Botanical Skills NI: Introduction to Aquatic and Emergent Plants

Join the Botanical Skills Northern Ireland Project for an immersive, hands-on aquatic and emergent plant identification training session at Donaghaguy Reservoir, Co. Down on Tuesday 8 September 2026 from 10:30am to 3:30pm.

Whether you are a beginner or looking to refresh your skills, this workshop offers an excellent opportunity to dive into the world of aquatic and emergent plant identification and ecology. We will focus on becoming familiar with these often-overlooked plants, introducing you to essential sampling techniques, and exploring the diverse flora of mesotrophic lakes and ponds. We will also cover vital biosecurity measures to help protect our waterways.

We will begin this training session indoors at Rostrevor Men’s Shed in the morning, followed by an outdoor field session at Donaghaguy Reservoir, Burren. The terrain across the site is flat and accessible for most participants. We recommend dressing appropriately for the weather and outdoor walking.

What to bring: Please always come prepared with suitable outdoor clothing and comfortable walking footwear, as we will be spending time outside in varying weather conditions. If there is any compulsory kit required to attend it will be detailed here, otherwise more details of recommended equipment may be included in your booking confirmation or details provided nearer the event.

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

Booking: If you experience any difficulties booking online, please phone the main BSBI phone number between 9:00 am and 5:30 pm for assistance: +44 (0) 7404 231178.

Accessibility: If you have any questions about accessibility or specific needs that would help you take part comfortably, please feel free to contact us on bookings@bsbi.org or +44 (0) 7404 231178.

The BSBI has a culture of mutual respect, and takes seriously the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved in our events. We want everyone at our events to enjoy themselves, and we expect everyone to act in a respectful manner towards others at all times. We will not tolerate harassment, discrimination or inappropriate behaviour of any kind, and will treat any reported incidents seriously.