Save our rivers: Anglers and allotment holders work together to defend the Boyne

The Boyne Rivers Trust, along with anglers and growers, are taking an active role to help reverse decades of damage on the catchment, and build a sustainable future for the historic river

The Boyne flowing beneath St Peters Bridge in Co Meath. Among the measures being undertaken by local conservationists is a plan to plant native trees along its banks. Picture: Gareth Chaney

In Athboy, Co Meath, a group has gathered around a brand new polytunnel at Athboy Community Allotments. The tunnel is empty, but one of those who have assembled is carrying an example of what the tunnel will soon be used to germinate — a one-year-old baby alder tree.

Ryan Wilson-Parr is one of the ecologists from Boyne Rivers Trust, a conservation group formed in October 2021 which works to rehabilitate the Boyne.