Students on the VTOS Achill “Coastal Tour Guiding” Course completed their Leave No Trace Trainer Course last weekend on Inishturk. The group were welcomed by the island community who hosted the Leave No Trace Trainers’ campsite on their iconic GAA pitch.
As a thank you to the island community, the trainee guides presented to the residents to offer tools and ideas for maintaining the pristine island of Inishturk through an increase in visitor numbers. Course facilitators Ged Dowling and Georgia MacMillan liaised with the Community Development Officer in advance to identify the most important issues for the community that could be addressed by Leave No Trace and three Principles were suggested– Be Considerate of Others; Respect Farm Animals and Wildlife and Dispose of Waste Property.
The students prepared their Principles with the island community in mind and adapted them to suit the audience. Participation from families and the local school teacher led to lots of discussion and engagement for all.
Leave No Trace Ireland and VTOS Achill wish to thank the community of Inishturk for their hospitality and an introduction to their beautiful island, the Real Wild Atlantic!
