Biodiversity Grants Given to Schemes Helping Protect Corncrakes and Sand Martins

"This is a pioneering partnership between Government and philanthropy which has not only supported more than 200 communities but has provided leadership in responding to the biodiversity emergency," says the CEO of the Community Foundation Ireland.

The foundation, which is funded by the country's government, has awarded more than $370,000 in grants to 78 conservation projects, including one that aims to restore an 11-acre island in Ireland's River Nore to its natural state, reports the Irish Times.

The goal is to protect all wildlife for generations to come.

The corncrake, a red-listed bird, is in danger of disappearing from the Aran Islands, where it's found only on one of three islands, reports the Guardian.

A local co-operative will work with farmers and landowners to create habitats for the endangered bird.

The sand martin, an amber-listed bird of conservation concern, is also in danger of disappearing from Ireland's River Triogue, where a nest wall will be built to help increase the number of birds.

"While the challenge is great, what is hugely encouraging is the interest, energy, and enthusiasm of the full spectrum of local groups now taking action to protect our plants and wildlife," says Community Foundation Ireland's Denise Charlton.

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