The Croagh Patrick Ambassador Programme 2024
New Croagh Patrick Ambassadors ready to preserve the mountain’s heritage
Leave No Trace Ireland has welcomed 12 new Croagh Patrick Ambassadors, who have been trained to advocate for the preservation of the iconic mountain.
Over 120,000 people climb Croagh Patrick annually. However, the mountain currently does not have any statutory or legal conservation protection or status. The increase in visitor numbers has resulted in many negative impacts on the mountain, the most visible of which is the path erosion on privately-owned land.
The aim of the programme is to develop a team of local volunteers to act as Ambassadors for Croagh Patrick to assist the public in appreciating the mountain and it’s surrounds through education and communication, drive public awareness of the importance of care and respect for our natural heritage, to empower positive behavioural change and develop skills around outdoor recreation so that locals and visitors can continue to enjoy and protect Croagh Patrick and its surrounds.
During their intensive two-day training, the ambassadors delved into bespoke sessions focusing on Croagh Patrick’s rich natural and cultural history. They received comprehensive training on the programme’s mission to promote responsible and sustainable access to the mountain. Key to their development was the inclusion of certified Leave No Trace Ireland courses, equipping the ambassadors with the knowledge to educate visitors on the importance of preserving the area’s heritage.
Additionally, the ambassadors met with the Path Restoration Team, learning about their commendable work over the past three years. They discussed strategies to encourage visitors to stay on designated paths, thus supporting the regrowth of vegetation along the mountain’s trails.
