What Would A Degraded Lough Derg Mean For East Clare?

Lough Derg is far more than the River Shannon’s largest lake. For East Clare, it is part of the landscape, the economy and the identity of the region. A natural asset that shapes how people live, work and spend their leisure time.   From Killaloe and Ballina, through Tuamgraney and Scariff, to Mountshannon, communities have grown alongside Lough Derg and depend on its waters and shores.   Its beaches, walking trails, sailing, kayaking, angling, wildlife and waterside amenities attract visitors, support local businesses and contribute to the quality of life of people who live here.  But what happens if the health of Lough Derg begins to decline?  What would worsening water quality, algal blooms, rising temperatures, drought and falling water levels mean for the communities, businesses and ecosystems that depend on it?   To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Puneeta Sreenivas from the Sustainable Water Network (SWAN). Photo (c) Visit Clare