NATURA IMPACT REPORT - APPENDIX I APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT SUMMARY DETAILS OF ALL EUROPEAN SITES TIPPERARY WIND ENERGY STRATEGY

Transcription

1 NATURA IMPACT REPORT - APPENDIX I SUMMARY DETAILS OF ALL EUROPEAN SITES CONSIDERED DURING THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT IN SUPPORT OF THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT OF THE TIPPERARY WIND ENERGY STRATEGY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF ARTICLE 6(3) OF THE EU HABITATS DIRECTIVE for: County Council Civic Offices, Nenagh, County by: CAAS Ltd. 2 nd Floor, The Courtyard, 25 Great Strand Street, Dublin 1 SEPTEMBER 2016

2 Appendix I to the NIR for the Wind Energy Strategy Introduction This appendix presents background summary data relating to each European site (csacs and SPAs) that were considered during the Appropriate Assessment of the County Wind Energy Strategy. Data presented has been collated from various sources made available by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Sites are presented in two separate lists, firstly SACs and secondly SPAs. All sites within each list are sorted according to NPWS Site Name. The principal sources of information include the following: Site Synopses NATURA 2000 Standard Data Forms Conservation Objective (Generic Versions) Detailed Site Specific Conservation Objectives and supporting documents (where available) Data presented on each site includes: Site Name Site Code County SSCO Published or not (as of January 2016) Location relevant to the Strategy area Previously reported threats Qualifying Interests (QIs) in the case of SACs: o Listed Annex I habitats for which site is selected - abbreviated version as used by NPWS (2013) 1 o Listed Annex II species for which site is selected - common English name Special Conservation Interests (SCIs) in the case of SPAs: o Listed Annex I birds for which site is selected (Annex I SCIs) - common English name o n annex birds for which site is selected (n Annex I SCIs) - common English name 1 NPWS (2013). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Overview Volume I. Unpublished Report, National Parks and Wildlife Services.

3 All Saints Bog and Esker SAC EU Site Code: Offaly NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for All Saints Bog and Esker SAC [000566]. Generic Version 4.0. Raised bog sites, due to the high water content of peat, are extremely vulnerable to activities which cause water loss. The most significant of these are drainage, peat-cutting and fire. This site is particularly vulnerable as a large section is being exploited for milled peat. This is occurring adjacent to the area of Betula bog woodland for which the site is important. (Marginal drainage is causing a gradual drying out of the high bog). The orchid-rich esker grassland is particularly threatened by gravel extraction. This grassland is also vulnerable to changes in the grazing regime and to grassland fertilisation and/or reseeding. Bog woodland* Degraded raised bogs Orchid-rich calcareous grassland* Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions Anglesey Road SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Anglesey Road SAC [002125]. Generic Version 4.0. The main threat to this site is from agricultural improvement by way of field improvement and reclamation. In parts of site, under-grazing, leading to scrub invasion, is a threat. Outside of the site much of the area is afforested - afforestation within the site is a threat. Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Ardgraigue Bog SAC EU Site Code: Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Ardgraigue Bog SAC [002356]. Generic Version 4.0. This small site continues to be vulnerable to drainage effects from peat-cutting operations. This damage is most severe in the south-western corner of the site and cessation of peat-cutting coupled with drain-blocking is essential if the hydrological balance of the site is to be maintained or improved. Fire damage at the bog has been slight in recent decades perhaps due to the wetness of the surface though burning remains a threat. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

4 Wind Energy Strategy 2016 Appropriate Assessment Ballyduff/Clonfinane Bog SAC EU Site Code: Yes NPWS (2015) Conservation Objectives: Ballyduff/Clonfinane Bog SAC Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Raised bogs are vulnerable to activities which increase water loss. Peat cutting is intensive at this site (including moss peat production) and the drains associated with this are causing significant water loss and changes in vegetation cover. Bog woodland* Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions Barroughter Bog SAC EU Site Code: Galway Yes NPWS (2015) Conservation Objectives: Barroughter Bog SAC Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, The site is particularly vulnerable to the effects of mechanical peat cutting which is occuring around 95% of its edge. Drains associated with this are also causing water loss. The fen area is also vulnerable to drainage. Burning is a significant threat to the bog surface, especially in the drier marginal areas. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

