmer he/ she can apply for the FEPS premium in addition to the NWS establishment premium.

The relevant premiums are as follows: