Over 40 people gathered in Flagmount on August 20th 2025 to discuss the natural heritage of East Clare as part of National Heritage Week.

The event was hosted by Waters of LIFE and Clare Local Development Company under the heading “Tackling Invasive Plant Species in East Clare.”

Featured speaker on the night was Phoebe O’Brien, botanist and co-author of Identification Guide To The Non-Native Plants of Britain and Ireland . 

Phoebe introduced participants to the species of concern in the Graney sub-catchment:

• Himalayan Balsam
• Japanese Knotweed
• Self-sown confifers
• Rhododendron Ponticum

Visual aids and resources from the National Biodiversity Data Centre were distributed.

Waters of LIFE Catchment Scientist Ruth Bennett Coady outlined the links between invasive plant species and impacts to water quality.

The purpose of the event was to engage the local community in the planning stages of a management plant for the area. Participants were invited to pin known locations of invasive plants to a map of the catchment and share their views on an approach to containment and removal.

The evening concluded with a presentation from CLDC Development Manager Peter Slattery who outlined next steps and planning stages to ensure community engagement throughout the initiative.

The event was also attended by Scariff Bay Community Radio, who recorded the evening for broadcast on 88.3 and 92.7fm.