5 Blackwater River (Cork/Waterford) SAC EU Site Code: Cork, Kerry, Limerick,, Yes NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: Blackwater River (Cork/Waterford) SAC Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Localised stretches of the river have been polluted. Pollution is derived from agricultural run-off (fertilisers, slurry etc.) and from point sources mainly in towns along the rivers, and in some areas possibly forestry activities. Pollution remains a threat to water quality and poor water quality could impact on the various fish populations as well as Margaritifera margaritifera and Austropotomobius pallipes. Riverbank protection works to prevent erosion and fisheries related developments have recently occurred in parts of the Blackwater and some involve intereference with the riverbed - such works could affect Margaritifera margaritifera populations. Most of the remaining woodlands have a significant amount of non-native species, If not controlled, the value of the woods will decrease further with time Atlantic salt meadows Atlantic Salmon Estuaries Floating river vegetation Mediterranean salt meadows Old oak woodlands Perennial vegetation of stony banks Residual alluvial forests* Salicornia mud Taxus baccata woods* Brook Lamprey Freshwater Pearl Mussel Killarney Fern Otter River Lamprey Sea Lamprey Twaite Shad White-Clawed Crayfish Tidal mudflats Bolingbrook Hill SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Bolingbrook Hill SAC [002124]. Generic Version 4.0. The main threat to the grassland and heath is further field improvement and reclamation. Under-grazing, leading to scrub invasion, is a threat to some parts of site. Commercial afforestation is a general threat to site. Dry heaths Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Wet heath Clare Glen SAC EU Site Code: Limerick, NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Clare Glen SAC [000930]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The site is currently managed as an amenity area by the local authorities and the population of Trichomanes speciosum could be vulnerable to damage. Old oak woodlands Killarney Fern

6 Cloonmoylan Bog SAC EU Site Code: Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Cloonmoylan Bog SAC [000248]. Generic Version 4.0. This site is vulnerable to the water loss due to the numerous surface drains which occur. In addition some bog roads also increase drainage. Peat cutting threatens the SW of the site in particular. Fire has damaged the Sphagnum layer in places. The remainder of the site including the wooded flushes are vulnerable to fire. Bog woodland* Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions Comeragh Mountains SAC EU Site Code: Waterford NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Comeragh Mountains SAC [001952]. Generic Version 4.0. Overgrazing by sheep is noticeable on all slopes and on the plateau - this continues to be a threat to the integrity of the site. Extensive burning is carried out and is also a further threat. Further development of roads and tracks for tourism related activities is a threat. Alpine and subalpine heath Calcareous rocky slopes Dry heaths Floating river vegetation Siliceous rocky slopes Soft water lakes with base rich influences Wet heath Slender green feather moss Coolrain Bog SAC EU Site Code: Laois NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Coolrain Bog SAC [002332]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. In the past the site has been damaged by peat-cutting and afforestation by conifers. Drying out of the high bog area, due to these damaging operations, is still occurring and the cessation of peat-cutting, combined with the removal of conifers, is considered necessary to protect the hydrological integrity of the site. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

7 Cullahill Mountain SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Cullahill Mountain SAC [000831]. Generic Version 4.0. This site is vulnerable to grassland improvement, through fertilization especially. Cessation of grazing would also endanger the site in that it would encourage the spread of scrub onto the site. The site is also vulnerable to overgrazing. Orchid-rich calcareous grassland* Danes Hole, Poulnalecka SAC EU Site Code: Clare NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Danes Hole, Poulnalecka SAC [000030]. Generic Version 4.0. Although there are no signs of visitor disturbance the cave is easy to find and enter and the bats hang low from the cave roof and are vulnerable. Woodland clearance has reduced the quality of the site for the bat. Disturbance of the summer roost could cause those bats to disperse, inappropriate hedgerow management would reduce the value of the site. Caves Old oak woodlands Lesser Horseshoe Bat Derrycrag Wood Nature Reserve SAC EU Site Code: Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Derrycrag Wood Nature Reserve SAC [000261]. Generic Version 4.0. Most of the oak woodland is contained within a nature reserve and is therefore protected. The conifers are gradually being removed, but cleared areas are vulnerable to invasion by non-native species, e.g. Fagus sylvatica, and to grazing by deer. Old oak woodlands Galmoy Fen SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Galmoy Fen SAC [001858]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The quality of this site is threatened mainly by drainage which could lower the water table. It is not known if existing drainage attempts have had any adverse effects on the fen vegetation. Further afforestation within or adjacent to the site could be damaging. Alkaline fens

