Ballyboughal Hedgerow Society

Protecting Nature, One Hedgerow at a Time

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A woman smiling outdoors in front of a river and mountains, wearing a gray beanie, tan jacket, and a white lace skirt.

Our Mission

The Ballyboughal Hedgerow Society plays a vital role in preserving the unique rural landscape and biodiversity of Ballyboughal. The Society was founded in 1998 by Ann Lynch in response to hedges being removed in many fields due to intensive agriculture. Working in close collaboration with the Ballyboughal TidyTowns group and other community organisations, the society is instrumental in several initiatives that support local wildlife, promote native planting, and enhance environmental education. The society is funded by The Heritage Council, Fingal County Council, the North Dublin Leader, and the wonderful supporters who come to the events.

What We Do

  • A scenic view of a field with tall grasses and yellow flowers, bordered by trees under a cloudy sky.

    Native Tree and Hedgerow Planting

    The Ballyboughal Hedgerow Society has planted over 200 native trees throughout the village, playing a key role in enhancing biodiversity, capturing carbon, and creating essential habitats for local wildlife. Their efforts extend to leading hedgerow restoration projects in areas such as the Hopyard, Oldtown Road, and Backlane, where they have revitalized natural boundaries and strengthened ecological corridors. As part of broader village improvement initiatives, the society has also supplied and installed replacement hedging, contributing to a greener, more connected rural landscape.

  • Colorful flower bed with white hydrangeas, purple, orange, yellow, and pink flowers next to a grassy sidewalk and a row of bushes, under a partly cloudy sky.

    Community Engagement & Education

    The Hedgerow Society hosts engaging Wildflower, Bee, and Bat Walks to raise awareness about pollinators and nocturnal wildlife. They also support local schools with projects that promote sustainability and biodiversity, while repurposing materials like mypex into mulch to reduce waste and enrich soil health.

  • An owl perched on a branch with a dark and blurred background.

    Wildlife Conservation Projects

    The Hedgerow Society joined a regional initiative with nearby towns such as Garristown and Oldtown to install Barn Owl nesting boxes, now in place on local farmland in Ballyboughal. In collaboration with BirdWatch Ireland, they also contribute to monitoring, data collection, and community education to support the recovery of this vulnerable species.

  • Group of seven children in yellow safety vests planting a tree in a large pot outdoors, with gardening tools and supplies in the background.

    Community Garden Collaboration

    The Hedgerow Society worked in close partnership with Ballyboughal TidyTowns to design and develop the new Community Garden at The Square. Their support was key in planning and planting pollinator-friendly beds, hedges, and native trees, all aimed at boosting local biodiversity.

Committee Members

Our committee is Stephen and Darren who advise us on Owl and Bat research and nesting boxes; Amy who coordinates our art events; Renée is our botanic advisor; Ann, our secretary; Emily, our treasurer; and Ken, our chairman.

Get Involved

Ballyboughal Tidy Towns is always looking for new hands and fresh ideas. Whether you have 10 minutes or 10 hours, your help makes a real difference. Join us in keeping our village vibrant, clean, and full of life. To get involved, simply fill out our volunteer form — available at community events, on our social media, or by contacting us directly. Everyone’s welcome — no experience needed!

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