Muir Visits Mournes Conservation Groups To See On-Going Work In Action
Conservation work is on-going in the Mournes in County Down and recently DAERA Minister Andrew Muir made a visit to see first hand the efforts being made to restore and maintain the environment.
Minister Muir visited the Mournes to see how conservation work is helping to restore and protect habitats in this area of outstanding natural beauty.
Minister Muir visited Mourne Park where ongoing work to restore the ancient woodland is being delivered by the Woodland Trust.
Since the Woodland Trust acquired Mourne Park in 2021, it has carried out work including removing invasive species such as rhododendron and laurel, allowing the native ancient woodland to regenerate naturally and support the return of diverse native flora.
Minister Muir then visited the Mourne Mountains with the Forever Mournes Partnership, a collective initiative aimed at protecting and enhancing the Mourne Mountains.
It has representation from the National Trust, Mourne Heritage Trust and Northern Ireland Water. The Partnership has been involved in various conservation, access and community engagement projects within the Mournes.
The work associated with both projects as well as the acquisition of Mourne Park was part-funded by DAERA’s Environment Fund.
Minister Muir said: “It was great to be in the stunning surroundings of the Mourne Mountains to see the important work ongoing to protect our precious natural landscapes.
“Organisations such as Woodland Trust and those represented in the Forever Mournes Partnership are delivering vital work to conserve, restore and safeguard these special landscapes and protected sites.
“This is a key priority in Northern Ireland’s Environmental Improvement Plan launched by my Department last year.
“These organisations are working in the face huge challenges, such as extreme weather caused by climate change, as well as devastating wildfires.
“The extensive damage caused demonstrates the importance of working together and re-doubling our efforts to protect the unique character and biodiversity of the Mournes.
“The sites are just two examples of the huge value that our natural heritage provides to society, in terms of storing carbon, enhancing biodiversity and improving health and well-being.
“We must do everything we can to protect and restore these special places, ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly for generations to come.”
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