Two Offaly projects receive funding under nature engagement scheme

Two local projects in Offaly have been allocated funding as part of the expanded Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme 2024.

Clara Heritage Society has been allocated €8,000 for the Bog Trotters Festival, and Ferbane Parish Community has been allocated €1,330 for the Moyclare and Ballylamon Pathway project under the scheme.

The two Offaly projects were among 36 nationally to share in more than €458,000 in funding announced by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan.

Minister Noonan said: “I am really impressed by the diverse and creative initiatives put forward by such active community and volunteer groups and environmental organisations.

"The Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme is a collaborative scheme which draws on the local community’s deep connection with our natural heritage. Through empowering local communities, we can safeguard our precious ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the impacts of climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come."

Led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Peatlands and Natura Community Engagement Scheme supports local initiatives for the conservation and revitalisation of Natura 2000 Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA) and all peatland areas, and promotes public engagement with and awareness of our natural heritage and environment.

The scheme is aimed at community-led projects and volunteer groups, who play a vital role in helping to promote and implement conservation and restoration in Ireland.