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Office of Public Works Arterial Drainage Maintenance Works - Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme 2019-2023

Stage 2: Natura Impact Statement

December 2018

Office of Public Works

Templemungret House

Mungret

Co. Limerick

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx i

JBA Project Manager Tom Sampson 24 Grove Island Corbally Limerick Ireland

Revision History

Revision Ref / Date Issued Amendments Issued to

V0.4 Internal review Tanya Slattery (JBA)

V0.10 Internal review Niamh Burke (JBA)

V2.0 / 19 Dec 2018 Revisions following client review

Tony Brew (OPW)

Contract This report describes work commissioned by Helena Fagan, on behalf of the Office of Public Works, by a letter dated 6 June, 2018. The Office of Public Works representative for the contract was Tony Brew. Joe Freijser and Malin Lundberg of JBA Consulting carried out this work. Field survey work was carried out by Catalina Herrera, Colm O'Leary, Jonathan Harrison and Chris Toop of JBA Consulting between 30 July and 3 August.

Prepared by .................................................. JBA Joe Freijser BA MSc Ecologist

Malin Lundberg BSc MSc

Assistant Ecologist

Reviewed by ................................................. Tanya Slattery BSc MSc

Ecologist

Niamh Burke BSc PhD CEnv MCIEEM

Senior Ecologist

Purpose This document has been prepared as a Final Report for the OPW. JBA Consulting accepts no responsibility or liability for any use that is made of this document other than by the Client for the purposes for which it was originally commissioned and prepared.

JBA Consulting has no liability regarding the use of this report except to the OPW.

Copyright © Jeremy Benn Associates Limited 2018

Carbon Footprint A printed copy of the main text in this document will result in a carbon footprint of 577g if 100% post-consumer recycled paper is used and 735g if primary-source paper is used. These figures assume the report is printed in black and white on A4 paper and in duplex.

JBA is aiming to reduce its per capita carbon emissions.

Contents

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx

1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 3

1.1 Background ........................................................................................................................ 3 1.2 Legislative context .............................................................................................................. 3 1.3 Appropriate Assessment Process ...................................................................................... 4 1.4 Methodology....................................................................................................................... 5

2 Project Description ................................................................................................. 8

2.1 Arterial Drainage Maintenance ........................................................................................... 8 2.2 Drainage Maintenance Activities ........................................................................................ 8 2.3 The Arterial Drainage Scheme .......................................................................................... 15 2.4 Drainage Maintenance Works Proposed for the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme ........ 15

3 Screening Assessment Results ............................................................................. 16

3.1 Surface Water Pathways .................................................................................................... 16 3.2 Land and air pathways ....................................................................................................... 21 3.3 Groundwater pathways ...................................................................................................... 26 3.4 Summary of screening results ............................................................................................ 33

4 Existing Environment ............................................................................................. 35

4.1 General .............................................................................................................................. 35 4.2 Ecology - Overview ............................................................................................................ 35 4.3 Ecological walkover survey results ..................................................................................... 36 4.4 Flora ................................................................................................................................... 44 4.5 Non-Native and Invasive Species ...................................................................................... 45

5 Natura 2000 sites within the Zone of Influence of the works/scheme ................... 46

5.1 River Finn SAC .................................................................................................................. 46 5.2 Lough Swilly SAC ............................................................................................................... 48 5.3 Lough Swilly SPA ............................................................................................................... 49

6 Appropriate Assessment........................................................................................ 51

6.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 51 6.2 Identification of Potential Sources of Impact ...................................................................... 51 6.3 Impact Assessment ............................................................................................................ 54 6.4 Impact Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 56

7 Avoidance and Mitigation Measures ...................................................................... 75

7.1 Site specific mitigation measures ....................................................................................... 75 7.2 Mitigation for Bridge/Sluice/Structural Works ..................................................................... 76

8 Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 78

References.......................................................................................................................... 80

Appendices ......................................................................................................................... I

A Conservation Objectives ........................................................................................ I

B Flora and Fauna ............................................................................................................................... XVII

C Non-native invasive species ............................................................................................................................... XLVIII

D Environmental Drainage Maintenance Manual ..................................................... LIII

E Foreman's Bridge Inspection Report ..................................................................... LIV

F Environmental Risk Assessment Form .................................................................. LV

G Ecological Survey Extent ....................................................................................... LVI

Contents

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx

H Channels, Embankments, Bridges and Sluices screened into assessment and pathways of impact ............................................................................................................................... LVII

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx 1

List of Figures Figure 1-1: The Appropriate Assessment Process (from: Appropriate Assessment of Plans

and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities, DoEHLG, 2009).. 4

Figure 1-2: Screening assessment process ...................................................................... 6

Figure 3-1 Channels of the Donegal Scheme with potential impacts via surface water pathways ........................................................................................................... 17

Figure 3-2 Channels and embankments with potential impacts via land and air pathways ........................................................................................................................... 21

Figure 3-3 Channels and embankments with potential impacts via groundwater pathways ........................................................................................................................... 28

Figure 4-1 Depositing lowland river mosaic with wet willow-alder-ash woodland .............. 38

Figure 4-2 Blanket Nook channel C2 with Ranunculus Sp. ................................................ 39

Figure 4-3 Marsh habitat next to channel C1 section A at Inch Level with the potential to be Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels (6430) ...................................................................................................... 40

Figure 4-4 Muddy sand shore ............................................................................................. 41

Figure 4-5 Mud shore with Salicornia habitat present On Swilly embankment E1 ............. 42

Figure 4-6 Potential Alluvial woodland along Deele and Swillyburn E2 embankment ....... 43

Figure 5-1 Overview of SACs and SPAs ............................................................................ 46

List of Tables Table 2-1: OPW Drainage Maintenance Subcategories ................................................... 8

Table 2-2: OPW Drainage Maintenance Types ................................................................. 8

Table 3-1 Natura 2000 sites potentially impacted by the maintenance works ................... 16

Table 3-2 Surface water pathways ..................................................................................... 17

Table 3-3 Summary results of SWD QIs / FOIs of SACs with potential surface water pathways, potential Annex I habitats present and potential for significant impact ........................................................................................................................... 18

Table 3-4 Summary results of SWD QIs / FOIs of SACs with potential surface water pathways, potential Annex I habitats present and potential for significant impact ........................................................................................................................... 19

Table 3-5 Land & Air Pathways .......................................................................................... 21

Table 3-6 Summary results of QIs / FOIs with potential land and air connectivity to SACs, resulting ............................................................................................................. 22

in a potential for impact from the proposed works through land and air pathways ............ 22

Table 3-7 Summary results of QIs / FOIs with potential land and air connectivity to SPAs, resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through land and air pathways ........................................................................................................... 24

Table 3-8 Natura 2000 site with potential to be impacted by groundwater pathways ........ 27

Table 3-9 Summary results of QIs / FOIs in Natura 2000 sites with potential groundwater connectivity, to SACs resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through groundwater pathways ......................................................................... 28

Table 3-10 Summary results of QIs / FOIs in Natura 2000 sites with potential groundwater connectivity to SPAs, resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through groundwater pathways ......................................................................... 33


Table 3-11 Conclusions of screening assessment for likelihood of significant effect......... 34

Table 4-1 Habitats found along the Donegal Scheme ........................................................ 36

Table 5-1 Threats and pressures to River Finn SAC (002301) .......................................... 47

Table 5-2 Threats and pressures to Lough Swilly SAC (002301) ...................................... 48

Table 5-3 Threats and pressures to Lough Swilly SPA (004075) ...................................... 50

Table 6-1 Impact evaluation table ...................................................................................... 57

Table 7-1 Specific mitigation measures .............................................................................. 75

Table 7-2 Mitigation measures for bridge, sluice and/or structural works .......................... 76

Abbreviations AA ................................... Appropriate Assessment

CA ................................... Competent Authority

DoEHLG .......................... Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government

EC ................................... European Community

EP ................................... Environmental Procedures

EPA ................................. Environmental Protection Agency

GIS .................................. Geographical Information System

GWB ............................... Groundwater Body

GWD ............................... Ground Water Dependant

IFI .................................... Inland Fisheries Ireland

IROPI .............................. Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest

I-WeBS ............................ Irish Wetland Bird Survey

MAC ................................ Maintenance Access Corridors

NIS .................................. Natura Impact Statement

NBDC .............................. National Biodiversity Data Centre

NNIS ............................... Non-Native Invasive Species

NPWS ............................. National Parks and Wildlife Services

NRA ................................ National Roads Authority

OPW ............................... Office of Public Works

RBMP .............................. River Basin Management Plan

SAC ................................. Special Area of Conservation

SPA ................................. Special Protection Area

SWD ................................ Surface Water Dependent

QI .................................... Qualifying Interests

WFD ................................ Water Framework Directive

ZOI .................................. Zone of Influence


1 Introduction

1.1 Background

JBA has been appointed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to provide environmental consultancy services in relation to statutory arterial drainage maintenance activities for 2019 - 2023 on the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme. This includes preparing a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) report to present required information to the relevant Competent Authority (CA) to undertake Appropriate Assessment. Appropriate Assessment is required at this location due to the presence of the River Finn SAC (002301), Lough Swilly SAC (002287) and Lough Swilly SPA (004075) within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme.

An initial screening assessment was undertaken at this location for the purposes of Appropriate Assessment by JBA in 2014 (JBA 2014). This screening report defined the zone of influence of the works, screened Natura 2000 sites within this zone of influence for potential to be significantly impacted by the proposed works, and identified the potential for the proposed works to have significant impact. In accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora). Due to the identification of potentially significant effects in relation to the proposed works at this location, this NIS has been prepared to further assess the impacts on the integrity of the relevant Natura 2000 sites and devise appropriate avoidance and mitigation measures where necessary. As part of this NIS, the 2014 AA Screening is reviewed and updated within this NIS report as necessary.

The proposed works as part of the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme, referred to as the "Scheme", are required as part of maintenance activities under the 1945 Arterial Drainage Act, and include the River Foyle, River Finn and River Swilly various tributaries along the scheme channels. These channels are located within/adjacent to the Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC Natura 2000 site and therefore, requires Appropriate Assessment.

1.2 Legislative context

The Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora) aims to maintain or restore the favourable conservation status of habitats and species of community interest across Europe. The requirements of these directives are transposed into Irish law through the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations) 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011).

Under the Directive a network of sites of nature conservation importance have been identified by each Member State as containing specified habitats or species requiring to be maintained or returned to favourable conservation status. In Ireland the network consists of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and SPAs, and also candidate sites, which form the Natura 2000 network.

Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive requires that, in relation to European designated sites (i.e. SACs and SPAs that form the Natura 2000 network), "any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives".

A competent authority (e.g. the OPW or Local Authority) can only agree to a plan or project after having determined that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned.

Under article 6(4) of the Directive, if adverse impacts are likely, and in the absence of alternative options, a plan or project must nevertheless proceed for imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), including social or economic reasons, a Member State is required to take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure the overall integrity of the Natura 2000 site. The European Commission have to be informed of any compensatory measures adopted, unless a priority habitat type or species is present and in which case an opinion from the European Commission is required beforehand (unless for human health or public safety reasons, or of benefit to the environment).


1.3 Appropriate Assessment Process

Guidance on the Appropriate Assessment (AA) process was produced by the European Commission in 2002, which was subsequently developed into guidance specifically for Ireland by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) (2009). These guidance documents identify a staged approach to conducting an AA, as shown Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1: The Appropriate Assessment Process (from: Appropriate Assessment of Plans and

Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities, DoEHLG, 2009)

1.3.1 Stage 1 - Screening for AA

The initial, screening stage of the Appropriate Assessment is to determine:

a. whether the proposed plan or project is directly connected with or necessary for the management of the European designated site for nature conservation

b. if it is likely to have a significant adverse effect on the European designated site, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects

For those sites where potential adverse impacts are identified, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects, further assessment is necessary to determine if the proposals will have an adverse impact on the integrity of a European designated site, in view of the sites conservation objectives (i.e. the process proceeds to Stage 2).

1.3.2 Stage 2 - AA

This stage requires a more in-depth evaluation of the plan or project, and the potential direct and indirect impacts of them on the integrity and interest features of the European designated site(s), alone and in-combination with other plans and projects, taking into account the site's structure, function and conservation objectives. Where required, mitigation or avoidance measures will be suggested.

The competent authority can only agree to the plan or project after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site(s) concerned. If this cannot be determined, and where mitigation cannot be achieved, then alternative solutions will need to be considered (i.e. the process proceeds to Stage 3).

1.3.3 Stage 3 - Alternative Solutions

Where adverse impacts on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites are identified, and mitigation cannot be satisfactorily implemented, alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the plan or project that avoid adverse impacts need to be considered. If none can be found, the process proceeds to Stage 4.

1.3.4 Stage 4 - IROPI

Where adverse impacts of a plan or project on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites are identified and no alternative solutions exist, the plan will only be allowed to progress if imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) can be demonstrated. In this case compensatory measures will be required.

The process only proceeds through each of the four stages for certain plans or projects. For example, for a plan or project, not connected with management of a site, but where no likely significant impacts are identified, the process stops at stage 1. Throughout the process, the precautionary principle must be applied, so that any uncertainties do not result in adverse impacts on a site.

Stage 1

Screening for AA

Stage 2

AA

Stage 4

IROPI

Stage 3

Alternative Solutions


1.4 Methodology

Data to be used in this assessment has been collected in a range of formats, from a range of sources, including:

• A comprehensive desktop survey (Section 1.4.1)

• The 2014 Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Screening Assessment (JBA 2014) (Section 1.4.2)

• A number of ecological surveys (Section 1.4.3)

• National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) website (http://www.npws.ie/) where site synopsis, Natura 2000 data forms, GIS data and conservation objectives were obtained.

• National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC 2018)

1.4.1 Desktop

This NIS has been prepared with regard to the following documents:

• DoEHLG (2009 rev 2010) Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG 2009).

• European Communities (EC) (2000) Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission (European Commission and Office for Official Publications of the European Communities 2000).

• EC (2002) Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission (EC 2002).

• EC (2007) Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC – Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the commission. European Commission (EC 2007).

• EC (2013) Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats. Version EUR 28. European Commission (EC 2013).

• Fossitt, J., (2000). A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny (Fossitt 2000).

• NPWS (2008). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland (NPWS 2008).

• NPWS (2014). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Habitats Assessment Volume 2. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland (NPWS 2013a).

• NPWS (2014). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessment Volume 3. Habitats Assessment Volume 2. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland (NPWS 2013b).

This report has been produced on currently available information, with the most up-to-date versions used.

1.4.2 Screening

The screening assessment conducted for these works has been undertaken in line with recommended guidance including that specifically produced for the OPW in 2014 (Ryan Hanley 2014b, 2014a). This methodology is based on source > pathway > receptor chain principles and involves assessing likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed drainage maintenance in relation to three pathways:

1. Surface water

http://www.npws.ie/


2. Land & air

3. Groundwater

The screening assessment involves assessing the impacts of drainage maintenance operations within the arterial drainage scheme, and its zone of influence, in relation to each of the three pathways individually. The results of each pathway are then combined in a concluding section to identify if/where likely significant effects may arise.

Figure 1-2: Screening assessment process

The screening process uses a combination of GIS analysis and qualitative assessment to identify which drainage maintenance activities, on which specific watercourses, are likely to have significant effects on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites.

The screening report, conducted by JBA ecologists in 2014, has been reviewed and updated as necessary for the production of this NIS.

1.4.3 Ecological surveys

To inform the Appropriate Assessment process, a number of assessments and ecological surveys have been conducted, including:

• An ecological desk-based assessment to collate information on designated sites and protected and notable species, including bird survey data from the waterbird survey programme and the Irish Wetland Bird Survey (I-WeBS).

• Ecological walkover surveys were conducted from 30 July to 3 August on the channels and embankments shown on a map presented as Appendix G. The location of the cannels and embankments within the Scheme is listed below;

• Cannels and embankments on the Carrigans tributary of the River Foyle,

• Channels and embankments along the River Foyle north of Lifford,

• Channels and embankments south east of Letterkenny on the River Swilly and Isle Burn,

• Channels and embankments at Blanket Nook near Newtown Cunningham,

• Channels and embankments at Inch Level south of Burnfoot.

The ecological walkover survey was carried out in general accordance with the methods outlined in the following documents;

• Heritage Council (2011). Best Practice Guidance for Habitat Survey and Mapping (Smith et al. 2011).

Further assessment

required

So

urc

e >

Path

way >

Rec

ep

tor

Ch

ain

Surface water

Pathway present connecting

potential impacts to relevant Natura

2000 sites

Land & Air

Pathway present connecting

potential impacts to relevant Natura

2000 sites

Groundwater

Pathway present connecting potential impacts to relevant Natura 2000 sites


• Phase 1 Habitat Survey methodology (Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), 1990, revised 2003).

• Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes (NRA 2009).

• Fossitt, J. (2000). A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny (Fossitt 2000).

Aerial photographs and site maps assisted the habitat survey. Protected species, including mammals (e.g. Otter, Badger) and birds, were surveyed based upon sightings and signs of activity during the habitat survey and also by the identification of potentially suitable habitats. This included a preliminary assessment of features with suitability for roosting bats and recording of any non-native invasive species found. All evidence of protected habitats and species was recorded on a tablet using the bespoke JBA GISmapp application where relevant, and all information gathered was provided to the OPW on a separate GIS database. The full ecological survey extent is shown in Appendix G.

The results of these surveys have informed this NIS where relevant.

1.4.4 Consultation

The findings of this assessment will be subject to consultation with the NPWS.

This report has been produced on currently available information, with the most up-to-date versions used. Where new, or updated, information becomes available the OPW will consider and review the findings of this assessment, if necessary.

1.4.5 Limitations and constraints

The conclusion of this report necessarily relies on some assumptions and it is inevitably subject to some limitations. Most of the assumptions and limitations would not affect the conclusion but the following points are recorded to ensure the basis of the assessment is clear:

• This NIS investigates the potential direct and indirect impacts of the proposed works upon relevant Natura 2000 sites and assesses the potential impacts for significance alone and in-combination with other plans and projects. This process takes into consideration the nature of the proposed works and the structure, function and conservation objectives of the relevant Natura 2000 sites. It gathers the required information from a variety of sources. Information used in this process may be subject to limitations and constraints that are not made clear in the various sources and these may then, impact upon the results of this report. Attempts are made to interpret potential constraints and limitations from relevant sources where possible. Where constraints and limitations within source data are evident, these are taken into consideration in the following assessment however, this does allow for a margin of error;

• Where significant adverse impacts are determined to potentially occur as a result of the works, a number of appropriate mitigation measures to be implemented during the scheme are provided in order to prevent any significant adverse impacts as a result of the scheme and proposed associated works. The conclusion of this report is based on the assumption that during the works, staff will be made aware of sensitive ecological features that may be present on site, will be competent to identify the presence of these features and will be aware of the mitigation measures and Environmental Procedures (EPs) to be followed as required in such circumstances;

• Ecological surveys attempt to characterise the habitats and their usage in the most accurate manner but are in effect only a snapshot in time. Surveyor bias, seasonality, tides and health and safety restrictions may allow for variations in survey results. Therefore, ecological surveys may not always identify the presence of all sensitive ecological features that may be present.

• The description of activities, assessment and mitigation measures described in this report relate to the content of the draft OPW Environmental Procedures version 06/18 Rev A.

• In all instances where constraints or limitations may impact the result of the NIS, the precautionary principle is used to prevent any bias.


2 Project Description

2.1 Arterial Drainage Maintenance

Between 1945 and 1995, under the Arterial Drainage Act (1945), the OPW completed 34 Arterial Drainage Schemes on river catchments, along with five estuarine embankment schemes (over 11,500km of channel and 730km of embankments). The OPW is statutorily obligated to maintain arterial drainage channels under the 1945 Arterial Drainage Act, and since their completion, maintenance of these Arterial Drainage Schemes has been ongoing, with the majority of channels maintained every five years. However, larger channels tend to be only maintained every ten years, on average.

2.2 Drainage Maintenance Activities

Arterial Drainage Maintenance includes a range of operations such as silt and vegetation management, mowing and structure maintenance, as detailed in Table 2-1, and listed as channel, embankment or structure maintenance in Table 2-2 below. It is required to retain the arterial drainage scheme design capacity.

Table 2-1: OPW Drainage Maintenance Subcategories

Drainage Maintenance Subcategories

A Silt and vegetation management

B Aquatic vegetation cutting

C Bank protection

D Bush cutting/Branch trimming

E Tree cutting

F Mulching

G Mowing

H Gate installation

I Sluice maintenance

J Bridge maintenance

K Other

Table 2-2: OPW Drainage Maintenance Types

Category Maintenance Type Code

Channel Maintenance

Silt and vegetation management A

Aquatic vegetation cutting B

Bank protection C

Bush cutting/Branch trimming D

Tree cutting E

Other K

Embankment Maintenance


Tree cutting E

Mulching F

Mowing G

Gate installation H

Structural Maintenance

Sluice maintenance I

Bridge maintenance J

Bank protection C



Category Maintenance Type Code

Tree cutting E

The following sections, taken from Ryan Hanley (2014a) and OPW (2011a), provide further details on the types and nature of arterial drainage maintenance operations undertaken by the OPW.

2.2.1 Channel Maintenance Activities

The majority of drainage maintenance activities are focused on channel maintenance. While the frequency of maintenance on an individual channel may vary, with some channels requiring maintenance annually and others only requiring maintenance every twenty years, the average channel requires maintenance every four to six years. In this regard, approximately 2,000km of channels are maintained annually and nearly all of the 11,500km of channels across Irelands Arterial Drainage Schemes will have been maintained at least once over a period of five years. Channel maintenance is organised on a regional basis, with OPW Arterial Drainage Maintenance Regional Offices in Limerick, Headford, Co. Galway and Trim, Co. Meath.

Scheme Design Standards

Arterial Drainage Schemes constructed under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945 were designed to provide an outfall for drainage of agricultural lands, and generally provided protection for a 3-year flood event. Where the creation of an outfall dictated the design bed levels, greater protection than the 3-year flood event was achieved as a consequence. In the case of modern flood relief schemes, flood protection for a 100-year flood event would be the design objective.

The original Scheme designs, including the outfall datum for each of the Arterial Drainage Schemes, are available in the relevant OPW Arterial Drainage Maintenance Regional Office. This includes the mapped Scheme design, and the associated long sections and cross sections. These designs are used to inform channel maintenance.

