Killykeen Conservation Group: Pushing the cause of nature
Being upset, frustrated or angry about an issue isn’t enough without action. That’s the sentiment that led to the formation of Killykeen Conservation Group last year.
“We wanted to do more to protect and highlight the importance of Killykeen Forest Park, encourage people to use it more, to be more connected with it and to be involved in its future,” says Emma Kane, chairperson of Killykeen Conservation Group.
Coillte, who operate a commercial forestry on the public land, clear-felled large swathes of mainly sitka spruce.
“It looked like No Man’s Land in World War One,” recalls Daniel of the site that remains a desolate vista today.
The group has since established a relationship with Coillte, and has also run a petition to express the community’s objection to the commercial operations.
Importantly, they have engaged with LAWPRO to commence an ambitious project to enhance the water quality of the majestic Lough Oughter. Despite being a popular angling and bathing venue, and a location for children’s swimming courses each summer, there were repeated instances of toxic blue-green algae in the depths of winter.
From that initial sense of loss, the group has devoted energy into multiple projects.
“I love that - people are bringing different interests to the initiative and that is growing our strength through the diversity of what we’re engaging in, whether it’s the water quality, the forestry, the tombs, or wildlife.”
Emma emphasises the recreational aspect: “We’re encouraging people to use it more, to come and bring their kids, and cycle, or go for a walk or just come and be in nature.”
The winter solstice saw the group put on an event featuring storytelling, music, fire dancing, and children’s performance.
This Saturday coming from 2-6pm they will host a ‘Street Feast’ where everyone can bring along a dish, share some good food, and enjoy trad music and events for kids, all supplied free of charge.
In August they are planning an event to showcase all the park has to offer, including a celebration of its historic tombs.
The group is eager to shape a better future for Killykeen Forest Park beyond simply “a wood factory”.
“What we’re trying to have here is healthy waters, beautiful forest and a place where people can come and enjoy,” Daniel said.
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