Erosion Control and Habitat Restoration in the Mourne Mountains

The Mourne Mountains are a natural treasure, designated as two Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) – the Eastern and Western Mournes. The Eastern Mournes also hold the prestigious status of a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), recognizing their importance on a European scale.

This dramatic landscape is a mosaic of steep scree slopes, vast heather expanses, deep peatlands, dry grasslands, striking rocky outcrops, high mountain lakes, and cascading rivers—all within a relatively compact area.

A Unique and Fragile Ecosystem

The Mournes are home to a diverse range of specialized flora and fauna. Carnivorous plants thrive by trapping insects for nutrients, while ground-nesting birds migrate thousands of miles to raise their young among the heather. Common lizards coexist with the heather, while riverside holly bushes provide a habitat for blue butterflies throughout their life cycle. These delicate ecosystems, however, face increasing pressure from both human activity and climate change.

Growing Pressures on the Landscape

Over half a million visitors explore the Mournes each year, contributing to erosion and habitat degradation. Climate change is also impacting the region, with rising temperatures reducing snow cover and affecting rare mountain-top plant species. Airborne pollution stunts healthy plant growth, wildfires can destroy entire hillsides in a single day, and fluctuating grazing levels disrupt the ecological balance.

Conservation in Action

The Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT), supported by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and NI Water, leads crucial habitat management efforts. When funding allows, larger conservation projects take place.

In the spring of 2025, one of MHT’s most ambitious initiatives will focus on Slieve Binnian. A helicopter has been used to transport heavy materials to the site. Years of widening footpaths (a process known as ‘braiding’) have damaged the vegetation that stabilizes the mountain’s fragile soils. This project employs a dual strategy of path repair and habitat restoration to protect and rehabilitate the landscape.

Dedicated Teams and Ongoing Efforts

Planning for this project began months in advance, with intensive restoration work now underway. MHT’s dedicated path team, supported by specialist contractors, is working on both Binnian and the Annalong Valley to restore trails while preserving sensitive habitats. By providing clear, well-maintained paths, the project encourages hikers and runners to stay on designated routes, allowing nature the chance to recover.

How You Can Get Involved

Conservation is an ongoing process. With over 115km of trails across the high Mournes, continued maintenance and volunteer support are essential. MHT prioritises trails that traverse key habitats, such as wet heath on peaty soils and blanket bogs, ensuring their long-term protection.

Stay informed about conservation efforts by following Mournelive on Facebook, watching BBC Countryfile (February 2025) for a special feature on the Mourne AONB, or reaching out to volunteer@mourne.co.uk to learn how you can contribute.