Environmental group Lochanna Beo has raised concerns over large carpets of the invasive Fringed Water Lily proliferating along the shoreline of Ross Bay and Bog Island on Lough Leane.

The plant, known scientifically as Nymphoides peltata, is an invasive aquatic species listed under European Communities regulations.

It thrives in nutrient-rich, eutrophic waters caused by high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers and wastewater discharge.

Identified by its five vibrant yellow fringed petals, the perennial plant roots at the lake bed with long stems reaching the surface.

Late in the season, seeds form floating chains that spread across the water, while boat traffic can also unintentionally disperse seeds to new areas.

The dense mats are currently impacting local boatmen by entangling engine propellers.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has urged watercraft operators to avoid driving through the weed mats and reminds lake users to follow the “Check, Clean, Dry” protocol for all vessels.

Lochanna Beo spokesperson Valerie Harrington warned that the plant threatens to disrupt the lake’s ecosystem and food web, pointing to wider water quality issues.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has highlighted that Lough Leane is failing to meet Water Framework Directive targets, citing excess nutrients from the Killarney wastewater treatment plant as a key factor. Despite the facility being placed on the EPA Priority Areas List, recent parliamentary responses indicate no upgrade work is scheduled before 2030.

The Killarney branch of the Irish Girl Guides is currently seeking new members for its Ladybirds division.

Aimed at girls aged 5 to 7, the Lily Ladybirds provide an all-inclusive environment where young members are encouraged to reach their full potential through a mix of play, discovery, and community involvement.

As part of the Irish Girl Guides (IGG), the mission of the branch is to enable girls and young women to develop into responsible citizens of the world.

The Ladybirds programme specifically focuses on building confidence and teaching essential life skills.

Participants engage in fun activities that help them develop a respect for the outdoors and learn to work effectively as part of a team.

Weekly meetings take place during the school term on Monday nights from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

These sessions are held at the Presentation Monastery School on the New Road, providing a consistent and safe space for the girls to gather and learn.

A dedicated registration and information evening will be held on September 29th at 6:00 pm at the Presentation Monastery School.

Organisers have noted that spaces within the Killarney branch are limited, so any parents or guardians interested in enrolling their children are encouraged to attend this session.

For further details on the enrolment process or the activities planned for the upcoming term, Maura Fitzgerald is available for inquiries at 087 7986958.