There is potential for a new drumlin wetlands European Innovative Partnership (EIP) to be established in the northeast, Monaghan County Council has told the Irish Farmers Journal.

“Any payment to encourage farmers to protect wetlands in their ownership can only be seen as a positive introduction,” Monaghan County Council heritage officer Shirley Clerkin said.

“Currently there is no mechanism to pay farmers to maintain their wetlands.

“A results-based payment scheme would work well in this region and, from what farmers tell me, this would be a very attractive programme for them.”

First responders

Clerkin said that wetlands have untapped potential, with a need for a change in narrative around their use.

“These wetlands are not only contributing to carbon capture, but are also rich ecological diversity zones.

“There’s no way of valuing how much wetlands contribute to the wider community and they must be protected," Clerkin said.

“I consider farmers as being first responders to the overall climate challenge and especially when it comes to wetland protection.

“Wetlands also present huge potential for drawing tourists into the area.

“Look at the likes of Rossmore Forest Park, which has acres of wetlands and was the second-most visited Coillte forest last year.”

Survey views

A survey has been launched by the Co Monaghan Wetland Action Plan 2020-2021 to gauge farmers’ and the public’s attitude towards wetlands.

To complete the survey, click here.