Over €96,000 for biodiversity projects in Mayo

COMMUNITY groups in Mayo will benefit from funding of €96,698.25 for local biodiversity initiatives, says Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Alan Dillon.

The Local Biodiversity Action Fund will enable Mayo County Council to enhance their actions on biodiversity, through research and recording of our unique species, he explained.

The Local Biodiversity Action Fund was established to help local authorities implement actions in support of biodiversity. This year, funding was granted to nine projects in Mayo,” said Minister Dillon.

These projects are:

Biodiversity awareness and artificial lighting workshop: €18,105

Invasive species eradication programme on west Connacht islands 2025-2027: €2,805

Hedgerow survey: €25,500

Himalayan Balsam control programme Castlebar River: €17,000

County Mayo offshore Cetacean surveys: €8,117.50

Return to Nature: €11,772.50

Mayo Wetlands dashboard development: €7,919.66

Recording Irish Mayfly - establishing conservation status: €1,228.59

Castlebar Town Park biodiversity enhancement project: €4,250

Some 262 projects nationwide were approved, covering a range of biodiversity related activities, such as bird and bat conservation, wetland surveys and community biodiversity awareness and training.

“In particular I’m delighted to see funding for the Himalayan Balsam Control programme at Castlebar River and the biodiversity enhancement project at Castlebar Town Park,” said Minister Dillon. “The commitment to protect and enhance our local biodiversity is key in protecting the health of the environment in Mayo.

“I also want to thank Mayo County Council who are playing an essential role in protecting our biodiversity and the Local Biodiversity Action Plan recognises that role.

“This funding highlights government commitment to biodiversity and the essential role community groups play in our conservation efforts. I look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of these projects for Mayo.”