Trees,Woodland and Woodmanship in Early Mediaeval Ireland

Summary

The evidence for woodmanship in mediaeval Ireland is discussed. Palynological evidence dispels the continuing myth that there were vast mediaeval woods. Nonetheless, place name and documentary sources indicate discrete areas of woodland. At these places underwood was probably managed, livestock sheltered and fattened, berries and nuts gathered and timber felled. A range of historical texts and archaeological excavations support these claims. Woodland was an important aspect of the agricultural landscape and economy.