Discovery day at Kildare 'tiny forest'
Liam Queally (centre), Managing Director of Irish Dog Foods, pictured with pupils and teachers of 5th Class Scoil Bríd, Naas, at the ‘Tiny Forest’ initiative by Irish Dog Foods in partnership with Earthwatch Europe in conjunction with Kildare Co. Co. alongside Naas Biodiversity Group Photo: Tony Keane
NAAS-based company Irish Dog Foods, in partnership with Earthwatch, Kildare County Council and Naas Biodiversity, hosted a Tiny Forest Discovery Day in Monread Park, Naas last week.
The Tiny Forest, planted in January 2025 using the Miyawaki method, has already begun to show visible changes and healthy tree growth.
Over 600 locally sourced trees were planted densely, creating a fast-growing, biodiverse micro-forest that improves air quality, supports local wildlife, and helps regulate soil and water systems.
Irish Dog Foods, run by the family-owned Queally Group, was represented at the event by CEO Liam Queally, who was accompanied by employees from Irish Dog Foods.
Mayor of Naas Seamus Moore was also on hand.
Together, they joined pupils from Scoil Bhríde Primary School in a series of engaging activities.
Children measured tree height, identified different tree species, tested water infiltration, and monitored thermal changes in the forest, gaining first-hand insight into how small-scale reforestation can positively impact the environment.
The day proved to be both educational and enjoyable, giving children the opportunity to learn about biodiversity, climate resilience, and the importance of caring for local ecosystems while seeing first-hand how quickly a Tiny Forest can develop.
