Council commence countywide semi-natural grasslands survey

Westmeath County Council, in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and funded through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund 2026, has commissioned a survey of semi-natural grasslands across Westmeath.

The survey is being undertaken by a team of ecologists from JBA Consulting and forms an action of the Westmeath Biodiversity Action Plan 2025–2031. The project will help improve understanding of the distribution, diversity and condition of semi-natural grasslands throughout the county.

Semi-natural grasslands are an important part of Westmeath’s natural heritage and support a wide variety of wildflowers, pollinators, birds and other wildlife. The habitats are among Ireland’s most species-rich ecosystems and play an important role in supporting biodiversity across the landscape.

Field surveys will be carried out during the summer months and will involve the identification and recording of plant species and habitats present within selected grassland sites.

The information gathered will contribute to a countywide baseline of semi-natural grasslands and will support future biodiversity research, conservation initiatives and actions under the Westmeath Biodiversity Action Plan.

Christina Sweeney, biodiversity officer with Westmeath County Council, said: “Westmeath contains a rich variety of grassland habitats that support an abundance of wildlife. This survey will help build a better understanding of these important habitats and provide valuable information on their distribution, condition and ecological value across the county. We greatly appreciate the cooperation of landowners and local communities in facilitating this important work.”

Landowners may be contacted by members of the survey team seeking permission to access grassland sites. Surveyors will carry identification and will be happy to discuss the project with landowners.

For further information, contact Ms Sweeney at: biodiversity@westmeathcoco.ie.