What species of wildlife and what type of habitats are there at and around Lough Muckno? The findings of a one-year study that will answer this question will be revealed at an information evening in Castleblayney Library on Monday 27th November at 7pm. The speakers will include Mark Desmond of JBA Consulting, the lead ecologist of the team that conducted site surveys on Lough Muckno and its environs over the past year. Patricia McCreesh who was appointed as Biodiversity Officer with Monaghan County Council earlier this year will be in attendance at the information evening and she will respond to the study’s findings.  All are welcome.

The purpose of the study is that the community and relevant bodies have in place a baseline assessment of habitats and wildlife at Lough Muckno. This will inform what needs to be  protected when deciding on what is appropriate in terms of future development at this important amenity. It will also be informative for groups using the lake and Lough Muckno Park  as well as being a resource for environmental  awareness  in local schools and in the community.  The Biodiversity Study was commissioned and organised by ORCCA (Oriel River Catchments and Coastal Association) a river trust whose remit includes Lough Muckno.  Support in coordinating the project was provided by the Friends of Lough Muckno with funding for the project being provided by the LEADER programme.