Types of Channel Requiring Maintenance

In the years following the construction of a drainage scheme there is a tendency for the channel capacity to be progressively reduced due mainly to the transportation and deposition of bed materials, the accumulation of silt and the growth of in-channel vegetation. The resultant channel maintenance consists of repetitive works of a cyclical nature, to restore the Schemes design levels i.e. outfall datum in order to maintain the channel's designed capacity to convey water.

Channels are prioritised for maintenance based on the rate of deterioration and the risk arising. The selection takes account of requests from the general public and potential flooding risk to roads, properties, urban areas and sewage works (OPW 2011a).

Plane Bed to Low Gradient Channels

Some 60 – 70% of maintained channels are of gentle longitudinal gradient and subject to relatively rapid deposition of silt, especially those that are subject to prolific growth of in-channel vegetation. The majority of maintenance works are therefore located on smaller lower-lying channels, with 90% of works in channels with a base width of <3m (OPW 2011a). In such channels silt and in-channel vegetation may cause the low flow level to rise by 50-300mm above the Scheme design level. In such circumstances maintenance is focused on restoring both low-flow and flood-flow water levels to original Scheme design.

Medium to High Gradient Channels

A smaller proportion of channels are steep and fast flowing and are subject to flash floods, bank erosion and rapid movement of bed gravel. The steeper sections of channel normally require relatively little and infrequent maintenance works (OPW 2011a) as opposed to channels of low gradient which are subject to rapid accumulation of silt and proliferation of vegetation. These channels will have a greater requirement for bank protection works.

Periods and Cycles of Maintenance

The average channel requires silt and vegetation management every four to six years. However, channels with prolific weed growth may require maintenance annually, particularly where downstream bridges are at risk of being blocked due to a flow of decaying vegetation in autumn.


Conversely, some channels may only require in-stream maintenance every twenty years due to the self-cleaning characteristics e.g. high gradient channels.

Where the period between previous channel maintenance works has been exceptionally long, dense scrub and woody vegetation can establish along the channel and within the maintenance access corridor. In such circumstances, drainage maintenance works will include the removal of scrub/transitional woodland (code WS1 in the Fossitt Classification, 2000) that has developed along the banksides via bush cutting/branch trimming, tree cutting or mulching. This is undertaken between the 1st September and 28th February to avoid the residential bird nesting season (from the 1st March to 31st August as per the Wildlife Act (1976).

In contrast, in-stream works for silt and vegetation management are carried out outside of the salmonid spawning season (May to September) and the times that early life stages of salmonid fish will be present as per Section 173 of the Fisheries (Consolidation) Act (1959) on channels with salmonid spawning habitat. Any works required during this period are carried out in consultation with IFI. As a result, there may be a two stage approach to the works, with silt and in-stream vegetation management carried out during the open season (i.e. summer months), while woody vegetation removal is carried out in the winter months.

Other restrictions on works may also apply in relation to the presence/absence of other protected species such as White-clawed Crayfish and Sea, River and Brook Lamprey which will influence the timing of works.

2.2.2 Embankment Maintenance Activities

A total of 5 No. Estuarine Embankment Schemes were constructed under the 1945 Act. In addition, a number of the Arterial Drainage Schemes have embanked sections. Embankments are present within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme.

Scheme Design Standards

As above for the Arterial Drainage Schemes, Estuarine Embankment Schemes constructed under the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 were designed to provide an outfall for drainage of agricultural lands, and generally provided protection for a 3-year flood event. Where the creation of an outfall dictated the design bed levels, greater protection than the 3-year flood event was achieved as a consequence. In the case of modern flood relief schemes, flood protection for a 100-year flood event would be the design objective.

The original Scheme designs are available in the relevant OPW Arterial Drainage Maintenance Regional Office. This includes the mapped Scheme design, and the associated long sections and cross sections.

Types of Embankments Requiring Maintenance

All embankments and associated sluice structures (see section 2.2.3) are inspected annually for signs of disrepair.

Regular inspections are carried out on sections of embankments, which are known from experience to be at risk, together with additional inspections after a storm surge at sea or a high tidal/flood event. Maintenance of embankments includes removal of vegetation to allow for inspection of the embankment, and in some cases the replacement of existing fencing with gates to allow for future access during maintenance.

2.2.3 Structural Maintenance Activities

Structural Design Standards

During the maintenance of the Arterial Drainage Schemes under the 1945 Act, some 18,500 No. accommodation bridges were identified and modified, or replaced as required. These bridges provide farmers owning land on both sides of a channels with farm vehicular and/or foot access from one side to the other. The type of bridge provided depended on the width, depth and required flow capacity of the channel, and ranged from concrete piped culverts to relatively large structures formed on concrete or masonry abutments spanned by structural steel beams, or lattice girders together with concrete or timber decking.

During the Estuarine Embankment Schemes under the 1945 Act, existing sluice structures were identified and modified, or replaced as required. Additional sluice structures were constructed as


required bringing the total number to approximately 750. The function of these sluice structures is to allow water from the floodplain behind the embankments to discharge to the main river or estuary.

Types of Structures Requiring Maintenance

In general, as channel maintenance proceeds, the bridges are examined by the supervisory industrial staff and if required, repairs/replacements are scheduled. The type of bridge structures, which are most likely to have fallen into a critical state of disrepair, are those with timber decking supported on steel beams, and those in which abutment foundations are being undercut. There is a standard type of design for the replacement of these structures, which consists essentially of mass concrete abutments with reinforced cast in-situ decking. This type of structure is simple to construct and under normal circumstances, it will last for many years with little or no maintenance.

On many occasions, it is not necessary to totally replace a bridge, and repairs such as underpinning the foundation or replacement of wing-walls, parapets or sections of the deck may be all that is required to extend the useful life of the structure. Where bridge maintenance may be required, a Bridge Inspection Form will be filled out by the Foreman, prior to the works. This will determine the need for further assessment and potentially, any mitigation measures that may be required. See Appendix E - Foreman’s Bridge Inspection Report.

All embankments and associated structures are inspected annually for disrepair. Due to the time elapsed since scheme completion, some of these sluice structures have reached their design life and have started to fail. In this instance, full replacement is required. Typically, this involves the installation of pre-cast headwalls and back walls, and the replacement of existing corrugated galvanised steel pipes with PVC plastic pipes.

Sluice doors are the most frequent part of the sluice structure that are required to be repaired or replaced. Repairs to a sluice door consist of replacing the arms/hinges on the existing cast iron door. On occasion, the existing cast iron door would be replaced with a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) door. Blockages often occur at the doors of the sluices due to silt build up. These blockages are removed using along reach excavator working from the bank of the channel.

It is not known where bridges, sluice doors or structures may require maintenance on the Donegal Scheme. Maintenance of bridges, structures and/or sluices will only occur within the scheme after following the relevant environmental procedures as detailed in the OPW Environmental Procedures document (OPW 2018) and using specific mitigation measures as defined in this document and Section 7.2. Structures that are assessed in this NIS for potential impacts as a result of maintenance works are included in Appendix H.

This NIS does not include assessment for the removal, demolition, replacement or erection of bridges, sluices or structures.

2.2.4 Maintenance works considered outside of the Scheme Design Standards and outside of normal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Works

Occasionally, works are required that can be considered outside of the scope of the normal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Works to maintain a scheme. Works considered outside of the normal scope of statutory arterial drainage maintenance works have are not assessed for impacts in this report.

Works that could be considered outside of the normal scope of works include those involving extensive bank protection measures, removal of mature woodland, unplanned bridge maintenance works that have not had any assessments completed, or any other unplanned works within the zone of influence of a Natura 2000 site.

2.2.5 Plant and Machinery

The types of machinery typically utilised during maintenance works would include 3600 hydraulic excavators (from 15-20 tonne excavators), mini-diggers, tractors and trailers, tipper lorries, hydraulic shears, hydraulic secateurs, chainsaws, mulchers and mowers; the machinery used is dependent on the maintenance activity being conducted.

The removal of dense in-stream silt and vegetation requires the use of a hydraulic excavator with a 1.5m wide (approximate) bucket (capacity approximate 500ltrs). For standard excavators, works progress at a rate of 700m to 900m per week. In relation to long-reach excavators, works progress at a slower rate of between 200m and 350m per week. Rates may change due to channel width or ground conditions.


2.2.6 Maintenance Access Corridors (MAC) and Working Zone

Maintenance sites are generally accessed via the public road and through farmland. A maintenance access corridor is utilised along one side of a channel for maintenance purposes. These established routes are used to track the hydraulic excavators for maintenance and for the disposal of spoil (see section 2.2.8). The same route is generally followed every maintenance cycle. This approach avoids disturbance of habitats on the opposite bank during works.

Where grasslands are present within the maintenance access corridor, the impact is predominantly temporary as the grasslands are trampled by machinery and can recolonise following completion of the maintenance activities. Within woodland and scrub habitats a linear path more typical of disturbed vegetation i.e. scrub/transitional woodland (WS1) will be evident along the maintenance access corridor due to regular machine access. In this regard, the disturbance regime associated with the tracking of plant machinery along the maintenance access corridors on the channel bank arrests succession to mature woodland such that scrub/transitional woodland (WS1) dominates. Where mature trees are present these are generally avoided by plant machinery.

Structures are generally accessed through farmland from the public road above. Plant machinery will utilise the same maintenance access corridor used for channel maintenance to gain access to the structure. Where individual trees, woodland and scrub habitats are present at the location of the structure, these may be removed to facilitate bridge inspection and works. Where mature trees are present these are generally avoided by plant machinery.

The location of drainage maintenance works is generally accessed via public roads and through farmland, with the siting of mobile short-term staff welfare facilities, plant storage and car parking agreed with local landowners. There is no requirement for temporary site lighting.

There is a requirement for water supply and disposal of wastewater from the welfare facilities (see section 2.2.8 in relation to waste disposal).

2.2.7 Site Compounds (Welfare Facilities), Access Routes and Haul Roads

Haul roads are generally not required to facilitate drainage maintenance activities. Where access is required in soft ground conditions, plant equipment will be brought in on tracks or temporary matting will be laid to provide a corridor for machinery access. Where matting is utilised, it will be completely removed post completion of works to allow vegetation to recolonise. All plant and machinery is confined to one defined access route to minimise disturbance.

All plant and machinery are regularly maintained and serviced to minimise release of hydrocarbons. All hydraulic excavators and other plant machinery use long life engine oil and biodegradable hydraulic oil. Fuelling and lubrication are conducted a minimum of 50m away from all channels. Spill kits are present in all plant used in maintenance activities. Integrated submersible pumps are also deployed in the event of structural maintenance and the requirement for dewatering of excavations.

2.2.8 Waste Output/Disposal

The material removed from a channel during silt and vegetation management is normally spread thinly along the bank or on top of existing spoil heaps where present within the access corridor. All dead wood material is left on site to decompose or is removed off site and utilised as firewood under local landowner agreements. Where mulchers or mowers are deployed, the arisings are left on site to decompose or the mulched material is buried.

Construction and demolition waste from structures includes broken concrete and stone. Steel railings are returned to the depot for recycling. Used engine oil and hydraulic oil is disposed of by a licensed waste handler. Toilet facilities are maintained by a licensed waste handler. Any waste generated on site is returned to the depot for segregation and disposal by a licensed waste handler.

2.2.9 Working Hours

All maintenance activities are undertaken during daylight hours. Standard working hours are 8.00am to 4.30pm, with lunch and tea breaks, Monday to Friday. There is no requirement for temporary site lighting to facilitate works. Machines are powered down when not in use.

2.2.10 Environmental Training

Environmental training of all staff involved in drainage maintenance is an ongoing process. Technical and Operational Staff have completed formal training in Environmental Drainage


Maintenance (EDM) in 2004. This training course was revised and expanded under the OPW’s Environmental River Enhancement Programme (EREP) and was delivered to all staff in 2010. The training programme delivered included presentations in river corridor ecology, the Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (Ten Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance), maintenance strategies involving both ‘enhanced maintenance’ and ‘capital enhancement’, and OPW’s Environmental Management Protocols and Environmental Procedures (EPs) (see section 2.2.12 for more details). Both sets of training were developed and delivered by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

The formal approach to EDM Training is complimented with on-site training. Regular site visits from IFI and OPW’s Environment Section provide further guidance and advice to operational staff. Auditing of operational staff on the implementation of the Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (Ten Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance (OPW 2018) is also carried out by both IFI and OPW’s Environment Section.

In addition, other environmental training takes place as deemed beneficial, e.g. in 2008, the majority of the technical and operational staff were trained in Otter Awareness. This course, provided by the Department of Zoology, Trinity College Dublin, included presentations on Otter ecology, and on-site identification of Otter signs and suitable habitat.

More recently, an environmental training course was designed and provided by JBA to all OPW staff in 2017 and 2018. It was given in three different stages. Management staff were given a more detailed 2-day course in Environmental and Ecological training. Ground staff were given 1.5 days of training in the environment and ecology. Modules were designed to assist staff in understanding the relevant legislation, recognising ecologically sensitive habitats and species, invasive non-native species identification and general environmental and ecological training relevant to their work. This included a half day practical session where ecologists demonstrated the identification of the elements taught in the classroom, in the field.

Training in the completion of an Environmental Risk Assessment and Bridge Inspections from an ecological perspective, was designed and provided by JBA Consulting to OPW Foremen and selected engineering staff in 2018.

2.2.11 Environmental Audits

A portion of operational crews have been audited annually by the OPW Environment Section, IFI and in 2018 by JBA Consulting for the implementation of the Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (Ten Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance) and the OPW’s Environmental Management Protocol and EPs. Auditing is carried out by JBA Consulting and the OPW on a rotational basis to ensure all operational crews are audited at least once every three years. All audit results are discussed on-site and forwarded in full to the relevant engineer for that Scheme within two working weeks. In the event of an audit showing elements of unreasonable non-compliance with procedures, the relevant Engineer will be notified within one working day. Audit results are also forwarded to OPW Systems Manager for inclusion in monthly regional benchmarking reports.

2.2.12 Environmental Management Protocol and Environmental Procedures

The draft OPW’s Environmental Management Protocols (OPW 2018) set out how regional management staff manage a range of environmental aspects, including programming of works to accommodate certain environmental windows or restrictions on timing of works, and recording of data. A total of 31 No. EPs are applied during operational works. The 31 EPs replace the previous SOPs (OPW 2011b). The EPs will be rolled out across the OPW in 2018. These EPs set out actions designed to eliminate, or substantially reduce, likely impacts to identified species and their associated habitats. A brief summary of these follow.

Planning EPs relevant to Management Staff:

• Including Environmental Risk Assessment Procedure; and

• Appropriate Assessment Procedure

Implementation EPs - relevant to all staff:


• Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (10 Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance)

• Tree Management Procedure

• Silt Management Procedure

• Machinery related procedure

Invasive Species EPs - relevant to all staff

• Spread of Invasive Plant (Low Biosecurity) Procedure

• Spread of Water Based Invasives (High Biosecurity) Procedure

Species EPs - relevant to all staff

• Salmonid Procedure

• Otter Procedure

• Bats Procedure

• Freshwater Pearl Mussel Procedure

Habitat EPs - relevant to all staff

• Alluvial (Wet Woodland) Procedure

• Wetland Procedure

The OPWs Environmental Management Protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (OPW 2011) may still be in use as the updated EP document (2018) is being rolled out throughout the country. The original OPWs Environmental Management Protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (OPW 2011b) document can be downloaded from http://www.opw.ie/en/media/OPW%20Environmental%20Management%20Protocols%20&%20S OPs%20April%202011.pdf. The new Environmental Drainage Maintenance Manual is in Appendix D, and not yet publicly available at the time of drafting this NIS.

The description of activities, assessment and mitigation measures described in this report relate to the content of the draft OPW Environmental Procedures version 06/18 Rev A.

An Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) process has been developed by the OPW which will be filled in by the program producer for >3m base width main channels where maintenance has not occurred for 15 years and embankment works where maintenance has not occurred for 15 years. The ERA form for this process is in Appendix F.


2.3 The Arterial Drainage Scheme

The Arterial Drainage Scheme is located in County Donegal. It includes 257.1km of watercourse and 116.1km of embankment.

Figure 2-1 Map of the Donegal Scheme

2.4 Drainage Maintenance Works Proposed for the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme

Within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme the exact location and type of required maintenance activity varies over time. For the purposes of this NIS not all activities will occur on all scheme channels, structures and embankments. However, due to the high level nature of this report, all normal drainage maintenance activities are assessed.


3 Screening Assessment Results An Appropriate Assessment screening assessment, addressing Stage 1 of the AA process, was originally completed for the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme in 2014 (JBA 2014) . This has been reviewed based on up to date information in this report and the Conservation Objectives for each site. Any amendments have been included in this report. The resulting AA Screening identified that likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites may occur as a result of the proposed maintenance activities and therefore a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment is necessary.

The Stage 1 Screening Assessment was conducted in line with guidance produced for the OPW in 2014 (Ryan Hanley 2014b, 2014a). This methodology is based on source > pathway > receptor chain principles and involves assessing likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed drainage maintenance in relation to three pathways:

1. Surface water

2. Land & air

3. Groundwater

The screening assessment involved assessing the impacts of drainage maintenance operations within the arterial drainage scheme, and its zone of influence, in relation to each of the three pathways individually. Conclusions were then drawn to identify if maintenance works upon the channels within the scheme, could impact upon Natura 2000 sites. Sites that had the potential to be impacted by the maintenance works were determined to be within the ZOI and these sites require further assessment. The review of the previous screening included a review of the ZOI and an assessment of any new Natura 2000 sites, and/or any changes to current Natura 2000 sites within the ZOI. The screening assessment review also took into consideration the up to date information on the upcoming programme of works where relevant. The resulting assessment included the Natura 2000 sites in Table 3-1.

Table 3-1 Natura 2000 sites potentially impacted by the maintenance works

Ballyhoorisky Point to Fanad Head SAC (001975)

Ballyarr Wood SAC (000116)

Cloghernagore Bog and Glenveagh National Park SAC (002047)

Derryveagh and Glendowan Mountains SPA (004039)

Fanad Head SPA (004148)

Horn Head to Fanad Head SPA (004194)

Leannan River SAC (002176)

Lough Fern SPA (0004060)

Lough Swilly SAC (002287)

Lough Swilly SPA (004075)

Meentygrannagh Bog SAC (000173)

North Inishowen Coast SAC (002012)

River Finn SAC (002301),

3.1 Surface Water Pathways

As a result of the screening assessment maintenance activities on those watercourses shown in Figure 3-1 were identified as potentially resulting in significant adverse impacts on the Natura 2000 sites shown in Table 3-2 via surface water pathways. This includes the River Swilly, River Foyle, River Finn, the Blanket Nook channels and the River Skeoge channels.


Table 3-2 Surface water pathways

Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) Is site within the same surface water catchment as the scheme?

Is there surface water connectivity with the scheme?

River Finn SAC (002301) Yes Yes


Yes No

Lough Swilly SAC (002287) Yes Yes

Lough Swilly SPA (004075) Yes Yes

Figure 3-1 Channels of the Donegal Scheme with potential impacts via surface water pathways

This assessment was determined based on presence of surface water connectivity between the Natura 2000 sites and the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme, and considering a variety of factors. Relevant factors considered in the assessment included the "At Risk" status (Under the Water Framework Directive (WFD)) of all surface waterbodies within the area of works, the potential for impact, the significance of potential impacts and the relevance of any threats and pressures within the Natura 2000 site. Significance was determined based on the nature of the surface water dependant (SWD) qualifying interests that may be present and the nature of the scheme based on the hydrological setting within the catchment. Pre-determined distances and typologies (Ryan Hanley 2014b) were used to define the zone of influence of the works and determine potential and significance of impacts.

Using the precautionary principle, during the screening assessment, SWD habitats and species that may be present were assessed as if present, based on information available in the Conservation Objectives, Natura 2000 Data Form and the Site Synopsis. These potentially present Qualifying Interests / Features of Interest were then assessed for the potential to be significantly impacted by the proposed works if present. The results of this assessment are in Table 3-3


Table 3-3 Summary results of SWD QIs / FOIs of SACs with potential surface water pathways, potential Annex I habitats present and potential for significant impact

EU Code

SWD Qualifying Interest/Special Conservation Interest

Drainage Activity location relative to SWD Qualifying interest

Desktop Study Comment

Conclusion

Downstream Upstream

Overlap

River Finn SAC (002301)

1106 Salmon Salmo salar None <5 km Yes (NPWS 2017a)states the Finn river system is on of Irelands best Salmon waters and the population of spring Salmon appears stable, however due to artificial blockages Salmon is restricted to the lower stretches of the River Finn SAC and restricting access to spawning areas. The channels and embankments are in and along the lower stretches of the River Finn

Potential for Likely Significant Effect

1355 Otter Lutra lutra None <5 km Yes (NPWS 2017a) states the site is important to Otter which is widespread throughout the system. The current range of Otter is estimated at 93.6 %. The channels and embankments are in and along the lower stretches of the River Finn


3110 Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorae)

<3km <5km Yes (NPWS 2017a) state that lowland oligotrophic lakes are found at Loughs Finn, Belshade and Derg, as well as in many of the smaller lakes within the site. The surface water catchments that overlap this SAC and scheme watercourses are at the very downstream end of the site, along the River Foyle where no lake habitats are present.

No Potential for Likely Significant Effect


1130 Estuaries N/A <3 km Yes (NPWS 2011a) report that the site consists of the inner part of Lough Swilly, a long sea lough, and is estuarine in character; scheme watercourses are located around the lough margins.


1150 Coastal Lagoons N/A <3 km Yes NPWS (2011a) report that lakes which are lagoonal in nature occur at Inch and Blanket Nook; scheme watercourses are present in both of these areas.


1355 Otter Lutra lutra N/A <5 km Yes (NPWS 2016) states the site supports a population of Otter however, specific information on the distribution of this species within the SAC has not been provided.



Table 3-4 Summary results of SWD QIs / FOIs of SACs with potential surface water pathways, potential Annex I habitats present and potential for significant impact

SWD habitats present

Annex I Habitat

Special Conservation Interest likely to occur

Drainage maintenance activity location relative to SWD Special Conservation Interests

Desktop Study Comment Conclusion

Downstream Upstream Overlap


Estuaries [MW4]

Estuaries (1130)

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus

Greylag Goose Anser anser

Wigeon Mareca penelope

Teal Anas crecca

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Shoveler Anas clypeata

Scaup Aythya marila

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

Knot Calidris canutus

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Curlew Numenius arquata

Redshank Tringa totanus

Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Common Gull Larus canus

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris

N/A <3 km Yes (NPWS 2011a)report that the site consists of the inner part of Lough Swilly, a long sea lough, and is estuarine in character; scheme watercourses are located around the lough margins.


