BSBI Irish Spring Conference: bookings now open

Maria with Lynda Weekes (rush ID
workshop leader),
2017 Irish BSBI Conference
Image: Fiona O'Neill

The Irish BSBI Conference has now become an annual event, taking place in March or April each year in the National BotanicGardens, Glasnevin. 

It is always a great event, with lots of smiling faces, eager to meet up with friends, old and new, and to get ready and raring to go for the new recording season!

Irish Officer Maria Long said “I just love the Irish BSBI Conference each year. Yes, it’s a lot of work, and there are often last-minute hurdles to negotiate, but every year it has been fun, informative and a joy to organise. 

"I get a real buzz out of seeing all the keen faces, some familiar, some new, but all enjoying the presentations, workshops and events. 

"We are very lucky too to have great support from both the National Botanic Gardens and Teagasc. So it’s a real team effort. 

"This year’s talks and workshops look great – so I really can’t wait for the day!

John Conaghan, Rory Hodd & Jo Denyer
enjoy a walk in the beautiful
National Botanic Gardens, Dublin
Image courtesy of J. Denyer

"You’ll find more info on the Irish Conference webpage and I’d advise you to download the programme and booking form right away and get your place. Join in the action by using #IrishBSBIConference, and follow the action on Facebook (@IrishSectionBSBI) and Twitter (@murlong77, @BSBIbotany). After the conference, talks and photos will be available on the Irish Conference webpage”

A few highlights for you to look out for: Mike Porter, author of the BSBI Viola Handbook, is offering a talk and and an ID workshop on violets; Jessica Hamilton will be talking about botany in Kerry; Clare Heardman will be talking about Ellen Hutchins, Ireland's first female botanist; Rory Hodd will be giving a flash talk on Killarney Fern... and there's lots lots more so do check out that programme in full!