Overview
The Department of Rural and Community Development Walks Scheme, administered locally by Waterford LEADER Partnership, works with landowners to develop, enhance and maintain trails on the National Trails Register.
Landowners like Sean play a vital role in preserving Ireland’s walking routes by maintaining trail sections that cross their private lands.
Participant Profile
Name:Sean Participant Since: 2022
Trail: St. Declan’s Way, Co. Waterford
Preserving a Legacy
Sean and his wife Noeleen are passionate about rural Ireland, heritage, folklore and history. They participate in the maintenance of the trail as they feel maintaining St. Declan’s Way is part of leaving a legacy for generations to come. They are making sure that this historical walk is not forgotten.
Community Impact
The development and regular maintenance of the trail have created meaningful economic and social opportunities for local communities in West Waterford.
“St Oec/an’s Way makes us appreciate what we have on our doorstep.”
Sean and Noleen have seen that their local amenities are appreciated by walkers using the trail, now that it is continuously maintained, as well as an increase in opportunities for local business.
Connecting with Nature
Maintained year-round by participants like Sean, St. Declan’s Way allows both locals and tourists to enjoy Ireland’s scenic countryside.
“Along the route the scenery changes. This time of year there are literally forty
shades of green.”
The Walks Scheme supports this connection to nature, reinforcing the value of • rural landscapes and outdoor recreation.
