In 2018 Dr Fiona Mac Gowan, ecologist, worked with us in developing our Pollinator Plan titled Inistioge Tidy Towns: Plants for Encouraging Pollinators strengthening policy in place for several years. Since then, planting plans are guided by the Pollinator Plan at all formal sites. We preserve wildlife corridors at the river bank, Lower River Park and at unmowed areas at the Thomastown Road, New Ross Road, Mill Road and Boat Slip.

In January, 2026, we were awarded a grant of €6,000 from Community Foundation Ireland to develop a wider Biodiversity Plan for the village and its natural environs. We are happy that Dr Fiona Mac Gowan will work with us again on this plan.

Our first meeting with her was on 3rd July, 2026, which she followed by a site visit to all areas Inistioge TT has responsibility for. She also noted other important sites of biodiversity in the village, the GAA grounds, St Colmcille’s School grounds, and St Mary’s and St Colmcille’s Graveyards.

Her work will:
• describe the local habitats, their condition and wider context
• point out current biodiversity highlights of Inistioge
• present a plan of achievable actions and projects that will protect and enhance the local biodiversity of Inistioge thus improving the quality of life for all in this beautiful part of Co. Kilkenny

The plan of actions will be discussed at the meeting on October 12th and then the finalised Community Biodiversity Action Plan will provide a guide for our local community’s environmental actions over the coming years.

We would be very happy to have representatives from all voluntary groups at this meeting, aware of the work already being done by many.

Dr Fiona Mac Gowan will make a presentation on the Biodiversity Action Plan for Inistioge at a public meeting in Cois Abhann Community Centre on Monday 12th October 2026 at 7.30pm.

All are welcome