Effective action in Mayo and Galway to stop invasive species in their tracks

Galway and Mayo County Councils are encouraging communities to take simple but effective action this summer as part of Invasive Species Week, a national initiative running from June 22 to 28.

The week brings together organisations, local authorities and community groups to raise awareness of the growing threat invasive species pose to our native wildlife, ecosystems and local economy.

Invasive Species Week also provides an opportunity to highlight the next phase of ongoing work on Inishbofin, Inishturk and Clare Island, where communities, farmers, local authorities and biodiversity and farming experts are working together to protect these unique island landscapes.

The West Connacht Islands Invasive Species Eradication Programme is a collaboration between the Biodiversity Offices of Mayo and Galway County Councils and the ACRES West Connacht Cooperation Project, with funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund.

The programme focuses on tackling fast-growing non-native plant species that can quickly dominate if left unmanaged.

Species such as montbretia and giant rhubarb form dense stands that crowd out native vegetation and alter the character of the landscape.

Over many years, island communities have already played a vital role in managing invasive species, with local residents and landowners taking action to control their spread and protect their surroundings.

This programme builds on that strong foundation of local knowledge, stewardship and ongoing effort.

Last summer, surveys were carried out on public lands across the three islands to map the extent of these species. Local residents and landowners also took part in horticulture workshops, building skills in identifying and managing invasive plants.

This summer, the focus is on promoting greater biosecurity awareness.

A new bilingual biosecurity poster (Irish and English) has been developed as part of the project and is being distributed in key locations, including ferry points and community spaces, to highlight simple steps that can help prevent the spread of invasive species.

Simple actions such as ensuring boots, bikes, camping gear and equipment are clean, dry and free from plant material can significantly reduce the risk of introducing or spreading invasive species.

The initiative also highlights the importance of ensuring that machinery and construction materials brought onto the islands are free from invasive species, particularly by ensuring that track machines and wheels are clean and soil-free.

The islands provide a particular advantage in this work. Their natural separation from the mainland helps limit the spread of invasive species, making them ideal for testing collaborative approaches that bring together science, local knowledge and community action.

The next phase of the programme is now underway, with management plans being developed for public lands on each island based on survey findings and input from local communities.

These plans will guide targeted treatment works and the long-term management of affected areas, with roadside treatments expected to begin in early autumn.

This project is funded by Mayo County Council, Galway County Council, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund 2026.