Hundreds enjoy nature based activities at accessible workshops

Almost 450 children, young people and adult, many of whom have additional needs, enjoyed accessible workshops, hosted by Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, at The Grange, Omagh and Smith’s Strand, Lisnaskea.

Organised by the Council’s Climate Team, the participants followed a trail through the parks providing them with an opportunity to explore the local environment and learn about nature and Climate Change all whilst having fun.

Along the trail, the young people and adults had the opportunity to enjoy nature and sensory based activities at various stations facilitated by external partners and Council staff.

The Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark Team showcased various wildlife found within the Geopark area highlighting the contribution they make to wider biodiversity and the environment.

Natural World Products focussed on composting explaining the process and how to make compost at home as well as the benefits for the environment, your garden and homegrown produce.  The Team also fascinated everyone with their wormery and how the worms can convert kitchen and garden waste into nutrient rich compost.

At the Grange Park event, participants had the opportunity to make pompoms to replicate sphagnum moss and view a miniature bog in a tank with Ulster Wildlife.  They also joined the Loughs Agency Team to explore the various types of insects that may be found in our local waterways as well as learning about the salmon in our rivers.

The attendees learnt how to make native seed bombs with the Conservation Volunteers which they scattered throughout the parks to create areas of wildflowers to support pollinators.  The Team also had various herbs which the participants could touch and smell to experience their soothing and stimulating effects which can have a positive impact on health and wellbeing.

Alongside the nature related activities, the Council’s Community and Wellbeing Team had some physical activities including archery and boccia for the participants to try.

Speaking about the events, the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor John McClaughry, said:

“It was great to see so many people enjoying the outdoors, connecting with nature and learning about the environment.

I was encouraged at how engaged everyone was in the activities which is important as we can all play our part in protecting our natural landscapes.

I commend the Council’s Climate Team on how well they organised the workshops in outdoor spaces to ensure they were accessible, inclusive and fun for everyone attending.”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to protecting, enhancing, restoring and raising awareness and action for local biodiversity.  Events such as this help us to achieve this whilst also ensuring that out outstanding and culturally rich environment is cherished, sustainably managed and appropriately accessible.

If you would like to find out more about future Climate Action events or join the Mailing List, email our Climate Team on climate@fermanaghomagh.com.