"The Knocknagrave Environmental Centre is one of the great unsung resources in Co Monaghan."
That's according to local man Brian McDonald.
This new centre, complete with a biodiversity garden, has been developed on the site of a former national school in Knocknagrave.
It is the brain-child of the Tydavnet Group Water Scheme (GWS), who wanted to develop their offices in combination with an interpretive centre that would educate locals and visitors about water quality issues and water conservation.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Brian McDonald said the centre was established to educate people around the value of our water, biodiversity and the challenges that currently exist with climate change.
Brian said we have seen how climate has impacted the likes of water availability, especially over recent days after a short dry period, and these challenges are liable to get worse in the future.
He said the state of the art education facility is all about teaching people of all ages about how to be resilient against climate change and to safeguard our surroundings:
The centre is running a one week course for volunteer training to help build confidence in citizen science recording.
Dr Gretta McCarron who is co-ordinator of the centre explained how people can get involved. Volunteer Training, Learn about nature’, is a one-week course provided at Knocknagrave Environmental Centre, starting 22nd June. With local experts, you will explore hedgerow plants, meadow flowers and life in the pond.
To register email [email protected] or find Knocknagrave Environmental Centre on Facebook or text 087 3811733.