The Dúlra Project.
Dúlra, which translates as "Nature" in Irish, aims to address the serious issue of controlling the spread of Rhododendron Ponticum in the ecologically sensitive areas along the Mayo and Galway border.
Rhododendron, an invasive species, poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of the local ecosystem in areas of Mayo and Connemara. While its vibrant pink flowers may seem picturesque, this non-native plant has rapidly spread and outcompeted native vegetation, leading to a decline in biodiversity and the loss of habitat for native wildlife.
The Dúlra project initially came about as a collaboration between FORUM Connemara’s Agri-EIP, the North Connemara Locally Led Agri-Environmental (NCLLAES) Scheme and the Leenane Development Association (LDA) who had been working on addressing this issue in the Leenane area.
The areas the project team work in include: South Mayo, North and South Connemara.
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Dúlra’s approach to addressing rhododendron invasion centres on targeted stem herbicide application, in line with guidance from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, alongside ongoing awareness and education campaigns. The project adopts a collaborative model, working closely with landowners, farmers, volunteers and statutory bodies to ensure coordinated and effective control measures.
The dedicated team of 19 trained operatives has been actively supporting farmers across Connemara and South Mayo to reduce rhododendron spread within sensitive landscapes. Their practical expertise in invasive species control and ecological restoration has been central to mitigating the ecological threat posed by this species.
In parallel, the project has expanded its focus to include bog restoration and native tree and hedge planting. Working with farmers, the team has identified priority sites across Connemara for intervention in 2026, ensuring that control efforts are strategically planned and landscape scale in impact.
Through this integrated and community led approach, Dúlra aims to significantly reduce the spread of rhododendron while restoring habitats, strengthening biodiversity and safeguarding the natural heritage of the region.
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FORUM Connemara CLG, through the Dúlra Project, provides practical Environmental Management training for the Connemara community.
The programme offers local participants the opportunity to develop accredited, hands on skills including fencing, chainsaw operation and safe pesticide and herbicide application. These competencies are essential for invasive species control and ecological restoration works across the region.
By building these capabilities locally, the training strengthens the community’s ability to respond effectively to environmental challenges and ensures a skilled workforce is available for future employment opportunities in environmental management.
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For further information, please contact FORUM Connemara at
095-41116 or email
s.grimes@forumconnemara.ie or dulra@forumconnemara.ie
Our Funders
FORUM Connemara CLG would like to extend its gratitude for the funding provided by the National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) and the support from the Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE IP, an EU-funded LIFE Integrated Project, as well as the continued support from the local community, landowners, and volunteers. The success of the Dúlra project relies on the collective effort of all stakeholders committed to preserving the natural heritage of this unique landscape.
For further information on the scheme please contact - 095 41116
Sinéad Grimes, Project Manager
Dermot Flaherty, Stakeholder Engagement Officer