National Hedgerow Week kicks off

Teagasc and the Heritage Council have launched National Hedgerow Week 2025, a series of free events aimed at raising awareness of the value of hedgerows in Ireland’s rural landscapes.

The events run from today through to Sunday, September 7, and include demonstrations on planting and managing hedgerows, enhancing biodiversity, and providing seasonal care.

The week begins with a webinar on August 29, as part of the Teagasc signpost series, where speakers from Teagasc and the Heritage Council will outline a whole-farm hedge cutting strategy. Local Authority Biodiversity Officers will lead events across Meath, Kilkenny, Offaly, and Laois, including hedgerow and foraging walks and a hedge laying demonstration in Offaly.

A dedicated event for contractors will take place on Thursday, September 4, at Kildalton College, County Kilkenny, where experts will discuss hedge cutting machinery and safety considerations.

Dr Catherine Keena, Teagasc Countryside Management Specialist, said the week is timed to coincide with the start of hedge cutting season. She highlighted the importance of hedges as habitats for native biodiversity and said best practice demonstrations for topped and treeline hedges would be covered at the Kildalton College event.

Catherine Casey, Head of Climate Change with the Heritage Council, said the week offers an opportunity for farmers, landowners, contractors, and the public to share knowledge and improve hedgerow management.

A full list of events is available on the Heritage Council’s website.