Natura 2000
Kilmore Quay is uniquely positioned alongside a natural heritage site of the highest European importance: a Natura 2000 ecological network. This network of protected areas, governed by robust European Union legislation, ensures the long-term survival of Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats.
In Ireland, this European mandate is translated into powerful national law through two key directives:
- The Birds Directive: This legislation necessitates the designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for the conservation of wild birds and their habitats.
- The Habitats Directive: This legislation mandates the designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for habitats and species of European importance.
The National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) plays oversees the designation, monitoring, and protection of all national and European nature conservation sites.
Wexford County Council is tasked with the crucial mission of managing the area’s delicate balance between visitor access, infrastructure development, and conservation to ensure the integrity of these protected sites is maintained.
Both the magnificent Ballyteigue Burrow and the iconic Saltees Islands (and their surrounding waters) proudly hold this dual designation of both an SAC and an SPA, highlighting their exceptional ecological value.
Find out more about each site by clicking on the images below
