The UK & Ireland Lakes Network (UKILN) has launched details of its 2025 Annual Conference, “Mirrors of Change: Reflections on Irish Lakes Past, Present and Future”, which will take place in the stunning surroundings of Killarney National Park on 14 and 15 October 2025.
This two-day event will bring together community groups, researchers, policymakers, NGOs, and freshwater specialists to explore the challenges and opportunities facing lakes across Ireland and the UK. With a programme of talks, workshops, networking sessions, and field visits, the conference offers a unique platform to share knowledge, celebrate restoration successes, and reflect on the future of our freshwater environments.
With freshwater ecosystems under increasing pressure from pollution, invasive species, and climate shifts, this two day conference arrives at a critical moment. Irish lakes, in particular, are facing tipping points that demand urgent attention and collaborative action.
With inspiring keynotes and expert panels, delegates will hear from leading voices on lake ecology, conservation and community engagement.
The dynamic sessions on day one will cover themes such as:
Lough Leane & Kerry Lakes – Past, present, and future perspectives
Lake Restoration – Learning from case studies across Ireland, Scotland, and beyond
Citizen Science – Communities driving positive change
Reflections – Insights from experienced practitioners, concluding with a fireside chat.
On day two a guided field trip will take delegates on a guided visit to Killarney National Park, with opportunities to see lake and catchment management in practice.
This conference will provide delegates with an opportunity to connect with experts and peers from across the UK and Ireland, share their work, ideas, and experiences in freshwater management and explore how collaboration can shape the future of our lakes and catchments.
This year’s event will also spotlight new research on microplastic contamination in Irish lakes, the role of peatland restoration in water quality, and how local communities are reclaiming stewardship of their catchments.
The conference will foster an open and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging participation from all who have an interest in lake environments, whether academic, professional, or community-based. Journalists, environmental advocates, and policy influencers are especially encouraged to attend and report on these emerging stories.
“Irish lakes are far more than picturesque landscapes – they are living records of our changing climate, fragile ecosystems under mounting pressure, and enduring symbols of community resilience”, said Dan Hoare, Chair of UKILN. “No single organisation can safeguard our lakes alone. It’s the power of a connected network; scientists, communities, and policymakers working together that turns concern into action, and ambition into impact.”
Registration is now open. Full programme and speaker details can be found on the UK & Ireland Lakes Network website at: www.ukandirelandlakes.org
To book a place at the conference, please visit: UK & Ireland Lakes Network (UKILN) Conference 2025 Tickets, Tue 14 Oct 2025 at 09:30 | Eventbrite
The event is hosted and sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency with support from the Local Authority Waters Programme, National Parks & Wildlife Service and Phoslock Water Solutions UK Ltd.