8 Galtee Mountains SAC EU Site Code: Limerick, NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Galtee Mountains SAC [000646]. Generic Version 4.0. Overgrazing is a serious problem and threat to peat habitats and nardus grassland. Lower levels of site vulnerable to afforestation. Alpine and subalpine heath Blanket bog (active)* Calcareous rocky slopes Dry heaths Siliceous rocky slopes Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Glen Bog SAC EU Site Code: Limerick NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Glen Bog SAC [001430]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. There does not appear to be any significant immediate threats to wet woodland. Forestry occurs to the south and would be very damaging if it was extended into the site. The site may receive eutrophic water from surrounding lands. Residual alluvial forests* Glendine Wood SAC EU Site Code: Waterford NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Glendine Wood SAC [002324]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Prunus laurocerasus is well established within the site and its further spread is a threat to the quality of the woodlands and ultimately the survival of Trichomanes speciosum. The site could be threatened by a proposed road scheme in the area. This could directly affect the site or its immediate surroundings and/or could indirectly affect existing environmental conditions within the valley through alterations to hydrological conditions. Killarney Fern Glenomra Wood SAC EU Site Code: Clare NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Glenomra Wood SAC [001013]. Generic Version 4.0. This oak woodland is vulnerable to felling (small areas have been cleared within the wood). Levels of grazing have increased in recent years limiting regeneration. The wood is also vulnerable to piecemeal development for housing. Old oak woodlands

9 Glenstal Wood SAC EU Site Code: Limerick NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Glenstal Wood SAC [001432]. Generic Version 4.0. The occurrence of Trichomanes speciosum at Glenstal is well known and this population is vulnerable to deliberate collecting, despite the fact that the species is legally protected under the Flora (Protection) Order, The prospects of its survival here are, however, relatively good as the present owners are aware of this popuation and sympathetic towards its conservation. Killarney Fern Hugginstown Fen SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Hugginstown Fen SAC [000404]. Generic Version 4.0. The main potential threat to this site is drainage, though this is not considered an immediate threat. Agricultural run-off is likely to be entering the site from surrounding areas. The effects of this are unknown. Alkaline fens Island Fen SAC EU Site Code: Offaly NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Island Fen SAC [002236]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Recent drainage activities to the south of the site has seen the reduction of the area of scientific interest. The remaining site does not appear to be under threat and is presently being managed in a traditional manner vital to the continued scientific interest of the site. Alkaline fens Juniper scrub Keeper Hill SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Keeper Hill SAC [001197]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Areas of blanket bog and wet heath are vulnerable to peat-cutting activities and drainage associated with afforestation. Afforestation poses a threat to the entire site. Liaising/negotiating with the owners (Coillte mainly) may lead to agreements which favour the conservation of the site. Blanket bog (active)* Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Wet heath

10 Kilcarren-Firville Bog SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Kilcarren-Firville Bog SAC [000647]. Generic Version 4.0. This site is vulnerable to the effects of peat cutting in the south west and to surface drains. Deep marginal drains are also causing drying out of the high bog. The road running through the site has the same effect. Cattle gain access to the bog in places and tear up the peat surface. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions Kilduff, Devilsbit Mountain SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Kilduff, Devilsbit Mountain SAC [000934]. Generic Version 4.0. The species-rich humid grassland on the site is vulnerable to overgrazing and to grassland improvement, through drainage, reseeding and fertilization. The site is particularly vulnerable to afforestation with conifer species. Much of the land adjacent to the site has been afforested with conifers. Dry heaths Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Knockacoller Bog SAC EU Site Code: Laois NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Knockacoller Bog SAC [002333]. Generic Version 4.0. This site has been damaged by the cutting of peat for domestic purposes. This practice is ongoing and has contributed to the drying out of a large proportion of the high bog. Any intensification of this practice, either for domestic or commercial purposes, would be extremely damaging to the future of this site. Afforestation is a threat and already occurs to the north-east of the site. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

