A one-day conference on Why and How to manage the invasive species Rhododendron Ponticum will be held in the Brehon Hotel, Killarney on 5th November 2021.
Rhododendron Ponticum is an ornamental plant, often prized for its beautiful flowers and usefulness as a hedge for creating shelter, was planted around Muckross in the 19th Century. Since then it has spread to, or been planted in many other locations and is a common sight in many areas.
Concerns have been raised about the spread of this invasive species throughout the Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and beyond where going unchecked it will have a significant impact on our native biodiversity.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has been tackling the Rhododendron ponticum in Killarney National Park for many years. In parts of the MacGillycuddy Reeks, such as the Gap of Dunloe and the Black Valley, Rhododendron ponticum is also becoming well established.
With the support of the MacGillycuddy Reeks EIP Project Team, a collective working group has been established in the MacGillycuddy Reeks area to assist farmers and landowners in treating Rhododendron ponticum on their land.
To register for the event or to find out more information, please see here.