Coastal Lagoons [CW1]

Coastal Lagoons (1150)

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus

Wigeon Mareca penelope

Teal Anas crecca

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Scaup Aythya marila

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

N/A <3 km Yes (NPWS 2011a)report that lakes which are lagoonal in nature occur at Inch and Blanket Nook; scheme watercourses are present in both of these areas.



SWD habitats present

Annex I Habitat

Special Conservation Interest likely to occur

Drainage maintenance activity location relative to SWD Special Conservation Interests

Desktop Study Comment Conclusion

Downstream Upstream Overlap

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

Curlew Numenius arquata

Redshank Tringa totanus

Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus

Common Gull Larus canus


3.2 Land and air pathways

As a result of the screening assessment, maintenance activities on those watercourses shown in Figure 3-2, were identified as potentially resulting in significant adverse impacts on the Natura 2000 sites shown in Table 3-5 via Land and Air Pathways. This includes the River Swilly, River Foyle, River Finn, the Blanket Nook channels (Newtown Cunningham) and the River Skeoge channels at Inch Level (Burnfoot).

Table 3-5 Land & Air Pathways

Natura 2000 Site Name (Site Code)

0.6km Buffer Zone 0.01km (Overlap)

Type of Impact Indirect impacts for noise and visual disturbance through air pathways

Direct impacts from physical disturbance of habitats through land pathways


Yes Yes

River Finn SAC (002301) Yes Yes


Yes Yes

Figure 3-2 Channels and embankments with potential impacts via land and air pathways

Summary results of qualifying interests (QIs) with potential for significant impact by land and air pathways are shown for each of the Natura sites in Table 3-6.


Table 3-6 Summary results of QIs / FOIs with potential land and air connectivity to SACs, resulting

in a potential for impact from the proposed works through land and air pathways

EU Code

Species/Habitats

Maintenance activity location relative to Natura 2000 site boundary

Qualifying Interest/ Special Conservation Interests location relative to drainage maintenance activity

Location of Impact

Result


1130 Estuaries 0km / overlap (NPWS 2016) and show that the site consists of the inner part of Lough Swilly, a long sea lough, and is estuarine in character; scheme watercourses are located around the lough margins and could impact on this habitat type.

10m Potential significant effect

1330 Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011b) show that salt meadow habitats of this type are located near Rinnaraw Point on the eastern shoreline, Begirris Point in the west and where the River Swilly connects to the lough near Castlewray and Drumardagh; scheme watercourses and embankments are located within 10m of the saltmarshes near the River Swilly.

10m Potential significant effect

1355 Otter Lutra lutra

0km / overlap (NPWS 2016) states the site supports a population of Otter however, specific information on the distribution of this species within the SAC has not been provided.

INST/MAC + 150m

Potential significant effect

91A0 Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in British Isles

0km / overlap NPWS (2011b) shows that this woodland type is located at Ardrumman, Rathmullan Wood, Tullyarvan, Carradoran Woods and around Carrick Lake; none of these locations are within 10m of scheme watercourses or embankments.

10m No potential significant effect

6410 Molinia Meadows

0km / overlap 11 hectares on Inch Level in Donegal has been described as Herb-rich Molinia meadow containing Lychnis flos-cuculi, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria and Myosotis laxa (O’Neill et al. 2010; NPWS 2016). The



EU Code

Species/Habitats



Location of Impact

Result

Molinia meadows are approximately 500m from the drainage maintenance activities.


1106 Salmon Salmo salar

0km / overlap (NPWS 2017a) states the Finn river system is on of Irelands best Salmon waters and the population of spring Salmon appears stable, however due to artificial blockages Salmon is restricted to the lower stretches of the River Finn SAC and restricting access to spawning areas. The channels and embankments are in and along the lower stretches of the River Finn.

INST Potential significant effect

1355 Otter Lutra lutra

0km / overlap (NPWS 2017a) states the site is important to Otter which is widespread throughout the system. The current range of Otter is estimated at 93.6 %. The channels and embankments are in and along the lower stretches of the River Finn

INST/MAC + 150m


4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix

0km / overlap (NPWS 2017a)report that wet heath is associated with the blanket bog throughout the site and is found on the shallow peats and better drained slopes. Scheme watercourses where drainage maintenance works are proposed only come within 10m of the SAC at the downstream, lowland end, adjacent to the River Foyle where blanket bog habitat and the associated wet heaths are not located.


7130 Blanket bog (*active only)

0km / overlap (NPWS 2017a)state that blanket bog occurs throughout much of the upland area of the site along the edges of the river. Scheme watercourses where drainage maintenance works are proposed only come within 10m of the SAC at the



EU Code

Species/Habitats



Location of Impact

Result

downstream, lowland end, adjacent to the River Foyle where blanket bog habitat is not located.

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs

0km / overlap (NPWS 2017a)state that transition mires (or quaking bogs or scraws) occur at several locations, usually at the interface between bog and lake or stream, and consequently in the upland areas where the bogs are located. Scheme watercourses where drainage maintenance works are proposed only come within 10m of the SAC at the downstream, lowland end, adjacent to the River Foyle where bog habitat, and consequently the interfacing transition mire habitat, is not located.


Table 3-7 Summary results of QIs / FOIs with potential land and air connectivity to SPAs, resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through land and air pathways

EU Code

Species/Habitats



Location of Impact

Result


A005 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c)identify that Great Crested Grebe use subsites OA499, OA486, OA399 and OA483 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A038 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c) identify that Whooper Swan use subsites OA499 and OA399 and could therefore be impacted upon.

150m (winter)


A043 Greylag Goose Anser anser

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Greylag Goose use subsites OA499 and OA399 and could therefore be impacted upon.

300m (winter)


A048 Shelduck Tadorna tadorna

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Shelduck use subsites OA486, OA494, OA 483 and OA499 and OA399 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A050 Wigeon Anas Penelope

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Wigeon use subsites OA499, OA399 and OA486 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)



EU Code

Species/Habitats



Location of Impact

Result

A052 Teal Anas crecca

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Teal use subsites OA499, OA486, OA494 and OA399 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A053 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Mallard use all subsites within which drainage maintenance works are proposed and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A056 Shoveler Anas clypeata

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c)identify that Shoveler use subsites OA499, OA494 and OA486 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A062 Scaup Aythya marila

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Scaup use subsite OA499 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A067 Goldeneye Bucephala clangula

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c)identify that Goldeneye use subsites OA499 and OA399 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A069 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c)identify that Red-breasted Merganser use all subsites within which drainage maintenance works are proposed and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A125 Coot Fulica atra 0km / overlap NPWS (2011c) identify that Coot use subsite OA499 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A130 Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Oystercatcher use all subsites within which drainage maintenance works are proposed and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A143 Knot Calidris canutus

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Knot use subsite OA486 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A149 Dunlin Calidris alpina

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Dunlin use subsites OA486, OA494 and OA499 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A160 Curlew Numenius arquata

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Curlew use all subsites within which drainage maintenance works are proposed and could therefore be impacted upon.

500m (nest site)

100m (winter)


A162 Redshank Tringa totanus

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Redshank use all subsites within which drainage maintenance works are proposed and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)



EU Code

Species/Habitats



Location of Impact

Result

A164 Greenshank Tringa nebularia

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Greenshank use subsites OA499 and OA494 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (winter)


A179 Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus

0km / overlap No information is available on the distribution of this species within the site.

100m (nest site)

50m (winter)


A182 Common Gull Larus canus

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c)identify that Common Gull use subsites OA499, OA399, OA494 and OA483 and could therefore be impacted upon.

100m (nest site)

50m (winter)


A191 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that the small island in Inch Lough supports the largest tern colony in the north-west, with nationally important populations of Sandwich Tern (258 pairs in 2001) occurring. Drainage maintenance activities occur >800m from this island.

100m (nest site)

No potential significant effect

A193 Common Tern Sterna hirundo

0km / overlap NPWS (2011c) identify that the small island in Inch Lough supports the largest tern colony in the north-west, with nationally important populations of Common Tern (89 pairs in 2001) occurring. Drainage maintenance activities occur >800m from this island.

100m (nest site)


A395

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris

0km / overlap (NPWS 2011c) identify that Greenland White-fronted Goose use subsites OA499 and OA494 and could therefore be impacted upon.

600m (winter)


A999 Wetlands & Waterbirds

0km / overlap ((NPWS 2011c) identifies that a number of wetland habitats occur around the lough margins.

0.01km / overlap


Notes:

MAC = Maintenance Access Corridor

BR = Bridge

INST = Instream

3.3 Groundwater pathways

As a result of the screening assessment, maintenance activities on those watercourses, shown in Table 3-8 were identified as potentially resulting in significant adverse impacts on Natura 2000 sites via groundwater pathways.

Summary results of qualifying interests (QIs) with potential for significant impact groundwater pathways are shown for each of the Natura sites in Table 3-8.


Table 3-8 Natura 2000 site with potential to be impacted by groundwater pathways

GWB name (EU_Code) and flow regime

Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) Natura 2000 Site within GWB

Lough Swilly (IEGBNI_NW_G_059)

Poorly productive bedrock


Yes

Lough Fern SPA (0004060) Yes

Lough Swilly SPA (004075) Yes


Yes

Fanad Head SPA (004148) Yes

Ballyhoorisky Point to Fanad Head SAC (001975)

Yes

Lough Swilly SAC (002287) Yes

Leannan River SAC (002176) Yes

Ballyarr Wood SAC (000116) Yes


Yes

Meentygrannagh Bog SAC (000173) Yes

North Inishowen Coast SAC (002012) Yes

Manor Cunningham (IE_NW_G_052)


Lough Swilly SPA (004075) Yes

Lough Swilly SAC (002287) Yes

Raphoe (IE_NW_G_0540)


Foyle Gravels (IE_NW_G_075)

Gravel

River Finn SAC (0002301) Yes


River Foyle (IEGBNI_NW_G_051)



This assessment was determined based on the location of the relevant Natura 2000 sites within the same groundwater bodies as the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme; Lough Swilly (IEGBNI_NW_G_059), Manor Cunningham (IE_NW_G_052), Raphoe (IE_NW_G_0540), Foyle Gravels (IE_NW_G_075), River Foyle (IEGBNI_NW_G_051), and considering a variety of factors. Relevant factors considered assessing the potential for the Natura 2000 site to be impacted through groundwater pathways and also included the presence of Groundwater Dependant (GWD) QIs / FOIs, the risk status under the WFD of each site and the potential and significance of impact, should one occur. Each qualifying interest of the screened in Natura 2000 site, was then assessed individually for potential to be impacted and the overall assessment included a review of the potential for cumulative and/or in-combination impacts as a result of the identified pressures and threats identified in the Natura 2000 forms (NPWS 2017b, 2017c) (NPWS 2017d). The location of the drainage maintenance activity works relative to the Natura 2000 sites and features of interest were considered to determine relevance at this stage, along with GWD habitat typology. Pre-determined distances and typologies (Ryan Hanley 2014b) were used to define the zone of influence of the works and determine potential and significance of impacts.

Location of GWD QIs within the GWB, where available in the Conservation Objectives, Natura 2000 Data Form and the Site Synopsis, were used to determine if they were within the ZOI of the works and therefore, potentially at risk to be impacted by groundwater pathways. Where the location of GWD QIs were not available, the precautionary principle was used during the screening assessment. Species that may be present were assessed as if present throughout based on


information available in the Conservation Objectives, Natura 2000 Data Form and the Site Synopsis. These potentially present QIs / FOIs were then assessed for potential to be significantly impacted by the proposed works if present. The results of this assessment are seen in

Table 3-9.

Figure 3-3 Channels and embankments with potential impacts via groundwater pathways

Table 3-9 Summary results of QIs / FOIs in Natura 2000 sites with potential groundwater connectivity, to SACs resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through groundwater pathways

GWB Qualifying Interest Habitats

GWD Habitat Typology

Drainage maintenance activity location relative to Natura 2000 site

Desk Study Comment Result

Lough Swilly (IEGBNI_NW_G_059), Manor Cunningham (IE_NW_G_052) poorly productive bedrock GWBs







Coastal lagoons [1150]

A Upgradient NPWS (2011a) identify that coastal lagoons are present at Inch and Blanket Nook within the Lough Swilly GWB; scheme watercourses are present in close proximity to these lagoon habitats within this GWB. There are no lagoon habitats within the Manor Cunningham GWB.


Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]

A Upgradient NPWS (2011a) show that salt meadow habitats of this type are located near Rinnaraw Point on the eastern shoreline, Begirris Point in the west and where the River Swilly connects to the lough near Castlewray and Drumardagh; scheme watercourses and embankments are located within 10m of the saltmarshes near the River Swilly within both of these GWBs.


Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clavey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) [6410]

A Upgradient 11 hectares on Inch Level in Donegal has been described as Herb-rich Molinia meadow containing Lychnis flos-cuculi, Cardamine pratensis, Filipendula ulmaria and Myosotis laxa (O’Neill et al. 2010; NPWS 2016). The Molinia meadows are approximately 500m from the drainage maintenance activities.


(IE_NW_G_090) Foyle gravel GWB








A Upgradient (NPWS 2011b) identify that coastal lagoons are present at Inch and Blanket Nook. These areas are in the Lough Swilly GWB and not the Foyle gravel GWB therefore adverse impacts are unlikely to arise.



A Upgradient (NPWS 2011b) show that salt meadow habitats confirmed to be of this type, and also potentially of this type are located near Rinnaraw Point on the eastern shoreline, Begirris Point in the west and where the River Swilly connects to the lough near Castlewray and Drumardagh. These locations are outside of the Foyle Gravel GWB.


Raphoe (IE_NW_G_0540) and River Foyle (IEGBNI_NW_G_051) Poorly Productive Bedrock GWBs


Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorae) [3110]

A Downgradient NPWS (2017d)state that lowland oligotrophic lakes are found at Loughs Finn, Belshade and Derg, as well as in many of the smaller lakes within the site.


Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010]

A Downgradient (NPWS 2017d)report that wet heath is associated with the blanket bog throughout the site and is found on the shallow peats and better drained slopes.


Blanket bog (*active only) [7130]

A Downgradient (NPWS 2017d) state that blanket bog occurs throughout much of the upland area of the site along the edges of the river.







Transition mires and quaking bogs [7140]

A# Downgradient (NPWS 2017d) state that transition mires (or quaking bogs or scraws) occur at several locations, usually at the interface between bog and lake or stream, and consequently in the upland areas where the bogs are located. Scheme watercourses within these GWBs are located in close proximity to the downstream part of the River Finn, in lowland areas, and consequently not in close proximity to where the bog habitat and the interfacing transition mire habitat will be located.


Foyle Gravels (IE_NW_G_075) gravel


Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorae) [3110]

A Downgradient NPWS (2017d) state that lowland oligotrophic lakes are found at Loughs Finn, Belshade and Derg, as well as in many of the smaller lakes within the site.


Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010]

A Downgradient NPWS (2017d) report that wet heath is associated with the blanket bog throughout the site and is found on the shallow peats and better drained slopes.


Blanket bog (*active only) [7130]

A Downgradient (NPWS 2017d) state that blanket bog occurs throughout much of the upland area of the site along the edges of the river.







Transition mires and quaking bogs [7140]

A# Downgradient (NPWS 2017d) state that transition mires (or quaking bogs or scraws) occur at several locations, usually at the interface between bog and lake or stream, and consequently in the upland areas where the bogs are located. Scheme watercourses within this GWB are located in close proximity to the downstream part of the River Finn, in lowland areas, and consequently not in close proximity to where the bog habitat and the interfacing transition mire habitat will be located.


Note: GWD Habitat Typology after Table 5.1 Kilroy et al (2008) in Ryan Hanley (2014a) A = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands B = Type B, Groundwater Flow-through Depression Wetlands A or B = No available information, based on expert opinion B1 = Where identified by Kilroy et al (2008) as both A and B type. B has been selected as worst case scenario A# = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands additionally identified in consultation with NPWS as potentially being impacted by downgradient activities


Table 3-10 Summary results of QIs / FOIs in Natura 2000 sites with potential groundwater connectivity to SPAs, resulting in a potential for impact from the proposed works through groundwater pathways

GWD Habitats as per Natura 2000 Standard Data Form, Site Synopsis or COSD

Potential GWD Habitats supporting SCIs Fossitt 2000 (Annex I)




Lough Swilly (IEGBNI_NW_G_059), Manor Cunningham (IE_NW_G_052) Poorly productive bedrock GWBs


Salt marshes [CM1, CM2]


A Upgradient (NPWS 2011a) identify that coastal lagoons are present at Inch and Blanket Nook within the Lough Swilly GWB; scheme watercourses are present in close proximity to these lagoon habitats within this GWB.


Lagoons [CW1] Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]

A Upgradient (NPWS 2011a) shows that salt meadow habitats of this type are located near Rinnaraw Point on the eastern shoreline, Begirris Point in the west and where the River Swilly connects to the lough near Castlewray and Drumardagh; scheme watercourses and embankments are located within 10m of the saltmarshes near the River Swilly within all 3 of these GWBs.


Note:

GWD Habitat Typology after Table 5.1 Kilroy et al (2008) in Ryan Hanley (2014a)

A = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands

B = Type B, Groundwater Flow-through Depression Wetlands

A or B = No available information, based on expert opinion

B1 = Where identified by Kilroy et al (2008) as both A and B type. B has been selected as worst case scenario

A# = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands additionally identified in consultation with NPWS as potentially being impacted by downgradient activities

3.4 Summary of screening results

The Screening Assessment (JBA 2014) identified that the Lough Swilly SAC, Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC were likely to be significantly affected by drainage maintenance operations undertaken within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme, due to the presence of Surface Water, Land and Air and Groundwater pathways. This conclusion is is established through following the methodology described in the Screening Methodology Report (Ryan Hanley, 2014a). These conclusions are based on the assumption that all drainage maintenance activities are to be undertaken on all watercourses, embankments and structures during the life of the plan (2019-2023).Channels, Embankments, Bridges and Sluices of this Scheme that are included in this screening and their pathways of impact relevant to each Natura 2000 site are in Appendix H.

From this screening exercise it has been determined that significant likely effects may occur within the Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA where works could impact via all three pathways.


Likely significant impacts may affect River Finn SAC via surface water and/or land and air pathways Table 3-11.

Table 3-11 Conclusions of screening assessment for likelihood of significant effect

Site Pathway of Impact Comment

Surface Water

Land and Air

Groundwater

Ballyarr Wood SAC (000116)

No No No No adverse impacts on these site via any of the three pathways were identified as part of this assessment. Ballyhoorisky Point to

Fanad Head SAC (001975)

No No No


No No No


No No No


Yes Yes No The Salmon and Otter populations within the River Finn SAC could be adversely impacted upon by drainage maintenance activities via surface water and land and air pathways, due to decreased water quality, disturbance and habitat alterations. Other qualifying interests within the site will not be impacted upon.

Leannan River SAC (002176)

No No No No adverse impacts on this site via any of the three pathways were identified as part of this assessment.


Yes Yes Yes This site is designated for a number of habitat types and Otter. Different qualifying interests will be impacted upon via different pathways of impact. The only qualifying interests that will not be impacted upon are Spartina swards and old sessile Oak woodlands.

North Inishowen Coast SAC (002012)

No No No No adverse impacts on these site via any of the three pathways were identified as part of this assessment.


No No No

Fanad Head SPA (004148)

No No No


No No No

Lough Fern SPA (0004060)

No No No

Lough Swilly SPA Yes Yes Yes This site is designated for a large number of bird species and wetland habitats, although different species are impacted upon via different pathways, depending on the nature of the habitats that supports them and their patterns of usage in the site.

Note: Yes = likely significant effect

No = no likely significant effect


4 Existing Environment This section summarises the findings of the ecological walkover surveys of the river channel and the results of the desktop survey relative to the proposed works for the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme (2019-2023).

4.1 General

The works will be carried out in two catchments; Lough Swilly [39] and Foyle [01].

The Lough Swilly catchment includes the area drained by all streams entering tidal water in Lough Swilly between Fanad Head and Dunaff Head, Co. Donegal, draining a total area of 965km². The largest urban centre in the catchment is Letterkenny where channel C1 or the River Swilly runs through. The other main urban centre in this catchment is Buncrana. The total population of the catchment is approximately 55,455 with a population density of 57 people per km². The catchment is largely mountainous and is underlain by metamorphic rocks with the exception of the Glendowan Mountains in the west which are composed of granite. These rocks generally provide relatively poor groundwater resources. This catchment comprises the catchments of the Swilly Rivers as well as the south western part of the Malin Peninsula and the eastern side of the Fanad Peninsula (EPA 2018a). The works within the Lough Swilly catchment will be carried out the eastern and southern sides of Lough Swilly near Inch Level, Blanket Nook and Letterkenny rivers and tributaries.

This catchment is made up of a variety of sub-catchments within which works are planned as part of the Scheme, including the Swilly_SC_010, LeslieHill [Stream]_SC_010, Burnfoot_SC_010, Leannan_SC_020, Crana_SC_010, CASHELPREAGHAN_SC_010, Leannan_SC_010. Subcatchment assessments are not available for any of these sub-catchments (EPA 2018b).

Waterbodies within the area of works includes the rivers Burnfoot_010 and Burnfoot_020 which are classified as At Risk, and the transitional waterbodies of the Swilly estuary (IE_NW_220_0100) are also At Risk. The other channels within the Lough Swilly catchment are under review (EPA 2018b).

The Foyle catchment includes the area drained by the River Foyle and by all streams entering tidal water between Culmore Point, Co. Derry and Coolkeeragh, Co. Derry. This is a cross border catchment with a surface area of 2,919km², 914km² of which is located within the Republic of Ireland (RoI). The population (in the RoI) is approximately 29,650, with a population density of 32 people per km². The part of the catchment located in Donegal is largely mountainous and is underlain by granites and metamorphic rocks of various types that are relatively poor aquifers (EPA 2018a).