11 Lisduff Fen SAC EU Site Code: Offaly NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Lisduff Fen SAC [002147]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. immediate threats to the fens are evident. The site, however, is fairly small and could be very easily damaged or destroyed by drainage. The petrifying springs along the stream could be damaged by poaching by cattle or dredging. Alkaline fens Petrifying springs* Geyer's whorl snail Liskeenan Fen SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Liskeenan Fen SAC [001683]. Generic Version 4.0 Drains have been inserted within the fen system and it is not known what the longterm impact will be on the habitats. Any further attempts at drainage could be very damaging. Further peat extraction from the remnant bog is unlikely but forestry could be a threat at this site Cladium fen* Lough Derg, rth-east Shore SAC EU Site Code: Galway, NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Lough Derg, rth-east Shore SAC [002241]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht The lake is vulnerable to water polluting operations from the surrounding agricultural activities. Wetland habitats are threatened by private and holiday home developments and the construction of new marinas and jetties at the lake edge. Waterfowl are vulnerable to disturbance from boating activities on the lake. The introduction of the zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha threatens the ecology of some aquatic systems within the site. Further planting of commercial trees or the spread of exotic species would be damaging to the woodland habitats. Alkaline fens Cladium fen* Juniper scrub Limestone pavement* Residual alluvial forests* Taxus baccata woods*

12 Loughatorick South Bog SAC EU Site Code: Clare, Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Loughatorick South Bog SAC [000308]. Generic Version 4.0. A large proportion of the site owned by Coillte Teoranta and vulnerable to development for forestry. Blanket bog (active)* Lower River Shannon SAC EU Site Code: Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Yes NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: Lower River Shannon SAC Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, The estuarine habitat and associated species are vulnerable to land reclamation, industrial development, water pollution (from industrial, agricultural and domestic sources) and spread of Spartina. The wintering birds and breeding terns are also vulnerable to disturbance (e.g. from shooting and aircraft). The dolphins are vulnerable to underwater aquatic disturbance, entanglement in fishing gear and collision with fast moving craft. The main threats to the terrestrial habitats are over-grazing, while the rivers and associated annexed species are threatened by water pollution and flood relief works (e.g. dredging). Sublittoral sediments and submerged sand banks could be threatened by future wind-farm developments. Atlantic salt meadows Atlantic Salmon Estuaries Floating river vegetation Lagoons* Large shallow inlets and bays Mediterranean salt meadows Molinia meadows Bottle-sed Dolphin Brook Lamprey Freshwater Pearl Mussel Otter River Lamprey Sea Lamprey Perennial vegetation of stony banks Reefs Residual alluvial forests* Salicornia mud Sandbanks Sea cliffs Tidal mudflats

13 Lower River Suir SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny,, Waterford NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Lower River Suir SAC [002137]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Water quality of this site is vulnerable to enrichment from surrounding agricultural activities and commercial and private developments near the river edge. Infilling and drainage threatens the continued presence of the rare plant species Hordeum secalinum and Groenlandia densa. Drainage in the catchment results in flash floods which can have a negative impact on the many Annex II species present. Any further planting or spread of exotic species would be damaging to the existing woodland habitats. Atlantic salt meadows Atlantic Salmon Floating river vegetation Hydrophilous tall herb Mediterranean salt meadows Old oak woodlands Residual alluvial forests* Taxus baccata woods* Brook Lamprey Freshwater Pearl Mussel Otter River Lamprey Sea Lamprey Twaite Shad White-Clawed Crayfish Moanour Mountain SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Moanour Mountain SAC [002257]. Generic Version 4.0. The principal threat to the quality of habitats at this site is over-grazing. Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Nier Valley Woodlands SAC EU Site Code: Waterford NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Nier Valley Woodlands SAC [000668]. Generic Version 4.0. A major threat is further clearance of the woodlands for farming and commercial forestry. The long-term viability of the woodlands is threatened by poor regeneration due to grazing by livestock and fallow deer. Old oak woodlands

14 Philipston Marsh SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Philipston Marsh SAC [001847]. Generic Version 4.0. The main potential threat to this site is drainage, though there is no evidence that this will occur. Further afforestation in areas outside of site could be damaging to the long-term integrity of the wetland system. Agricultural run-off is likely to be entering the site from surrounding areas though the effects of this are unknown. Transition mires Pollagoona Bog SAC EU Site Code: Clare NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Pollagoona Bog SAC [002126]. Generic Version 4.0. Due to its topographical setting, it appears that the drainage associated with the surrounding afforestation has not adversely affected the bog. Blanket bog (active)* Pollnaknockaun Wood Nature Reserve SAC EU Site Code: Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Pollnaknockaun Wood Nature Reserve SAC [000319]. Generic Version 4.0. Most of the oak woodland occurs within the nature reserve and is therefore protected. Many of the conifers have been removed and natural regeneration is reported to be good, despite grazing by deer. Invasion by non-native species, including Fagus sylvatica and Rhododendron ponticum, is a threat. Old oak woodlands Redwood Bog SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Redwood Bog SAC [002353]. Generic Version 4.0. Commercial peat-cutting is a serious threat to the western half of this site. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

