A new initiative to build links between the promotion of biodiversity and farmers, local communities and the wider public has been launched in Kerry.
The Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Senator Pippa Hackett, this week launched the Kerry Eco-Social Farming European Innovation Partnership which incorporates three key elements – creation, engagement and monitoring – to increase biodiversity across the rural landscape and within communities.
“This project will ensure active engagement with farmers and the wider community. This, ultimately, will facilitate the continued and enhanced delivery of the ecosystem services we all rely on for healthy lives, including clean water, carbon storage and biodiversity,” Senator Hackett said.
The creation of features crucial for biodiversity, combined with the creation of detailed biodiversity farm maps, will enhance the participating farmers’ understanding of biodiversity and highlight farmers’ importance as custodians of nature for the wider community,” she pointed out.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Hackett expressed her support for the initiative which has both farmers and biodiversity at its core.
“Community engagement and participation are central to this project. Having seen the successes of the Kerry initiative, I am excited to have had the opportunity to speak to service users and host farmers alike and see first-hand what it is delivering both socially and environmentally,” the Minister of State said.
She said she looks forward to seeing the outputs of the initiative which will help the work of her department to improve the management of landscapes in innovative ways while delivering a valuable social service for local communities.
KillarneyToday.com: Everyone reads it – ask anyone. To advertise call 087-2229761 or email news@killarneytoday.com
