Dear Ardclough community,
We are thrilled to introduce a new community initiative – the Ardclough Biodiversity Group. Funded by Kildare County Council and born from a shared passion for our local natural heritage, this group is committed to protecting and enhancing the rich biodiversity of Ardclough.
In 2019, the Dáil officially declared a Biodiversity Crisis in Ireland, marking the urgent need for concerted efforts at all societal levels to counter the decline of our native biodiversity. As a community, we can make a significant contribution, and the Ardclough Biodiversity Group is our response to this call.
The group is guided by the Ardclough Biodiversity Action Plan 2023-28, a carefully crafted roadmap developed by ecologists, landscape architects, and interested local individuals. This plan, built on 12 guiding principles, lists 24 targeted actions that we can take or promote in our community. The focus is on protecting existing biodiversity, managing our landscapes in a more nature-friendly way, controlling invasive species, and educating our community about the importance of biodiversity.
We have identified specific locations within Ardclough, including St Anne’s Primary School, Ardclough GAA grounds, residential estates, and the canal corridor, where these actions can be implemented. Our ultimate goal is to make Ardclough a shining example of community-led biodiversity conservation and a place where nature thrives alongside its people.
Our community has a diverse range of habitats, from public spaces to private gardens, farms, and canal banks, which host a variety of rare and endangered species. As we work towards our goals, we will be sensitive to the needs and roles of all stakeholders involved, and look forward to their invaluable contributions.
We invite everyone to join our efforts in making a positive difference. You can follow us on our social media channels – Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram (@BioArdclough) – to stay updated on our activities and learn how you can contribute. Visit our website at bioardclough.ie to explore the Biodiversity Action Plan in more detail.
Remember, every action, no matter how small, counts. Whether it’s transforming your garden into a biodiversity haven, helping control invasive species, or simply raising awareness about biodiversity, you can make a difference.
We are excited to embark on this journey, enriching our community life and contributing to the greater good of biodiversity conservation in Ireland. Together, we can ensure that Ardclough remains a vibrant, biodiverse community that future generations will cherish.
Kind regards,
The Ardclough Biodiversity Group