Participants of the Inishowen Rivers Trust recently enjoyed a “brilliant and informative” field trip to Glenveagh National Park which offered a fresh perspective on the magnificent landscape of the North West.
The event was an opportunity for National River Guardians to share the knowledge and experience of the Inishowen Rivers Trust with groups and individuals outside Inishowen.
Having Dr. Peter Wilson, Emeritus Reader and lecturer in geomorphology at Ulster University, show and explain the evolution of our landscape in Donegal was a fantastic opportunity to broaden our understanding of our environment.
Supported by a grant from the Heritage Council, the success of the day was thanks to the park’s breathtaking setting, an exceptional speaker, and a group brimming with enthusiasm. The ever-changing weather added a distinct Donegal flavour to the experience.
Amidst the driving rain and fierce wind, the group sought refuge behind the shrine of Our Lady at Muckish Gap.
As the rain subsided, the group found a perfect spot for tea, marvelling at the picturesque Poisoned Glen.
They also made a stop that allowed them to get their hands dirty with the blanket bog. They continued past Dunlewey, to get a distant view of Mount Errigal, allowing us them see the landslides that occurred 17,500 years ago due to the release
of pressure, when the ice covering Errigal melted away. The complete melting of the ice in Donegal took from about 23,000 to 15,000 years ago.
The participants expressed overwhelming positivity about the day, with one individual saying: “The day has opened my eyes to the Mountains, Hills and Glens not just as objects of natural beauty but the history of how they were formed.”
The Inishowen River Trust, the Heritage Council, and Glenveagh National Park extend their gratitude to all participants and supporters who made this enriching event possible. This field trip stands as a testament to the power of exploration and knowledge in fostering a deeper connection with our natural heritage.
The Inishowen Rivers Trust have been awarded funding by the Heritage Council under their Heritage Capacity Fund 2023 to develop specialist river monitoring and habitat restoration skills within community groups throughout Ireland through a national River Guardians training programme.
The free tickets for the next event at Glenveagh National Park can be secured here: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/river-change-from-source-to-sea-tickets-661132052767?aff=oddtdtcreator
