Free guided biodiversity walk for heritage week
Midlands Science is supporting national heritage week 2023, running from August 12th to 20th. Hosting a nature walk along the Royal Canal, Midlands Science aims to help people discover their local flora and fauna, connect with biodiversity, learn about citizen science, and engage in science in their community.
Science outreach executive Criodán Ó Murchú explained the importance of an event like this, “Heritage week offers us an opportunity to engage with our local environment. Our biodiversity and native species are critical to the health and well-being of all of us. Maintaining a connection with a natural heritage is good for our physical and mental health and recent scientific research has evidenced this, it’s also good for connecting with our community, and good for recognising the wonders of the natural world.”
CEO Jackie Gorman said "Over the last year, Midlands Science has grown its capacity and reach in science outreach events linked to biodiversity and ecology.
“We encourage everyone to engage with biodiversity and heritage activities in their region during Heritage Week and to continue that engagement throughout the year, valuing the vital role of biodiversity in our world. The recent Citizens Assembly on biodiversity evidenced the strong interest people have in understanding and conserving the natural world and science has a vital role to play in this.”
The walk will take place on Thursday, August 17 at 2pm. The meeting point is the Baltrasna Bridge, Mullingar and participants are encouraged to bring good footwear and suitable clothing for the weather. All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The guided walk is free of charge and all participants will receive a free guidebook which they can take away with them after the walk.
To register your interest you must email comurchu@midlandsscience.ie.
Midlands Science is also running a competition to win a number of Swatches from the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Details on how to win can be found across Midlands Science Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn pages.