KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK WOODLAND CONSERVATION PROJ

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Ireland Environment Manual work Environment Manual work Fixed dates

About the project

📝 Detailed information

🏢 About the local organisation

Killarney National Park in Co. Kerry in the south west of Ireland is over 10,000 hectares in size and comprises mountains, lakes and woodland. The park is managed by the National Parks andWildlife Service. It has an extensive range of trees, plants and wildlife. In the 19th century the rhododendron tree/bush (Rhododendron ponticum) was introduced and this has proved to be a highly invasive and destructive tree and has threatened to colonise large areas of the park. The rhododendron is threatening the bio diversity of the park and many native species of trees, shrubs, mosses are under threat.

💼 What the programme involves

Volunteers will work on natural methods of rhododendron control in remote mountain areas of the park such as dead-heading rhododendrons, stem treating of mature plants with small tools, the picking of seedlings and cutting of saplings using secateurs. The work may include using handheld tools such as loppers and hatchets, which you will receive full training on how to use safely on the 2nd day of the project. In addition, volunteers will help to construct dead hedges using dead rhododendrons, and in habitat conservation by pulling up seedlings, as well as assisting with visitor awareness in the National Park.

🏠 Accommodation on site

Accommodation will be in a dormitory style hostel in the park, with all modern appliances. Volunteers will cook for themselves on a rota basis and will bring a packed lunch to their worksite each day. Please note there is no wifi at the hostel and phone reception in the park is limited, but wifi is available in a local pub 15 mins walk from the hostel.

📍 About the location

Killarney is a town located in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. It is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and proximity to the Killarney National Park, which is one of the main attractions of the region. The town is also known for its lively pubs, traditional music, and cultural events. Visitors to Killarney can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, golfing, fishing, and water sports. Additionally, there are many historical and cultural sites to explore in the area, including castles, museums, and galleries.

🎒 Leisure activities

There are plenty of things to do in Killarney, Ireland. Here are some popular activities and attractions:

1. Explore Killarney National Park: This is one of the most popular attractions in Killarney. You can hike, bike or walk the many trails, visit Muckross House and Gardens, or take a boat ride on the lakes.

2. Visit Ross Castle: This 15th-century castle is located on the shores of Lough Leane, the largest of the three lakes in the Killarney area. It is a popular spot for taking photos and learning about the history of the region.

3. Take a traditional horse and carriage ride: A great way to see the town and surrounding countryside is to take a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage.

4. Enjoy traditional music in a pub: Killarney is known for its lively pubs and traditional Irish music. There are many venues to choose from in town.

5. Visit the Gap of Dunloe: This scenic mountain pass is located just outside Killarney and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

6. Take a scenic drive: The Ring of Kerry is a popular route for taking in the beautiful scenery of the region.

7. Play a round of golf: Killarney has several excellent golf courses, including the famous Killeen Course at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club.

8. Visit St. Mary's Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is located in the center of town and is a popular spot for visitors.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Killarney. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or just having a good time, there's something for everyone in this charming town.

ℹ️ Additional information

The midge fly is widespread in the park as well as ticks so volunteers must be prepared to use a strong insect repellent and wear a protective net when working. The park will provide nets, gloves and rubber boots. Volunteers are also required to wear long sleeves and trousers while working.

Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.

📅 Available sessions

IE-VSI 10.1

02/07/2023 → 16/07/2023

Closed

2 / 10

♂ 0/5 ♀ 2/5

ℹ️ Key information

Age required

18–99 years old

Solidarity donation

0.00 EUR

French tax residents may be eligible for a tax reduction of up to 66% of their costs (membership, plane tickets, solidarity donation).

📍 Location

Muckross, Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Ireland

🌍 Location info

Local currency

Euro Member Countries (EUR / €)

Timezone

Greenwich Mean Time

Local time: 21:56 (12/11/2026)

🛡️ Before you leave

Security information

📞 Contact us

[email protected]

+32 2 888 67 13

Contact form

✅ Features

🏠 Accommodation

Collective

🗣️ Languages spoken

English