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Woman completing a plant survey worksheet using her phone to record coordinates

First Saturdays

First Saturdays is Cornafulla Micro Reserve's monthly programme of walks, talks and workshops exploring the natural, cultural and ecological heritage of Cornafulla Bog and the Shannon Callows. Held on the first Saturday of each month at 11am, the gatherings bring together local residents, landowners, volunteers and specialists to share knowledge, explore the landscape and encourage participation in its conservation. The programme began in September 2026, with sessions covering birdwatching, plant identification and archaeology. Planning is already underway for 2027, with contributions confirmed from 12th Field Architects and Woodrow's peatland ecologists, including a practical workshop on assessing bog vegetation. Everyone is welcome, and no previous specialist knowledge is required.

Programme

Illustrated raised bog plant identification swatches

RAISED BOG PLANTS

05 DECEMBER 2026 NUALA MADIGAN IPCC

Two archaeologists discussing the shape of an archaeological object on Cornafulla Bog

BOG ARCHAEOLOGY

07 NOVEMBER 2026 Ellen Carroll & Cathy Moore

GIS map showing locations of recorded plants

BOG TO CALLOWS PLANT SURVEY

03 OCTOBER 2026 Identification and Mapping

Four people observing birds with binoculars and a spotting scope

BIRDWATCHING AND CITIZEN SCIENCE

05 SEPTEMBER 2026 Pat Dunning Breeding Waders EIP