Pond Workshop - For Biodiversity, Habitats and Amenity

Join us to learn more about the importance of ponds for biodiversity, habitats and local amenities for communities and they types you can create.

Facilitator Bio:
Rob Gandola is a wildlife consultant that specialises in amphibian and reptiles and their habitats. He has a particular soft spot for supporting community groups in making wetland habitats that benefit local wildlife populations. His experience in this field has lead to the creation of 20+ wildlife ponds since 2023 with the assistance of community and school groups in the greater Dublin area that also function as "living classrooms". Rob is also a pond consultant for Burren Beo's Hare's Corner initiative and Farming for Nature initiatives.

Workshop Format:
- Brief intro to ponds, wildlife and expectations: function, biodiversity benefit and amenity value.
- Water as a resource, habitat and creating something visually appealing
- All things bright and ponderful: a display of the wonderous variety of ponds from small to big
- Getting started on your ponderful adventure: tips on how to make a pond that suits you and max it for local wildlife
- If you're not wet and dirty, you're doing it wrong! Troubleshooting common issues that arise when making and creating ponds and wetlands
- This doesn't look or smell right: a clinic on how to address common problems with new and existing ponds.

Refreshments and snack provided.

This event is supported by Kildare County Council Biodiversity Office, the Heritage Council, Marley Grange Residents Association and the River Basin Management Service.

Parking:
There is some on street parking on either side of the linear park on Dargle Valley road and Marley Ct.

Notes:
Refreshments and snack provided
Please bring a camp seat to this riverside workshop, if possible
Where appropriate clothing

Any queries please contact the Community Water Officer for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Justin Ivory, jivory@riverbasin.ie