Brian Black reports on the conservation efforts of the Mournes and the various groups in place to help protect and promote these natural landscapes.

With upwards of 500,000 people visiting the area every year, there has been concerns from local residents and farmers on the impact this is having on the environment. Brothers, John and Joe believe that dogs from tourists pose a significant threat to the area, from destroying fences to chasing sheep. Eddie McGrady MP, however thinks that the potential of the Mournes isn't being capitalised on, with the opinion that inclusive tourist packages should be creates, an idea which Irene Adair - who owns a B&B - agrees with.

However, even those residents who believe in making the Mournes more accessible believe that the government bodies, such as the Tourist Board and Councils, should also be responsible in the maintenance of the area and the upkeep of the already crumbling roads.

A UTV Production.

Producer: Jamie Delargy

Director: Tony Boyle

• NI Direct - PRONI