This catchment is made up of a variety of sub-catchments within which works are planned as part of the Scheme, including the JohnstonStream_SC_010, Deele[Donegal]_SC_010, LeaghanyRiver_SC_010, Finn[Donegal]_SC_020, Finn[Donegal]_SC_040, MourneBeg_SC_010, MourneBeg_SC_020, Finn[Donegal]_SC_010, Finn[Donegal]_SC_030.

Waterbodies within the area of works includes the River Foyle and Faughan Estuaries (UKGBNI5NW250010) which are classified as being At Risk and the rivers Carrigans_010 which is classified as At Risk and the Deele_050 and Swilly Burn_030 which are under review (EPA 2018b).

4.2 Ecology - Overview

Twenty Nine Fossit habitats (Table 4-1) were identified during the ecological walkover survey, with a number of mixed or mosaic habitats of these described. The most common habitat present is improved agricultural grassland.

Of the 29 habitats, there are six possible Annex I habitats described:

• Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand (1310)

• Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) (1330)

• Estuaries (1130)

• Watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation (3260)

• Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels (6430).

https://www.catchments.ie/data/#subcatchment/39/39_6

















• *Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) (91E0)

In the past 10 years a number of marine mammals and terrestrial mammals have been recorded in and around Lough Swilly; SAC and River Finn SAC like Dolphin, Otter and Badger further described in Section 4.4.1.

There is evidence of Freshwater Pearl Mussel being present within the Lough Swilly and Foyle catchment (NBDC 2018). The River Swilly, the River Finn and the River Deele are within the distribution range Freshwater Pearl Mussel (NBDC 2018) and the River Finn is within the Margaritifera sensitive area. Margaritifera margaritifera is protected under the European Union Habitat Regulations Annex II and V. However, it is not a QI for any of the screened in Natura 2000 sites.

4.3 Ecological walkover survey results

Table 4-1 Habitats found along the Donegal Scheme

Habitat name Fossitt code

Arable crops BC1

Tilled land BC3

Earth banks BL2

Buildings and artificial surfaces BL3

Lower salt marsh CM1

Upper salt marsh CM2

Tidal rivers CW2

Spoil and bare ground ED2

Recolonising bare ground ED3

Other artificial lakes and ponds FL8

Reed and large sedge swamps FS1

Depositing/lowland rivers FW2

Drainage ditches FW4

Improved agricultural grassland GA1

Amenity grassland (improved) GA2

Marsh GM1

Dry calcareous and neutral grassland GS1

Dry meadows and grassy verges GS2

Wet grassland GS4

Muddy sand shores LS3

Mud shores LS4

Poor fen and flush PF2

Hedgerows WL1

Treelines WL2

Riparian woodland WN5

Wet willow-alder-ash woodland WN6

Scrub WS1

Immature woodland WS2

Recently-felled woodland WS5


4.3.1 Arable crops BC1

Eleven fields across the survey area were recorded under crop cover. These habitats had been described as Improved Agricultural Grassland (GA1) in previous surveys and are likely used for general agricultural use.

4.3.2 Tilled land

One field was recorded as tilled land east of Lifford. This land has been prepared for planting but the use of land or type of crop is unestablished.

4.3.3 Earth banks

Three Earth banks were recorded during the surveys. They were encountered along the River Swilly and Isle Burn.

4.3.4 Buildings and artificial surfaces

Buildings and artificial surfaces identified during the ecological survey include farmhouses, cottages, rock armour and bridges.

4.3.5 Other artificial lakes and ponds

One artificial lake has been recorded along the bank E2 of the Swilly Estuary on a golf course.

4.3.6 Reed and large sedge swamps

One reed and large sedge swamp was recorded at Blanket Nook along bank E6.. Species that typically inhabit this habitat are Common Reed Phragmites australis, Reed Canary-grass Phalaris arundinacea. Reed and large sedge swamps are overwhelmingly dominated by one or a small number of species.


4.3.7 Depositing/lowland rivers

The habitat type Depositing lowland rivers was recorded frequently throughout the survey area. The instream vegetation ranged from dense to a complete lack of vegetation. Water crowfoot Ranunculus sp. was present in the Blanket Nook channel C2 north of Newtown Cunningham. Treelines bordering this river types included Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Hazel Corylus avellana, Alder Alnus glutinosa and Rowan Sorbus aucuparia. In channel species were Broadleaved pondweed Pontamageton natans, Unbranched burreed Sparganium emersum, Starwort Callitriche stagnalis, Reed canary grass Phalaris arundinacea and Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum.

The habitat present in the Blanket Nook C2 channel has potential to be 'watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation (3260)'.

Figure 4-1 Depositing lowland river mosaic with wet willow-alder-ash woodland


Figure 4-2 Blanket Nook channel C2 with Ranunculus Sp.

4.3.8 Drainage ditches

Drainage ditches were recorded throughout, often surrounding improved agricultural grassland. Species recorded as being present in ditches included Ranunculus sp.(Blanket Nook channel C3) Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera, Bulrush Typha latifolia and Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, Reed canary grass Phalaris arundinacea. This habitat has potential to be 'watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation (3260)'.

4.3.9 Improved agricultural grassland

Improved agricultural grasslands were commonly recorded. Many of these habitats are grazed by cattle. Improved Agricultural Grassland is a very common habitat found in the Donegal scheme. It is typically species-poor and due to the domination of Rye-grasses Lolium spp., and often in association with White Clover Trifolium repens.

Other species recorded were Silverweed Potentilla anserina, Nettles Urtica spp., Thistles Cirsium spp., Ragwort Senecio spp., Docks Rumex spp. andPurple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria.

4.3.10 Amenity grassland (improved)

Amenity grassland habitats was recorded a number of times throughout the Scheme as golf course and sports pitches. The vegetation is typically made up of various grasses, and broadleaved herbs such as Daisy Bellis perennis, Dandelion Taraxacum spp., Clovers Trifolium spp. and Plantains Plantago spp. are common.


4.3.11 Marsh

Two marsh habitats were recorded in channel C1 section A at Inch Level west of Burnfoot. Species recorded are Vetches Vicia sp., Willow herb Epilobium sp., Dock Rumex sp., Buttercup Ranunculus sp., Thistle Cirsium sp. and Silverweed Argentina anserina. Marsh occurs on level ground near river banks and lakeshores where the water table is close to ground level for most of the year. It supports a high proportion of wetland species in addition to the typical dominants of Rushes Juncus spp. and Sedges Carex spp., but the proportion should not exceed 50% over herbs. Broadleaved herbs may include Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, Water Mint Mentha aquatica, Marsh Thistle Cirsium palustre, Wild Angelica Angelica sylvestris, Marsh Pennywort Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Common Valerian Valeriana officinalis, Purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria, Yellow Rattle Rhinanthus minor, Marsh Woundwort Stachys palustris and Marsh Cinquefoil Potentilla palustris.

The habitat recorded next to channel C1 section A at Inch Level has the potential to be Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels (6430).

Figure 4-3 Marsh habitat next to channel C1 section A at Inch Level with the potential to be

Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine

levels (6430)

4.3.12 Dry calcareous and neutral grassland

Dry calcareous and neutral grassland contain Gorse Ulex spp., Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg., Willowherb Epilobium sp. and rushes. It was recorded next to channel C2 in Blanket Nook and on channel D5 along the River Foyle.

This habitat has the potential to be semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometea) (*important orchid sites) (6210).


4.3.13 Dry meadows and grassy verges

Grassy verge habitat is described at four sites throughout the scheme at Inch Level E2, along the River Swilly E7, River Foyle E3 and on Isle Burn River E3. Grassy verges are occasionally mown and rarely treated with herbicides, and there is little or no grazing or fertiliser application. Species detected were Yorkshire fog Holcus lanatus, Fescue Festuca sp., Perrenial Rye-grass Lolium perenne, Sand couch Elymus juncea, Nettles Urtica spp., Thistle Cirsium sp., Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, Rumex sp., Cleavers Galium aparine, Willowherb Epilobium sp., , Purple loosestrife Lythrum salicaria, and Bindweed Calystegia sepium.

This habitat has links with the Annex 1 habitat 'Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis) (6510)'.

4.3.14 Wet grassland

Wet grassland is found infrequently, only in one field north of Newtown Cunningham along the Blanket Nook embankment E4.

4.3.15 Muddy sand shores

This habitat is recorded at embankment E1of the Blanket Nook estuary which is exposed at low tide

Figure 4-4 Muddy sand shore


4.3.16 Mud shores

Mud shores are formed primarily of very fine sediment and usually occur along the most sheltered sections of coastline. The silt/clay fraction of the sediment (particle sizes of <0.063 mm in diameter) should be at least 30%. A small area of this habitat occurs north of Drumoghill. In one area Glassworts Salicornia spp. are beginning to colonise, which could indicate the presence of the Annex 1 habitat "Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand [1310]".

Figure 4-5 Mud shore with Salicornia habitat present On Swilly embankment E1

4.3.17 Poor fen and flush

Poor fen and flush habitats were recorded along river banks of Blanket Nook E6, Deele and Swillyburn E6 and along the Swilly embankments E2. At Deele and Swillyburn E6 Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera was present. Species found were Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria, Rushes Juncus spp., Nettles Urtica spp., Rumex sp., and Willows Salix spp. Woodland has Ash Fraxinus excelsior, Alder Alnus glutinosa.

4.3.18 Hedgerows

Hedgerows are found throughout the survey area, bordering predominately Improved Agricultural grassland areas, and mostly composed of Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna. Hedgerows also included Willow and Alder. Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandulifera is present within some hedgerows along the channel C1 Sect. A of sub scheme Cloonburn.

4.3.19 Treelines

Treelines are found parallel to the river in many locations, and composed of many species including Ash Fraxinus excelsior, Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Alder Alnus glutinosa, and Willow Salix spp., and occasionally a treeline composed of Sitka Spruce Picea sitchensis.


4.3.20 Riparian woodland

This habitat is found in three locations. Two of which were found along Deele and Swillyburn embankments E2 and one along channel C1 Section A of the Cloonburn subscheme. . All three locations have potential to be a priority Annex 1 habitat *Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-padion, Alnion incanae, woodland Salicion albae) (91E0). Species recorded were Willow, Alder, Ash, Holly and Hazel.

Figure 4-6 Potential Alluvial woodland along Deele and Swillyburn E2 embankment

4.3.21 Wet willow-alder-ash woodland

Six Wet willow-alder-ash woodlands were found. Species recorded were Beech Fagus sylvatica, Ash Fraxinus excelsior, Alder Alnus glutinosa, Sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, Holly Ilex aquifolium, Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg., Willow Salix sp., Sea aster Aster tripolium, and Common cordgrass Spartina anglica.

4.3.22 Scrub

This is a common habitat on the embankments and its composition is variable, including tall herbaceous plants such as Purple Loosestrife Lythrum salicaria. Species recorded were Nettle Urtica spp., Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg., Gorse Ulex spp., Meadowsweet and Willowherb.

4.3.23 Immature woodland

Young Willow Salix sp. and Alder Alnus glutinosa plantations have been recorded north of Carrigans.

4.3.24 Recently-felled woodland


There is one small section of recently felled Conifer woodland north east of Lifford.

4.4 Flora

There were no plant species listed under the Flora (Protection) Order 2015 found during the ecological walkover surveys. Protected flora identified on the NBDC (2018) website present within approximately 10 km of the survey area includes Spruce's Bristle-moss Orthotrichum sprucei, Red-neck Forklet-moss Dicranella cerviculata, Killarney Fern Trichomanes speciosum which is an annex II protected habitat and annex IV protected species. Also Large Bitter-cress Cardamine amara, Small Cudweed Filago minima and Shady Horsetail Equisetum pratense which are listed as threatened species are listed in the NBDC database (Appendix B). Fauna

Note that A full GIS dataset showing the locations of all protected species recorded during the ecological walkover survey has been provided to the OPW.

4.4.1 Mammals

In the past 10 years a number of marine mammals have been recorded in Lough Swilly; Atlantic White-sided Dolphin Lagenorhynchus acutus, Common Porpoise Phocoena phocoena, Bottle-nosed Dolphin Tursiops truncatus, Grey Seal Halichoerus grypus and Common Seal Phoca vitulina.

Otter, a qualifying interest for the Lough Swilly SAC and River Finn SAC, was recorded on the tributaries of Newtown Cunningham during the ecological survey. It is likely to be present throughout all channels of the scheme.

Other protected mammals recorded previously and during the ecological survey include Badger and Pine marten. Evidence of Badger, including setts, latrines and snuffle holes, were noted at several locations around the tributaries of Lough Swilly north of Newtown Cunningham. One active sett was recorded along a Blanket Nook embankment. They are likely to be present throughout the scheme.

Several potential bat roosts and bat suitable habitats were identified around the tributaries of Blanket Nook north of Newtown Cunningham during the ecological walkover. Seven species of bats have been recorded within 10 km of the Donegal scheme within the past 10 years (Appendix B).

4.4.2 Aquatic species

The annex II and annex V protected freshwater Pearl Mussel Margaritifera margaritifera has been recorded within 10 km of the River Foyle, NBDC grid number C30, in the past 10 years (NBDC 2018).

Lough Swilly and River Foyle catchment: Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar is known to be present in the Lough Swilly catchment and River Foyle Catchment, particularly in the River Finn (NPWS 2014, 2016)

Salmonids were observed during the survey in the C1 Sect. A channel of the Skeoge and Burnfoot subscheme, these areas are possibly used for spawning.

4.4.3 Insects

Marsh Fritillary Euphydryas aurinia, an Annex II listed butterfly species under the EU Habitats Directive, has been recorded within 10km of the Lough Swilly catchment in the past 10 years, it's distribution range encompasses the River Swilly (NBDC 2018).

4.4.4 Birds

During the ecological walkover Kingfisher Alcedo atthis was recorded, and evidence of nesting. Curlew Numenius arquata was also recorded in wet grassland, according to BirdWatch Ireland (2017) there are only 150 breeding pairs left in Ireland, confirming a decline of 90% since 2007. Along E1 Swilly embankments Redshank, Bar Godwit and Black Godwit were identified. Osprey were recorded flying over the river Foyle, north of Ballymagorry, on the E3 embankment.

All protected birds recorded in the survey area in the past 10 years can be found in appendix B.


4.5 Non-Native and Invasive Species

Non-Native Invasive Species identified as being present within the survey area include Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica, Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera, Giant Rhubarb Gunnera tinctoria, Water Fern Azolla filiculoides Himalayan knotweed Persicaria wallichii, and Butterfly Bush Buddleja sp. All of these species, except butterfly bush, are listed on EC (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 S.I. No. 477/2011. Species listed under S.I. No. 477/2011 are subject to restrictions under Regulations 49 and 50 of the 2011 Regulations (S.I. No. 477/2011 - European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. 2011). This includes a prohibition on the introduction and dispersal of these species. Himalayan Balsam was recorded at 48 locations during the field survey throughout the survey area. Japanese knotweed was recorded at three locations at embankment E18 along the River Swilly, along channel C3/1 Blanket Nook and on the Cloonburn channel C1 Sect. A. Giant Hogweed was encountered along the River Foyle on embankment E1 and E2. See Appendix C for National Biodiversity Data Centre records.

The Scheme is outside the distribution of White Clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) in Ireland and thus Crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci) is unlikely to have an impact on these areas. The Scheme is also outside the distribution of Zebra Mussel (Dreissena polymorpha) and these aquatic species have not been encountered during the survey.


5 Natura 2000 sites within the Zone of Influence of the works/scheme

This chapter provides baseline information on the Natura 2000 sites within the Zone of Influence of the drainage maintenance activities (i.e. that screened into the assessment as detailed in Section 3. Sites include:

• River Finn SAC (002301)

• Lough Swilly SAC (002287)

• Lough Swilly SPA (004075)

A short description for each site is provided, along with details of the qualifying interest/special conservation interests within the zone of influence.

Conservation objectives, the attributes used to define favourable conservation status are detailed in Appendix A.

The location of the Natura 2000 sites are shown in Figure 5-1, where it can be seen where the proposed works are relevant to these Natura 2000 sites. The main potential impacts posed by the proposed project relate to impacts during maintenance via surface water, land and air and groundwater pathways to the SACs.

Figure 5-1 Overview of SACs and SPAs

5.1 River Finn SAC This site comprises almost the entire freshwater element of the River Finn and its tributaries the Corlacky, the Reelan sub-catchment, the Sruhamboy, Elatagh, Cummirk and Glashagh, and also includes Lough Finn, where the river rises. The spawning grounds at the headwaters of the Mourne and Derg Rivers, Loughs Derg and Belshade which are all present in the upstream area of the


SAC.The tidal stretch of the Foyle north of Lifford to the border is also part of the site, and the River Foyle together with the lower reaches of the River Finn and River Deele is where the arterial drainage maintenance works will be carried out. Near the border of the River Finn SAC with the Foyle estuary the lower reaches of the channels through Carrigans works will also be carried out (Cloonburn C1 Sect. A). The Finn and Reelan, rising in the Bluestack Mountains, drain a catchment area of 195 square miles. All of the site is in Co. Donegal. The underlying geology is Dalradian Schists and Gneiss for the most part though quartzites and Carboniferous Limestones are present in the vicinity of Castlefinn. The hills around Lough Finn are also on quartzite. The mountains of Owendoo and Cloghervaddy are of granite felsite and other intrusive rocks rich in silica. There are many towns along the river but not within the site, including Lifford, Castlefinn, Stranolar and Ballybofey.

5.1.1 Qualifying Interests

The site is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) selected for the following habitats and/or species listed on Annex I / II of the E.U. Habitats Directive (* = priority; numbers in brackets are Natura 2000 codes):

• [3110] Oligotrophic Waters containing very few minerals

• [4010] Wet Heath

• [7130] Blanket Bogs (Active)*

• [7140] Transition Mires

• [1106] Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)

• [1355] Otter (Lutra lutra)

Not all of the qualifying features of the SAC occur in the Zone of Influence of the proposed development site and therefore only the relevant features are considered in this assessment. The qualifying features that could be potentially be present in the vicinity and therefore have the potential to be significantly impacted through water quality and/or disturbance include:

• [1106] Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)


5.1.2 Conservation Objectives

A full list of the conservation objectives of the relevant Features of Interest of the SAC is required in order to determine potentially adverse impacts to them. This information is provided in AppendixA.3.

5.1.3 Site Vulnerabilities

Negative pressures or threats identified in the Standard Natura 2000 form for this site are listed in Table 2-1Table 5-1.

Table 5-1 Threats and pressures to River Finn SAC (002301)

Threat or pressure Ranking

A04.01 - intensive grazing H

B02.02 - forestry clearance H

C01.01 - Sand and gravel extraction H

C01.03.01 - hand cutting of peat H

E03.01 - disposal of household / recreational facility waste M

E04 - Structures, buildings in the landscape L

F05.04 - poaching L

H01.05 - diffuse pollution to surface waters due to agricultural and forestry activities M

K01.01 - Erosion M


5.2 Lough Swilly SAC

This large site, situated in the northern part of Co. Donegal, comprises the inner part of Lough Swilly. It extends from below Letterkenny to just north of Buncrana. Lough Swilly is a long sea lough, cutting through a variety of metamorphic rocks on the west side of Inishowen. The main rivers flowing into the site are the Swilly, Lennan and Crana. At low tide, extensive sand and mudflats are exposed, especially at the mouths of the Swilly and Lennan rivers. The site is estuarine in character, with shallow water and intertidal sand and mudflats being the dominant habitats. All channels within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme adjoining Lough Swilly (River Swilly, Isle Burn, Blanket Nook channels and Inch Level Channels) discharge their water directly into the Lough Swilly SAC.

Molinia meadows has been added to the QIs of Lough Swilly SAC (NPWS 2016) but isn't included in the Conservation Objectives (NPWS 2011a). The most recent document is being followed therefore Molinia meadows have been added to this document.

5.2.1 Qualifying Interests

The site is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) selected for the following habitats and/or species listed on Annex I / II of the E.U. Habitats Directive (* = priority; numbers in brackets are Natura 2000 codes):

• [1130] Estuaries

• [1150] Coastal Lagoons*

• [1330] Atlantic Salt Meadows

• [6410] Molinia Meadows

• [91A0] Old Oak Woodlands


Not all of the qualifying features of the SAC occur in the Zone of Influence of the proposed development site and therefore only the relevant features are considered in this assessment as shown below.

• [1130] Estuaries

• [1150] Coastal Lagoons*

• [1330] Atlantic Salt Meadows

• [6410] Molinia Meadows



Negative pressures or threats identified in the Standard Natura 2000 form for this site are listed in Table 5-2.

Table 5-2 Threats and pressures to Lough Swilly SAC (002301)

Lough Swilly SAC Ranking

F02 - Fishing and harvesting aquatic ressources M

H01 - Pollution to surface waters (limnic, terrestrial, marine & brackish) H

F02.02.05 - benthic dredging M

E01.01 - continuous urbanisation H

I01 - invasive non-native species L

F01 - Marine and Freshwater Aquaculture H

J02 - human induced changes in hydraulic conditions H

G01 - Outdoor sports and leisure activities, recreational activities H


5.3 Lough Swilly SPA

Lough Swilly is a long sea inlet cut through a variety of metamorphic rocks, situated on the west side of the Inishowen Peninsula in north Co. Donegal. The SPA comprises the inner part of Lough Swilly from just east of Letterkenny northwards to Killygarvan (c. 2 km north of Rathmullan) on the west side and to c. 2 km south of Buncrana on the east side; it includes the adjacent Inch Lough. Also forming part of the site is a series of improved pasture and arable fields on the south side of Lough Swilly between Farsetmore and Inch Levels – these are of importance to geese and swans. It includes sections of the estuaries of the River Swilly, the River Leannan and the Isle Burn and the predominant habitat is a series of extensive sand and mud flats which are exposed at low tide - both estuaries and sand/mud flats are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. Other habitats represented in the site are salt marshes, lagoons (at Inch Lough and Blanket Nook), rivers and streams, sand and shingle beaches, lowland wet and dry grasslands, drainage ditches, reedbeds and scrub. Inch Lough, whilst artificial in origin, is one of the largest and best examples of a shallow, low salinity lagoon in the country; it supports what is probably the largest population in the country of the Red-listed charophyte Chara canescens. A small sandy island, used by nesting terns, swans and gulls, occurs in the southern part of the lagoon. All channels within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme adjoining Lough Swilly (River Swilly, Isle Burn, Blanket Nook channels and Inch Level Channels) discharge their water directly into the Lough Swilly.

