Tralee Bay Wetlands Celebrates Science Week Success

8th November 2026

Afloat.ie Team

Making a Splash: Tralee Bay Wetlands Senior Ecologist Alan Balfe joins John and Joni Dillane from Tralee, ecologist Daniel Connell and Nicola Connell from Galway to study pond water during Science Week activities exploring biodiversity, the water cycle and the vital role of wetlands in climate resilience Credit: Domnick Walsh Photography

Tralee Bay Wetlands Ecology Park welcomed visitors from across Ireland for a Science Week event exploring the water cycle, biodiversity conservation and the important role wetlands play in protecting the environment.

The programme took place on 7 and 8 November, as part of Kerry Science Festival and Science Week Ireland, supported by Research Ireland. Munster Technological University (MTU) delivered it in partnership, with Senior Ecologist Alan Balfe leading the programme.

Making a splash: Tralee Bay Wetlands Senior Ecologist Alan Balfe helps Daniel Connell and Nicola Connell from Galway examine pond water samples during the park's hands-on Science Week programme. Photo: Domnick Walsh Photography

Participants explored wetlands, climate resilience and natural flood management, with opportunities to ask questions and share their experiences. The event formed part of the 2026 Science Week theme, Water: From Molecule to Ocean.

Mary O'Connor, Manager of Tralee Bay Wetlands Ecology Park, said: “We were delighted to welcome a highly engaged audience from across Ireland for this year's Science Week event. It was wonderful to see people of all ages getting involved, asking questions and learning about the water cycle and the vital role wetlands play in our environment.”

Wetland wonders: Galway ecologist Daniel Connell and Nicola Connell join Tralee Bay Wetlands Manager Mary O'Connor and Senior Ecologist Alan Balfe beside the park's ponds during Science Week, exploring the water cycle, biodiversity and climate resilience. Photo: Domnick Walsh Photography

She added, “It was especially rewarding to see such interaction throughout the weekend, with participants eager to learn and share their experiences.”

The fine autumn weather and seasonal colours across the wetlands added to the occasion. O'Connor also thanked Margaret and the Lakeside Café team for their hospitality.

The park has also featured in Afloat's coverage of biodiversity education and conservation initiatives in Kerry.

Published in Marine Science

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