Botanical Skills NI: Exploring the Botany of Temperate Rainforests

Join the Botanical Skills Northern Ireland Project for an immersive day exploring the rich botanical landscape of Correl Glen, Co. Fermanagh, one of the finest surviving examples of temperate rainforest in Ulster.

Temperate rainforests are amongst our most delicate and internationally important habitats for biodiversity. Characterized by high humidity and mild oceanic conditions, these damp, ancient woodlands provide a sanctuary for rare, moisture-loving flora and undisturbed soil communities.

Whether you are looking to refine your winter identification skills or simply deepen your understanding of oceanic ecology, this field session offers a hands-on guided experience in a truly remarkable setting.

Learn to identify species strongly linked to oceanic biogeography, including delicate filmy-ferns (Hymenophyllum spp.) and the distinctive Hay-scented Buckler-fern (Dryopteris aemula), and seek out rare plant species indicative of ancient, undisturbed soils, such as Yellow Bird’s-nest (Monotropa hypopitys) and Serrated Wintergreen (Orthilia secunda).

Put your winter plant ID skills to the test! We will focus on key vegetative characteristics, winter-green ferns, and keep an eye out for early or lingering winter-flowering species, as well as understand the essential ecological assemblages and conditions that define a temperate rainforest and why protecting these sites is critical for global biodiversity.

Booking: If you any issues 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.og or +44 (0) 7404 231178.

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.

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.