The Dodder Gathering: April 1st-2nd, 2017, at The Hive, Herbert Park

Photo credit/Brian Tansey

Photo credit/Brian Tansey

Dublin City Council Parks, DCC Water Framework Office and the Local Authority Waters and Communities Office are hosting a 3 day Gathering event in the Hive, Herbert Park from the 31st March to 2nd April 2017 in conjunction with Dodder Action.

The Dodder Gathering 2017 will bring local communities, local authorities and state agencies together to exchange information and advice through illustrated talks, interactive displays, guided walks and workshops. The purpose is to improve how we can manage the river together for the future through collaboration and goodwill. 

THE MAIN SCHEDULE: 

Saturday 1st April, 2pm – 4pm: Interactive Displays on Wildlife, the Wonders of Water and River Stories. All Welcome

A range of wildlife experts, scientists and environmental experts from DCC Parks Department, LAWCO, BirdWatch Ireland, INVAS Bio security, Herpetological Society of Ireland, Irish Wildlife Trust, An Taisce Clean Coasts and Coastwatch Ireland will host interactive displays. You will be able to learn about River birds, freshwater insects, Invasive Alien Species, responsible ownership of exotic pets, wildlife of the Dodder and marine life where the river meets the sea. The Dodder Action will show children of all ages how to make “Dodder Monsters” out of materials that would otherwise end up as litter in the River. 

Sunday 2nd April: Family Fun Morning By The River

On Sunday the 2nd of April, from 10am to 1pm there will be a morning of family friendly activities, including a walk along the River and pond with OWLS (suitable for families with young children), historic and wildlife walks in the Park, Fly Casting demonstrations by the Dodder Anglers, creating Dodder Monsters with Dodder Action, face painting and live music by “Harmony Harmonics”. 

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU THERE!

Supporting Events for invited groups:
On Friday 31st March, there will be an education day for invited primary and secondary schools exploring water quality and biodiversity and how to protect and enhance the Dodder and its environs. 
On Sat morning 1st April, there will be an networking session for invited Community Groups consisting of short presentations by public bodies on the current management of the River followed by a questions and answers session.

Victoria White