Photo: Mike Shaughnessy

Plantathon will see 5,000 trees take hold in community park

IT will be shovels at the ready when 5,000 trees, shrubs and hedging are planted in a massive community plantathon in Knockdoemore Park next week.

Local clubs who use the park as their base are getting together to develop the amenity during National Tree Planting Week (March 4-11).
Members of Claregalway GAA, Clare River Harriers, 12th Galway Scouts, Lackagh Foroige as well as hundreds of walkers, runners and families who enjoy the park throughout the year will benefit over the coming years from the planting initiative.
“This develops our local ecosystem, increases the aesthetic of the area and will see this space become an attractive area for local families to play, walk and enjoy!
“We are reaching out to you, our local business owners, families, club members and the wider community to help us cover base costs involved,” commented a spokesperson for the event.
The plantathon is supported by the Tree Council of Ireland and the Heritage Board; the planting is being planned and supervised by Tony Clarke, Retired Regional Manager of Coillte and Sean Flanagan, Retired Teagasc Adviser, with the physical work being undertaken by club volunteers and the youth of the area.
In return for a contribution of €20 for a family or €10 per individual, a tree and or hedging plants will be planted in their name; the name will be listed on a plaque which will be located in the clubhouse, as well as being listed on club websites. Any surplus funds raised will reinvested in the local clubs.
To get involved, book a tree online at www.plantathon.com or visit the Knockdoemore Clubhouse this Saturday, March 3 from 11am-2pm. There's even a special tree planting event for Mothers' Day on Sunday, March 11 from 10am-12pm.