Unique Habitat
The village of Fenor, which lies three miles west of Tramore, is one of the smallest in Co. Waterford but it has a vibrant and progressive community of 140 families. The focal point of the village is its beautiful church which was built. in 1894 by the people of the parish and the late Father John Dowley P.P.
At the back of the church and under the Ballyscanlon hills lies an area of bog, which covers 32 acres. It is actually an alkaline fen, rich in flora and fauna and is the unique habitat of many rare marsh plants, birds and butterflies.

Community Decision
When this fen bog was offered for sale in 1998, it was decided by the community to buy it. A committee, known as Moin Fhionnurach Development Association, was set up. The Irish Peatland Conservation Council agreed to help with the purchase and are still part of the MFDA in an advisory capacity. The objective of MFDA is to preserve, protect and manage Fenor Bog so that its uniqueness is conserved for posterity and to develop it sustainably to benefit the local community. This conservation programme is not only of local importance, it has been recognised nationally and internationally.
In January 2001 Ms. Sile DeValera, Minister of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands agreed to designate Fenor Bog a National Nature Reserve.

Rural Regeneration
This community-led conservation programme is a reflection of many rural regeneration programmes that have evolved in Ireland over the last decade. The Fenor Bog project is the response of this community, to the potential of its own resources, and its attempt to plan for a future of sustained development.
The purchase of the area was the beginning of three years of hard work. It had to be fenced and walls built. A visitor and viewing amenity was developed on the edge of the bog and seating was put in. The beautiful stonework of the roadside wall and the idyllic wildlife pond have enhanced the area greatly. In May 2000 a visitor leaflet was launched and is available in all tourist offices. Several information noticeboards are currently being put in place.