15 Ridge Road, SW of Rapemills SAC EU Site Code: Offaly NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Ridge Road, SW of Rapemills SAC [000919]. Generic Version 4.0. The site is vulnerable to grassland improvement, i.e. fertilization and reseeding, to both overgrazing and undergrazing and to removal of the site through gravel extraction. Orchid-rich calcareous grassland* River Barrow and River re SAC EU Site Code: Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Yes NPWS (2011) Conservation Objectives: River Barrow and River re SAC Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, 30% of the site consists of water: 10% freshwater and 20% of estuarine and tidal stretches. The Annex II species listed in Section 4.2 are dependent on the quality of these waters. Much of the site along the water courses is under threat from pollution caused by increased fertiliser application, sewage and industrial waste. There is also loss of saltmeadow habitat with two legally protected species and a rare sedge, as a result of infilling and agricultural intensification. Alosa fallax may be vulnerable to angling pressure. Aquaculture occurs in Waterford Harbour and may be causing some disturbance to the intertidal sediments and wintering birds - intensification of aquaculture is a threat. Atlantic salt meadows Atlantic Salmon Dry heaths Estuaries Floating river vegetation Hydrophilous tall herb Mediterranean salt meadows Old oak woodlands Petrifying springs* Residual alluvial forests* Salicornia mud Tidal mudflats Brook Lamprey Desmoulin's whorl snail Freshwater Pearl Mussel Irish Freshwater Pearl Mussel Killarney Fern Otter River Lamprey Sea Lamprey Twaite Shad White-Clawed Crayfish

16 River Shannon Callows SAC EU Site Code: Galway, Offaly, Roscommon, NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for River Shannon Callows SAC [000216]. Generic Version 4.0. The main threats to the Annex I habitats (and the other humid grasslands) on the site come from intensification of grassland management which would destroy their semi-natural nature and reduce botanical diversity. The flooding regime generally mitigates against intensification but herbicides and high fertiliser applications have been effectively used in a few places and this trend may increase. Most of the meadows are old meadows and any trend towards change to permanent pasture would be detrimental. This has not happened to date but may in the future, especially if a deterioration in the flooding regime makes it more difficult to harvest. Large scale drainage of this section of the river is considered unlikely at present. The limestone pavement is threatened by removal of rock and scrub clearance. Drainage schemes, agricultural pollution and wildfowling threaten the bird-life in the area. Power lines across the site are also hazards for flying birds. Limestone pavement* Lowland hay meadows Molinia meadows Residual alluvial forests* Otter Rosturra Wood SAC EU Site Code: Galway NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Rosturra Wood SAC [001313]. Generic Version 4.0. The remaining stands of mature Quercus are vulnerable to wind blow. In addition, natural regeneration may be limited by grazing deer, insufficient 'seed' trees and invasion by non-native species, including Picea spp. Old oak woodlands Sharavogue Bog SAC EU Site Code: Offaly Yes NPWS (2015) Conservation Objectives: Sharavogue Bog SAC Version 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht This site is vulnerable to water loss effects caused by the recently inserted network of drains across the centre of the site. Water loss is also occurring where active peat cutting is being carried out. Fire has also affected this bog which is vulnerable to further fire damage. Degraded raised bogs Raised bog (active)* Rhyncosporion depressions

