DAY IN THE LIFE: “Nature does so much for us”

A summer series exploring the working day of locals with jobs that are unusual or rare.

By Rebekah O'Reilly

For Dr George F. Smith, no two days are ever quite the same. One morning he could be knee-deep in a Midlands bog mapping rare plant communities. The next, he could be at his desk transforming field notes into detailed restoration plans designed to help nature recover.

Originally from Tennessee in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, George has called Ireland home for more than half his life. After moving here to pursue a PhD in Botany at Trinity College Dublin, he eventually settled in Moate with his wife, Rachel Flanagan.

His fascination with nature began long before university.

"As a kid I was always interested in wildlife. I used to go hiking with my parents and sister in the Appalachian Mountains," he said.

"I'd carry around a little plant identification book and spend my time trying to work out what every plant was. I loved understanding the natural world."

That childhood curiosity grew into a career dedicated to protecting and restoring biodiversity.

After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame in the United States, George moved to Dublin to undertake a PhD before continuing with postdoctoral research at Trinity College.

He later made the move into ecological consultancy, working with a large environmental engineering consultancy where he learned not only the science of ecology but also the practical side of running projects.

"It taught me how to manage clients, tender for work, understand environmental legislation and navigate the planning process. Those were invaluable skills."

Today, George works as an independent ecological consultant, allowing him to focus on the projects he is most passionate about: biodiversity restoration.

"I've always been more interested in improving habitats than simply minimising damage. It's incredibly satisfying to work on projects that actually restore biodiversity rather than just reduce the impact of development."

His work now centres largely on the Midlands' rich wetlands, particularly raised bogs and fens, as well as native woodlands.

In The Field

Every site visit begins before George even leaves the house. He studies maps, plans the information he’ll need to collect and prepares his digital mapping software on his tablet. His equipment isn’t particularly high-tech, measuring tapes, bamboo canes, plant identification guides and a few specialist tools all find their way into the car.

And there is one essential item he never forgets. “First rule of being a field ecologist,” he laughs. “Don’t get separated from your lunch.”

Once on site, George’s job is to understand exactly what is already there. Ecology is a science built on evidence, so every survey begins by gathering accurate information before any recommendations can be made. As a botanist, his focus is on plants and habitats.

He maps habitats across the site, recording protected or rare plant species while also identifying potential threats such as invasive species, drainage, overgrazing or abandoned land.

"You're looking for the baseline," he said. "What habitats are already there? What species are present? What's working well and what needs attention?"

On wetland sites he examines drainage channels that may be drying out peatlands. In woodlands he looks for veteran trees, standing deadwood and opportunities to increase habitat diversity. Every observation is digitally mapped to create a detailed picture of the landscape.

Many surveys involve much more than observation. George often lays out carefully measured plots, perhaps a two-by-two metre square in a grassland or a larger plot within woodland, and records every plant species growing there.

He also collects environmental data using specialist equipment, measuring factors such as peat depth, water acidity, woodland canopy cover and other ecological indicators. The information helps build an objective scientific picture of the site’s condition.

"You're collecting evidence that allows you to make informed recommendations rather than relying on assumptions."

Fieldwork is only part of the job. After returning home, George uploads all of his survey data before spending days, or sometimes weeks, analysing findings, producing habitat maps and writing detailed biodiversity management or restoration plans.

Project length varies enormously. A small community woodland may require just one day in the field followed by a few days of reporting, while larger restoration projects can continue for months or even years.

For George, restoring biodiversity is about much more than protecting wildlife. Healthy ecosystems improve water quality, reduce flooding, provide food and timber, regulate temperatures, support pollinators and create places for people to enjoy.

"Biodiversity has value in its own right," he said. "But even if you’re asking what nature does for us, the answer is: an enormous amount."

He points to peatland restoration as a perfect example. Healthy bogs naturally filter water, reducing the need for expensive treatment infrastructure while also storing carbon and supporting wildlife.

Ultimately, George believes investing in nature benefits everyone. "It's part of our heritage. It's part of who we are. Looking after biodiversity means looking after ourselves."

Rising Demand

George says demand for ecological expertise has never been greater. There simply aren’t enough ecologists to meet Ireland’s growing need for biodiversity restoration, environmental assessments and conservation planning.

Because many ecological surveys can only be carried out during particular seasons, shortages often delay both development projects and conservation work.

With Ireland now preparing to implement the EU Nature Restoration Law, demand is only expected to increase.

"There's so much work to do, and we genuinely need more ecologists."

Importantly, George is keen to point out that there isn't just one route into the profession. While he has a PhD, many successful ecologists begin with undergraduate degrees, and increasing numbers are changing careers from fields such as IT, engineering and insurance.

"If you're interested in nature, I'd strongly encourage people to consider ecology. There are lots of different paths into it."

Although university provides the scientific foundation, George believes the real education happens outdoors.

Working alongside experienced ecologists, hydrologists, engineers and archaeologists teaches skills that simply can't be learned from books.

"The best projects are collaborative. Everybody brings a different perspective, and together you arrive at much better solutions."