The project has recently entered a two-year Development Phase and is seeking enthusiastic and experienced individuals to join the team to support with delivering this important work. The five roles now open for recruitment are: 

• Project Manager 

• Senior Community Participation & Volunteering Manager 

• Farming Liaison Manager 

• Farming for Nature Officer 

• GI Analyst 

These positions offer a unique opportunity to play a leading role in developing a major landscape-scale initiative that will work closely with communities, landowners, farmers and stakeholders across the Mourne Gullion area.  

Mourne Gullion Landscape Connections is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can come together to sustain and restore the Mourne AONB and Ring of Gullion AONB landscape.  

Find out more 

Visit the National Trust jobs website (www.nationaltrustjobs.org.uk) and search ‘Mourne Gullion’ in the job search for full job descriptions and application details. 

The post New employment opportunities announced for Mourne Gullion Landscape Connections project  appeared first on Mourne AONB.

The conference brought together over 400 delegates from across the UK and Europe, creating a vibrant platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and innovation. A wide range of trade stands showcased the latest technological advances in scientific monitoring, while dozens of expert-led presentations and in-depth “Deep Dive” seminars explored cutting-edge peatland restoration practices, policy developments and research.

Field visits offered valuable insights into real-world challenges and solutions, with trips spanning sites such as the Brecon Beacons National Park — heavily impacted by repeated landscape-scale fires — and Llyn Llech Owain Country Park on the urban fringe of Swansea.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of two new publications, Bringing Peat to Life and Native Trees in Peatland Landscapes, further strengthening the evidence base for peatland restoration and management.

The conference also saw strong representation from Northern Ireland, with just under 30 delegates attending from organisations including MHT, RSPB, Ulster Wildlife, NIEA, UFU and Buglife — reflecting the growing momentum and collaboration in peatland conservation across the region.

The post Collaborating for Peatlands: MHT at IUCN 2026 appeared first on Mourne AONB.

The Conservation Officer will support the development and delivery of habitat management plans across NI Water’s Mourne upland catchments, including conservation grazing. The role contributes to peatland and wet heath restoration, erosion control, and wildfire coordination, including facilitating the Mourne Wildfire Group and supporting the NI Wildfire Action Plan.

The post involves partnership working with NI Water, NIEA, landowners/graziers and MHT to deliver habitat condition assessments for protected sites, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The role requires strong field and desk-based skills, including GIS mapping, data collection and analysis, research, and the ability to produce high-quality reports and action plans.

We are seeking a person with a Level 6 qualification in sustainable agriculture, natural sciences, or land/estate management, and 2 years relevant work experience such as farm planning, upland livestock management, habitat surveying, and farmer engagement

or

5 years relevant work experience such as farm planning, upland livestock management, habitat surveying and farmer engagement.

NOTE – It is recommended that you read the application information prior to starting to complete the application form.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Please note that this is an online application form and it must be completed in one sitting (you cannot save and return at a later date). Complete application form now.

A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form is also required as part of the application process.

Closing Date for applications (online only) – Monday 6th July 2026 @ 12.00 noon.

The post We’re Recruiting : Conservation Officer – Mourne Catchments (Applications now closed!) appeared first on Mourne AONB.

PEAT+ is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It involves a cross-border partnership led by Ulster Wildlife to restore peatlands. On a local level, Mourne Heritage Trust and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will collaborate on sites within the Mournes and Slieve Gullion Special Areas of Conservation.

As PEAT+ enters its major delivery phase, the project is now recruiting a Peatlands Conservation Ranger to help protect and restore these internationally important landscapes. Download the Candidate’s Pack for more information.

The Peatlands Conservation Ranger will lead stakeholder engagement with landowners, graziers, contractors, and partners. Acting as the eyes and ears on the ground, you’ll monitor sites, collect data, and capture imagery. You’ll support education and awareness work, contributing to the NI PEAT+ programme and delivering projects across both SAC sites.

NOTE – It is recommended that you read the application information prior to starting to complete the application form.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Please note that this is an online application form and it must be completed in one sitting (you cannot save and return at a later date). Complete application form now.

A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form is also required as part of the application process.

Closing Date for applications (online only) – Monday 15th June 2026 @ 12.00 noon.

The post Now Hiring: Peatlands Conservation Ranger (Position now closed) appeared first on Mourne AONB.

Across 8 action-packed sessions, you’ll:

• Learn hands-on conservation skills
• Take part in real outdoor activities
• Build confidence and teamwork
• Meet other young people who care about the environment

You’ll also work towards Ulster Wildlife’s Wild Youth Award — a recognised accreditation celebrating your commitment to nature.

Working on your The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award? This programme could count towards your Skills Section too.

Huge thanks to Action Renewables for supporting this programme, and to Landscapes NI for their assistance in securing the funding.

Get ready to:

• Get outside
• Make new friends
• Boost your CV
• Become a guardian of the Mourne landscape

Download the information pack for full details.
Like what you see? APPLY NOW and start your adventure as a Youth Ranger!

The post Ready for the Outdoors? Become a Mourne Youth Ranger appeared first on Mourne AONB.

