The Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht works with landowners to support the development, enhancement, and maintenance of trails approved by Sport Ireland Outdoors and listed on the National Trails Register.
Through the Walks Scheme, landholders—or their nominees—are contracted to maintain sections of priority walks that cross their lands. To date, the scheme has contributed to the development and improvement of over 140 trails and facilitated maintenance agreements with more than 2,000 landowners.
The scheme is administered in line with the official Operating Guidelines of the Walks Scheme, as determined by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.
The Walks Scheme in Co. Waterford
The Walks Scheme in Co. Waterford is administered by Waterford LEADER Partnership CLG on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, with support from Sport Ireland Outdoors and Fáilte Ireland.
There are 14 trails across Co. Waterford under the Walks Scheme. The Rural Recreation Officer works with over 100 landowners to coordinate the maintenance of 61.9 km of track throughout the county.Important
Information and Safety Notices
Dog Policy
Please respect the dog policies for each trail. Dogs are not permitted on certain trails to protect livestock and wildlife, as even leashed dogs can cause stress or harm to sheep, cattle, and other animals.
You are welcome to bring dogs on trails where they are allowed. Details on which trails permit dogs can be found in the #. Thank you for respecting farmers, landowners, and the natural environment that make these trails possible.
For more guidance on walking near livestock and dog control, visit:
Staying Safe & Responsible Behaviour
Before heading out, make sure you are prepared:
- Check the trail difficulty
- Familiarise yourself with the route
- Bring appropriate clothing and supplies
For more information, see:
- https://www.mountaineering.ie/TrainingSafety/Safety/
- https://www.sportireland.ie/outdoors/walking/trail-users/things-to-consider
- https://www.leavenotraceireland.org/7-principles/
Contact Details
The Walks Scheme is administered by Ms. Niamh McGuinness, Rural Recreation Officer for Waterford LEADER Partnership CLG.
Address: Waterford LEADER Partnership CLG, Lismore Business Park, Lismore, Co. Waterford
Mobile: 086 1990221
Email: niamh.mcguinness@wlp.ie
Further details on the programme can be found here:
