New research shows strong belief in protecting wetlands

Tóchar Project public information evenings

New research by Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration to gives fresh insights into how people in Ireland interact with, understand and value wetlands at a time when investment is under way to restore these vital landscapes.

Research reveals that people across Ireland place a strong value on wetlands as part of the country’s natural and cultural heritage, and most believe it is important to pass knowledge and appreciation of the landscapes on to younger generations.

One of the largest restoration projects, Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration, is a three-year, €12 million wetlands restoration project co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme. The project is managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The research, carried out by Red C on behalf of Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration, explores public behaviour, attitudes and awareness in relation to wetlands. It shows that almost half of Irish adults visit wetlands at least once a year, and recreation such as walking, birdwatching and spending time in nature are the main reasons for visiting.

Compared with previous research carried out in November 2024, patterns of visitation and use remain broadly stable, indicating that wetlands are a valued part of how people across Ireland engage with the outdoors. A clear majority of respondents agree that wetlands are important for protecting biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, storing carbon and preserving Ireland’s cultural heritage.

Agreement with these statements remains consistently high compared with 2024, underscoring strong public support for the role wetlands play in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

While awareness of wetland restoration projects is increasing nationally, the findings also highlight the importance of continued local engagement and accessible information, particularly in areas where restoration work is under way. The upcoming public information evenings are designed to support that engagement, offering people the opportunity to learn more about fen restoration and to discuss what it means for their local landscapes.

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan, TD, stated: "I’m not surprised at these survey results – wetlands are magical places, with huge benefits for people and for nature. The public understand this, especially the people of the midlands for whom wetlands are deeply interconnected with culture, tradition and local identity.

"The Tóchar Project is doing fantastic work through engagement and collaboration with communities, and these public information evenings are an ideal way for people to find out about what’s happening, why, and how to get involved. Shared stewardship is at the heart of successful nature restoration in Ireland and I’d encourage anybody with an interest to get down to one of the events."

Fens are a rare and distinctive type of peatland that are fed by groundwater rather than rainfall. Their waterlogged conditions allow peat to form slowly, supporting specialised plant and animal species while also helping to filter water and contribute to more resilient local environments. Many fen sites across the midlands have been damaged over time, and restoration work is now taking place to help these important wetlands recover.

Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration Project manager Shirley Clerkin said the evenings are about building understanding and connection at a local level: "This research shows that people across Ireland already recognise the value of wetlands and feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect them for future generations. The public information evenings allow us to bring insights into a local setting, to explain what fen restoration involves and to have open, practical conversations with the communities closest to these sites.

"Restoring wetlands is about ecology, and also about working with people, listening to local perspectives and ensuring these landscapes continue to support nature, climate resilience and community wellbeing into the future."

The information sessions will highlight the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration, including improved water quality and carbon storage, and explain some financial incentives available for restoration initiatives along with opportunities for questions and discussion.

The events are open to landowners, farmers, community groups, local organisations and anyone with an interest in wetlands and the future of the midlands.

Public information evenings

(• Monday February 23, Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, County Laois.)

(• Tuesday February 24, Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone.)

(• Thursday February 26, County Arms Hotel, Birr, County Offaly.)

• Tuesday March 3, Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, County Roscommon.

• Wednesday March 4, Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar.

Sites to be discussed at the Mullingar meeting: Ballynafagh Lake, Lough Sewdy, Ballymore Fen SAC, Ballynacargy – Deerpark Fen, Benalbit Fen, Lisnagree Fen, Balnavine Fen, Garrysallagh Fen, Mount Dalton Lough, Monroe Fen, Lough Ennell SAC – Dysart, Lough Ennell SAC – Ladestown, River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC – Mooretown, River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC – Newtown, River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC – Cummerstown.

Sites to be discussed at the Athlone meeting: Lisnagree Fen, Benalbit Fen, Mount Dalton Lough, Lough Sewdy, Lough Mareegan, Ballymore Fen SAC and Lough Nahinch.

For information on the information evenings and to register to attend, visit tocharwetlands.ie or follow on Instagram or Facebook and LinkedIn.