Young people from across Fermanagh and Cavan have completed the innovative ‘Generation Nature’ programme, marking the culmination of months of hands-on learning, environmental discovery and climate action.
Delivered through the Empowering Communities for Climate Change initiative, Generation Nature was developed by Fermanagh Trust and Cavan County Local Development, with support from the International Fund for Ireland. The cross-border initiative is building stronger, more climate-resilient communities while fostering positive relationships and shared learning between young people.
The programme, which ran throughout spring and early summer, placed young people at the heart of protecting their natural environment. The twenty participants explored local woodlands, rivers and lakes, gaining practical conservation skills and developing a deeper understanding of biodiversity, climate change and the importance of caring for the natural world.
‘Generation Nature’ receiving their certificates at recent celebration event
Facilitated by experienced conservation and bushcraft specialist Tony Smith of Oakwood Bushcraft Forest School & Wilderness Living and his team, the programme provided a unique blend of outdoor education and youth leadership. Sessions covered wildlife protection, bat ecology, freshwater conservation, water quality testing, woodland ecology, habitat surveying, invasive species management and responsible access through Leave No Trace principles.
Central to the programme was a youth-led approach to environmental action. Following leadership and planning sessions, participants co-designed a range of practical conservation projects, including tree planting, habitat management, bramble removal and biodiversity enhancement initiatives. By turning their ideas into action, young people developed leadership skills while making a tangible contribution to their local environment and communities.
Throughout the 30-hour programme, participants demonstrated enthusiasm, curiosity and commitment. Many developed new skills, greater confidence and stronger leadership abilities, while forging friendships and strengthening their connection with the landscapes and ecosystems of the Fermanagh-Cavan region.
As a result of their achievements, participants were presented with the John Muir Award, recognising their commitment to discovering, exploring, conserving and sharing wild places, and Leave No Trace certification, acknowledging their understanding of responsible outdoor practices.
Annette Leonard, Community Climate Action Co-Ordinator with Fermanagh Trust, said: “It has been inspiring to see the enthusiasm and commitment shown by the young people who took part in Generation Nature. Over the course of the programme they have developed valuable skills, built confidence and gained a real appreciation for the natural environment around them. They have embraced every challenge, learned from one another and shown that young people can play a leading role in protecting our environment. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and hope that the knowledge and experiences gained through Generation Nature will stay with them for many years to come.”