17 Silvermine Mountains SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Silvermine Mountains SAC [000939]. Generic Version 4.0. At present there are no major threats to the site and no changes in land use are anticipated in the near future. There are a number of less serious problems and threats - part of the site is undergrazed and scrub is encroaching, especially at the west of it. At the south-east, livestock are fed from ringfeeders during the winter and nutrient enrichment is evident. The problem is not serious at present. Afforestation may pose a threat to the site, as much of the surrounding land is planted with conifers. Species-rich nardus upland grassland* Wet heath Silvermines Mountains West SAC EU Site Code: NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Silvermines Mountains West SAC [002258]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Although the condition of this site is good at present it is vulnerable to a range of possible damaging operations including afforestation, overgrazing and burning. Probably the most likely of these damages in the future is frequent/uncontrolled burning. There is also a possibility of future contamination - from airborne dust - emanating from the old mine-workings along the north-eastern edge of the site. Dry heaths Wet heath Slieve Bernagh Bog SAC EU Site Code: Clare NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Slieve Bernagh Bog SAC [002312]. Generic Version 4.0. This site is vulnerable to a range of damaging operations such as overgrazing, afforestation and burning. Further afforestation would be particularly damaging. At present, the most likely threat to the peatland habitats is repeated burning. Blanket bog (active)* Dry heaths Wet heath

18 Slieve Bloom Mountains SAC EU Site Code: Laois, Offaly NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Slieve Bloom Mountains SAC [000412]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Largely protected as a Nature Reserve, marginal areas are vulnerable to afforestation. Blanket bog (active)* Residual alluvial forests* Wet heath Spahill and Clomantagh Hill SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Spahill and Clomantagh Hill SAC [000849]. Generic Version 4.0. This site is particularly vulnerable to grassland improvement (fertilization and re-seeding), to a change in the present grazing regime, to commercial afforestation, to scrub encroachment and to certain activities associated with the adjacent television transmission station. Woodland on the site is vulnerable to clearance. Orchid-rich calcareous grassland* The Loughans SAC EU Site Code: Kilkenny NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for The Loughans SAC [000407]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Grazing is damaging the vegetation locally in the E half. There is also gradual eutrophication from surrounding agriculture, especially intensive to the south. The site would be endangered by any lowering of regional groundwater: e. g. that connected with Galmoy mine. Turloughs*

19 Summary data relating to all relevant SPAs sorted according to site name All Saints Bog SPA Site Code: Offaly This raised bog site is particularly vulnerable to drying-out due to water loss caused by the peat milling activities on the adjacent bog. These activities are also likely to cause disturbance to geese which may use the site. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for All Saints Bog SPA [004103]. Generic Version 4.0. Greenland White-fronted Goose n-annex SCIs: Blackwater Callows SPA Site Code: Cork, Waterford While water quality in the system is mostly good there are localised stretches which have been polluted from agricultural run-off and from point sources. Pollution remains a general threat to water quality within the site. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Blackwater Callows SPA [004094]. Generic Version 4.0. Whooper Swan n-annex SCIs: Black-tailed Godwit Teal Wigeon Wetlands & Waterbirds Dovegrove Callows SPA Site Code: Offaly There are no known threats to the birds at this site. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Dovegrove Callows SPA [004137]. Generic Version 4.0. Greenland White-fronted goose n-annex SCIs:

20 Summary data relating to all relevant SPAs sorted according to site name Dungarvan Harbour SPA Site Code: Waterford The southern part of the bay has been extensively developed for intertidal shellfish cultivation. Possible implications are loss of, and changes to, the intertidal habitats, and increased disturbance to wintering birds. Some disturbance may also be caused to the birds by recreational activities. Yes NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: Dungarvan Harbour SPA Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Bar-tailed Godwit Golden Plover n-annex SCIs: Black-tailed Godwit Curlew Dunlin Great Crested Grebe Grey Plover Knot Lapwing Light-bellied Brent Goose Oystercatcher Red-breasted Merganser Redshank Shelduck Turnstone Wetlands & Waterbirds Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA Site Code: Clare, Galway, Lough Derg was classified as being strongly eutrophic in the early 1990s. Since 1997, a monitoring programme on the Shannon lakes has shown that the symptoms of eutrophication previously documented (i.e. high chlorophyll level and reduced water visibility) have been ameliorated significantly. These reductions have coincided with the invasion of the Shannon system by the Zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha), a species which feeds on plankton, and also improvements to reduce phosphorus in sewage plants in the catchment. Enrichment of the lake, both by agricultural run-off and sewage, remains a threat and could affect the bird population, especially the diving duck. Whilst the presence of Dreissena polymorpha in Lough Derg appears to have improved water quality in the lake, in the long-term this invasive bivalve may threaten the ecology of the lake. Recreational activities presently cause disturbance to the birds and an increase in such Common Tern n-annex SCIs: Wetlands & Waterbirds Cormorant Goldeneye Tufted Duck NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Lough Derg (Shannon) SPA [004058]. Generic Version 4.0.

