Donal Hickey: Kerry bog walks —proof that locals make great custodians of natural heritage

Fresh air, great views, biodiversity habitats — but would the bogmen of old approve?

This way to the beautiful Kilcummin Bog Walks in County Kerry. Brochures are also available from the Rural Development Office and local Post Office. Picture: Kilcummin Rural Development

Time was when fellows seen walking around bogs were looked upon with some disdain. Hands in pockets, they strolled from turf bank to turf bank, looking for chat and even admiring the work being done by others: they were tolerated as a minor nuisance and distraction.

Harvesting turf called for all available labour, with young and old joining in. Now, however, there are far more people walking in, rather than working in, bogs. The bogmen we knew in days gone by wouldn’t be impressed, but attitudes to peatlands are changing.