Strong Community Turnout for Clean Coasts Biodiversity Event in Cahore

A large crowd gathered at Cahore Dunes in North Wexford last week for a special biodiversity event as part of the Clean Coasts Roadshow.

The event, titled “The Plants of Cahore Dunes – Natives vs. Invasives”, took place on Tuesday, May 19th, during National Biodiversity Week. It was hosted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Knocksink Wood Education Centre in collaboration with Ballygarrett Tidy Towns and the local Clean Coasts group.

Despite wet and overcast conditions, attendees turned out in strong numbers to explore the Cahore Dunes Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Participants were guided through the sensitive dune system, learning about native plant species, the threat of invasive plants, and the ecological importance of the Cahore Polders and dunes.

Mark O’Callaghan of the NPWS Knocksink Wood Education Centre described Cahore Dunes as “a jewel in the crown of the north Wexford coast,” noting highlights from the day included the discovery of early marsh orchids alongside the presence of invasive sea buckthorn.

A key focus of the event was the role of community engagement and citizen science in protecting biodiversity. Attendees were encouraged to observe and record wildlife through initiatives such as the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s citizen science portal, helping to track environmental changes and invasive species.

The strong sense of community continued after the walk, with participants gathering at Old Bawn Beach car park to enjoy refreshments, including tea served in reusable mugs and homemade scones — reflecting the environmentally conscious ethos of the event.

Ballygarrett Tidy Towns also used the opportunity to promote local initiatives, including the Green Dog Walkers campaign and efforts to protect nesting birds by encouraging dog owners to keep pets on leads.

The Clean Coasts Roadshow is a nationwide series of events running from January to May, aimed at engaging coastal communities in protecting Ireland’s beaches, seas, and marine life through education, collaboration, and local action.