Killarney
National Park
From rope to soil. Restoring the land, one Rhododendron Ponticum at a time.
Working Lightly on the Land.
Killarney National Park: A gem in the South-West of Ireland.
From April to June 2026, our team was trusted to carry out invasive species removal across the park’s steep and unpredictable terrain. Working lightly on the land, our IRATA‑qualified rope technicians and dedicated grounds crew moved from rope to soil to clear Rhododendron Ponticum, a non‑native plant that has spread rapidly through the hills of Killarney.
Before the project began, a detailed scope of works was completed by our Level 3 IRATA Operations Manager and Level 1 IRATA Supervisor. Risk, environmental sensitivity, and access constraints were assessed thoroughly to ensure the safest and least disruptive approach. At Niall McDonagh’s Roofing and Rope Access Services, we do not believe in cutting corners. Safety and preparation form the foundation of every project we undertake.
The relevant qualifications were essential for every crew member before tackling the rhododendron. PA1 and PA6 training formed the foundation of the team’s knowledge and confidence, ensuring safe and accurate removal of the invasive species and the correct handling and application of pesticides.
And so the work began. Bog, wind, height and heavy rain tested the team daily, but the work continued with focus and consistency.
Key Project Strengths
- Specialist access on steep terrain
- Combined rope and ground crews
- Precise invasive‑species removal
- Qualified PA1 and PA6 application
- IRATA trained anchoring methods
- Efficient and safe delivery
Rhododendron has become a significant issue across Ireland and parts of the UK. Invasive species quietly damage entire ecosystems, limiting native plant growth, disrupting wildlife, and affecting the long‑term health of the land. You can learn more about this in our dedicated blog post. https://ropeaccess.ie/rhododendron-ponticum-ireland/ If your project requires invasive plant removal carried out with efficiency, safety and accuracy, reach out to our team today.
Why Us?
We bring certified rope access skill, dependable tools, and a grounded understanding of the terrain. From vegetation management to invasive species eradication, our team has the experience to deliver safe, precise work every time.
Scoping the Works ↑
How the Work Was Carried Out
Rope Crew
Our IRATA certified rope access team tackled the invasive species across steep, exposed sections of the park where traditional access was not possible. Anchoring into stable points along the cliffs and elevated terrain, they worked at height to reach dense clusters of rhododendron that had taken hold above ground level. Their role was to clear the upper growth safely and to prevent further spread across the slopes.
Grounds Crew
On the ground, our trained clearance crew worked methodically through the lower woodland and bogland areas. They removed the remaining plants at the root, applied pesticides in line with PA1 and PA6 training, and ensured each section was fully cleared before moving on. Together, both teams created a seamless workflow that allowed the land to be restored with minimal disruption.
Team • Tools • Terrain
