P r e s s R e l e a s
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For immediate release 12 August 1998
During survey work to prepare a sustainable development plan for Clochar na gCon Bog, Co Galway, a species of insect not previously recorded in Ireland and one that has not been recorded here for 100 years were discovered.
A 13 week survey and consultation process, co-ordinated by the Irish Peatland Conservation Council, has just been undertaken by two Dutch specialists and has resulted in a series of conservation and management recommendations for this unique area.
Clochar na gCon is a lowland blanket bog of 1,247ha in extent located near Spiddal, 14km from Galway city. It is proposed as a Natural Heritage Area and Special Area of Conservation because of its unique undisturbed character and its world heritage importance. It is jointly owned by the Irish Peatland Conservation Council, Údarás na Gaeltachta, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Private Individuals.
The five week field survey of the bog resulted in some remarkable findings:
One hundred and ninety two plant, animal and bird species were recorded in total.
A bug (Psallus confusus) not previously recorded in Ireland was found as well as a pool bug (Salda morio) that has not been recorded here since 1898.
Eleven breeding bird species were found in total.
One pair of Merlin, considered the rarest bird of prey in Ireland were found breeding on a lake island. This occurrence represents 1% of the national breeding population in Ireland.
Seven pairs of Golden Plover were found breeding. Representing 2.3% of the national breeding population here, this species is considered vulnerable in Ireland.
The Large Heath Butterfly was regularly found. The species, an indicator of good quality undisturbed blanket bog has not been recorded in West Galway since 1969.
The data collected during the ecological survey has been written up in a technical report for the Project Management Group which includes local land owners and the Comharchumann Shailearna Teoranta. It includes Heritage maps, interpretation recommendations and guidelines on the types of projects that will enhance the local economy and at the same time use the bog sustainably so as to protect its conservation value.
Parts of Clochar na gCon Bog are threatened by overgrazing, dumping and turbary. Recommendations are made to reduce the impacts of these developments and restore the areas of the bog affected by them.
It is hoped that the project will act as a blueprint for similar projects nationally.
IPCC were the recipients of a Heritage Council award for the
project and were commended by Mr Eamon Ó Cuiv TD for the
work being done to show how careful development of the blanket
bog can enhance the local economy and at the same time protect
the bog and it's heritage.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The Irish Peatland Conservation Council is a
national charity and is entirely supported by voluntary contributions.
Conservation projects include: purchasing bogland nature reserves,
providing resources and training for teachers and education groups,
repairing damaged bogs, fostering a positive attitude towards
bogs, and encouraging lifestyles in harmony with the environment.
The IPCC can be contacted at: Capel Chambers, 119 Capel Street,
Dublin 1. Tel/Fax: 01-872 2397. E-mail: ipcc@indigo.ie Web site:
http://indigo.ie/~ipcc. Registered Charity Number: CHY6829
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