Westmeath

Scragh Bog Nature Reserve

Co. Westmeath

Location: Situated about three miles north of Mullingar. Area (ha.): 22.8 The best illustration in Ireland of the transition from alkaline fen to acidic raised bog and one of the few remaining in Europe. It contains a large number of uncommon plants and insects which are rare in Europe. The bog is rated as being of international importance. The greater part of the bog was purchased by the Irish Peatland Conservation Council with funds generously provided by the Dutch Foundation for the Conservation of Irish Bogs. It was then handed over to the State for management as a Nature Reserve. Established in 1992. State owned.

Animals and Plants of Interest: Birds include Skylark and Common Snipe. Plants include Sphagnum Moss, Sundew and the notable species Round-leaved Wintergreen (Pyrola rotundiflora).

Access: Take the N4 travelling west from Mullingar. Approximately 1.5km after the dual carriageway ends, turn right for Ballinagall. Approximately 0.8km along the road there is an entrance to a Coillte conifer plantation. This entrance must not be obstructed. A short walk past the barrier and down the track leads to the entrance of the Nature Reserve. A hard surfaced path takes the visitor past an interpretive panel at the Nature Reserve gate, along a path onto a boardwalk and viewing area.

Due care should be taken while accessing the bog and all visitors are advised to stay on the path at all times. Dog should be kept on a lead at all times. Visitors are requested to clean up after their dogs and to respect the nature Reserve.

The results of an on-going programme to control the spread of Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) are evident to the left of the track in the Nature Reserve.