Investing in Peatland Recovery: Mourne Heritage Trust Welcomes New Trainees

As a key partner in Ulster Wildlife’s Peatland Restoration Traineeship, Mourne Heritage Trust is proud to support this year-long programme designed to equip six emerging conservationists with the practical skills needed to restore Northern Ireland’s vital peatland habitats.

Two of the trainees will work 1 day per week with Mourne Heritage Trust, gaining hands-on experience in the unique upland landscapes of the Mournes. Through fieldwork, research, and site-based learning, they’ll contribute directly to our efforts to reverse peatland degradation—an urgent priority given that nearly 90% of Northern Ireland’s peatlands are in poor condition.

The traineeship addresses critical challenges such as drainage, overgrazing, and pollution, while building capacity for long-term ecosystem recovery. By helping to develop the next generation of conservation professionals, Mourne Heritage Trust is proud to play a role in securing the future of these essential landscapes, which are crucial for biodiversity, water quality, carbon storage, and climate resilience.

Meet the Trainees !

Hi, my name is Lucy! I am currently studying BSc Environmental Science to help me on my way to becoming a conservation officer for our beautifully wild landscapes. I’m very interested in ecology, how flora and fauna interact with each other and the broader implications of ecosystem impacts – and what that means for nature and society. Working with Ulster Wildlife has been a dream come true, I have met a whole cast of wonderful people and have seen some amazing wildlife.

I’m excited to expand on the experience with the Mourne Heritage Trust, learning more about my heritage, conservation skills and helping to conserve our magnificent countryside. Through the course of the Traineeship, I will be looking into the presence of small mammals, comparing different methodology and habitats. I hope to learn more about what goes on in a world unknown to most, and what that means for the future of peatlands restoration.

Hi, I’m Dylan. My background is in Film & TV Production, but since I started foraging and growing my own food, I’ve felt my relationship with nature thrive. Now, thanks to the Ulster Wildlife traineeship, I’m able to cultivate this relationship in my work life. While training in Peatland Restoration with Ulster Wildlife, I’ve been exploring more of our beautiful countryside and meeting people who are passionate about their work, which has really inspired me.

I hope to continue developing the skills to understand and restore our natural landscapes and processes. Over the coming months I will be surveying for the presence of caterpillars of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly, one of our most protected insects. I’m excited to start my placement with the Mourne Heritage Trust and look forward to working with nature at a larger scale.