Irish Grasslands Project: Morgan's North, Limerick

This event is part of the Irish Grasslands Project funded by the National Parks and Wildlife Service to enhance botanical skills and raise awareness of grasslands across Ireland. 

Led by: Olly Lynch

Description: We will be exploring extremely diverse and unique high value grassland habitats on two adjoining farms on the Shannon estuary, consisting mainly of calcareous grassland and salt marsh. The species-rich grasslands are lightly grazed and cut annually, with no fertiliser inputs. They have not been reseeded in more than a decade and are in organic production since 2002. Species of note include Bee Orchid, Carline Thistle, Common Spotted-orchid, Dense-flowered Orchid, Devil’s-bit Scabious, Dodder, eyebright, Fairy Flax, Frog Orchid, Goldenrod, Hairy Violet, Lady’s Bedstraw, Heather, Mountain Everlasting, Pyramidal Orchid, Salad Burnet, Square-stalked St John’s-wort, Quaking-grass and Tormentil. There is an area of unique dry grassland and salt marsh on the farm, also rich in flora and fauna. Management of this area is by grazing. Parts of this site are managed as part of the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme.

Bring: Packed lunch, comfortable walking shoes or boots. Hand lens and id guides if you have them (but they are not necessary.)

Meeting point: As there is limited parking at the site, we will car pool from the grave yard at Toomdeely.  https://maps.app.goo.gl/PG7H9WuuiwRx4V188.

Contingency plan (in case of bad weather): In the event of bad weather, we will postpone and rearrange to another date. Please keep a close eye on your email or provide a phone number to the host to avoid disappointment.

Expected terrain: Easy going with some rocky and marshy areas.

Safety and booking terms: Please read this guidance for participants at BSBI events carefully, before booking.