Hedge Laying One-Day Course

IFA Countryside, in association with Hedgerows Ireland presents this one day introductory course which will provide you with the fundamental skills to start hedge laying on your own land.

Course Details:

📅: Saturday 17th October 2026
📍: McLoughlin Farm, Tinnamuck West, Co Offaly N37 ET72
🕛: 9:30 am to 4:00 pm

Hedge laying is the traditional method of managing hedgerows through cutting and laying to create a living, stock-proof barrier which will last for generations. Hedge laying creates abundant, thriving hedgerows which boost biodiversity, increase carbon sequestration and improve drought resistance.

Hedgerows are a defining feature of our countryside with significant cultural and historical importance.

Course outline:

• A brief introduction on the history and practice of hedge laying, the role of hedgerows through the ages, their purpose and the necessity of regular management.
• A description of the method of hedge laying coupled with a tool and safety talk.
• A walk along the hedge we’ll be working on talking through the process.
• Preparing the hedge and cutting, working in groups to cut, lay, clear brash and prepare stakes under supervision and instruction.

This is an intense, physical day so a reasonable level of fitness is required, along with stout outdoor clothing and metal capped boots.

Lunch and refreshments included.

 What to bring:

• Please bring safety glasses (available from Screwfix or similar).
• Bring a good, sturdy pair of gloves, ideally rigger gloves or similar.
• Wear good quality steel capped work boots, no runners or wellingtons.
• Wear sensible outdoor clothing and bring waterproofs.
• If you have any tools such as a small axe/bill hook, bring them along.

Access to IFA Countryside training courses is an exclusive benefit of membership. Our Countryside Skills Programme has been developed to provide members with practical, high-quality training in traditional rural skills, conservation and countryside activities.

If you’re not already a member, joining is quick and easy. Membership gives you access to a growing programme of subsidised courses, along with a range of additional benefits.

How to Join:

You can become an IFA Countryside member online in just a few minutes by visiting https://ifacountryside.ie/membership/#quote or by calling 0818 924 982, where our team will be happy to assist you.

Once your membership is confirmed, you’ll be eligible to book this course and enjoy all the benefits of IFA Countryside membership.

Existing members can book the course here.