A DETAILED update on how Killarney is, slowly but surely, winning the war with the invasive rhododendron ponticum was outlined at a one-day knowledge sharing conference be held in The Brehon Hotel, Killarney at the weekend.
It is one of the longest-standing and most-stubborn issues encountered in the Killarney National Park but now the control of the rampant species has come under the spotlight like never before.
Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan
The problem was closely examined at the Kerry Biosphere Conference where experts discussed the need to manage rhododendron and the best way to do it.
The non-native invasive species, free from the factors that limit it in its native lands, has thrived at the expense of Killarney’s own native habitats and species.
Concerns have been raised about the spread of this invasive species throughout the Kerry UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and beyond and the fear is that if it is not adequately addressed, it will have a significant impact on the native biodiversity.
This conference shared learnings from groups already engaged in treating rhododendron ponticum to offer best practice and practical advice to encourage landowners, gardeners and community groups to begin tackling the issue in their own local areas.
Pictures: Valerie O’Sullivan: Click on individual images for details
