The Hare’s Corner Ponds
Dedicate an area of at least 5x5m (25m2) for the creation of a pond/pond complex. ( minimum size does not apply to urban dwellers)
We will support you by providing guidance for the selection of an appropriate site and the design of the pond, funding for the construction of the pond (a maximum of €700 inclusive of VAT based on receipts and photographs).
What the landowner will need to commit
- A Suitable Site*: An area of at least 25m2 (e.g. 5m x 5m) to accommodate one (or more – a pond complex) ponds and a buffer area. (urban dwellers are exempt from minimum size)
- Willingness to help create and protect a pond habitat: A willingness to work directly, or with contractors, to construct, manage and protect a pond habitat before the given deadline. Deadline is usually 3 months after being approved.
- Long term support: Your assurance that this site will be maintained for the next 3 years and that you will keep us posted on its progress.
- Signage Your agreement to erect a small, simple branded sign at the site (only applicable to a public site).
- Data: To your agreement that your anonymised data (location of your pond and images) will be used by The Hare’s Corner project for its communications and reporting purposes.
What The Hare’s Corner team will commit to
- Assessing site suitability and advising on pond design.
- Organising the necessary training and guidance, including on pond design.
- Providing funding for costs towards machinery work (a maximum of €700 including VAT based on receipts and photographs)
- Providing ‘The Hare’s Corner’ branded signage for your site (if a public site) and a listing on the project website (with your permission).
*Eligibility criteria will apply. Only species-poor, non-designated sites will be chosen so that there is no overall biodiversity loss and/or impact on any pre-existing heritage value of the place. Farmers who are ACRES or NPWS Farm Plan Scheme participants are currently not eligible to apply as we want to avoid double funding.
Helpful resources
- Pond Design and Construction – A webinar with Wetland specialist Feidhlim Harty
- Why Every Farmer Should Dig a Pond! – A podcast with Roscommon beef farmer Tommy Earley who has created 15 ponds on his farm in the West of Ireland.
- Do’s and Don’t of Ponds with Féidhlim Harty