Coilte forests in Waterford and across the country have seen a dramatic increase in visitor numbers since Covid-19 restrictions were eased.
13,137 people visited Colligan Wood recreation forest between June and early August.
Coilte says international research shows spending times in forests or parks helps to boost the immune system, reduces stress and lowers blood pressure.
Imelda Hurley, Chief Executive of Coillte said: "Since restrictions were eased and people could move more than five kilometres from their homes, we, unsurprisingly, saw an immediate large increase in visitor numbers. In fact, there was a significant increase in visitor numbers in one of Coillte’s Waterford forests since lockdown restrictions were eased in June, Colligan Wood recreation forest. This continued, steady increase is heartening for all of those who cherish our amenities.
"Access to nature is very important for the body, mind and spirit and that is why we work hard to maintain our tracks, parks and outdoor recreational facilities across Waterford."
Imelda Hurley thanked the public for adhering to the restrictions:
"As we approach the end of August, and people take time to enjoy our forests, we ask that visitors continue to adhere to the social distancing rule of two metres when meeting others outside of their household, as well as the other guidelines on outdoor gatherings announced by the Government. I want to thank the public for adhering to the Government’s travel restrictions during the COVID19 lockdown. If we continue to remain vigilant, we can all play our own part in protecting our communities."
