The Dúlra Project
Dúlra, which translates as "Nature" in Irish, aims to address the serious issue of controlling the spread of Rhododendron Ponticum in the ecologically sensitive areas (SACs) in Connemara and South Mayo.
The Dúlra project initially came about as a collaboration between FORUM Connemara’s Agri-EIP, the North Connemara Locally Led Agri-Environmental (NCLLAES) Scheme and the Leenane Development Association who have been working on addressing this issue in the Leenane area.
The project team are grateful for the funding provided by the National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) via the Wild Atlantic Nature LIFE IP, an EU-funded LIFE Integrated Project, as well as the continued support from the local community, landowners, and volunteers.
Dúlra's Approach
The success of the Dúlra project relies on the collective effort of all stakeholders committed to preserving the natural heritage of this unique landscape.
The project emphasises a collaborative, community based approach, working closely with local landowners, volunteers, and relevant authorities to maximise the impact of their efforts. We partner and cooperate with other Natura Communities in Donegal and Mayo and other groups who have a similar mission.
By expanding their operations, the Dúlra team hopes to effectively manage and control the spread of this invasive species, protecting the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
Dúlra employs a stem herbicide application method, recommended by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Controlling
Rhododendron ponticum
Rhododendron, an invasive species, poses a significant threat to the delicate balance of the local ecosystem in areas of the West of Ireland. While its vibrant pink flowers may seem picturesque, this non-native plant has rapidly spread and outcompeted native vegetation, leading to a decline in biodiversity and the loss of habitat for native wildlife.
It is estimated that 26% of the island of Ireland is covered with land suitable for establishment and spread of Rhododendron, making it a national concern.
The team primarily work on Natura 2000 sites.
The project currently works in 3 Special Protection Areas (SPA) designated by Member States under the Habitats Directive and the Birds Directive, respectively. - Twelve Bens/Garraun Complex SAC, the Connemara Bog Complex SAC and the Mweelrea/Sheeffry/Erriff Complex SAC.
Biochar
𝐁𝐢𝐨𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫 (𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐢𝐥)
Back in 2022 we investigated the use of biochar to deal with the problem of rhododendron brash and built a mobile biochar unit based on a design from America. It was the first of its kind in Ireland. We successfully made biochar from the rhododendron brash!
Biochar is a charcoal-like material made by heating organic matter in a low-oxygen environment, typically a retort or open-flame kiln. When added to soil, it can help improve water retention, support soil life, reduce nutrient loss, and lock carbon into the ground for long periods of time.
At Dúlra, we are exploring how invasive rhododendron brash and other local materials can be turned into biochar as part of a circular restoration approach. Our biochar has been tested by the University of Limerick and found to contain approximately 88% carbon by atomic weight, indicating a very high-quality and stable biochar with strong potential for long-term carbon storage.
The idea is inspired by the ancient Amazonian “Terra Preta” soils (“dark earth”), created by Indigenous communities thousands of years ago. These remarkably fertile soils were enriched with charcoal, organic matter, pottery fragments and food waste, and many remain productive even today. Researchers believe biochar played a key role in helping these soils retain nutrients and support rich microbial life.
One of biochar’s most interesting properties is its enormous internal surface area. Tiny pores within the material can provide habitat for beneficial microbes and help hold nutrients and moisture in the soil. Biochar can also be “inoculated” before use, for example with slurry, compost tea or other biological inputs, allowing microbes and nutrients to colonise the material. Once added to soil, this can act a bit like a slow-release fertiliser, gradually supporting plant growth over time.
Biochar may also help reduce nitrate leaching by adsorbing nutrients onto its surface, helping keep them in the root zone rather than washing into waterways. This is one reason it is attracting interest in regenerative agriculture and water protection. There is also growing interest in whether biochar could support tree resilience and recovery in stressed woodland systems, including areas affected by ash dieback, by improving soil health, microbial activity and nutrient availability around vulnerable trees.
Healthy soils store carbon naturally, and biochar may help strengthen that process. Watch this space, we are sure you will be hearing more about biochar in the near future!
We are also hoping to investigate the use of Biochar and smart water management to offer a new pathway to cut peatland emissions
