Bertra’s dunes have reduced by over 60%

THE sand dunes at Bertra beach have reduced by over 60% in the last decade.

The disturbing figure was revealed at a recent workshop in Murrisk, one in a series taking place to protect the dunes for the future.

Among those who attended the workshop was Councillor Peter Fynn, who commented afterwards: “The most startling thing was hearing that the dunes had reduced by 62% since 2010.

“If the dunes are lost it could have really serious implications for the entire inner Clew Bay area. Please add your voice to the campaign to regenerate Bertra.”

The popular beach is under severe pressure from climate change and over-use for recreation.

The Bertra Connected group are working to protect the future of the beach and the dunes. Members include local communities, Mayo County Council, National Parks and Wildlife Service, NUI Galway, Clean Coasts and Leave No Trace.

Arising from the first in a series of public engagement workshops in July, a survey has now been launched.

The workshops aim to create a future vision of Bertra and its stewardship, which is in danger of disappearing due to erosion from the sea and human overuse. A collective effort is needed to save the dunes.

You'll find the link to complete the survey online on the Bertra Connected Facebook page.

The survey also features a short video which explains the issues being experienced at Bertra and what can be done to reverse its decline.

A second workshop will take place on Thursday, August 18, entitled Visualising Futures, from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Tavern Bar and Restaurant, Murrisk. All are invited along.