
To thank our members (and perhaps attract a few new ones!) we are delighted to announce a members-only Nature Connection writing competition. First Place wins an eco stay at Native Ballydehob, in the wilds of West Cork.
A growing body of scientific studies show that we benefit physically, mentally, and socially from nature connection. Unfortunately, a recent analysis of 61 countries found Ireland to be one of the least nature-connected nations in the world. We must restore not only habitats, but also our relationship with the land and sea.
A powerful way to build communities for nature is through nature writing. We invite our members to submit their reflections under the theme “Nature Connection” in a short-essay format. You may wish to record your observations, reflect on a special moment or a place, or even write some creative prose inspired by the theme. We look forward to your interpretation of the theme and to sharing some of the entries with our community on our website and in the Irish Wildlife magazine early next year.
Submit your entry at this link
Actively subscribed members only. Become a Member.
500 word limit. One entry per person. Only original and unpublished entries will be accepted. Enter by completing this form. We will short-list entries before a panel picks the winners. Plagiarised and AI-generated work will not be accepted. We will retain your personal data for a total of 7 years or until you withdraw your consent, whichever occurs first. A selection of entries will be added to iwt.ie
Judges: Anne Hannan (Chair of the Irish Wildlife Trust) and Charlotte Salter-Townshend (Communications & Network Officer for the Irish Wildlife Trust).
Your Rights: You can ask the Irish Wildlife Trust to stop using your writing at any time, in which case it will not be used in future publications. Note: this will not apply to material already published. We cannot control already published material or recall them.
Prizes: 1st prize is a voucher for a two night stay at Native in Ballydehob plus IWT 2026 calendar and a tote bag. 2nd + 3rd place each win a copy of Frog Routes, Polka-Dot Newts And Other Treasures Of Irish Nature by Anja Murray plus IWT 2026 calendar and a tote bag.