Almost half of Irish adults visit wetlands at least once a year, new research has revealed.

Of those surveyed for the research, 73% believe it is very important to pass knowledge about these landscapes on to future generations.

This research by Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration is aimed at providing fresh insights into how people in Ireland interact with, understand and value wetlands at a time when investment is underway to restore these vital landscapes.

Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration is one of the largest restoration projects currently underway in Ireland

It is a three-year, €12 million wetlands restoration project co-funded by the Irish government and the EU through the EU Just Transition Fund Programme.

The project is being managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service within the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The research, carried out by Red C on behalf of Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration explored public behaviours, attitude and awareness in relation to wetlands.

It showed that Irish adults that visit wetlands do so to engage in recreations such as walking, birdwatching, and time in nature.

Compared to previous research carried out in 2024, the patterns of visitation remain stable, showing indication that wetlands are a valued part of how people across Ireland engage with the outdoors.

Tóchar said that a majority of respondents agreed that wetlands are important for protecting biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, storing carbon, and preserving Ireland’s cultural heritage.

This also underscores the strong public support for the whole wetlands play in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

Public information evenings

Awareness of wetland restoration projects is increasing nationally, while also highlighting the importance of continued local engagement and accessible information, particularly in areas where restoration work is underway.

Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration will be hosting upcoming public information evenings, designed to support that engagement and offer people the opportunity to learn more about fen restoration and to discuss what it means for their local landscapes.

Tóchar explains that fens are a rare and distinctive type of peatland that are fed by groundwater rather than rainfall.

Their waterlogged conditions allow peat to form slowly, supporting specialised plant and animal species while also helping to filter water and contribute to more resilient local environments.

However, many fen sites across the midlands have been damaged over time, with restoration works taking place to help them recover.

The public information evenings will outline the ecological and societal benefits of fen restoration, including improved water quality and carbon storage, and explain some financial incentives available for restoration initiatives.

Commenting ahead of the events, Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration project manager Shirley Clerkin said: “This research shows that people across Ireland already recognise the value of wetlands and feel a strong sense of responsibility to protect them for future generations.

"Restoring wetlands is not just about ecology. It’s about working with people, listening to local perspectives and ensuring these landscapes continue to support nature, climate resilience and community wellbeing into the future.”

The public information evenings will be held take place at the following locations:

Monday, February 23 - Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, Co. Laois;
Tuesday, February 24 - Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone, Co. Westmeath;
Thursday, February 26 - County Arms Hotel, Birr, Co. Offaly;
Tuesday, March 3 - Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon;
Wednesday, March 4 - Greville Arms Hotel, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath.

The events are open to landowners, farmers, community groups, local organisations and anyone with an interest in wetlands and "the future of the midlands", according to the organisers.

Further details on the evenings and on how to register to attend are available on the Tóchar Midlands Wetland Restoration.