Biodiversity in Ballintogher is alive and well as action taken to protect our wildlife
AS you enter Ballintogher village you can’t help but notice a collection of bright colourful plants at the base of the stone walls.
These nasturtium plants are just one of many new flowers being set by the village Tidy Towns group.
The volunteers were delighted to have been chosen as one of the six community groups to be part of the ‘Sligo Communities and Biodiversity Project.’
This Council funded project is being delivered by Woodrow Sustainable Solutions who have already been to the village on a number of occasions for information evenings.
As Teresa McCormack from Ballintogher Tidy Towns says: “We’ve had ecologist Bridget Keehan come out to visit in the community development centre. She explained to us about what attracts the bees.
“It was very informative and useful. We have been planting through the years but maybe not the right things, so she informed us and gave us leaflets on pollination.”
Teresa’s husband, Seamus agrees: “Woodrow has been a great help. One third of our wild bees are threatened with extinction. We could no longer have Irish apples if they die out. We’ve been given a help guide with a number of points to help us plant pollinator friendly species.”
The green fingered volunteers in Carney are proud of the work they are putting in and like to see the fruits of their labour in full bloom.
As Seamus says: “Not only do the plants and flowers look fantastic, they provide a good source of nectar and pollen for the bumble bees.
“Our actions not only bring a smile to the passer by but we are also helping to promote the country’s national pollinator plan. We are delighted to have the opportunity to be part of that.”
Each of the six chosen projects have expressed their gratitude to the council, Coilte, Woodrow Solutions Ltd and all of the very many volunteers who have made it all possible.