GAA Club ‘rewild’ grass around perimeter of pitch

THE perimeter of St Anne’s GAA Club’s grounds in Bohernabreena have become a hub of biodiversity, after the club decided to ‘rewild’ the grass around the pitches by leaving it uncut.

The project began this spring, after it was suggested by club members Codie Preston and Rachel Freeman, as they saw an opportunity for the club to have a positive impact on the environment.

The rewilding project has been a success, with many pollinators like bees being spotted in the section, along with the emergence of plants such as goat’s beard and comfrey.

“We left the perimeter of the grounds uncut and lots of plants came up,” Codie told The Echo.

“And I suppose we’re all becoming more aware that pollinators are at risk and bees are endangered, and one of the reasons for this is because there aren’t enough areas left for them.”

The rewilded section of St Anne’s has become popular with the children who attend their macra and summer camps, and has been the site of many nature walks and bug hunts.

It gives the children the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of wildlife and the environment, and an appreciation for the importance of biodiversity.

“We’ve gone on nature walks and bug hunts with the kids from the macra, where they learn about the different bugs and the names of the different plants,” Codie explained.

“They love it, especially the bug hunts. They catch the most simple things, like a fly or a ladybird, and they’re so excited to show you.

“It’s great to give them a chance to learn about the other bugs and plants that are there.”

Young club member Eoin Murphy hand-made some bird boxes, under the supervision of his grandfather Michael, after being inspired by the club’s efforts to promote biodiversity.

The bird boxes will be placed around the perimeter of the club’s grounds next year, and Codie hopes that the rewilding will continue to inspire all of the club’s members – and other clubs around the county.

“The main thing is that I just think it’s important that other people become more aware of the importance of biodiversity,” said Codie.

“In the last couple of years, I’ve taken an interest in things that we can do to help wildlife because of the threat that it’s under, so it feels great to be able to do something like this.

“Other clubs should consider doing something similar. It’s very easy to do, but they can contact the club if they want to know more about it.”

Going forward, Codie said St Anne’s hopes to install the bird boxes made by Eoin Murphy next year, and to develop small habitats on the grounds of the club to encourage the growth of local wildlife.