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A SINN Féin councillor has called for a plan to protect and enhance Ballyseedy Wood, including removal of non-native invasive plant species.
Cllr Cathal Foley had a motion before the online meeting of Tralee Municipal District on Monday that the Council develop such a plan.
Cllr Foley said Ballyseedy Wood is an valued asset to the town, but there is rhododendron growing along footpaths there. He said it should be tackled now it now before it spreads in the wood and causes damage.
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In reply, Council management said Tralee MD has a comprehensive management plan in place for Ballyseedy Wood.
Recently, Tralee MD was successful in a funding application to extend the existing trail network within Ballyseedy Wood and has received €200,000 under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS).
This funding will facilitate the linking of two established trails with an additional 800m of trail thus creating a new 5km loop walk encompassing the northern side of the River Lee.
Tralee MD has an annual budget for the management of invasive species, however, a works programme has already been compiled for 2021.
If there are particular areas or species of concern, Tralee MD will undertake an assessment of these with a view to determining the cost of treatment following which a submission for funding to the Forestry Service can be prepared.
