Citizen scientists enjoy tranquil visit to Lough Graney for freshwater biodiversity workshop
Our local participants gathered on Saturday, April 25th, in the scenic surrounds of Lough Graney for a hands-on exploration of freshwater biodiversity as part of the Clare Local Development Company’s Citizen Science Training Series 2025–2026. This series is funded by CLDC in association with Nature Network Ireland through LEADER 2023-2027 Programme.
Attendees were fortunate in enjoying one of the most beautiful days so far in 2026, especially given the context of poor weather in recent months.
Set along the Cahermurphy Loop near Flagmount, the session made the most of beautiful spring weather in one of Northeast Clare’s most picturesque locations. The training was led by ecologist Rachel Dowling, who guided attendees through both the theory and practice of monitoring local waterways.
The morning began indoors at Flagmount Community Hall, where Rachel delivered an informative talk outlining how freshwater ecosystems function, the key threats facing them, and what defines a healthy versus degraded waterbody. The session also included a practical overview of how individuals can contribute to environmental protection through citizen science and reporting.
Participants then moved outdoors to apply their learning in the field, sampling water from a river feeding into Lough Graney. Under Rachel’s guidance, the group examined a variety of invertebrates, including mayflies, learning how to identify key species and understand their behaviours and ecological significance. These indicator species provide valuable insights into water quality and overall ecosystem health.
The series aims to equip communities with the knowledge and skills to actively engage in biodiversity monitoring and environmental stewardship. By combining classroom learning with practical fieldwork, the programme offers a meaningful way for people to connect with and protect their local environment.
This free adult-level training session highlighted not only the richness of freshwater biodiversity in the area but also the important role communities can play in safeguarding it for the future.
Interested in trying your hand at citizen science in your local area? You won’t regret it!
Join us for a hands-on Invertebrate Biodiversity Workshop in Ennistymon on May 9th.
This LEADER event will consist of an indoor talk followed by field trip
The session will begin with an indoor introduction to terrestrial invertebrates, exploring their roles in pollination, decomposition, and as indicators of environmental health, along with practical guidance on identifying key species and contributing to citizen science.
This will be followed by a field trip to Ennistymon Falls, where participants will use hands-on sampling techniques to find and identify invertebrates across grassland, hedgerow, and lakeside habitats, while observing their relationships with plants and surrounding environments.
You can register here: Attend Events – Nature Network Ireland
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