Biodiversity Week at the Organic Centre

National Biodiversity Week is all about connecting people with nature. It’s about communicating the importance of biodiversity and motivating people to play their part in protecting it. It’s also about celebrating the fun and wonder that can be found in nature – and inspiring people to learn & do more. There are events covering all interests, from the ocean to the mountain tops. 

Heres a full list of the Organic Centres events from Friday May 15th to Sunday May 24th. 

  • Tackling algae bloom in rural lakes.- In light of ongoing threats from algae bloom to local lakes including Lough Melvin. Ollan Herr from Zero Waste Alliance Ireland will show how local groups and communities can play their own small part in reducing algal blooms in nearby local surface waters. He will report on a pilot project from Dundalk that they are doing that. Phosphorus fertilisers are set to become more expensive and risk food security,  communities can play their part in solutions and recycle phosphorus from separated urine also in this project. Friday May 15th-7pm. Click here

 

  • Nature sketch walk with Melissa Culhane: Nature sketch walk around the garden at the Organic Centre with nature artist from Leitrim, Melissa Culhane. Saturday 16th May, 12 oclock midday. SOLD OUT. Reserve list in operation. Click here. 

 

  • Dawn Chorus with Adventure Gently: Glide along Lough Melvin to bird song as the sun rises on Biodiversity Week. Sunday May 17th, 5.30am meet.  Click here

 

  • Kildare Wildlife Rescue. Meet Kildare Wildlife Rescue, a registered charity for sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Last year, they responded to over 13,000 reports of wildlife in distress. Hear about their work and learn more about how to help our native wildlife. Monday 18th May, 7pm. Click here

 

  • Grassland/Habitats and the rare Marsh Fritillary butterfly. Find out from Sabine Waniek about Rossinvers semi natural grasslands: its importance as plant and insect habitat and biodiversity, including its significance as home to the rare Marsh Fritillary Butterfly. Tuesday May 19th May, 12 midday. Click here

 

  • New study into Irelands wildlife:  Join Dr Adam F Smith from the UCD laboratory of Wildlife Ecology and Behaviour for an insight into tracking and monitoring Ireland's mammals as part of the Snapshot Europe project, and what it means for conservation and management of our landscapes and biodiversity from overabundant deer to elusive small carnivores. Wednesday May 20th, 6pm. Click here 

 

  • Baskets for Bees: Join head gardener Aaron Mcgowan and make your own pollinator friendly hanging basket to take away. More Places Now Available. Reserve list in operation. Sat May 23rd, 2pm.  Click here

 

  • Intro to Wild life photography with Fionn O'Donoghue : Join popular wildlife influencer & enthusiast Fionn O'Donoghue as he will give you an introduction to wildlife photography, a day in his life as an Ecologist, and why he sees nature as so important for all of us. Sunday May 24th, 12 midday. Click here. 

 

  • The Wonder of Trees, butterflies and bees: A guided walk with Nature Educator Fiona Wheeldon. We will walk around the grounds of the Organic Centre and nearby section of Glenaniff River Walk. Learn all about our common trees, butterflies and bees and their life stories. Sunday 24th, 2-4pm. Click here 

 

  • Birds on the Big Screen – Enjoy a live‑streamed bird cam paired with educational talks delivered in a local school and nursing home. Building on last year’s popular bird cam (Nesting close up) , this year’s programme expands its reach with even more community outreach. Check out the You Tube on https://www.theorganiccentre.ie/page/birds-on-the-big-screen

 

  • Biodiversity Treasure Hunt:  Explore the outdoors and discover the hidden plants, insects, and wildlife around you. Using fun clues and checklists, participants search for different species and natural features, learning about local biodiversity while enjoying an engaging, family‑friendly adventure. Make sure to leave your contact details at the shop to be entered into a draw after Biodiversity Week. From Friday 10am -4pm. May 15th- Sunday May 24th.