Volunteers are being asked to come along to help complete a bog bridge at Abbeyleix Bog on Saturday.
This latest piece of infrastructure will add an extra bridge and link up with existing walks. Perhaps more significantly, though, it will increase the loops that people can walk on in the area.
The new bog bridge will connect the boardwalk on the high bog, with the loop walk on the Eastern side.
“All people need is enthusiasm and time. We are not putting any obligation on anybody but if they have time, even if they only want to carry nails, they are most welcome to help,” Chris Uys of Abbeyleix Bog said.
He added that they will probably work on the project for 2-3 hours, on a collegial approach, with an emphasis on having fun.
He said anyone who turns up on Saturday is under no obligation to turn up on every occasion.
Chris believes the latest project will take a number of weeks to complete, depending on the number of volunteers, weather etc.
He said working in the bog setting presents its own unique challenges, but they have gained considerable expertise since they began working in 2014.
He said the boardwalks in the bog enable them to preserve and conserve areas of sensitive habit, while giving people the opportunity to view the habitat, first hand.
“We have very sensitive habitat and we don’t want people trampling there,” Chris said. “Our prime objective is conservation and restoration,” he added.
He said the walkways now allow people to use the area safely, especially as boggy terrain can be notoriously difficult to walk across. “There is great interest among people who can come and enjoy the area recreationally,” Chris said.
Anybody interested in giving a hand, can contact Chris on 083 1106210 or send an email to info@abbeyleixbog.ie.
