The Inchydoney Dunes Conservation Group recently welcomed Dr Jimmy Murphy, from MaRei Centre at UCC, for a public talk in Clonakilty, on his ongoing study of the erosion of the Cork coastline, in which Inchydoney is one of five specific study locations.
Dr Murphy and his team are almost half way through the three-and-a-half-year study, funded by Cork County Council, to review and assess the areas of the 1199km Cork coastline most vulnerable to coastal erosion, and to identify appropriate protection methods. The project outputs will inform the future planning of coastal management along the Cork coastline and the development of coastal management activity in the future.
In his presentation, Dr. Murphy outlined the basics in coastal processes and beach behaviour; on overview of coastal management strategies and coastal protection practices; and a detailed description of the Cork Coastline study and the situation in Inchydoney Beach.
With this monitoring and data collection all relevant agencies and stakeholders have the capacity to understand the areas of vulnerability, the threats, and the most appropriate responses to protect the coastline.
The study is highlighting the complex nature of the Cork coastline and the importance of monitoring the entire area and understanding the differences between each beach and coastal area. Overall, soft coastlines, i.e. beaches and dunes systems, are under increasing threat from rising sea levels and more frequent and stronger storms.
Dr Murphy’s data shows where the dunes in Inchydoney have been retreating in recent years due to increased number of storms and their severity. The mitigation measures suggested however, are straightforward and have been proven to be very effective. Measures including marram grass planting, chestnut fencing, information signage, and staying off the dunes will be most beneficial for the Inchydoney dunes to allow the dunes to recover where they have been reclining. Allowing the dunes to recover will stabilise them so they can function as defence from coastal erosion and also protect the unique habitats of the dunes.
Aidan O’Connor, of the Maharees Conservation Association, also joined on the evening to share the experience of their dunes conservation group, the challenges of coastal erosion on their ten miles of dunes, and the actions they have taken to protect and enhance the dunes. This group are leaders in community led action in dunes conservation.
The MaRei study and the Maharees experience have shown that Coastal Communities have an important role in maximising the health of a beach and dunes systems.
The mission for Inchydoney Dunes Conservation Group is to conserve and promote awareness of the important habitats and wildlife of the dunes, beach and coastal ecosystem in Inchydoney to ensure that current and future generations can enjoy this wonderful natural environment.
The Inchydoney Dunes Conservation Group asks that everyone plays their part in protecting our beautiful beach. Inchydoney Dunes are internationally protected habitats and we can all make a difference to protect them and preserve them with a few simple actions. When visiting the dunes, please practice the following steps to reduce the impact on the wildlife and stability of the dunes:
• Respect the Wildlife – observe and enjoy the beautiful plants, birds, insects and animals but do not pick wildflowers or disturb animals or their habitats
• Keep to the main paths – avoiding trampling through the dunes’ grasses and plants
• Avoid Sand cliffs – sand cliffs are dangerous, and climbing and sliding on them can have a serious impact on the whole dunes system.
• No camping or lighting fires – camping and fires are not permitted
• Pack up your rubbish – bring home all your belongings and litter, including all plastics, packaging, food and dog droppings.
IDCG will continue to engage with NPWS, Cork County Council, MeRei and the local community in its efforts to promote awareness of the ecological value and functions of the dunes, and the best actions and measures that can be taken individually and as a community to protect the dunes.
Please get in touch if you would like to get involved with the group by emailing inchydoneydunesconservation@gmail.com
