Curraheen

Situated at the foot of the Silvermine Mountains in County Tipperary is Curraheen, 38 acres of marginal farmland, acquired in December 2022. This was NádúrNua’s first afforestation project. There were existing Hazel woodlands, old Oaks and several streams flowing through the property.

27,000 native trees were planted in May, 2024, mostly Oak, but also Birch, Hazel and other native species. Setbacks were established to improve bank stability and absorb pollutants while a natural bridge with culverts was created across two of the streams to allow access for heavy machinery. New deer fencing was installed on the perimeter of the site to prevent deer browsing. Fruit and seed producing trees were also planted as a food resource for local wildlife. 

Kestrel, Barn Owl and Bat Boxes were installed with the barn owl box now occupied. More recently a loghive for Native Irish Honey bees was placed on an Oak tree. The loghive is now home to honey bees. A small pond has been established to enhance existing biodiversity and encourage invertebrates, amphibians and plants. We have three trail cameras installed to monitor mammal life in Curraheen. Pine Martens, Badgers, Foxes, Kestrels, Mice and Fallow Deer have all been identified so far. An active deer management strategy is in place to allow the native trees to grow. 

Curraheen will become a mature, species-diverse 38 acre woodland of mostly Oak, Birch, Alder, Hazel, Hawthorn and Rowan.

Curraheen is “An Curraichín” in Irish and dates back to 1593 as a townland.