FORUM Connemara’s Dúlra Project is expanding its efforts to control the spread of Rhododendron ponticum in the areas of Fermoyle and Seanadh Phéistínin the Connemara Bog Complex SAC (special area of conservation).

The invasive species poses a significant threat to the local ecosystem, outcompeting native vegetation, reducing biodiversity, and degrading habitats for native wildlife.

The Dúlra team, named after the Irish word for ‘nature’, comprising 19 trained professionals, has been actively collaborating with farmers and landowners across Mayo and Connemara to manage rhododendron growth on lands within SACs.

Recently, the team has focused on areas surrounding Connemara National Park in Letterfrack, as well as the Crumlin, area in Inverin, south Connemara.

By expanding their operations, the team aims to protect the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region from the encroachment of rhododendron across Mayo and Connemara.

Tackling rhododendron

Dúlra employs a stem herbicide application method, recommended by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

The project emphasises a collaborative approach, working with local landowners, volunteers, and authorities to maximise impact.

This October, the Dúlra project will extend its efforts to control the invasive species rhododendron into south Connemara.

If you live in the Fermoyle/ Seanadh Phéistín area of South Connemara the Dúlra team would like to hear from you.

Landowners, including those on commonages, are invited to attend a public meeting on October 7 from 7:30p.m to 8:30p.m at Rossaveal Community Hall, Rosamhíl, Derroogh South, Co. Galway.

Those who attend will learn how the Dúlra team can help in managing and eradicating this invasive plant on their properties.

At the meeting, the Dúlra team will discuss strategies to assist in managing and eradicating rhododendron on private and commonage lands.

Interested parties with lands in the target area can sign up on the night. The map is available to view on the Dúlra Project website.

Project manager Sinéad Grimes highlighted how important it is to get the community involved: “We encourage local landowners to take part in this project. It’s a great opportunity to work together to protect and restore our ecosystems.

“We’d love for anyone interested to come along to the meeting, learn more about what we’re doing, and see how they can get benefit and involved.”

The team also held a well attended public meeting yesterday, September 30 at Killeen Community Centre in Louisburgh, with local landowners gathering to learn about effective strategies for managing the invasive rhododendron.

The team are still seeking farmers from the Cregganbaun/Althore area of south Mayo to sign up.

Leenane farmer and project collaborator, Martin Gavin, added: “This project offers a fantastic opportunity for landowners to have a team of trained professionals help manage this invasive plant on their lands.

“It will enable farmers to do follow-up control of the rhododendron on their own land.”

FORUM Connemara CLG manages the Dúlra Project in cooperation with the Leenane Development Association (LDA) led by Martin Gavin.

Funding for the project was made possible by the NPWS with support from the Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE IP, an EU-funded LIFE Integrated Project.

Tackling rhododendron

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Letterfrack

Public meeting on tackling rhododendron in Connemara