The MacGillycuddy Reeks EIP has welcomed 11 more farmers into the locally-led project.

The new participants are all sheep farmers who will work on annual plans to sustainably manage their high-nature value farmland as part of the scheme.

Organisers said: “The project focuses on improving the environmental condition of the land through an incentivised payment scheme, training farmers and supporting the development of collective groups in carrying out necessary works, such as treating invasive species like rhododendron, the management of bracken and scrub.”

The action-based payments are based on hours worked and will be paid at a rate of €14.50/hour. The work is allocated each year on annual work plans and is subject to the budget available.

Four-year project

Almost €1m was provided by the Department of Agriculture last year for the four-year project.

According to the Department, the project lies within the MacGillycuddy Reeks catchment area. It stretches from the Gap of Dunloe in the east, to Glencar in the west and from the Kerry Way in the south to the northern foothills of the Reeks.

It covers an area of over 100km2, encompassing over 8,000ha of natura-designated land.

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