Biodiversity Week in Leitrim

Ireland’s nature and wildlife will take centre stage from 17-26 May, with over 250 events scheduled across the country for National Biodiversity Week including in Leitrim.

As well as highlighting the importance of biodiversity, National Biodiversity Week is also about experiencing the fun, enjoyment and spectacle of the nature that surrounds us.

The annual 10-day celebration of nature and wildlife offers a variety of free events and activities for the whole family. Organised by the Irish Environmental Network and funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the week will provide opportunities for the public to connect with nature and learn from local experts and groups actively working to protect our natural heritage.

The Organic Centre is hosting ten of the free events in Leitrim on their calendar for Biodiversity Week says Dervilla Keegan, Communications and Policy Officer.

'There will be something for everyone from Mini Bioblitz with Fiona Wheeldon facilitator of 'Green Shoots' playgroup, to discovering the hidden biodiversity of the centre with NPWS ranger Rob Wheeldon, or exploring by fresh water surveying on the beautiful Fowleys falls trial with Ingrid Foley. Of particular interest for many will be a discussion with Mark Mc Dowell from Hedgerows Ireland and botanist Maria Cullen about the upcoming threat to our native hawthorn from Fire Blight. There's a daily self guided scavenger hunt throughout the period and you can also make a day if it and relax in our cafe with Matt Cater, open throughout Biodiversity Week events.'

As people gather to celebrate biodiversity across Ireland, they’ll also discuss how to protect and restore biodiversity. With 85% of Ireland’s EU-protected habitats reported to be in “unfavourable” condition and 46% of these in decline,Ireland faces a future of rapidly disappearing wildlife unless action is taken.

Karen Ciesielski, Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Environmental Network, said: “National Biodiversity Week is an opportunity to explore Ireland’s natural heritage and connect us all with nature. The beauty of National Biodiversity Week is that it not only educates but brings back the fun and wonder of nature. With more than 250 events, it draws people together from across Ireland to enjoy and be inspired by nature.

But it’s also a call to action to help address the alarming decline in our natural habitats. We are in the midst of a biodiversity crisis and Ireland is suffering widespread habitat destruction and nature loss.

Nature is not just something that is nice to have or to look at – we need healthy ecosystems, clean water, fresh and unpolluted air and sustainable food for our health and well-being. National Biodiversity Week not only celebrates nature but inspires people to protect and enhance it.”

A full listing of Biodiversity Week events in the Organic Centre can be seen here. https://www.theorganiccentre.ie/page/Biodiversity%20Week