Coillte enhancing forest biodiversity at popular Mayo woodland

COILLTE has carried out works to remove and prevent the spread of an invasive species in order to protect the biodiversity of Tourmakeady Wood in Co. Mayo.

Rhododendron ponticum, a fast-growing shrub, was growing within Tourmakeady Wood, which without action could threaten the long-term overall biodiversity of the woodland.

Tourmakeady Wood has been recognised by Coillte as an area vital for biodiversity preservation.

To protect the area and its wildlife, Coillte’s team of ecologists put a management plan in place to address the spread of Rhododendron. This invasive species spreads quickly through Irish forests, casting deep shade on the forest floor which in turn prevents the regeneration of trees, wild plants and woodland flowers.

A large amount of Rhododendron has now been removed from the wood and this will greatly improve the woodland habitat for wildlife and wild plants and its overall biodiversity into the future.

The works are being carried out as part of Coillte’s wider new forestry strategic vision which aims to balance and deliver the multiple benefits of its forests for climate, nature, wood and people. Coillte is committed to the enhancement and restoration of biodiversity on its forests and lands and to increase the amount of land it manages primarily for nature from 20% to 30% by the year 2025.

In the longer term, Coillte plans to transform areas of its forests so that 50% of its estate is managed primarily for nature.

Tourmakeady Wood is situated between the Partry mountains and Lough Mask and is managed by Coillte as a forest for wildlife and nature conservation and also for recreation. Located in the heart of Tourmakeady village, the wood is easily accessible with a spacious new car park and well-posted family-friendly walking routes. The most popular walking trail, The Nature Walk, allows visitors to reconnect with nature and enjoy magnificent views of the waterfall.

Tourmakeady Wood has a mixture of broadleaf and conifer forest habitat as well as semi-natural woodlands. The wood is home for wildlife such as the Irish red squirrel, badger, deer and birds such as the dipper and the kingfisher which can be seen along the river walk.

Speaking on the importance of the works, Coillte forest ecologist Sinead Brady said: “Tourmakeady Wood is an important forest for nature and I’m delighted to see these works progress here. Coillte’s approach reflects a vital step towards creating sustainable habitats in this wood for local wildlife through the removal of invasive Rhododendron.

“The careful management plan for Tourmakeady Wood will ensure that the ecology of the woods will be enhanced and can be enjoyed for generations to come.”