PEAT+ is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It involves a cross-border partnership led by Ulster Wildlife to restore peatlands. On a local level, Mourne Heritage Trust and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will collaborate on sites within the Mournes and Slieve Gullion Special Areas of Conservation.

Peatlands are vital to the health of the Mourne landscape, but increased recreation, climate change, and recent wildfires have put these sensitive environments under growing pressure. Erosion of blanket bog and wet heath within the Mournes Special Area of Conservation is an urgent concern, threatening rare habitats and the species that depend on them.

As PEAT+ enters its major delivery phase, the project is now recruiting a Senior Technical Peatlands Officer to help protect and restore these internationally important landscapes. Download the Applicant’s Pack for more information.

NOTE – It is recommended that you read the application information prior to starting to complete the application form.

Please note that this is an online application form and it must be completed in one sitting (you cannot save and return at a later date). Complete application form now.

Closing Date for applications (online only) – Sunday 22nd February 2026 @ 11.00pm (23:00hrs).

The post Join the PEAT+ Project: Senior Technical Peatlands Officer (Position Closed!). appeared first on Mourne AONB.

Since its introduction, our Engagement Rangers played a vital role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of visitors. They provided guidance on responsible behaviour, preparation for changing terrain and weather conditions, managing dogs on leads, and raising awareness of wildfire risks. Their work not only protected the landscape but also helped foster a culture of care and respect among those experiencing the Mournes for the first time.

Over the years, funding for this initiative has gradually declined, and, despite its importance, we unfortunately can no longer sustain it in the absence of external funding.  This has been a difficult decision for the Trust, as the Engagement Rangers have been invaluable in safeguarding both visitors and the natural heritage of the Mournes.

We wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the Engagement Rangers who have served in this role. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion for the Mournes have made a lasting impact on our landscapes and the countless people who have enjoyed them.

We remain committed to the protection and promotion of the Mournes and will continue to seek ways and the resources to engage and educate visitors in the future.

The post Mourne Heritage Trust Announces Conclusion of Engagement Ranger Role appeared first on Mourne AONB.

• Isabel Hood, 27 years
• Ian Watts, 17 years
• Laura Devlin, 10 years
• Geoff Simmons, 8 years

William John Martin was also re-elected to the Board.

Building on that momentum, we were delighted to welcome our new CEO, Nigel McKinney, who shared his early reflections since stepping into the role. He emphasized the importance of the Trust working more widely across the whole AONB, engaging closely with communities, and diversifying funding streams as we plan for the future.

That focus on growth and sustainability led naturally into the evening’s theme of volunteering. Emma Thompson, our Volunteer Development Officer, presented impressive statistics from the year so far, highlighting the vital role volunteers play in strengthening the Trust. By the end of November 2025, volunteers contributed 2,104 hours across 117 events and activities, involving 130 unique individuals ! To bring those numbers to life, Nigel hosted a Q&A with three volunteers (Olwen Laird, Alan Whitcroft and Derek Moorhead), who spoke passionately about their experiences and what first inspired them to get involved.

Continuing the theme of development, Teresa O’Hare, Landscape Services Development Manager, provided an update on the PEAT+ project, supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). Teresa also announced the exciting news that three new roles within the Mourne Heritage Trust are now live across recruitment platforms. This initiative further demonstrates our commitment to caring for and safeguarding the landscape we all value.

The evening concluded with insights from our guest speaker, Dr Paul Mullan, Director of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Northern Ireland. He praised the strong partnerships showcased throughout the AGM and reflected on the power of heritage to unite communities, underscoring the importance of meaningful engagement.

Overall, the AGM was a resounding success — a celebration of collaboration, commitment, and a shared vision for the Mournes.

The post Celebrating Progress and Partnerships: AGM 2025 appeared first on Mourne AONB.

PEAT+ is a project supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). It involves a cross-border partnership led by Ulster Wildlife to restore peatlands. On a local level, Mourne Heritage Trust and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council will collaborate on sites within the Mournes and Slieve Gullion Special Areas of Conservation.

Peatlands are vital to the health of the Mourne landscape, but increased recreation, climate change, and recent wildfires have put these sensitive environments under growing pressure. Erosion of blanket bog and wet heath within the Mournes Special Area of Conservation is an urgent concern, threatening rare habitats and the species that depend on them.

As PEAT+ enters its major delivery phase, the project is now recruiting for several new roles to help protect and restore these internationally important landscapes. Full job details and application information can be requested by emailing mht@mourne.co.uk.

Closing Date for applications (online only) – Sunday 14th December 2025 @ 12.00 midnight.

The post Join the PEAT+ Project: 3 New Jobs to Restore Mourne Peatlands appeared first on Mourne AONB.

The Trustees of the Mourne Heritage Trust invite you to our Annual General Meeting on Thursday 27th November 2025 in the Kilmorey Arms Hotel, Kilkeel. This year’s AGM will celebrate the incredible contributions of our volunteers and all those who help care for the Mournes. We’re delighted to welcome Dr Paul Mullan from the National Lottery Heritage Fund as our guest speaker. Join us for an evening of appreciation, reflection, and inspiration as we look ahead to another year of caring for this remarkable landscape.

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