The Fossa Climate Action Group will host its annual Summer Guided Walk in the Kerry Biosphere Reserve on Saturday July 18.

The event is scheduled to begin at 10:30am and will be led by staff from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Diarmaid Griffin of the Fossa Climate Action Group said that the recent sunny weather has energised the local environment, making it an ideal time to observe local wildlife in abundance.
“In Killarney, we are fortunate to live within an UNESCO Biosphere, which is a specially designated area of natural and cultural heritage with worldwide renown,” Griffin said.
He added that there are only 784 Biospheres globally, with just two located in Ireland.
Following a review in 2017, the Kerry Biosphere Reserve was expanded beyond Killarney National Park. It now extends west to Lough Acoose to include the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, north to Fossa and Kilcummin, and east to the Paps mountains.
Griffin encouraged the public to participate to experience the health benefits of spending time outdoors. “Study after study proves that connection with nature boosts your immunity, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves sleep,” he said.
The event is free to attend, but booking is required. Members of the public can make enquiries or book a place by calling or texting Paul O’Raw on 0872317204.

Overnight water restrictions for Milltown and Ballyhar

Uisce Éireann has introduced overnight water restrictions across Kerry to protect daytime supplies as warm weather drives up demand.

The restrictions, which began on Monday are hitting parts of Milltown and Ballyhar particularly hard.

In Milltown, supply from the Knockavota Water Treatment Plant is restricted from 3pm in the afternoon until 8am the following morning.

This daily 17-hour restriction impacts customers in Ard na Greine, Calinfercy, Kilderry, Tinnahalla, Stealroe, Banshagh, and Kilburn.

To assist residents, an alternative water tanker has been set up at Ard na Greine in Milltown. Users must bring their own containers and are advised to boil this water before use.

Meanwhile, restrictions at the Barleymount Reservoir run from 9pm until 6am. This is causing low pressure and supply disruptions in Ballyhar, Faha, Lahard, Two Mile School, Aglish, Holycross, Kilnanare, and parts of Aghadoe and Fossa.

Uisce Éireann operations manager Eoin O’Connell urged the public to conserve water, warning that treated water is being used faster than it can be produced and stored. The utility will review the restrictions mid-week. More tips on conserving water are available at water.ie/conservation.