Meath residents invited to join Boyne River Catchment Forum in new water quality initiative
Members of the public in Meath are being invited to join a new Boyne River Catchment Community Forum aimed at strengthening public participation in water quality management.
The forum is part of a national pilot programme led by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) to enhance community involvement in protecting Ireland’s rivers and lakes.
Following a well-attended information evening on October 1st, LAWPRO is now seeking expressions of interest from individuals who wish to play an active role in shaping the future of the Boyne River Catchment.
Basil Mannion, LAWPRO’s Senior Community Water Officer and Funding Lead, said the initiative offers people a chance to make a tangible difference.
“We are asking members of the public to get involved in this community-led movement to protect and restore the Boyne River Catchment,” he said.
“This is an excellent opportunity to help shape the future of the region, collaborate with like-minded individuals and organisations, access support and services from LAWPRO, and contribute to national, regional and local management.”
The Boyne Catchment is one of five national pilot areas selected due to its complex environmental pressures and active stakeholder engagement.
It includes several Areas for Action and water bodies that exceed environmental quality standards for nutrients such as phosphate, ammonium and nitrates.
The new forum will serve as a consultative platform on water quality — linking communities with decision-makers, providing space to discuss local water data, supporting community-led action, and allowing residents to contribute to the development of Catchment Management Work Plans.
LAWPRO said previous community consultations in the Boyne area revealed both the challenges facing the river and the strong public appetite for collaboration on solutions.
Expressions of interest are welcome from community organisations, environmental groups, farmers and landowners, sports and recreation clubs, local businesses, and any individuals interested in improving water quality.
Those wishing to take part are to reach out by October 29.