Biodiversity & Water Quality Monitoring Workshops – Ilen River Catchment
Biodiversity & Water Quality Monitoring Workshops – Ilen River Catchment
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Join Green Skibbereen for a series of six hands-on outdoor workshops along the Ilen River Catchment. Learn how to monitor water quality, identify aquatic macroinvertebrates, spot invasive species, and document native biodiversity – all while exploring the beautiful rivers and streams of West Cork.
Discover the hidden life of the Ilen River and its tributaries in this practical citizen science workshop series. Led by experienced local citizen scientist, Ann Haigh, each 2.5-hour session will introduce you to:
- Freshwater Watch water quality testing & survey– measure nitrates, phosphates, and turbidity using Secchi tubes and test kits
- Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) kick sampling & aquatic macroinvertebrate assessment – use the Citizen Science Stream Index (CSSI) to identify six key indicator species and assess river health
- Invasive species site survey – learn to identify and record non-native species along the riverbank
- Mini bioblitz – document native biodiversity using identification guides and recording sheets
- Short guided walk – explore the riverside ecology (where sites allow)
- Litter pick- have the option to join a litter pick of the area after each session, or head home to digest what you’ve learnt!
- Bonus session (31 August)– Daubenton’s bat observation with bat detector (+/- official survey)
All equipment is provided. Free for 12-18 yr.
Workshop Dates & Locations:
| Date | Time | Meeting Point |
|---|---|---|
| Sat 11 July | 2-4:30PM | Ahanafunsion Bridge Carpark
51°40'21.0"N 9°15'40.9"W |
| Fri 17 July | 6-8:30PM | Caheragh Old Graveyard
51°37'56.9"N 9°17'36.2"W |
| Thu 23 July | 10–12:30PM | Ballyhilty Bridge
51°34'24.3"N 9°16'21.9"W |
| Mon 3 Aug. | 2-4:30PM | Bottom of Orchard Housing Estate, Skibbereen (walk to Caol stream)
51°32'45.7"N 9°15'24.1"W |
| Sun 16 Aug. | 2-4:30PM | Castledonovan Castle riverside carpark
51°41'24.7"N 9°16'57.3"W |
| Mon 31 Aug. | 6-8:30PM | Ahanafunsion Bridge Carpark
51°40'21.0"N 9°15'40.9"W |
Dates and locations are weather-dependent and subject to change.
Who Should Attend:
Anyone with an interest in rivers, wildlife, and citizen science - no previous experience required. Suitable for adults and older children (under 18s must be accompanied by an adult).
Booking: Spaces are limited. Please book your place in advance.
Ticket Options:
- Single Session: €5.00 – Pick any workshop that suits you.
- Full Series Pass (All 6 Workshops): €25.00 – Buy 5, Get 1 Free! Book the entire summer series and save €5. This is the best way to track the Ilen River's health from July through August.
Please note: The trainer's expenses and core equipment are supported by project funding, allowing us to offer these workshops at a highly accessible rate for the community.
Location
Various: Ilen River Catchment