5.3.1 Features of interest

The following qualifying features could potentially be present in the zone of influence of the proposed works and therefore are considered further for significance of impact.

• Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) [A005]

• Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea) [A028]

• Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) [A038]

• Greylag Goose (Anser anser) [A043]

• Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) [A048]

• Wigeon (Anas penelope) [A050]

• Teal (Anas crecca) [A052]

• Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) [A053]

• Shoveler (Anas clypeata) [A056]

• Scaup (Aythya marila) [A062]

• Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) [A067]

• Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) [A069]

• Coot (Fulica atra) [A125]

• Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130]

• Knot (Calidris canutus) [A143]

• Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149]

• Curlew (Numenius arquata) [A160]

• Redshank (Tringa totanus) [A162]

• Greenshank (Tringa nebularia) [A164]

• Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) [A179]

• Common Gull (Larus canus) [A182]

• Greenland White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris) [A395]

• Wetland and Waterbirds [A999]

The qualifying features which are not significantly impacted and have been screened out are listed below:

• Sandwich Tern (Sterna sandvicensis) [A191]

• Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) [A193]



Negative pressures or threats identified in the Standard Natura 2000 form for this site are listed in Table 5-3.

Table 5-3 Threats and pressures to Lough Swilly SPA (004075)

Lough Swilly SPA Ranking

A01 - Cultivation H

A04 - Grazing H

A08 - Fertilisation H

E01 - Urbanised areas, human habitation M

F01 - Marine and Freshwater Aquaculture H

F02.03 - Leisure fishing M

G01.01 - Nautical sports M


6 Appropriate Assessment

6.1 Introduction

The following chapter assesses the impact of the proposed works required as part of the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme, that will occur on the River Foyle, River Finn and River Swilly and various tributaries. These channels are located within/adjacent to the Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC Natura 2000 site and therefore, requires Appropriate Assessment.

The following chapter assesses the screened in Natura 2000 sites in more detail and examines where adverse impacts may arise from the sources of impact identified above. The full impact assessment on these features is below. The screened in Natura 2000 sites are as follows:

• Lough Swilly SAC

• Lough Swilly SPA

• River Finn SAC

Where potentially significant adverse impacts are identified, avoidance and mitigation measures are proposed to offset these impacts. These are discussed in the following sections.

6.2 Identification of Potential Sources of Impact

This section further examines the source > pathway > receptor chains that could potentially result in adverse impacts arising on the screened in Natura 2000 sites from the Donegal works; this is informed primarily by Ryan Hanley (2014a). Where relevant, this methodology has been updated and this is reflected in this report.

Table 3-1 details which of the possible pathways of impact (i.e. surface water, land and air, or groundwater) have been identified as potentially affecting the screened in Natura 2000 sites. Figure 3-1 to Figure 3-3 illustrate which of the channels and embankments within the works areas could potentially impact upon the identified Natura 2000 sites and are consequently screened into the assessment. All other channels and structures within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme have been screened out of the assessment.

6.2.1 Potential Sources of Impact via Surface Water Pathways

Lough Swilly SAC, River Finn SAC and Lough Swilly SPA were identified as potentially being impacted upon via surface water pathways. Not all qualifying interests of Lough Swilly SAC were identified as being at risk from impacts via surface water pathways. Estuarine habitats [1130], coastal lagoons [1150] and Otter [1355] were identified as being potential at risk impacts via from surface water pathway. Atlantic salt meadows [1330] and old Sessile Oak woodlands [91A0] and Molinia meadows [6410] were identified as not being at risk, due to the nature of the habitats and their locations within the site (NPWS 2011a).

In Lough Swilly SPA the majority of bird species for which the site is designated, along with the wetland habitats, were identified as potentially being at risk from the embankment works via surface water pathways.

River Finn SAC is identified as potentially being impacted by surface water pathways Salmon (1106) and Otter (1355) are potentially at risk.

The following sources of impact from the embankment works are identified as potentially affecting the above Natura 2000 sites through surface water pathways:

• Release of suspended solids - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. It can impact on surface water dependent habitats and species potentially within the area of works, such as Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260] within the Blanket Nook channels, indirectly through increased turbidity, which can reduce photosynthesis levels. This can then impact upon species within the rivers (i.e. Otter and Salmon which are present in the River Swilly and the River Finn) by reducing food availability through changed water quality. Releasing suspended solids into the River Swilly, Isle Burn, or channels in Blanket Nook and Inch Level will potentially


impact the qualifying interests of Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA. Releasing suspended solids in the River Finn will directly affect the QIs of the River Finn SAC and sediment released in the River Deele and Carrigans channels will potentially affect the QIs of the River Finn SAC.

• Release or changes in nutrient levels/pollutants - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. It can impact on surface water dependent habitats indirectly through causing eutrophication. This can then impact upon species within the River Swilly, River Finn, River Deele and River Foyle (i.e. Otter and Salmon) by reducing food availability through changed water quality. There is also the potential for pollutants (e.g. fuel) to be released from activities with machinery working in or near water as a result of pollution incidents, fuel spillages or poorly maintained machinery. Releasing pollutants or increasing the nutrient level of the River Swilly, Isle Burn, or channels in Blanket Nook and Inch Level will potentially impact the qualifying interests of Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA. Releasing pollutants or increasing the nutrient level in the River Finn will directly affect the QIs of the River Finn SAC and polution released in the River Deele and Carrigans channels will potentially affect the QIs of the River Finn SAC.

• Changes in water levels/channel morphology - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. Removal of vegetation could cause a lowering of the water table within the local area, improving drainage to the channels which are possibly used as spawning habitat for Salmon, especially on the River Finn. It can occur from maintenance activities that deepen and widen the channel back to the original design level and those activities that result in an increase in sediment deposition further downstream. It can also impact on the species for which the SAC is designated for by causing a loss of suitable habitat and impacting upon food chains.

6.2.2 Potential Sources of Impact via Land and Air Pathways

River Finn SAC, Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA were identified as potentially being impacted upon via land and air pathways. In the River Finn SAC not all qualifying interests were identified as being at risk from the channel and embankment works via land and air pathways; Atlantic Salmon [1106] and Otter [1355] were identified as being potentially at risk.

In Lough Swilly SAC also not all qualifying interests were identified as being at risk from the channel and embankment works via land and air pathways; Estuaries [1130], Atlantic salt meadows [1330], Coastal lagoons [1150], and Otter [1355] were identified as potentially being at risk.

However, coastal lagoons [1150], Old Sessile Oak woodlands [91A0] and Molinia meadows [6410] were not identified as being at risk via land and air pathways, due to the location of these habitats within the site, and/ or the nature of them. For example, (NPWS 2011a) identifies that the old Sessile Oak woodland habitat is located at Ardrumman, Rathmullan Wood, Tullyarvan and around Carrick Lake, and Molinia meadows are located at Inch Level approximately 500m from the proposed works; none of these locations are within 10m watercourses or embankments within the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme and can therefore be screened out of the assessment.

JBA Consulting (2014) identified that within the SPA the wetland habitats supporting the SPAs Features of Interest are potentially at risk from the works via land and air pathways. Therefore, all special conservation interests of the Lough Swilly SPA are considered at risk from the channel and embankment works via land and air pathways.

River Finn SAC is identified as potentially being impacted by land and air pathways where Salmon [1106] and Otter [1355] are potentially put at risk during the works.

The following sources of impact are identified as potentially impacting upon the above Natura 2000 sites through land and air pathways:

• Physical disturbance of habitats (including loss of wood vegetation cover and disturbance to habitats) - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. Obtaining access to works areas can also cause physical disturbance to habitats through removal of woody vegetation and


tracking of machinery. It can impact on habitats such as Alluvial Woodlands directly (an Annex 1 protected habitat which is present along the embankments of the River Foyle between the River Finn and the River Deele), although temporarily, as a result of machines tracking along the bankside, accessing the works area and as a result of the deposition of spoil on the bankside. This can result in a direct loss of habitat from in-stream/bankside areas and maintenance access corridors, direct mortalities or the displacement of sensitive species, such as Otter. Physical disturbance of habitats may indirectly impact upon designated habitats, such as Atlantic Salt Meadows [1330] or Molinia Meadows [6410], by releasing sediment, debris, and/or nutrients causing changes to water quality as described above. It can also indirectly impact on species through machines tracking along the bankside, reducing vegetation as a food source for birds and Otter.

• Noise and visual disturbance - this can arise from a variety of maintenance activities. It can occur as a result of noise emissions and visual disturbance from machinery and the presence of a workforce and other OPW staff. It can result in the flight and displacement of sensitive species from suitable habitat locations. It is not considered relevant in relation to designated habitat types, although it is relevant for the species which these habitats support such as birds, Otter and Salmon.

• Spread of non-native invasive species - maintenance activities in areas infested with non-native invasive species can result in their spread if inappropriate working methods are followed and no biosecurity or management measures are put in place. This could then adversely impact upon Natura 2000 sites by reducing the diversity and extent of native species. For certain aquatic species, their spread can result in changes to water chemistry parameters, light penetration and nutrient levels which could then impact upon the species for which SACs and SPAs are designated. However, given the findings of the ecological survey and the species concerned in relation to these sites (i.e. Himalayan Balsam), this is not considered to be a potential source of impact in relation to the special features of interest in the SPA.

6.2.3 Potential Sources of Impact via Groundwater Pathways

Lough Swilly SAC, River Finn SAC and Lough Swilly SPA were identified as potentially being impacted upon via groundwater pathways. Within Lough Swilly SAC, the following groundwater dependent habitats were identified as being at risk; Coastal lagoons [1150] and Atlantic salt meadows [1330], Molinia meadows [6410]. The other habitats and species for which the site is designated were not identified as being at risk from groundwater pathways; Estuaries [1130], Old Sessile Oak woodlands [91A0] and Otter [1355]).

For the SPA all special conservation interest bird species were identified as being at risk from the channel and embankment works via groundwater pathways since the wetland habitats (Salt marshes [1330] and Coastal lagoons [1150]) supporting the SPAs Features of Interest are potentially at risk from the works via groundwater pathways. Therefore, all special conservation interests of the Lough Swilly SPA are considered at risk from the channel and embankment works via land and air pathways.

There are no potential impacts on the River Finn SAC through groundwater pathways.

The following sources of impact are identified as potentially impacting upon the above Natura 2000 sites through groundwater pathways:

• Release of suspended solids - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. Impact from these works may transfer through groundwater pathways to surface water dependent habitats and species. Impacts may arise to the QIs of River Swilly SAC and River Finn SAC like Salmon and Otter indirectly through increased turbidity, which can reduce photosynthesis levels. This can then impact upon these species within the rivers by reducing food availability through changed water quality.

• Release or changes in nutrient levels/pollutants - this can arise from a variety of drainage maintenance activities, including removal of in-stream silt and vegetation, aquatic vegetation cutting, bank protection works and bush cutting, branch trimming and tree cutting. Impacts from these works may transfer through groundwater pathways to surface water dependant species and habitats. Release of nutrients can impact on surface water


dependent habitats indirectly, such as Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho‐Batrachion vegetation (present in Blanket Nook channels), causing eutrophication. This can then impact upon species within the river (i.e. Otter and Salmon) by reducing food availability through changed water quality. There is also the potential for pollutants (e.g. fuel) to be released from scheme activities with machinery working in or near water as a result of pollution incidents, fuel spillages or poorly maintained machinery. These pollutants could travel through groundwater pathways, impacting upon groundwater or surface water dependant habitats and species.

6.3 Impact Assessment

The main impacts that have the potential to occur as a result of the proposed works around Lough Swilly SAC, Lough Swilly SPA and the River Finn SAC and their associated tributaries and embankments, include temporary impacts that occur during the works and permanent impacts that may occur as a result of the works. Temporary impacts include disturbance to fauna including Otter, Salmon and to wetland habitats, like Molinia meadows, temporary impacts to water quality and physical alterations to habitats that will recover after the arterial drainage works finish. Permanent impacts include permanent loss of species and habitats, potentially permanent impacts to water quality and physical disturbance resulting in permanent loss of habitat. All potentially significant impacts are assessed to determine if they have the potential to adversely affect the integrity of the sites. Mitigation measures required for potential adverse impacts that may arise as a result of maintenance works are described in detail in Section 7 and Table 6-1.

6.3.1 Do nothing impact

Should the Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance works not be carried out at this site, it is likely that natural succession would occur throughout the location. This is likely to include increased sedimentation in the channels over time, and increased vegetation growth along channel edges and on the islands that may be present instream. Reduction in channel width due to increase size of vegetated islands, may slow the flow of water and cause flooding in susceptible areas during periods of high rainfall. Erosion occurring along the edge of the banks may contribute further to the sediment loading within the Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC.

6.3.2 Cumulative and in-combination impacts

Projects and Plans that have the potential to contribute in-combination impacts and cumulative impacts upon Natura 2000 designated sites are considered in this section, as described in the Guidelines for the Assessment of Indirect and Cumulative Impacts, as well as Impact Interactions (Walker and Johnston 1999). Key points to consider when assessing cumulative and in-combination impacts include the nature and scale of the potential impacts including their potential magnitude and significance, the availability and quality of data and the impacts that may have occurred with similar projects in the area, where available or observed.

6.3.2.1 Development planning:

Various planning permissions have been granted to projects in the nearby area of the screened in Natura 2000 sites, which have the potential to have similar impacts on water quality, water levels or disturbance as the proposed maintenance works have to the Natura 2000 site. These include the following within the last 5 years:

Applicant: Daly Bros. (Lifford) Ltd.

Hotel Construction

Description: This development is located directly on the River Finn SAC in the town of Lifford. It encompasses the construction of a hotel, astro pitch and a retail unit with accommodation. It also includes restoration of that part of the River Finn SAC to include boardwalk and viewing point. The site is to be serviced by an on-site sewage treatment plant and pumped to the public sewer.

Location: Coneyburrow, Lifford, Co. Donegal

Status: Incompleted application 01-08-2013

Potential for cumulative and/or in-combination impact:


Construction of the site has the potential to contribute temporary noise and visual disturbance, and water quality impacts to QIs of the River Finn SAC. Since the application has the status 'incomplete' it is possible they need to do an AA screening which will likely go to AA stage 2 Natura Impact Statement since the developer proposes works in the River Finn SAC. If the works are carried out without a NIS, cumulative impact to River Finn SAC is likely however, because the application is incomplete it may not be realised at all.

Therefore, it is unlikely that there may be cumulative and/or in-combination impacts upon the River Finn SAC as a result of this development and the proposed arterial drainage maintenance works.

Applicant: Irish water

Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton Sewerage Scheme

Desription: Irish Water is working to end the unacceptable practice of discharging untreated wastewater into Leannan Estuary, Lough Swilly and Maggy’s Burn by developing a sewerage scheme for Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton.

The new wastewater treatment plant and associated infrastructure will bring benefits to Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton and surrounding areas, on the West side of Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA. These include cleaner water which will enhance the areas amenity value, particularly in Rathmullan which will contribute towards restoring the Blue Flag status of Rathmullan Beach. This project will improve water quality and potentially salmon spawning in Maggy’s Burn which is a designated Salmonid Water.

Location: Rathmullan, Milford and Ramelton, Co. Donegal

Status: In progress


Construction of the sites has the potential to contribute temporary noise and visual disturbance, and water quality impacts to QIs of Lough Swilly SAC. The works are in progress which enhances the chance of cumulative impacts. However the project has the ambition to enhance water quality of the Lough Swilly SAC and improve habitat quality for one of it's QIs, Salmon.

Therefore, it is unlikely there may be cumulative and/or in-combination impacts upon Lough Swilly SAC a result of this development and the proposed arterial drainage maintenance works.

Applicant: Irish water

Leakage reduction programme

Desription: The works involve the replacement of approximately 1,500m of problematic PVC water mains with modern high density polyethylene (plastic) pipes. The programme to replace the problematic water mains in Ballybegley, Newtowncunningham are scheduled to commence on the week of the 22nd October 2018. These works are being carried out as part of Irish Water’s national Leakage Reduction Programme. The section of works will take place off the N13 to the west of Newtowncunningham in the townland of Ballybegley. The works will also involve laying new water service connections from the public water main in the road to customers’ property boundaries or, where required, connecting it to the customers’ water supply pipes within private property.

Location: Ballybegley, Newtowncunningham, Co. Donegal

Status: In progress


These works have the potential to contribute temporary noise and visual disturbance, and water quality impacts to QIs of Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA. The works are in progress which enhances the chance of cumulative impacts. The site Ballybegley is in between the Blanket Nook channels and Isle Burn Channels.


Therefore, it cannot be ruled out there may be cumulative and/or in-combination impacts upon Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA as a result of this development and the proposed arterial drainage maintenance works. Mitigation measures will be required and are detailed in Section 7 and Table 6-1.

6.4 Impact Evaluation

Table 6-1 evaluates the screened in Natura 2000 sites and potential impacts as discussed in Section 6.1, in more specific detail. The impact evaluation table examines where potentially adverse impacts may arise from the sources identified above. Where potentially significant adverse impacts are identified, avoidance and mitigation measures are proposed to offset these impacts.

In summary, the main potential impacts to the COs of the QIs of Lough Swilly SAC and Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC, as identified in Section 6.2, are as follows. Those impacts that may be transported through surface water pathways including impacts to water quality that may arise as a result of the release of suspended solids, release or changes in nutrient levels / pollutants, changes in water levels / channel morphology. Potential impacts that may be transported via land and air pathways include physical disturbance of habitats and noise and visual disturbance to species. Potential sources of impact through groundwater pathways include those that may occur through the release of suspended solids and those that occur through the release or changes in nutrient levels/pollutants.

Mitigation measures required to prevent adverse impacts include those described in the OPW EPs. More detailed measures are defined where necessary and are described in detail in Section 7 and Table 6-1.


Table 6-1 Impact evaluation table

Site Name (site code)

Qualifying Interests/ Special Conservation Interests

Potential Source of Impact

Pathway Impact on Attribute and Target Prior to Mitigation / Avoidance

Avoidance / Mitigation Measures Residual Impact


Estuaries [1130]


Otter Lutra lutra [1355]

Release of suspended solids

Release or changes in nutrient levels/ pollutants

Surface Water

Surface water dependant habitats, water dependant habitats and species connected to surface water and surface water dependant species are susceptible to changes in water quality as a result of the release of suspended solids, introduction of pollutants or changes to nutrient levels. They area is also vulnerable to changes in water levels or channel morphology. The release of large amounts of silt or other debris that has built up over time, e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to coniferous woodlands, can cause significant individual and in-combination changes to nutrient levels, turbidity and suspended solids in water.

Protected habitats that are water dependant and/or connected such as Saltmarsh habitats, may rely on water levels and/or channel morphology to maintain or restore the structure and/or function of the conservation objectives of the SAC. Changes to these qualities may cause an increase in sediment supply to Estuaries [1130] and Coastal lagoons [1150] and cause alterations to flooding regime and/or vegetation zonation.

Surface water pathways may transfer suspended solids, nutrients and pollution to the SAC and its QIs so follow protocols and EPs in and OPW Environmental Procedures (EP) (OPW 2018) - specifically, the procedures under the Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, including compliance with the 10-point plan and auditing processes. Works should follow those as describes in guidance under the Silt Management EP, including but not limited to working upstream, skipping sections and leaving buffer zones both instream and along the banks. Machinery Related Procedures should be followed to include no refuelling within 50m of a watercourse, use of biodegradable oils, ensure availability of spill kits and leave natural vegetation buffer strip along the bank.

In situations where there may be a more significant build-up of silt, debris or nutrients e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to coniferous woodlands, there will be a 20m section of channel unmaintained at the channel outfall

No adverse impact







Population distribution of Otter within Lough Swilly can be impacted by negative impacts to surface waterbodies. Otter is a mobile species and may be able, provided there are no barriers, to move to another location should the habitat become unsuitable due to lack of prey species / food, pollution events or changes in water levels reducing suitability of habitat. In some instances, i.e. extreme pollution events, the scheme works could result in direct mortalities of protected animals or fish, effecting the overall population trend. Scheme watercourses and embankments are directly within the Lough Swilly SAC, so any release of suspended solids, nutrients or pollutants, changes in current levels of nutrients or changes to channel morphology / water level, within the SAC, could have direct and/or indirect negative impacts upon the conservation objectives of the qualifying interests of the SAC.

Cumulative and/or in-combination impacts may arise as a result of the spread of NNIS through surface water pathways. Spread of aquatic NNIS can cause a reduction in habitat quality and/or a reduction in availability of prey species. Reduction in habitat quality through loss of prey species or spread of invasive aquatic vegetation, may cause QIs such as Otter, to expend

and if this is not naturally present, additional silt mitigation measures will be implemented including the use of geotextiles, clean washed stone and coarse sand (where suitable), removal of material and/or other silt filtration techniques. The method used will be on a case-by-case basis and methods used will be discussed with the environment team and documented.

Wetland habitats (including saltmarsh) should be identified on-site prior to works commencing and works within or adjacent to wetlands should follow the Wetland Procedure EP, including, but not limited to protecting the wetlands hydraulics and minimising or avoiding maintenance. Bog mats may be required when traversing through wetlands.

The above measures will control sediment mobilisation, prevent changes in water levels and channel morphology, and reduce the risk of pollution incidents thereby reducing the potential significance of this source of direct, indirect, cumulative and/or in-combination adverse impacts on Lough Swilly SAC and its QIs.







increased energy travelling to new foraging and breeding sites, and an overall reduction in availability of suitable habitats. Spread of terrestrial NNIS may occur if fragments of NNIS plant material reached the channels around Lough Swilly through contaminated equipment, resulting in a decrease in availability of suitable habitats and an increase in the presence of negative indicator species within Lough Swilly SAC.

rocedure, prior

Where NNIS are present, particularly Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed, follow biosecurity procedures as defined in the EP on Spread of Invasive Plant (Low Biosecurity) Procedure when working within Lough Swilly SACThis will ensure that there are no adverse impacts from the spread of terrestrial NNIS.

Estuaries [1130]



Physical disturbance of habitats (and loss of wood vegetation cover)

Noise and visual disturbance

Spread of non-native invasive species

Land and Air Otter, which uses Lough Swilly and associated tributaries within the SAC, are vulnerable to disturbance related impacts from drainage maintenance activities. Disturbance can include noise from staff and machinery operating in the area, visual disturbances from general daytime movement of people and machinery at work, and physical disturbances that cause alterations to the supporting and protected habitats present. Noise and visual disturbances will be temporary.

