World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on the 2nd of February to raise global awareness about the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet.
This particular date is chosen because it marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands on 2 February 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea.
To celebrate World Wetlands Day this year, a nature walk has been organised in Loughnaneane Park, Roscommon Town, to see the Turlough. The walk will begin at 11am near the Duck Pond in Loughnaneane Park on Thursday 2nd February. The event is free and all are welcome.
It should be an interesting morning with some very knowledgeable guides lined up. This event is being hosted by the Heritage Office of Roscommon County Council as an action of the County Roscommon Heritage Plan, in conjunction with Roscommon Tidy Towns, The National Parks and Wildlife Service and The Waters and Communities Office.
If you have not yet visited Loughnaneane Park it is a 14 acre recreational area situated in the north western area of Roscommon town bordered by the ruins of Roscommon Castle, which is a dramatic and imposing 13th Century Castle. The Park includes a crannog known locally as the Hill o’ Bones, a wildflower meadow, bird walk, swift tower, lake feature, mounds, children’s playground and car park.
The organisers are asking attendees to dress appropriately and bring binoculars, if you have some!