Local Catchment Assessments have been presented for the demonstration catchments of the Waters of LIFE Project.

The Local Catchment Assessments (LCAs) were prepared by project partner Local Authorities Programme (LAWPRO) staff on behalf of the project and presented to a gathering of Waters of LIFE, LAWPRO and RESTORE project staff at an event in Portlaoise on March 20^th 2024.

The findings outlined in the LCAs build on initial desk study work and mark the next step towards the development of strategic catchment management plans for the project’s five demonstration catchments.

Presentations were made by LAWPRO Catchment Scientists Stephen Davis (Midlands & East Region for Avonmore), Francis Deery (Western Region for Islands), Tracey Duffy (South West Region for Graney), DJ Lane and Patricia O’Brien (South West Region for Awbeg (Kilbrin)). Now working as an Executive Agricultural Scientist, former South West Region Catchment Scientist, Mairead Shore gave the Shournagh presentation.

 Waters of LIFE Management gave a project update for attendees while Dr. Fiona Kelly presented an overview of the development of the EPA RESTORE Project.

 Attending staff were also invited to discuss challenges and opportunities based on the findings of the local catchment assessments.

“The event was another step in the right direction for Waters of LIFE” said project manager Anne Goggin. “A huge amount of work went into the development of these assessments and the expertise of the LAWPRO team is invaluable to our project.”

“The presentations sparked some very interesting discussions which will help us in the development of the strategic catchment management plans later in this year. We’re also looking forward to getting back out to our communities to share the findings and work together in designing the next phase of the project.”