In 1989, Coomhola Salmon Trust was founded by Paul Kearney and Mark Boyden at a small research facility along a tributary of the Coomhola River. Initially focused on producing native salmon stocking projects for rivers in the southwest of Ireland, supporting salmon reintroduction efforts to the great River Rhine, and conducting freshwater pearl mussel captive breeding research, the trust soon recognised the need for broader public engagement.

From this foundation, the StreamScapes Programme was established—an innovative Aquatic & Biodiversity Community Engagement Project designed to foster a deeper public connection to local water and wildlife conservation efforts. In 2023, StreamScapes became a separate, independent organisation, continuing its vital education and engagement activities at a national level.

Over the years, thousands of participants across Ireland, both north and south, have taken part in hands-on field experiences and compelling lessons. These initiatives have revealed the bounty of natural wonders surrounding us and highlighted how each of us can play a role in their conservation.

StreamScapes has developed an ethos and method that have set the standard for public engagement in water and wildlife awareness activities, supporting the goals of the European Water Framework Directive and the Habitats Directive.