Disturbance can cause displacement of protected species, requiring increased energy expenditure. Breeding otter may be sensitive to disturbance year-round. Any unnecessary stresses upon protected species can impact upon the population trends of a species and species distribution.

Species related EPs will be followed where relevant QIs may be present. This includes the Otter Procedures.

Where protected habitats are present the Wetland EP and Tree management EP should be followed. Works within potential wetlands, including Saltmarsh should protect the wetlands hydraulics and minimise or avoid maintenance as per Wetland Procedure EP. Machine/bog mats may be required to prevent unnecessary disturbance.

Specific procedures relevant to Otter as described in the Otter Procedures EP include checking mapping and reporting of Otter holts on gangers card and

No adverse impact







Cumulative and/or in-combination impacts may arise as a result of the disturbance to stands of NNIS, reduction in habitat quality causing increase in availability of susceptible bare ground prone to infestation with NNIS.

maintaining a buffer zone of 20m for general maintenance works. This buffer zone may need to be increased depending on the nature of the works required and it may be necessary to obtain a derogation license prior to works commencing where disturbance of the holt is required. See Otter EP for further measures that will be applied as necessary.

Embankment maintenance should follow the Embankment Maintenance Procedure including avoiding the spread of invasives, promotion of natural colonisation and increasing biodiversity of species. No tree or vegetation removal works should occur within the breeding bird season unless under license.

Follow Protocol in the EP for Tree Management Procedures, particularly when removing fallen trees and clearing Machine Access Corridor to minimise physical disturbance during the works.

See Section 7 for additional mitigation measures.









Molinia Meadows [6410]



Groundwater Water dependant habitats at this site that have direct or indirect groundwater linkages (i.e. through surface water pathways) will be influenced by the release or changes in nutrient levels / pollutants, if any pollutants or nutrients released cause changes in the quality of the habitats present at the site. Habitat structure, vegetation composition and area can be impacted by changes to groundwater. Changes to water levels could dry out wetlands, resulting in the habitat no longer providing suitable ecosystem services for Otter. This could impact upon the range and distribution of Otter using the habitat.

Nutrient level increases could cause an increase in vegetation growth, blocking light for understory or underwater species. Eutrophication, caused by discharges of detergents, phosphates or sewage, can cause an increase in algal growth in water, which de-oxygenates the water as it dies off, causing fish kills and smothers the typical vegetation present. A reduction in habitat quality and the availability of suitable prey species can also occur from poisoning as a result of the release of pollutants. Protected Otter, or dolphin, that rely on fish, will travel to other locations to find suitable fish, or they may eat poisoned fish, resulting in mortalities.

Surface water pathways leading to groundwater pathways may not be visible so protocols and EPs in and OPW Environmental Procedures (EP) (OPW 2018) should be followed. Specifically, the procedures under the Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, including compliance with the 10-point plan and auditing processes. Works should follow those as described in guidance under the Silt Management EP, including but not limited to working upstream, skipping sections and leaving buffer zones both instream and along the banks.

Works within potential wetlands should follow the Wetland Procedure EP, protect the wetlands hydraulics and minimise or avoid maintenance. No works should occur within Molinia Meadows [6410] or Salt Meadows [1330], to minimise the release of sediment from these habitats.

See Mitigation for Bridge/Sluice/Structural Works

As discussed in Section 2.2.3, it is currently unknown where and when structural drainage maintenance operations will be required in relation to bridges. This NIS considers the potential impact

No adverse impact







of maintenance operations on bridges and other structures on those channels and embankments screened into the assessment. To ensure that adverse impacts do not arise on Natura 2000 sites and their QIs as a result of structural maintenance operations undertaken during the period 2019-2023, all procedures as recommended in the OPW Environmental Procedures Document (OPW 2018) are to be followed; specifically the Annual Program Environmental Procedure EP, the Environmental Risk Assessment Procedure EP, Appropriate Assessment Procedure EP, Structures Construction Procedure EP, Environmental Management Procedure EP and where relevant the Bridge Inspection Form EP.

The following pre-works mitigation checklist as detailed will also be implemented where structural maintenance works will occur:

Table 7-2 for further measures.

The above measures will control sediment mobilisation, prevent changes to water levels and reduce the risk of pollution incidents. This will reduce the potential significance of impacts on water dependent habitats, species







and supporting habitats and species within this SAC, all which may be impacted through surface water pathways.


Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus [A038]

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris [A395]

Greylag Goose Anser anser [A043]

Teal Anas crecca [A052]

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos [A053]

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator [A069]

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus [A130]

Dunlin Calidris alpina [A149]

Curlew Numenius arquata [A160]

Redshank Tringa totanus [A162]

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus (breeding) [A179]

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis [A191]

Common Tern Sterna hirundo [A193]

Wigeon Anas penelope [A050]

Shoveler Anas clypeata



Surface Water

Drainage maintenance activities could impact on water quality in protected Wetlands [A999] and in the supporting habitat types including Estuaries [1130], Coastal lagoons [1150], and Atlantic salt meadows [1330], and wetlands in the area, through the release of suspended sediments, nutrients and/ or pollution incidents which could potentially result in reduced water quality, increased turbidity and eutrophication. This in turn could then result in algal blooms, through aquifer recharge, as well as a reduction in the habitats overall ability to support Annex II species, such as the Whooper Swan, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler, Scaup, Knot, Dunlin, Curlew, Redshank and Greenshank for which the SPA is designated.

Movement of large machinery, the removal of trees or vegetation bankside and the movement of soil bankside can impact on surface water dependent habitats and species indirectly through increased turbidity, which can reduce photosynthesis levels and impact upon macrophyte communities and macroinvertebrate fauna within the adjacent wetlands.

Surface water pathways may transfer suspended solids, nutrients and/or pollutants that may arise as a result of the works so follow protocols and EPs in and OPW Environmental Procedures (EP) (OPW 2018) - specifically the procedures under the Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, including compliance with the 10-point plan and auditing processes. Works should follow those as described in guidance under the Silt Management EP, including but not limited to working upstream, skipping sections and leaving buffer zones both instream and along the banks. Machinery Related Procedures should be followed to include no refuelling within 50m of a watercourse, use of biodegradable oils, ensure availability of spill kits and leave natural vegetation buffer strip along the bank.

In situations where there may be a more significant build-up of silt, debris or nutrients e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to

No adverse impact







[A056]

Scaup Aythya marila [A062]

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula [A067]

Coot Fulica atra [A125]

Knot Calidris canutus [A143]

Greenshank Tringa nebularia [A164]

Common Gull Larus canus [A182]

Wetlands and Waterbirds [A999]

Drainage maintenance activities, such as silt and vegetation management can result in the deepening and widening of channels which could impact on surface water flows. This could have adverse impacts on the same habitats mentioned above, and the birds that may use them, potentially resulting in an overall reduction in the suitability of the habitats and protected wetlands to support Annex II species.

coniferous woodlands or agricultural lands, there will be a 20m section of channel unmaintained at the channel outfall and if this is not naturally present, additional silt mitigation measures will be implemented including the use of geotextiles, clean washed stone and coarse sand (where suitable), removal of material and/or other silt filtration techniques. The method used will be on a case-by-case basis and methods used will be documented and discussed with the environment team.

Areas adjacent to the SPA and its tributaries, should be considered for potential to be wetlands as these are protected. No works should occur within wetland habitats. Movement of equipment around the SPA and associated wetlands may require the use of bog mats to prevent release of suspended solids, nutrients and/or pollutants. In these situations, moment of equipment should follow the Wetland Procedure EP, protect the wetlands hydraulics and minimise or avoid maintenance.

Birds Procedures should be followed when working in the







vicinity of the SPA including the timing of the removal of vegetation to protect breeding birds. During winter consideration and the relevant adjustments to these procedures must be made to protect wintering birds, including the consideration of short lengths of screening to protect habitats water quality.

This includes measures in addition to those listed in the OPW's Environmental Management Protocols and EPs (OPW 2018), necessary in order to offset the identified potential impacts on the Natura 2000 sites; these are detailed in Section 7.1.

The above measures will control sediment mobilisation and reduce the risk of pollution incidents thereby reducing the potential significance of this source of impact, including cumulative and/or in-combination impacts, on the wetland and supporting habitats within this SPA, that may occur through surface water pathways.

Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus [A038]

Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris [A395]


Land and Air Qualifying Interest birds that may be present in the SPA and use Lough Swilly and associated tributaries within and adjacent to the SPA are at risk from noise and visual disturbance as a result of the works of the Scheme. Wintering

Any unnecessary noise or visual disturbances to birds within the SPA will be avoided, temporary and only where necessary.

No adverse impact







Greylag Goose Anser anser [A043]

Teal Anas crecca [A052]

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos [A053]

Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator [A069]

Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus [A130]

Dunlin Calidris alpina [A149]

Curlew Numenius arquata [A160]

Redshank Tringa totanus [A162]

Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus (breeding) [A179]

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis [A191]

Common Tern Sterna hirundo [A193]

Wigeon Anas penelope [A050]

Shoveler Anas clypeata [A056]

Scaup Aythya marila [A062]

Goldeneye Bucephala clangula [A067]

Coot Fulica atra [A125]

Knot Calidris canutus [A143]

Greenshank Tringa nebularia [A164]

Common Gull Larus canus [A182]


birds within the SPA will already be accustomed to a low level of occasional disturbance due to agricultural activities, shipping activities and tourism, and the Scheme may provide cumulative impacts.

Disturbance can include noise from staff and machinery operating in the area, visual disturbances from general daytime movement of people and machinery at work, and physical disturbances that cause alterations to the supporting and protected habitats present. Noise and visual disturbances will be temporary.

Disturbance can cause displacement of protected species, requiring increased energy expenditure. Bird species for which the site is designated may be disturbed during winter. Any unnecessary stresses upon protected species can impact upon the population trends of a species and species distribution.

Due to the Scheme works, there may be a temporary decrease in the range, timing or intensity of use of areas by protected birds in this SPA, outside of those occurring from natural patterns of variation.

Birds Procedures EP should be followed when working in the vicinity of the SPA including the timing of the removal of vegetation to protect breeding birds. During winter consideration must be given to the QIs for this site and the relevant adjustments will be made to these procedures to protect wintering birds This includes using short lengths of screening to prevent disturbance to birds when working in the same area for any period of time, that may be considered any longer than temporary (e.g. conducting maintenance works in one location for more than 5 working days outside of the breeding season, or working for more than 0.5 day in one location within the breeding bird season).

Works within potential wetlands should follow the Wetland Procedure EP to protect the wetlands hydraulics and to minimise the disturbance of these habitats.

The above measure will prevent any impacts through noise or visual disturbance, physical alterations and disturbances to habitats and a reduction in area or quality of habitats that may occur







Wetlands and Waterbirds [A999]

to the QIs of this SPA.

Coastal lagoons [1150] Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]



Groundwater Impacts that may arise through groundwater pathways and impact upon the QIs of this SPA are as those described for Surface water impacts.

Drainage maintenance activities could impact on water quality in protected habitats and supporting habitats in the area, through the release of nutrients which could potentially result in reduced water quality, increased turbidity and eutrophication.

Movement of large machinery, the removal of trees or vegetation bankside and the movement of soil bankside can impact on surface water dependent habitats and species, and supporting groundwater dependant habitats directly or indirectly should they be transported through groundwater pathways.

Drainage maintenance activities, such as silt and vegetation management can result in the deepening and widening of channels which could impact on water levels. This could have adverse impacts on the same habitats mentioned above, and the birds that may use them, potentially resulting in an overall reduction in the suitability of the habitats and protected wetlands to support

Groundwater pathways may not always be visible and may transfer nutrients may arise as a result of the works so follow protocols and EPs in and OPW Environmental Procedures (EP) (OPW 2018) - specifically the procedures under the Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, including compliance with the 10-point plan and auditing processes. Works should follow those as described in guidance under the Silt Management EP, including but not limited to working upstream, skipping sections and leaving buffer zones both instream and along the banks. Machinery Related Procedures should be followed to include no refuelling within 50m of a watercourse, use of biodegradable oils, ensure availability of spill kits and leave natural vegetation buffer strip along the bank.

Movement of equipment around the SPA and associated wetlands may require the use of bog mats to prevent release of suspended solids, nutrients and/or pollutants. In these situations, moment of

No adverse impact







Annex II species.

equipment should follow the Wetland Procedure EP, protect the wetlands hydraulics and minimise or avoid maintenance.

See Table 6-1 Section 7.1 for further measures.

The above measures will control sediment mobilisation and reduce the risk of pollution incidents thereby reducing the potential significance of this source of impact, including cumulative and/or in-combination impacts, on the wetland and supporting habitats within this SPA, that may occur through groundwater pathways.



Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar [1106]



Surface Water

Surface water dependant habitats, surface water connected habitats and surface water dependant species are susceptible to changes in water quality as a result of the release of suspended solids, introduction of pollutants or changes to nutrient levels. They area also vulnerable to changes in water levels or channel morphology. The release of large amounts of silt or other debris that has built up over time, e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to coniferous woodlands, can cause significant individual and in-combination changes to nutrient levels, turbidity and suspended solids in water.

Surface water pathways may transfer suspended solids, nutrients and pollution to the SAC and its QIs so follow protocols and EPs in and OPW Environmental Procedures (EP) (OPW 2018) - specifically, the procedures under the Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, including compliance with the 10-point plan and auditing processes. Works should follow those as describes in guidance under the Silt Management EP, including but not limited to working upstream, skipping sections and leaving buffer zones both instream and along the banks. Machinery

No adverse impact







Population distribution of Otter and salmonids can be impacted by negative impacts to surface waterbodies. Otter and salmonids are mobile species and may be able, provide there are no barriers, to move to another location should the habitat become unsuitable due to lack of prey species / food, pollution events or changes in water levels reducing suitability of habitat. In some instances, i.e. extreme pollution events, the scheme works could result in direct mortalities of protected animals or fish, effecting the overall population trend. Some scheme watercourses and embankments are directly within the River Finn SAC, so any release of suspended solids, nutrients or pollutants, changes in current levels of nutrients or changes to channel morphology / water level, within the SAC, could have direct and/or indirect negative impacts upon the conservation objectives of the qualifying interests of the SAC.

Cumulative and/or in-combination impacts may arise as a result of the spread of NNIS through surface water pathways. Spread of aquatic NNIS can cause a reduction in habitat quality and/or a reduction in availability of prey species. Reduction in habitat quality through loss of prey species or spread of invasive aquatic vegetation, may

Related Procedures should be followed to include no refuelling within 50m of a watercourse, use of biodegradable oils, ensure availability of spill kits and leave natural vegetation buffer strip along the bank.

In situations where there may be a more significant build-up of silt, debris or nutrients e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to coniferous woodlands, there will be a 20m section of channel unmaintained at the channel outfall and if this is not naturally present, additional silt mitigation measures will be implemented including the use of geotextiles, clean washed stone and coarse sand (where suitable), removal of material and/or other silt filtration techniques. The method used will be on a case-by-case basis and methods used will be documented and discussed with environment team.

Wetland habitats should be identified on-site prior to works commencing and works within or adjacent to wetlands should follow the Wetland Procedure EP, including, but not limited to protecting the wetlands hydraulics and minimising or avoiding







cause QIs such as Otter or Salmon, to expend increased energy travelling to new foraging and breeding sites, and an overall reduction in availability of suitable habitats. Spread of terrestrial NNIS may occur if fragments of NNIS plant material reached the River Finn through contaminated equipment, resulting in a decrease in availability of suitable habitats and an increase in the presence of negative indicator species within the River Finn SAC.

maintenance. Bog mats may be required when traversing through wetlands.

The above measures will control sediment mobilisation, prevent changes in water levels and channel morphology, and reduce the risk of pollution incidents thereby reducing the potential significance of this source of direct, indirect, cumulative and/or in-combination adverse impacts on the River Finn SAC and its QIs.

Where NNIS are present, particularly Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed, follow biosecurity procedures as defined in the EP on Spread of Invasive Plant (Low Biosecurity) Procedure when working within the River Finn SAC. This will ensure that there are no adverse impacts from the spread of terrestrial NNIS.


Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar [1106]


Noise and visual

Land and Air Otter and salmonids that use the River Finn and associated tributaries within the SAC, are vulnerable to disturbance related impacts from drainage maintenance activities. Disturbance can include noise from staff and machinery operating in the area, visual

Species related EPs will be followed where relevant QIs may be present including the Salmonid Procedures and Otter Procedures.

Where protected habitats are present the Wetland EP and Tree

No adverse impact







disturbance

Spread of non-native invasive species

disturbances from general daytime movement of people and machinery at work, and physical disturbances that cause alterations to the supporting and protected habitats present. Noise and visual disturbances will be temporary.

Disturbance can cause displacement of protected species, requiring increased energy expenditure. Breeding otter may be sensitive to disturbance year-round. Salmonids will be sensitive to disturbance from October to May. Any unnecessary stresses upon protected species can impact upon the population trends of a species and species distribution.

Cumulative and/or in-combination impacts may arise as a result of the disturbance to stands of NNIS, reduction in habitat quality causing increase in availability of susceptible bare ground prone to infestation with NNIS.

management EP should be followed. Works within potential wetlands should protect the wetlands hydraulics and minimise or avoid maintenance as per Wetland Procedure EP. Machine/bog mats may be required to prevent unnecessary disturbance.

Specific procedures relevant to salmonids as in the Salmonid EP include but are not limited to ensuring on-going consultation with IFI, timing of instream works from July to September and protect or enhance river enhancement works. See Salmonid EP for further measures that will be applied as necessary.

Specific procedures relevant to Otter as described in the Otter Procedures EP include checking mapping and reporting of Otter holts on gangers card and maintaining a buffer zone of 20m for general maintenance works. This buffer zone may need to be increased depending on the nature of the works required and it may be necessary to obtain a derogation license prior to works commencing where disturbance of the holt is required. See Otter EP for further measures that will be applied as







necessary.

Where Floating River Vegetation habitat [3260] may be present, the EP on Floating River Vegetation Habitat and Rare Plants Procedures will be followed. This includes the implementation of a 10m buffer zone where feasible, retention of untouched sections where not including 1/3 to 1/2 of vegetation.

Embankment maintenance should follow the Embankment Maintenance Procedure including avoiding the spread of invasives, promotion of natural colonisation and increasing biodiversity of species. No tree or vegetation removal works should occur within the breeding bird season unless under license.

Follow Protocol in the EP for Tree Management Procedures, particularly when removing fallen trees and clearing Machine Access Corridor to minimise physical disturbance during the works.

See Section 7.1 for additional mitigation measures.


Groundwater Water dependant habitats at this site that have direct or indirect groundwater

Where protected habitats and species are present, limit works

No adverse








linkages (i.e. through surface water pathways) will be influenced by the release or changes in nutrient levels / pollutants, if any pollutants or nutrients released and cause changes in the quality of the habitats present at the site. Habitat structure, vegetation composition and area can be impacted by changes to groundwater. Changes to water levels could dry out wetlands, resulting in the habitat no longer providing suitable ecosystem services for Otter. This could impact upon the range and distribution of Otter using the habitat.

Nutrient level increases could cause an increase in vegetation growth, blocking light for understory or underwater species. Eutrophication, caused by discharges of detergents, phosphates or sewage, can cause an increase in algal growth in water, which de-oxygenates the water as it dies off, causing fish kills and smothers the typical vegetation present. A reduction in habitat quality and the availability of suitable prey species can also occur from poisoning as a result of the release of pollutants. Protected Otter that rely on fish, will travel to other locations to find suitable fish, or they may eat poisoned fish, resulting in mortalities. Changes in water levels and channel morphology would also make a habitat unsuitable for salmonids.

and physical disturbance to prevent deterioration of supporting habitat, prevent deterioration of protected habitats and prevent unnecessary impact to protected species that depend on both protected and unprotected habitats.

Where NNIS are present, particularly Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed, follow biosecurity procedures as defined in the EP on Spread of Invasive Plant (Low Biosecurity) Procedure, prior to working within and when working within River Finn SAC at all times. This includes maintaining a 7m buffer zone around infestations, washing of all machinery, equipment and this includes personnel's equipment such as boots. Use of the Invasive Plants Construction Management Plan flow chart should be considered where NNIS are present.

Specific Invasive Plant Treatment Procedures are defined in the OPW 2018 procedures manual. These may be required and should be considered where works are required to proceed within areas containing NNIS.

impact







See Site specific mitigation measures


Table 7-1.


7 Avoidance and Mitigation Measures In order to ensure that arterial drainage maintenance works and proposed associated works do not adversely impact on Lough Swilly SAC, Lough Swilly SPA and River Finn SAC, specific mitigation and avoidance measures have been highlighted that should be followed in Table 6-1. This NIS considers the potential impact of normal arterial drainage maintenance works on those watercourses screened into the assessment. To determine if works are considered outside of what is considered normal works see Section 2.2.4.

To ensure that adverse impacts do not arise on Natura 2000 sites and other protected species as a result of normal arterial drainage maintenance works undertaken during the period 2019-2023, all procedures as recommended in the OPW Environmental Procedures Document (OPW 2018) are to be followed, specifically the Annual Program Environmental Procedure EP, the Environmental Risk Assessment Procedure EP, Appropriate Assessment Procedure EP, Structures Construction Procedure EP, Environmental Management Procedure EP and those EPs as further recommended within the management EPs.

To view required site-specific mitigation measures, outside of those described in the OPW Environmental Procedures document, see Section 7.1, Table 7-1.

To view required specific mitigation measures relevant to works that may occur on bridges, sluices and/or structures, see Section 7.2, Table 7-2.

7.1 Site specific mitigation measures


Table 7-1 Specific mitigation measures

Potential Impact Specific Avoidance and Mitigation Measures



All aquatic vegetation or brash cuttings shall be removed from the channel and its bank and placed in an area where they cannot re-enter the water.

The release of large amounts of silt or other debris that has built up over time, e.g. during sluice maintenance or when clearing channels adjacent to coniferous woodlands, must be prevented. In these situations, there will be a 20m section of channel unmaintained at the channel outfall and if this is not naturally present, additional silt mitigation measures will be implemented including the use of geotextiles, clean washed stone and coarse sand (where suitable), removal of material and/or other silt filtration techniques. The method used will be on a case-by-case basis and methods used will be documented and discussed with the environment team.

