The Heritage Office of Laois County Council has launched a campaign to help get people connected with nature, as part of the Government’s “Keep Well” Campaign.
The campaign starts with an online Gardening for Biodiversity workshop on February 18 and the relaunch of the Gardening for Biodiversity book.
The launch will be marked by a special free online workshop with author Juanita Browne on Thursday February 18 at 8pm, which will look at some practical projects people can start in their own gardens.
Award-winning author Juanita Browne will have projects to help wildlife of all kinds under a range of headings, with tasks suitable for everyone from the total beginner to the more ambitious DIY enthusiast.
The events will be streamed live on the Laois Heritage Forum Facebook page so there is no need to book, just click on at 8pm on Thursday February 18.
Questions can be posed in advance to heritage@laoiscoco.ie or using the comments on the Facebook stream on the night.
This will continue in March with a new “Spring into Heritage” activity sheet in English and Irish and the launch of a new nature podcast in partnership with BirdWatch Ireland.
The book “Gardening for Biodiversity” which was launched in 2020 has been reprinted and copies are now available for free from Laois County Council.
A partner publication with wildlife information for children and colouring pages featuring the beautiful illustrations from the original book by Barry Reynolds is also available.
Catherine Casey, Heritage Officer with Laois County Council said: “Being outdoors has huge benefits for our mental and physical health, especially during this difficult time.
“A connection with nature contributes to lower levels of anxiety and stress and taking action to help nature makes us feel good, helps fight biodiversity loss and address the impacts of climate change.
“There are plenty of simple things that we can all do to help nature in our gardens this spring.
“We know from an increase in enquiries that many people are taking a great interest in the birds, bees and bugs that are visiting their gardens.
“We hope that this guide will help anyone who has the time and interest now to make their garden a haven for wildlife.”
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