21 Summary data relating to all relevant SPAs sorted according to site name Middle Shannon Callows SPA Site Code: Galway, Offaly,, The principal threat to the ornithological interests in this site is agricultural improvement including drainage attempts to reduce winter flooding. Since 1993 a grant scheme for Crex crex has been in operation for landowners to allow late cutting of meadows. Continuous management is considered to be necessary to maintain the population. However, despite the conservation efforts, summer flooding reduces the numbers in some years. Agricultural intensification may also be affecting numbers of breeding waders. Wildfowling causes some disturbance. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Middle Shannon Callows SPA [004096]. Generic Version 4.0. Corncrake Golden Plover Whooper Swan n-annex SCIs: Black-headed Gull Black-tailed Godwit Lapwing Wigeon Wetlands & Waterbirds River Little Brosna Callows SPA Site Code: Offaly, Any attempts at further drainage to reduce the extent of winter flooding could be detrimental to the bird populations using the site. The intensification of agriculture in recent years, with earlier mowing and the replacement of hay with silage, is likely to have caused the decline and eventual absence of breeding Crex crex. This may also be affecting numbers of breeding waders, especially Vanellus vanellus which formerly bred. Wildfowling causes some disturbance. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for River Little Brosna Callows SPA [004086]. Generic Version 4.0. Golden Plover Greenland White-fronted Goose Whooper Swan n-annex SCIs: Black-headed Gull Black-tailed Godwit Lapwing Pintail Shoveler Teal Wigeon Wetlands & Waterbirds River re SPA Site Code: data available (Dec 2014). NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for River re SPA [004233]. Generic Version 4.0. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Kingfisher n-annex SCIs:

22 Summary data relating to all relevant SPAs sorted according to site name River Shannon and River Fergus SPA Site Code: Clare, Kerry, Limerick The site receives pollution from several sources, including industry and agriculture, but it is not known if this has any significant impacts on the wintering birds. Reclamation of land is a threat near to the urbanised and industrial areas. Aquaculture occurs and may increase in the future. Spartina is well established and may threaten the estuarine habitats. Some disturbance occurs from boating activities. Yes NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries SPA Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Bar-tailed Godwit Golden Plover Whooper Swan n-annex SCIs: Wetlands & Waterbirds Black-headed Gull Black-tailed Godwit Cormorant Curlew Dunlin Greenshank Grey Plover Knot Lapwing Light-bellied Brent Goose Pintail Redshank Ringed Plover Scaup Shelduck Shoveler Teal River Suck Callows SPA Site Code: Galway, Roscommon Arterial drainage in the past has reduced the area of naturally flooded grasslands, and drainage and land improvement remain the principal threats to the site. The intensification of agriculture in recent years, with earlier mowing and the replacement of hay with silage, is likely to have caused the decline and eventual absence of breeding Crex crex. Wildfowling causes some disturbance. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for River Suck Callows SPA [004097]. Generic Version 4.0. Golden Plover Greenland White-fronted Goose Whooper Swan n-annex SCIs: Lapwing Wigeon Wetlands & Waterbirds

23 Summary data relating to all relevant SPAs sorted according to site name Slieve Aughty Mountains SPA Site Code: Clare, Galway A threat to the long term survival of Circus cyaneus within the site is unsustainable afforestation, which would reduce or fragment the area of foraging habitat, resulting in possible reduction in breeding density and productivity. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Slieve Aughty Mountains SPA [004168]. Generic Version 4.0. Hen Harrier n-annex SCIs: Merlin Slieve Bloom Mountains SPA Site Code: Laois, Offaly The main threat to the long-term survival of Hen Harrier within the site is further afforestation, which would reduce and fragment the area of foraging habitat, resulting in possible reductions in breeding densities and productivity. Much of the unplanted bog is a Statutory Nature Reserve. NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Slieve Bloom Mountains SPA [004160]. Generic Version 4.0. Hen Harrier n-annex SCIs: Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA Site Code: Limerick, There are no immediate threats to this site from landuse or development activities. However, further planting within this site would reduced the amount of foraging habitat for Hen Harriers, with a possible reduction in breeding density and possibly productivity (as foraging areas become further fragmented). NPWS (2015) Conservation objectives for Slievefelim to Silvermines Mountains SPA [004165]. Generic Version 4.0. Hen Harrier n-annex SCIs: