OPINION (AN COLÚN): Portumna survey reveals our deep love of woodland

A SURVEY has just been published and it makes for fascinating reading. What's equally interesting is the things which we can deduce from reading between the lines, namely that many of us find modern life jarring and yearn for places which are filled with tranquillity and beauty. It reveals that while many of us may appear, outwardly speaking, to be at ease with the modern, fast-paced and digital world, there is in fact only so much of it we want to endure. After a while, our souls direct us elsewhere.
It makes clear that nearly 50% of those surveyed intuit a spiritual atmosphere when in the presence of the natural world. In other words, many of us share the same spiritual response to the outdoor world. This similarity of response is not something which is always obvious to us. I think it's important to recognise that beautiful, uplifting and soulful responses to woodland, the ocean, the mountains, are a very common thing among people. If you feel emotional, poetic responses to the landscape, you are much more common / ordinary than you might think!
The survey focussed on the Forest Park in Portumna and was carried out by the Protect Portumna Forest Park Community Group. 1,095 people took part in the survey. Nearly 70% of the respondents were aged 36-65, and 76.4% lived within 20 kilometres of the park. The park's appeal, however, extends far beyond that, with responses also coming from visitors living up to 50 kilometres away. Over 51 local community groups across East Galway, North Tipperary, and East Clare participated. This was a genuinely grassroots project and it shines a spotlight on what the general public within a 50km radius feels about the park.
I myself know many people in Birr and its environs who love the park. Personally, I've visited many times and spent innumerable happy hours walking in the midst of its beauty, imbibing its harmony.
Spending long periods of time in the natural world is vital for mankind's wellbeing. It's not some optional extra. It's as vital to us as breathing. If we deny ourselves this outlet then our souls wither and we risk becoming mere shadows of our potential.
Here are some of the fascinating results of the survey:
Walking remains the top activity for 97% of respondents.
Wellbeing and mindfulness attract 46%.
Socialising comes in third at 38%.
Here are the percentages revealed in response to the question, What do you love about the park?
91% cited the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.
80% appreciated the selection of walking and cycling trails.
71% said they love connecting with the views of Lough Derg.
The knowledge that many of us within a 50kph radius feel a very strong connection to this wonderful forest is something which I find very heartening, as it expresses a goodness in humanity.
Regarding the future, many of us only want thoughtful, minimal development that respects the park’s unique character. We want small, practical improvements and are opposed to large-scale commercialisation or disruptive changes. We want the simplicity and accessibility of this treasured natural space to be maintained.
Life can sometimes feel like hell, a place which has been designed to fragment groups and break individuals, but it's also a place where you can experience heaven in many things, whether it be the blossoming of love between two people or enjoying hours of walking in a very special environment. Sometimes when you are walking in Portumna Forest Park you can feel as if heaven has arrived.
The Community Group is encouraging everyone to join the conversation, spread the word, and support the campaign for a thoughtful future for this sacred and invaluable community resource. You can follow the Group on facebook, or email protectportumnaforestpark@gmail.com