Changes in water levels/ channel morphology

Works on all channels shall be undertaken in accordance with the Scheme's design standard, in order to prevent any new widening or deepening of a channel.

No machinery will be operating within the river channel.


Clearance of MAC will necessitate the usage of bog/machine mats in wet areas and tree clearance will be at a minimum, only where necessary and in accordance with the relevant OPW EP on Tree Management. Vegetated buffer zone of 1.5m to remain along bankside in accordance with EP on Silt Management.


Potential Impact Specific Avoidance and Mitigation Measures


Works and access will be restricted to maintenance access corridors.

Other Biosecurity measures will be implemented throughout the works following the OPW's Spread of Invasive Plants (Low Biosecurity) Procedure and Spread of Water Based invasives (High Biosecurity) Procedure as necessary.

7.2 Mitigation for Bridge/Sluice/Structural Works

As discussed in Section 2.2.3, it is currently unknown where and when structural drainage maintenance operations will be required in relation to bridges. This NIS considers the potential impact of maintenance operations on bridges and other structures on those channels and embankments screened into the assessment. To ensure that adverse impacts do not arise on Natura 2000 sites and their QIs as a result of structural maintenance operations undertaken during the period 2019-2023, all procedures as recommended in the OPW Environmental Procedures Document (OPW 2018) are to be followed; specifically the Annual Program Environmental Procedure EP, the Environmental Risk Assessment Procedure EP, Appropriate Assessment Procedure EP, Structures Construction Procedure EP, Environmental Management Procedure EP and where relevant the Bridge Inspection Form EP.

The following pre-works mitigation checklist as detailed will also be implemented where structural maintenance works will occur:

Table 7-2 Mitigation measures for bridge, sluice and/or structural works

Checklist Mitigation Response Required

Is the Structure a Bridge?

If Yes - Ensure the Foreman's Bridge Inspection Report (Appendix E) has been completed prior to works commencing. All work on bridges requires completion of this form. All instructions on this form will be followed. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Is the structure a culvert? If Yes - Follow the Ecological Culvert Procedure. All works on culverts require adherence to these procedures. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Is the structure a fisheries enhancement structure?

If Yes - Follow the Fisheries Enhancement Procedure EP and Barrier Removal Procedure EP and continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Is the structure an embankment, a sluice or part of an embankment?

If Yes - Follow the Embankment Maintenance Procedure, Barrier Removal Procedure EP , see site specific mitigation measures in Table 7-1 and continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Will structure maintenance works require in-channel working?

If yes - Follow procedures in Environmental Drainage Procedure EP, the Silt Management EP, and Machinery Related Procedures to control silt mobilisation and relevant species-specific EPs to minimise physical damage. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Is the structure constructed of brick or stone or does it contain cracks, crevices and/or voids that could be used by roosting bats?

If yes - Follow procedures in Bat Procedure EP. Ensure a bat roost potential assessment is conducted by an ecologist. Further nocturnal activity surveys will also be undertaken if the roost potential assessment concludes they are required. Derogation license may be required for


Checklist Mitigation Response Required

Does the structure have dense Ivy cover which could be used by roosting bats?

works on this bridge. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Does the structure contain voids, cracks or ledges that are or could be used by nesting birds?

If yes - Follow Birds Procedure EP. Ensure the work is conducted outside of the nesting bird season or prior to works a survey for the presence of nesting birds is conducted. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required. Is the structure located within

an area of dense bankside scrub/vegetation which could be used by nesting birds?

Is the structure located within an area of dense bankside scrub/vegetation which could be used as a resting place by Otter?

If yes - Follow Otter Procedure. Ensure a survey is conducted prior to works to check for the presence of any protected species. Continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Are water based non-native invasive species present in the area immediately around the structure, or is signage indicating the presence of water based non-native invasive species present along this channel or the access route?

If yes - Follow the Spread of Water-based Invasives (High Biosecurity) Procedure EP and continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.

Are terrestrial based non-native invasive species present in the area immediately around the structure, is signage indicating the presence of non-native invasive species present along this channel, or are non-native invasive species present along the access route?

If yes - Follow the Spread of Invasive Plant (Low Biosecurity) Procedure EP and continue through checklist as further procedures may be required.


8 Conclusions Taking into consideration the limitations and constraints as identified in Section 1.4.5, this Natura Impact Statement details the findings of the Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment conducted to further examine the potential direct and indirect impacts of the proposed arterial drainage maintenance works in the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme on the following Natura 2000 sites:

• Lough Swilly SAC [2287]

• Lough Swilly SPA [4075]

• River Finn SAC [2301]

The above sites were identified by a screening exercise that identified likely significant effects in relation to Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed works. This screening exercise was conducted following the methodology outlined in Ryan Hanley (2014a), which examines three "source > pathway > receptor" chains; surface water, land and air, and groundwater pathways. The Appropriate Assessment investigated the potential direct and indirect impacts of the proposed works on the integrity and interest features of the above Natura 2000 sites, alone and in-combination with other plans and projects, taking into account the site's structure, function and conservation objectives. The three pathways of potential impact were again used as a framework of assessment. Where potentially significant adverse impacts were identified, a range of mitigation and avoidance measures have been stipulated to help offset them. As a result of this Appropriate Assessment it has been concluded that, when the suggested avoidance and mitigation measures are implemented, the proposed drainage maintenance operations in the Donegal Arterial Drainage Scheme will not have a significant adverse impact on the integrity of the above Natura 2000 sites.

To confirm this conclusion, the following checklist, taken from DEHLG (2009) has been completed.

Conservation objectives: does the project or plan have the potential to:

Y/N

Cause delays in progress towards achieving the conservation objectives of the sites?

N - Following mitigation, no significant adverse residual impacts have been identified that will prevent achievement of the conservation objectives of the assessed sites.

Interrupt progress towards achieving the conservation objectives of the sites?

N - Following mitigation, no significant adverse residual impacts have been identified that will prevent achievement of the conservation objectives of the assessed site.

Disrupt those factors that help to maintain the favourable conditions of the site?

N - Potential adverse impacts via surface water; land and air; and groundwater pathways identified during the screening process can be mitigated against.

Interfere with the balance, distribution and density of key species that are the indicators of the favourable condition of the site?

N - Potential adverse impacts on the habitats and species of the SACs are not expected as impacts can be avoided by implementing the mitigation and avoidance measures detailed.

Other objectives: does the project or plan have the potential to:

Y/N

Cause changes to the vital defining aspects (e.g. nutrient balance) that determine how the site functions as a habitat or ecosystem?

N - Potential adverse impacts from suspended solid and nutrient release are not expected as measures can be included within working protocols to ensure potential impacts are effectively mitigated.

Change the dynamics of the relationships (between, for example, soil and water or plants and animals) that define the structure and/or function of the site?

N - Potential adverse impacts relating to hydrological status and water quality have been identified which could impact on the functioning and dynamics of the site, however, these are not expected to be significant given the mitigation measures detailed to ensure potential impacts are effectively mitigated.

Interfere with predicted or expected natural changes to the site (such as water dynamics or chemical composition)?

N - Potential adverse impacts from changes to the hydrological regime and suspended solid/nutrient/pollutant release are not expected as measures are included within working protocols to


Conservation objectives: does the project or plan have the potential to:

Y/N

ensure potential impacts are effectively mitigated.

Reduce the area of key habitats? N - Potential adverse impacts on the habitats of the SACs are not expected given the mitigation measures that have been detailed.

Reduce the population of key species? N - Potential impacts to key species of both sites, including (but not limited to) Sphagnum, Otter and Salmon, are not expected as impacts can be avoided by implementing the mitigation measures detailed.

Change the balance between key species?

N - Potential impacts to key species for which the SACs are designated or which support key features of the designated habitats of the SACs, are not expected as impacts can be avoided by implementing the mitigation measures detailed.

Reduce diversity of the site? N - The identified mitigation measures to protect designated habitats and species will ensure that the current diversity of the sites is maintained.

Result in disturbance that could affect population size or density or the balance between key species?

N - Potential impacts to the population size, density or balance of key species are not expected as impacts can be avoided by implementing the mitigation measures detailed.

Result in fragmentation N - The proposed works will be undertaken along existing maintenance access corridors and therefore no fragmentation of habitats will occur.

Result in loss or reduction of key features (e.g. tree cover, tidal exposure, annual flooding etc.)?

N - Potential adverse impacts on SAC habitats are not expected as impacts can be avoided by implementing the mitigation measures detailed so there will be no loss of, or reduction of, key features.


References BirdWatch Ireland (2017) I-WeBS [online], The Irish Wetland Bird Survey, available: http://www.birdwatchireland.ie/?tabid=111 [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

DEHLG (2009) Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/NPWS_2009_AA_Guidance.pdf [accessed 05 Dec 2018].

EC (2002) Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological Guidance on the Provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, EUR-OP: Luxembourg.

EC (2007) Guidance Document on Article 6(4) of the ‘Habitats Directive’ 92/43/EEC. Clarification of the Concepts of: Alternative Solutions, Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest, Compensatory Measures, Overall Coherence, Opinion of the Commission, available: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/docs/art6/guidance_art6_4_en.pdf [accessed 07 Dec 2018].

EC (2013) Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats, Version EUR 28, available: http://eunis.eea.europa.eu/references/2435.

EPA (2018a) EPA Catchments.Ie [online], Catchments.ie, available: https://www.catchments.ie/maps/ [accessed 07 Dec 2018].

EPA (2018b) EPA Maps [online], Next Generation EPA Maps, available: https://gis.epa.ie/EPAMaps/ [accessed 9 Dec 2018].

European Commission, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities (Eds.) (2000) Managing Natura 2000 Sites: The Provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities: Luxembourg.

Flora (Protection) Order [online] (2015) S.I. No. 356/2015, available: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2015/si/356/made/en/print [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

Fossitt, J.A. (2000) A Guide to Habitats in Ireland, Heritage Council of Ireland series, Heritage Council/Chomhairle Oidhreachta: Kilkenny.

JBA (2014) ‘Appropriate Assessment Screening for Donegal Arterial Drainage Maintenance Scheme’.

NBDC (2018) Biodiversity Maps - Map Viewer [online], National Biodiversity Data Centre Biodiversity Maps, available: http://maps.biodiversityireland.ie/#/Map [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2008) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland, • National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) (2008). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland., available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/NPWS_2007_Conservation_Status_Report.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2011a) ‘Conservation Objectives for: Lough Swilly SAC and SPA’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/conservation_objectives/CO004075.pdf [accessed 5 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2011b) ‘Lough Swilly SAC (site code 2287) Conservation objectives supporting document -coastal habitats’, available: file:///C:/Users/joefreijser/Desktop/2287_Lough%20Swilly%20SAC%20Coastal%20Supporting%20Doc_V1.pdf [accessed 5 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2011c) ‘Conservation Objectives Supporting Document: 4075 Lough Swilly SPA’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/4075_Lough%20Swilly%20SPA%20Supporting%20Doc_V1.pdf [accessed 6 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2013a) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland 2013 Habitat Assessments Volume 2, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland., available:


https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/Article_17_Print_Vol_2_report_habitats_v1_1_0.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2013b) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland Species Assessments Volume 3, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland., available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/Article_17_Print_Vol_3_report_species_v1_1_0.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2014) ‘River Finn SAC Site Synopsis’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY002301.pdf [accessed 5 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2016) ‘Site Synopsis Lough Swilly SAC’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY002287.pdf [accessed 5 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2017a) ‘River Finn SAC Conservation Objectives’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/conservation_objectives/CO002301.pdf [accessed 5 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2017b) ‘Natura 2000 Standard data form Lough Swilly SPA’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/natura2000/NF002287.pdf [accessed 6 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2017c) ‘Natura 2000 Standard Data Form: Lough Swilly SAC’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/natura2000/NF002287.pdf [accessed 6 Dec 2018].

NPWS (2017d) ‘Natura 2000 Standard data from River Finn SAC’, available: https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/natura2000/NF002301.pdf [accessed 7 Dec 2018].

NRA (2009) Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes, National Roads Authority, available: http://www.tii.ie/technical-services/environment/planning/Ecological-Surveying-Techniques-for-Protected-Flora-and-Fauna-during-the-Planning-of-National-Road-Schemes.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

O’Neill, F.H., Martin, J.R., Devaney, F.M., McNutt, K.E., Perrin, P.M., Delaney, A. (2010) Irish Semi-Natural Grasslands Survey Annual Report No. 3: Counties Donegal, Dublin, Kildare and Sligo, Annual Report, National Parks and Wildlife Service / Department of Arts, Heritage and Local Government, BEC Consultants, available: http://www.botanicalenvironmental.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/2010_ISGS_Report_and_Appendices.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

OPW (2011a) Arterial Drainage Maintenance & High Risk Channel Designation Programme 2011-2015 Habitats Directive Assessment, Office of Public Works, available: https://www.opw.ie/media/Arterial%20Drainage%20Maintenance%20&%20High%20Risk%20Channel%20Designation%20HDA%202011-2015.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

OPW (2011b) ‘The Office of Public WorksArterial Drainage Maintenance Service Environmental Management Protocols & Standard Operating Procedures’.

OPW (2018) ‘Draft - Office of Public Works Environmental Drainage Maintenace Manual Rev A’.

Ryan Hanley (2014b) ‘Stage 1: Appropriate Assessment Screening Methodology for the maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes’.

Ryan Hanley (2014a) ‘Source > Pathway > Receptor Chains for Appropriate Assessment’.

S.I. No. 477/2011 - European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. [online] (2011) available: http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2011/si/477/made/en/pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

Smith, G.F., O’Donoghue, P., O’Hora, K., Delaney, E. (2011) ‘Best practice guidance for habitat survey and mapping’, The Heritage Council: Ireland.

Walker, L.J., Johnston, J. (1999) Guidelines for the Assessment of Indirect and Cumulative Impacts as Well as Impact Interactions, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Brussels, available: http://edz.bib.uni-mannheim.de/www-edz/pdf/1999/guideassess.pdf [accessed 10 Dec 2018].

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Appendices

A Conservation Objectives National Overall Conservation Status from Article 17 reports (NPWS 2013b, 2013a) Conservation Objectives from site specific conservation objectives (NPWS 2011a, 2016).

A.1 Lough Swilly SAC

Qualifying Interest Estuaries [1130]

National Overall Conservation Status

Inadequate

Conservation Objectives

To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Estuaries in Lough Swilly SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:

Attribute Measure Target

Habitat area Hectares The permanent habitat area is stable or increasing, subject to natural processes. See map 2 (NPWS 2011a)

Community distribution

Hectares The following communities should be conserved in a natural condition: Fine sand community complex; Intertidal mixed sediment with polychaetes; Subtidal mixed sediment with polychaetes and bivalves; Muddy fine sand with Thyasira flexuosa; Mud community complex and Ostrea edulis dominated community. See map 3 (NPWS 2011a)

Qualifying Interest * Coastal lagoons [1150]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Coastal lagoons in Lough Swilly SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable, subject to slight natural variation. Favourable reference area 206ha‐ Inch Lough 176ha; Blanket Nook 30ha. See map 4 (NPWS 2011a)

Salinity regime Practical salinity units (psu)

Maintain median annual salinity within natural ranges: Inch 0.1 ‐ 3.0psu; Blanket Nook 10 ‐ 20psu

Hydrological regime Metres Maintain current annual water level fluctuations and minima

Barrier Sluice function Maintain permeability, including appropriate management of sluices

Water quality: μg/L Reduce annual median chlorophyll a to less than 2.5μg/L at Inch; less than

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Chlorophyll a 5μg/L at Blanket Nook

Water quality: Molybdate Reactive Phosphorus (MRP)

mg/L Reduce annual median MRP to less than 0.01mg/L at Inch; less than 0.02mg/L at Blanket Nook

Water quality: Dissolved Inorganic Nitrogen (DIN)

mg/L Reduce annual median DIN to less than 0.15mg/L at Inch; less than 0.4mg/L at Blanket Nook

Depth of macrophyte colonisation

Metres Increase colonisation to maximum depth of both lagoons

Typical plant species Number and m² Maintain number and extent of listed lagoonal specialists, subject to natural variation

Qualifying Interest Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]


Inadequate


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Atlantic salt meadows in Lough Swilly SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession. For sub‐sites

mapped: Fahan ‐ 7.29ha, Green Hill ‐ 2.02ha, Lower Lough Swilly ‐ 8.44ha, Rathmelton ‐ 10.01ha, Ray ‐ 0.05ha. See map 5 (NPWS 2011a)

Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline, subject to natural processes. See map 5 for known distribution (NPWS 2011a)

Physical structure: sediment supply

Presence/ absence of physical barriers

Maintain/restore natural circulation of sediments and organic matter, without any physical obstructions

Physical structure: creeks and pans

Occurrence Maintain/restore creek and pan structure, subject to natural processes, including erosion and succession

Physical structure: flooding regime

Hectares flooded; frequency

Maintain natural tidal regime

Vegetation structure: zonation

Occurrence Maintain range of saltmarsh habitat zonations including transitional zones, subject to natural processes including erosion and succession. See map 5 (NPWS 2011a)

Vegetation structure: vegetation height

Centimeters Maintain structural variation within sward

Vegetation structure: vegetation cover

Percentage cover at a representative sample of monitoring stops

Maintain more than 90% of area outside creeks vegetated

Vegetation composition: typical species and sub‐communities

Percentage cover at a representative sample of monitoring stops

Maintain range of sub‐ communities with characteristic species listed in Saltmarsh Monitoring Project (McCorry & Ryle, 2009)

Qualifying Interest Otter Lutra lutra [1355]

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Favourable


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Otter in the Lough Swilly SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Distribution Percentage positive survey sites

No significant decline

Extent of terrestrial habitat

Hectares No significant decline. Area mapped and calculated as 95.7ha above high water mark (HWM); 44.0ha along river banks/ around pools

Extent of marine habitat

Hectares No significant decline. Area mapped and calculated as 839.5ha

Extent of freshwater (river) habitat

Kilometers No significant decline. Length mapped and calculated as 15.5km

Extent of freshwater (lake/lagoon) habitat

Hectares No significant decline. Area mapped and calculated as 83.7ha

Couching sites and holts

Number No significant decline

Fish biomass available

Kilograms No significant decline

Barriers to connectivity

Number No significant increase

Qualifying Interest Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles [91A0]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Old oak woodland with Ilex and Blechnum in Lough Swilly SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes, at least 58.68ha for sub‐sites surveyed: Rathmullen

wood ‐ 26.00ha; Salt Pans wood ‐ 13.47ha; Ballynarry wood ‐ 15.61ha;

Carrow Cashel wood ‐ 3.60ha. See map 6 (NPWS 2011a)

Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline. Surveyed locations shown on map 6 (NPWS 2011a)

Woodland size Hectares Large woods at least 25ha in size and “small” woods at least 3ha in size

Woodland structure: cover and height

Percentage and metres Diverse structure with a relatively closed canopy containing mature trees; subcanopy layer with semi‐ mature trees and shrubs; and

well‐developed herb layer

Woodland structure: community diversity and extent

Hectares Maintain diversity and extent of community types, including oak‐ash;

alder‐ash in seepage areas and

alongside streams; oak‐birch; willow‐

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alder‐ash

Woodland structure: natural regeneration

Seedling:sapling:pole ratio

Seedlings, saplings and pole age‐classes occur in adequate proportions to ensure survival of woodland canopy

Woodland structure: dead wood

m³ per hectare; number per hectare

At least 30m³/ha of fallen timber greater than 10cm diameter; 30 snags/ha; both categories should include stems greater than 40cm diameter

Woodland structure: veteran trees

Number per hectare No decline

A.2 Lough Swilly SPA

National Overall Conservation Status from Article 17 reports (NPWS 2013b, 2013a) Conservation Objectives from site specific conservation objectives (NPWS 2011a, 2016).

