As well as being a popular fishing and amenity site, Lough Owel holds the largest population of white clawed crayfish in the Country. In fact, it is one of the most (if not the most) important sites for this species remaining in the world. But white clawed crayfish populations are threatened by crayfish plague.

 

What is crayfish plague? And what can we do about it?

 

For answers to these and more questions lake users are invited to a free training day on Saturday 10 June at Lough Owel Angling Centre at Tullaghan, 10:30am – 3pm. Aquatic ecologists Ross Macklin and Bill Brazer, both of whom are keen anglers, have lined up a fun and informative day.

 

• An introduction to crayfish and crayfish plague

• Implications of the disease spread and its effect on native crayfish, fish & lake ecology etc.

• Biosecurity protocols for lake users

• Practical site visit to lake shore to see crayfish

 

Lunch will be provided and those who attend the training day will receive a biosecurity certification. This event is supported by the Local Biodiversity Action Fund from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, Westmeath County Council, the Local Authority Waters Programme, and Inland Fisheries Ireland.

 

To book your place contact the Heritage Officer, Westmeath County Council: heritage@westmeathcoco.ie 044 - 933 2098

 

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