New Marine Data Buoy Deployed in Mayo

The Marine Institute has deployed a state-of-the-art data buoy in Lough Furnace, Co. Mayo, strengthening Ireland’s capacity to monitor aquatic environments.

Equipped with advanced sensors, the buoy provides real-time data on water temperature, salinity, dissolved gases, acidity, and clarity. The information will feed into long-term datasets used to study changes in marine ecosystems, fisheries, and aquaculture.

The project was funded through the Marine Knowledge Scheme under the European Maritime, Aquaculture and Fisheries Fund (EMFAF) 2021–2027 and co-funded by the Government of Ireland. The scheme supports sustainable ocean management and the sharing of marine data.

Russell Poole of the Marine Institute said the buoy builds on over 70 years of research in the Burrishoole Catchment and complements work with GLEON and partners including the University of Galway, Atlantic Technological University, and Dundalk Institute of Technology.

The Marine Institute also manages long-term monitoring stations at Mace Head and Lehanagh Pool in Co. Galway. Together, these sites provide valuable insights into water quality, plankton ecology, and ocean conditions.

Ciaran Kelly, Director of Fisheries Ecosystems Advisory Services, said the new buoy is a major boost for Ireland’s marine monitoring network and will help inform evidence-based policy and management.

Further information is available at emfaf.marine.ie.