The Maharees community-led collaboration has been a shining example of what can be achieved in the face of human activity, coastal erosion, and climate change. This remarkable project has garnered support from various state agencies, local authorities, universities, and NGOs, demonstrating the power of collaboration in environmental conservation.
Collaboration and Support
The Maharees community-led collaboration has been supported by a range of organizations, including state agencies, local authorities, universities, and NGOs. These partners have worked together to advance environmental conservation through initiatives such as dune restoration and sustainable tourism strategies.
- State agencies, such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), have provided essential support and guidance throughout the project.
- Local authorities, like Kerry County Council, have collaborated with the community to develop and implement sustainable tourism strategies.
- Universities, including the University of Galway and Munster Technological University (MTU), have contributed to the project through research and expertise.
- NGOs, such as Clean Coasts and the Dingle Hub, have provided vital support and resources to the community.
Dune Recovery
The Maharees community-led collaboration has achieved remarkable results in the recovery of the sand dunes. An aerial shot of the area known as Magherabeg Cut has demonstrated the dramatic recovery of the dune, which had been seriously degraded due to unmanaged access from beach users.
| Key Features | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Marram grass increase | Enhanced dune stabilization |
| Improved biodiversity levels | Delicate ecosystems supported |
Community Engagement
The Maharees community-led collaboration has been a true community effort, with the community working together to achieve the project’s goals. The Chair of the Maharees Conservation Association, Aidan O’Connor, has said: “We are so proud of the dune recovery here that we wanted to thank all of our partners who worked with us to achieve it over the last nine years.”
Quotes from Key Stakeholders
“The Maharees Dune Restoration Project serves as a positive example of the significant benefits that can be achieved for both nature and local communities when operating within the regulations of Natura 2000 sites.”
— William Hunt, District Conservation Officer, NPWS
“MTU is delighted to be a long-term collaborator with Maharees Conservation Association, working alongside NPWS, Kerry County Council and the community of the Maharees and West Kerry.”
— Killian Kelly, Wildlife Biology lecturer at MTU
“At Dingle Hub, we’re immensely proud to partner with the Maharees Conservation Association through our ‘Neart na Machairí project. The vital work being done to regenerate these dune systems represents not just environmental protection but community resilience in action.”
— Deirdre de Bhailís, General Manager, Dingle Hub
Conclusion
The Maharees community-led collaboration is a shining example of what can be achieved through community-led initiatives, collaboration, and support from various stakeholders. This project demonstrates the power of working together to address the challenges of coastal erosion and climate change, and serves as a model for other communities to follow.
