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The Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is looking forward to welcoming you to our first conference event!


Join us on November 5th in The Brehon Hotel, Killarney for a one-day conference to learn more about active management of Rhododendron ponticum, why it needs to be managed and ongoing efforts to manage it in the Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Get Your Tickets Here

This event will be useful for individuals interested in gardening for nature, farmers, community groups and more all-around Ireland as we combine knowledge and experience to address this ever growing issue.


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.


Rhododendron ponticum is an excellent example of a non-native invasive species, which free from the factors that limit it in its native lands, has thrived at the expense of our own native habitats and species.


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.


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.


Speakers include:
• Minister Malcolm Noonan, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform.
• Dr. Therese Higgins, Munster Technology University, and author of Irish Wildlife Manual no. 33, Rhododendron ponticum , A guide to management on nature conservation sites.
• Patricia Deane, Project Manager, MacGillycuddy Reeks European Innovation Partnership Project, South Kerry Development Partnership.
• Eleanor Turner, Biosphere Officer, Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, South Kerry Development Partnership.
• Representatives from Killarney National Park

Tickets are on sale now on Eventbrite. €15 each, Tea/Coffee and lunch provided.


This event has been supported by the National Biodiversity Action Plan and Kerry County Council.

Get Your Tickets Here

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