Living Landscapes of the Burren and East County Galway

This course is based in east Co Galway. It provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the ecology, conservation and sustainability of The Burren, Shannon Callows, turloughs and other landscapes in east County Galway such as raised bogs. Students will learn about key aspects of geology, hydrology, ecology and the impacts of climate change on turloughs, the Burren and Slieve Aughty mountains. Students will visit a number of sites to develop their field skills.

Week 1: Students will be introduced to key aspects of Geology, Hydrology, Ecology and the impacts of climate change on turloughs and The Burren and Slieve Aughty mountains. Students will visit a number of sites to develop their field skills, map habitats and learn from practitioners regarding the sustainable use and conservation of key habitats and resources in The Burren and Slieve Aughties.

Week 2: Students will survey the biodiversity of bogs and coasts with a particular emphasis on the role of stakeholders in the management and conservation of habitats and wildlife, such as Birdwatch Ireland projects, Ballydangan Red Grouse Project and erosion prevention.