Battle lines drawn in fight against rhododendron

OVER 60 VOLUNTEERS TAKE PART IN BLITZ ON RAMPANT RHODODENDRON IN KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK

IF you want to see an example of many hands making light work, then Killarney National Park is a good starting point where currently 60 men from the Irish Men’s Shed Association are busy sifting through the dense rhododendron bushes that threaten the park’s delicate ecosystems.

The project is the first of its kind and is supported by the generosity of Killarney’s hoteliers who have provided accommodation and food for the men during their stay. Over sixty acres of Killarney National Park have so far been covered by the men since the project commenced on Sunday which runs until this Thursday.

Several methods have been used in the past to control the growth of ‘Rhododendron Ponticum’ – a species not native to Northern Europe – but most have been unsuccessful. This latest project involves applying a ‘notch and spray’ method which means making a small incision low in the trunk of the plant and spraying it with weed herbicide.

By next spring the plants should have completely died back, but the site must be revisited annually to maintain control. Peter O’Toole of Killarney National Park devised this method of control which is now overseen by Tim Cahillane.

The pilot project was spearheaded by Haven Pharmacist and local Killarney businessman Finbarr Kennelly in response to the ongoing threat of rhododendron and its danger to the flora and fauna of the park which comprises over 10,000-hectares.

“This has just been a fantastic project with no losers as everyone gains: the park gains, the men gain, and the town of Killarney gains. Local volunteers who have vast experience in controlling this species are also on board and it’s a very beneficial project that wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of Killarney’s hotels,” said Finbarr.

Staff from Killarney National Park are coordinating the project in a systematic way and the plan is to carry out a full review with the intention of making this an annual event.

“I’ve been involved in a few Meitheals over the years and when I visited a Men’s Shed I saw many intelligent and talented men with time on their hands and I thought it would be great to get them involved. It’s really a fulfilling experience for everyone as it’s been a bonding exercise in the great outdoors which is good for mental health and the preservation of the national treasure that is Killarney National Park,” Finbarr said.

Cormac Bonner, Left and Mike Myers, Killarney Men’s Shed

Neilus O’Regan, left, and Gerry McSherry, Killarney Men’s Shed

O’Sullivan Men’s Shed Association members from across Ireland, along with volunteers, were out in force in Killarney National Park to help protect a vital part of Ireland’s natural heritage, and tackle the problem of invasive rhododendrons. The pioneering initiative is a joint partnership with Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce, Haven Pharmacy, Killarney Mountain Meitheal Group and Killarney National Park. Through the generosity of Killarney Chamber & Hoteliers, all those attending were accommodated and fed during their stay in Killarney.Photo:Valerie