A National Grasslands Trail was launched this week supported by public engagement events over the coming weeks.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service and the British and Botanical Society for Britain and Ireland have launched a network of public and private grasslands on 27 sites across the country. This Grasslands Trail aims to allow locals and visitors to gain a better understanding of endangered pasture and meadow habitats and species. The sites showcase natural and semi-natural grasslands. Many of the sites are close to other amenities and attractions.
Grasslands are important for biodiversity but also for soil health as the root varieties and systems all benefit soils in different ways. Species-rich grasslands are good for water quality as they help filter water and their root systems help hold water in the soil, slowing the flow during floods.
According to the National Parks and Wildlife Service, 30% of important grassland types have been lost over a ten-year period. The main reasons for this is:
- conversion to intensive agriculture,
- planting for forestry, and
- land abandonment which results in the decline in quality of the natural grasslands.
Natural and semi-natural grasslands also provide habitats for many other species such as bees, butterflies and moths. Over the coming months there will be events at these sites so visitors can learn more. A booklet is also available that describes all of the sites.
The best time to visit grasslands is the Spring and Summer when they are full of wildflowers, in Autumn the birds feed on the seed heads.
On-site events are beginning this weekend in the Burren and continuing through July, information below:
Events – Great Irish Grasslands
A link to the Grasslands Trail booklet is below:
