Paddlesports are a brilliant way to get out and enjoy nature and the Irish waterways. A key part of enjoying the outdoors is sharing it with other users and with the wildlife who inhabit it. The rivers and coast where we paddle are home to hundreds of species who depend on a clean and unblemished environment to survive. We have some key points for you to consider when planning a trip to ensure we all respect the environment and ensure it remains a beautiful place for others to enjoy.

Leave No Trace aims to promote and inspire responsible outdoor recreation. The principles of Leave No Trace aim to enable all users of the outdoors to sustain a healthy and vibrant outdoor environment. By following the key points below you can ensure you plan your trip in the most respectful way to both the environment and to other users –

BE CONSIDERATE OF OTHERS

LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND

DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY

HAVE PERMISSION TO USE YOUR CHOSEN LOCATION

AVOID DAMAGING THE GROUND OR SURFACES

KEEP YOUR DISTANCE FROM WILDLIFE

AVOID DAMAGING THE FORESHORE OR RIVER BANK

CHECK, CLEAN AND DRY YOUR EQUIPMENT

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is Ireland’s body in charge of monitoring, recording and preserving our natural environment. They aim to educate people on preserving biodiversity in Ireland. In relation to paddlesports they have 3 key messages to stop the spread of invasive species on our waterways –

CHECK

CHECK boats, equipment, clothing and footwear for living plants and animals. Pay particular attention to areas that are damp or hard to inspect

CLEAN

CLEAN and wash all equipment,footwear and clothes thoroughly. If you do come across any plants and animals, leave them at the water body where you found them.

DRY

DRY all equipment and clothing for at least 48 hours – some species can live for many days or weeks in moist conditions. Make sure you don’t transfer water elsewhere.

Clean Coasts

Clean Coasts are creating a tangible and immediate improvement on Ireland’s coastal environment through – Organising 100s of beach clean-ups each year. Mobilising thousands of volunteers, removing large quantities of marine litter from our coastline. Promoting and facilitating coastal clean-ups and marine litter surveys. Find out more…

Comhairle na Tuaithe

Comhairle na Tuaithe supports the development of outdoor recreation activities for social, health and economic benefits, and which promotes sustainable and responsible use of the outdoors where the rights and responsibilities of both landowners and recreational users are recognised and respected. Find out more…