Qualifying Interest Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus [A005]

National Population size in SPA network

Stable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Great Crested Grebe in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Population trend Percentage change Long term population trend stable or increasing

Distribution Number and range of areas used by waterbirds

No significant decrease in the numbers or range of areas used by waterbird species, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation

Qualifying Interest Grey Heron Ardea cinerea [A028]


Stable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Grey Heron in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus [A038]


Increase


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Whooper Swan in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


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Qualifying Interest Greylag Goose Anser anser [A043]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Greylag Goose in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Shelduck Tadorna tadorna [A048]


Fluctuating


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Shelduck in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Wigeon Anas penelope [A050]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Wigeon in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Teal Anas crecca [A052]


Stable

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To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Teal in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Mallard Anas platyrhynchos [A053]


Stable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Mallard in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Shoveler Anas clypeata [A056]


Fluctuating


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Shoveler in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Scaup Aythya marila [A062]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Scaup in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





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Qualifying Interest Goldeneye Bucephala clangula [A067]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Goldeneye in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator [A069]


Fluctuating


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Red‐breasted Merganser in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Coot Fulica atra [A125]


Increase


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Coot in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus [A130]


Unknown


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Oystercatcher in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:



Distribution Number and range of No significant decrease in the

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areas used by waterbirds

numbers or range of areas used by waterbird species, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation

Qualifying Interest Knot Calidris canutus [A125]


Increase


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Knot in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Dunlin Calidris alpina [A143]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Dunlin in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Curlew Numenius arquata [A160]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Curlew in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Redshank Tringa totanus [A162]


Stable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Redshank in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:

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Qualifying Interest Greenshank Tringa nebularia [A162]


Stable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Greenshank in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus ridibundus [A179]


Unknown


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Black‐headed Gull in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Breeding population abundance: apparently occupied nests (AONs)


Productivity rate: fledged young per breeding pair

Mean number No significant decline

Distribution: breeding colonies

Number; location; area (Hectares)


Qualifying Interest Common Gull Larus canus [A182]


Unknown


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Common Gull in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





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Qualifying Interest Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis [A191]


Increase


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Sandwich Tern in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:









Qualifying Interest Common Tern Sterna hirundo [A193]


Increase


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Common Tern in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:









Qualifying Interest Greenland White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris [A395]


Decrease


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Greenland White‐fronted Goose in Lough Swilly SPA, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:





Qualifying Interest Wetlands and waterbirds [A999]


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of the wetland habitat in Lough Swilly SPA as a resource for the regularly‐occurring migratory waterbirds that utilise it. This is defined by the following attributes and targets:

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Habitat area Hectares The permanent area occupied by the wetland habitat is stable and not significantly less than the areas of 4,162, 2,419, 201 and 317 hectares for subtidal, intertidal, supratidal and lagoon (and associated) habitats respectively, other than that occurring from natural patterns of variation. See map 7 (NPWS 2011a)

A.3 River Finn SAC

Qualifying Interest Salmon Salmo salar [1106]


Inadequate


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Atlantic Salmon in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Distribution: extent of anadromy

Percentage of river accessible

100% of river channels down to second order accessible from estuary

Adult spawning fish Number Conservation limit (CL) for each system consistently exceeded

Salmon fry abundance

Number of fry/5 minutes electrofishing

Maintain or exceed 0+ fry mean catchment-wide abundance threshold value. Currently set at 17 salmon fry/5 minutes sampling

Out-migrating smolt abundance


Number and distribution of redds

Number and occurrence No decline in number and distribution of spawning redds due to anthropogenic causes

Water quality EPA Q value At least Q4 at all sites sampled by EPA

Qualifying Interest Otter Lutra lutra [1355]


Favourable


To maintain the favourable conservation condition of Otter in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Distribution Percentage positive survey sites


Extent of terrestrial habitat

Hectares No significant decline. Area mapped and calculated as 390ha along river banks/lake shoreline/ around ponds

Extent of freshwater (river) habitat

Kilometers No significant decline. Length mapped and calculated as 182.2km

Extent of freshwater (lake) habitat

Hectares No significant decline. Area mapped and calculated as 354ha

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Couching sites and holts


Fish biomass available

Kilograms No significant decline

Barriers to connectivity

Number No significant increase. For guidance, see map 4 (NPWS 2017)

Qualifying Interest Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorae) [3110]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorae) in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:


Habitat area Hectares Area stable or increasing, subject to natural processes

Habitat distribution Occurrence No decline, subject to natural processes

Typical species Occurrence Typical species present, in good condition, and demonstrating typical abundances and distribution

Vegetation composition: characteristic zonation

Occurrence All characteristic zones should be present, correctly distributed and in good condition

Vegetation distribution: maximum depth

Metres Maintain maximum depth of vegetation, subject to natural processes

Hydrological regime: water level fluctuations

Metres Maintain appropriate natural hydrological regime necessary to support the habitat

Lake substratum quality

Various Maintain appropriate substratum type, extent and chemistry to support the vegetation

Water quality: transparency

Metres Maintain appropriate Secchi transparency. There should be no decline in Secchi depth/transparency

Water quality: nutrients

μ/l P; mg/l N Maintain the concentration of nutrients in the water column at sufficiently low levels to support the habitat and its typical species

Water quality: phytoplankton biomass

μ/l Chlorophyll a Maintain appropriate water quality to support the habitat, including high chlorophyll a status

Water quality: phytoplankton composition

EPA phytoplankton composition metric

Maintain appropriate water quality to support the habitat, including high phytoplankton composition status

Water quality: attached algal biomass

Algal cover and EPA phytobenthos metric

Maintain trace/absent attached algal biomass (<5% cover) and high phytobenthos status

Water quality: macrophyte status

EPA macrophyte metric (The Free Index)

Maintain high macrophyte status

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Qualifying Interest Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:




Ecosystem function: soil nutrients

Soil pH and appropriate nutrient levels at a representative number of monitoring stops

Maintain soil nutrient status within natural range

Community diversity Abundance of variety of vegetation communities

Maintain variety of vegetation communities, subject to natural processes

Vegetation composition: cross-leaved heath

Occurrence within 20m of a representative number of monitoring stops

Cross-leaved heath (Erica tetralix) present within a 20m radius of each monitoring stop

Vegetation composition: positive indicator species

Percentage cover at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Cover of positive indicator species at least 50%

Vegetation composition: lichens and bryophytes


Total cover of Cladonia and Sphagnum species, Racomitrium lanuginosum and pleurocarpous mosses at least 10%

Vegetation composition: ericoid species and crowberry


Cover of ericoid species and crowberry (Empetrum nigrum) at least 15%

Vegetation composition: dwarf shrub species


Cover of dwarf shrubs less than 75%

Vegetation composition: negative indicator species


Total cover of negative indicator species less than 1%

Vegetation composition: nonnative species

Percentage cover at, and in local vicinity of, a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Cover of non-native species less than 1%

Vegetation composition: native trees and shrubs

Percentage cover in local vicinity of a representative number of monitoring stops

Cover of scattered native trees and shrubs less than 20%

Vegetation composition: bracken


Cover of bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) less than 10%

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Vegetation composition: soft rush


Cover of soft rush (Juncus effusus) less than 10%

Vegetation structure: Sphagnum condition

Condition at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Less than 10% of the Sphagnum cover is crushed, broken and/or pulled up

Vegetation structure: signs of browsing

Percentage of shoots browsed at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Less than 33% collectively of the last complete growing season's shoots of ericoids, crowberry (Empetrum nigrum) and bog-myrtle (Myrica gale) showing signs of browsing

Vegetation structure: burning

Occurrence in local vicinity of a representative number of monitoring stops

No signs of burning in sensitive areas, into the moss, liverwort or lichen layer or exposure of peat surface due to burning

Physical structure: disturbed bare ground


Cover of disturbed bare ground less than 10%

Physical structure: drainage

Percentage area in local vicinity of a representative number of monitoring stops

Area showing signs of drainage from heavy trampling, tracking or ditches less than 10%

Indicators of local distinctiveness

Occurrence and population size

No decline in distribution or population sizes of rare, threatened or scarce species associated with the habitat

Qualifying Interest Blanket bogs (* if active bog) [7130]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Blanket bogs (*if active bog) in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:







Ecosystem function: peat formation

Active blanket bog as a proportion of the total area of Annex I blanket bog habitat

At least 99% of the total Annex I blanket bog area is active

Ecosystem function: hydrology

Flow direction, water levels, occurrence of drains and erosion gullies

Natural hydrology unaffected by drains and erosion


Maintain variety of vegetation communities, subject to natural

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processes

Vegetation composition: positive indicator species

Number of species at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Number of positive indicator species present at each monitoring stop is at least seven

Vegetation composition: lichens and bryophytes


Cover of bryophytes or lichens, excluding Sphagnum fallax, at least 10%

Vegetation composition: potential dominant species


Cover of each of the potential dominant species less than 75%







Vegetation composition: native trees and shrubs


Cover of scattered native trees and shrubs less than 10%

Vegetation structure: Sphagnum condition

Condition at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Less than 10% of the Sphagnum cover is crushed, broken and/or pulled up

Vegetation structure: signs of browsing

Percentage of shoots browsed at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Last complete growing season's shoots of ericoids, crowberry (Empetrum nigrum) and bog-myrtle (Myrica gale) showing signs of browsing collectively less than 33%

Vegetation structure: burning

Occurrence in local vicinity of a representative number of monitoring stops

No signs of burning in sensitive areas, into the moss, liverwort or lichen layer or exposure of peat surface due to burning







Physical structure: erosion


Less than 5% of the greater bog mosaic comprises erosion gullies and eroded areas



No decline in distribution or population sizes of rare, threatened or scarce species associated with the habitat

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Qualifying Interest Transition mires and quaking bogs [7140]


Bad


To restore the favourable conservation condition of Transition mires and quaking bogs in River Finn SAC, which is defined by the following list of attributes and targets:








Maintain variety of vegetation communities, subject to natural processes

Vegetation composition: number of positive indicator species

Vegetation composition: number of positive indicator species

Number of positive indicator species at each monitoring stop is at least three for infilling pools and flushes and at least six for fens

Vegetation composition: number of core positive indicator species

Number of species at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

At least one core positive indicator species present

Vegetation composition: cover of positive indicator species


Total cover of positive indicator species is at least 25%







Vegetation structure: height

Percentage of leaves/shoots at a representative number of 2m x 2m monitoring stops

Proportion of live leaves and/or flowering shoots of vascular plants that are more than 15cm above the ground surface should be at least 50%









No decline in distribution or population sizes of rare, threatened

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or scarce species associated with the habitat

B Flora and Fauna Species name Title of dataset Designation

Natterer's Bat (Myotis nattereri)

National Bat Database of Ireland

Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex IV || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Atlantic White-sided Dolphin (Lagenorhynchus acutus)

IWDG Cetacean Strandings Database


Eurasian Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)

Northern Ireland Mammal Database

Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Common Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)


Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex IV || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Threatened Species: OSPAR Convention

Red-neck Forklet-moss (Dicranella cerviculata)

Bryophytes of Ireland Threatened Species: Near threatened

Daubenton's Bat (Myotis daubentonii)



Lesser Noctule (Nyctalus leisleri)









Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus sensu lato)



Soprano Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus)












2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XVIII

Spruce's Bristle-moss (Orthotrichum sprucei)

Bryophytes of Ireland Protected Species: Flora Protection Order || Threatened Species: Vulnerable

European Otter (Lutra lutra)

Atlas of Mammals in Ireland 2010-2015

Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex IV || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Bottle-nosed Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

IWDG Casual Cetacean Sightings



Bats of Northern Ireland Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex IV || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Pine Marten (Martes martes)


Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex V || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Killarney Fern (Trichomanes speciosum)

BSBI tetrad data for Ireland Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex IV || Protected Species: Flora Protection Order || Threatened Species: Vulnerable

Large Bitter-cress (Cardamine amara)

BSBI tetrad data for Ireland Threatened Species: Vulnerable

Small Cudweed (Filago minima)

BSBI tetrad data for Ireland Protected Species: Flora Protection Order || Threatened Species: Vulnerable

Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia)

All Ireland Marsh Fritillary Database

Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Threatened Species: Vulnerable




Eurasian Pygmy Shrew (Sorex minutus)



Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus)

NPWS Seal Database Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex V || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Common Seal (Phoca vitulina)

NPWS Seal Database Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex V || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Common Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus sensu stricto)



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Barn Owl (Tyto alba)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)


Common Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)


Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Linnet (Carduelis cannabina)


Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section I Bird Species

Common Redshank (Tringa totanus)


Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)


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Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)


Common Swift (Apus apus)


Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus)


Eurasian Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola)


Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)


Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)


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Herring Gull (Larus argentatus)


House Martin (Delichon urbicum)


House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)


Jack Snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species

Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus)


Little Grebe (Tachybaptus ruficollis)


Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos)


Mew Gull (Larus canus)


Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)


Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)


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Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species

Rock Pigeon (Columba livia)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species

Sand Martin (Riparia riparia)


Sky Lark (Alauda arvensis)


Spotted Flycatcher (Muscicapa striata)


Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)


Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella)


Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea)


Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)


Barnacle Goose (Branta leucopsis)


2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXIII

Bewick's Swan (Cygnus columbianus subsp. bewickii)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle)


Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa)


Brent Goose (Branta bernicla)


Common Eider (Somateria mollissima)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Guillemot (Uria aalge)




2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXIV

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)






Common Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna)




Common Swift (Apus apus)


Common Tern (Sterna hirundo)


Common Wood Pigeon (Columba palumbus)


Dunlin (Calidris alpina)


2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXV

Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)


Eurasian Teal (Anas crecca)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List



Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)




European Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis)


Gadwall (Anas strepera)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

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Goosander (Mergus merganser)


Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)


Greater Scaup (Aythya marila)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Hen Harrier (Circus cyaneus)








2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXVII



Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)




Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species

Merlin (Falco columbarius)




Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)


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Pink-footed Goose (Anser brachyrhynchus)


Razorbill (Alca torda)


Red Kite (Milvus milvus)


Red Knot (Calidris canutus)


Red-throated Diver (Gavia stellata)


Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula)




Ruff (Philomachus pugnax)




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Sandwich Tern (Sterna sandvicensis)


Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus)




Slavonian Grebe (Podiceps auritus)




Stock Pigeon (Columba oenas)


Twite (Carduelis flavirostris)


Water Rail (Rallus aquaticus)






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Common Coot (Fulica atra)




Common Grasshopper Warbler (Locustella naevia)










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European Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List





Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)








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Jack Snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species









Northern Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe)






Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator)




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Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)






Barn Owl (Tyto alba)




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Barnacle Goose (Branta leucopsis)


Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica)




Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa)


Black-throated Diver (Gavia arctica)


Brent Goose (Branta bernicla)




Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia)


Common Guillemot (Uria aalge)


2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXXVI

















Dunlin (Calidris alpina)


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2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XXXVIII


Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List







Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)


Greater Scaup (Aythya marila)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Greater White-fronted Goose (Anser albifrons)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola)


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Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)




Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis)








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Northern Pintail (Anas acuta)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List



Razorbill (Alca torda)


Red Knot (Calidris canutus)




Red-throated Diver (Gavia stellata)


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Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula)






Slavonian Grebe (Podiceps auritus)













Smooth Newt (Lissotriton vulgaris)

Newt Survey 2010-2014 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

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Eurasian Badger (Meles meles)

Road Kill Survey Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Whiskered Bat (Myotis mystacinus)









Irish Squirrel Survey 2012 Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris)

Rare birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus)

Chondrichthyans Of Ireland Restricted Records

Threatened Species: OSPAR Convention







Common Frog (Rana temporaria)

Amphibians and reptiles of Ireland












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West European Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)













Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section I Bird Species

Brown Long-eared Bat (Plecotus auritus)














Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis)




Badger Setts of Ireland Database


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Mammals of Ireland 2016-2025



Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List




Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera (Margaritifera) margaritifera)

General Biodiversity Records from Ireland

Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex II || Protected Species: EU Habitats Directive >> Annex V || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

Eurasian Pygmy Shrew (Sorex minutus)

Mammals of Ireland 2016-2025


Shady Horsetail (Equisetum pratense)

Online Atlas of Vascular Plants 2012-2020

Threatened Species: Vulnerable


Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List





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Common Greenshank (Tringa nebularia)





Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species

Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica)

Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List



Common Coot (Fulica atra)

Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)


2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XLVI


Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List


Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section III Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List








Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Red List



2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XLVII






Birds of Ireland Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex I Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List







2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XLVIII

C Non-native invasive species Species name Title of dataset Designation

American Mink (Mustela vison)


Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> High Impact Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland)







Arthurdendyus triangulatus

New Zealand Flatworm (Arthurdendyus triangulates) Database

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> High Impact Invasive Species







Black Currant (Ribes nigrum)

BSBI tetrad data for Ireland

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Medium Impact Invasive Species

Black Currant (Ribes nigrum)



Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus)



Butterfly-bush (Buddleja davidii)



Butterfly-bush (Buddleja davidii)



Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)

Birds of Ireland Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> High Impact Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II,

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx XLIX

Section I Bird Species

Canadian Waterweed (Elodea canadensis)









Corbicula fluminea National Invasive Species Database


Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)

Irish Squirrel Survey 2012

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> High Impact Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> EU Regulation No. 1143/2014 || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland)













European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)



European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)



Fallow Deer (Dama dama)

Deer of Ireland Database

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> High Impact Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx L

Feral Ferret (Mustela furo)

National Feral Ferret (Mustela putoris furo) Database


Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum)




National Invasive Species Database





Greylag Goose (Anser anser)

Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List


Bird Atlas 2007 - 2011

Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List


Birds of Ireland Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland) || Protected Species: Wildlife Acts || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex II, Section I Bird Species || Protected Species: EU Birds Directive >> Annex III, Section II Bird Species || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern || Threatened Species: Birds of Conservation Concern >> Birds of Conservation Concern - Amber List

Indian Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera)









2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LI







Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica)















Portuguese Oyster (Crassostrea gigas)



Portuguese Oyster (Crassostrea gigas)



Rhododendron ponticum



Salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis)


Invasive Species: Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Medium Impact Invasive Species || Invasive Species: Invasive Species >> Regulation S.I. 477 (Ireland)

Sika Deer (Cervus nippon)



Sika Deer (Cervus nippon)



2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LII

Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus)



Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus)



Traveller's-joy (Clematis vitalba)



2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LIII

D Environmental Drainage Maintenance Manual

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LIV

E Foreman's Bridge Inspection Report

Rev 0415

Driver Bridge Inspection Report

Scheme: Date of inspection:

Channel: Bridge No.:

Chainage:

Approx. Age of Bridge General Condition Good

Fair

Bridge Type Box Culvert Poor

Pipe Culvert

Masonry Arch Repairs Required

Stone Arch Inspection Required

Other

Bank Erosion U/S

Number of Spans Bank Erosion D/S

Deck Present Parapets Present

Deck Type Reinforced

Concrete

Parapets Number Present

Timber

Steel Parapets Condition Good

Stone/Masonry Fair

Combination Poor

Other

Parapets Type Reinforced Concrete

Deck Condition Good Timber

Fair Steel

Poor Stone/Masonry

Combination

Wing Walls Present Other

Wing Walls Number Access Good

Fair

Wing Walls

Condition

Good Poor

Fair

Poor Use Road Traffic

Agricultural

Floor Present Footbridge

Railway

Floor Number

Frequency of Use Not Used

Floor Condition Good Low Usage

Fair High Usage

Poor

Remarks

Inspected by: Foreman’s Initials:

Rev 0415

Foreman Bridge Inspection Report

Date of inspection: ________________________________

Inspected by: ________________________________

Maintenance required Yes If yes – programme maintenance for next year

and complete below No

Emergency works required Yes

If yes – complete below No

In-channel works required Yes

If yes - apply water quality mitigation measures No

Cracks present that could be used by

roosting bats

*For brick or stone structures only

Yes If yes - refer to Environment Section with

photograph as additional surveys may be

required No

Dense ivy cover that could be used by bats

Yes If yes - refer to Environment Section with

photograph as additional surveys may be

required No

Ledges present that are / could be used by

nesting birds

Yes If yes – avoid nesting season or survey for nesting

birds prior to maintenance No

Dense bank-side vegetation surrounding the

structure suitable for birds

Yes If yes – avoid nesting season or survey for nesting

birds prior to maintenance No

Dense bank-side vegetation surrounding the

structure suitable for otter

Yes If yes - check for presence of otter/badger –

Refer to Environment Section with photo if

found as licence may be required No

Non-native invasive species detailed in

'Invasives SOP' present

Yes If yes, refer to Environment Section with

photograph No

Suitable for installation of bat box Yes If yes – inform Environment Section once

installed No

Suitable for installation of bird (dipper) box Yes If yes – inform Environment Section once

installed No

Remarks

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LV

F Environmental Risk Assessment Form

OPW Arterial Drainage

Rev 11/17

Environmental Risk Assessment

To be completed by the works manager where the following conditions are met

Works within an SAC or SPA Yes☐

Works on a major channel (i.e. base width greater than 3m) Yes☐

More than 10 years since maintenance on the Channel (>3m) or Embankment Yes☐

General Site Details

Start Date: Click or tap to enter a date. Est Completion Date: Click or tap to enter a date.

Site Location: Click or tap here to enter text. Scheme: Click or tap here to enter text.

Channel No./Ref.: Click or tap here to enter text. Bridge No.: Click or tap here to enter text.

GPS coordinates: Click or tap here to enter text. Road Number: Click or tap here to enter text. Nature of Works: Programmed ☐ Non-Programmed ☐ Emergency ☐

If Yes is answered to any of the following questions, forward to Environment Section

Does the work entail heavy tree or vegetation removal on a channel, embankment or machine access corridor?

Yes ☐ No ☐

Does the works entail embankment refurbishment works not classified as general maintenance?

Yes ☐ No ☐

Does the works entail more than 40m of bank protection or other structural work on a channel?

Yes ☐ No ☐

Are the nature of the works or location of the works outside the scope of the associated arterial drainage maintenance five year Appropriate Assessments?

Yes ☐ No ☐

Additional Information

From the GIS records, is this a Freshwater Pearl Mussel location? Yes ☐ No ☐

Have particular sensitivities been flagged by other stakeholders such as IFI or NPWS? Yes ☐ No ☐

Is there a requirement to carry out the works outside the appropriate environmental window?

Yes ☐ No ☐

Signed:

Date:Click or tap to enter a date.

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LVI

G Ecological Survey Extent

004039004060

004075

004087

000173

001179

002047

002159

002287

002301

000116

002176

LegendOPW Arterial Drainage Scheme ChannelsSurvey CoverageSpecial Areas of Conservation (SAC)

OPW Arterial Drainage Scheme EmbankmentsFull survey coverageSpecial Protection Areas (SPA)

¯0 4 8km

© Ordnance Survey Ireland, 2018. All rightsreserved. Licence number AR 0107218.

Survey: Donegal 2018

2018s0768 - Office of Public Works - NIS Donegal V2.0.docx LVII

H Channels, Embankments, Bridges and Sluices screened into assessment and pathways of impact

Channels

OVERALL_ID REF Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater

8741 C1 x x x x x x

C1 x x x x

C1 x x x

C1 x x

C1 x x

C1 x x

8565 C1/1 x x x x x x

8629 C1/10 x x x

8634 C1/11 x x

8636 C1/11/1 x x

8639 C1/12 x x

8644 C1/13 x x

8650 C1/14 x x

8652 C1/14/1

8653 C1/14/2

8657 C1/15 x x

8658 C1/15/1 x x

8664 C1/15/2 x x

8673 C1/15/3 x x

8672 C1/15/4 x x

8670 C1/15/5 x x

8678 C1/16 x x

8686 C1/17 x x

8688 C1/17/1 x x

8687 C1/17/2 x x

8693 C1/18

8694 C1/19 x x

8568 C1/2 x x x x x x

8695 C1/20 x x

8696 C1/21

8697 C1/22 x x

8698 C1/23

8699 C1/23/1

8700 C1/24 x x

8701 C1/24/1 x x

8702 C1/25 x x

8705 C1/25/1 x x

8706 C1/25/1/1 x x

8708 C1/26 x x

8709 C1/27 x x

8710 C1/27/1

8711 C1/27/2 x x

8713 C1/27/2/1 x x

8712 C1/27/2/2 x x

8714 C1/27/3

8715 C1/27/4 x x

8716 C1/27/4/1

8717 C1/27/6 x x

8719 C1/27/6/1 x x

8718 C1/27/6/2 x x

8720 C1/27/7

8721 C1/27/8 x x

8724 C1/28 x x

8725 C1/28/1 x x

8726 C1/28/2 x x

8722 C1/29 x x

8723 C1/29/1 x x

8575 C1/3 x x x x x x

8576 C1/3/1 x x x x x

8727 C1/30 x x

8728 C1/30/1 x x

8729 C1/31 x x

8730 C1/32 x x

8731 C1/32/1 x x

8732 C1/32/1/1 x x

8733 C1/33 x x

8734 C1/34 x x

8735 C1/35 x x

8739 C1/36 x x

8737 C1/36/1 x x

8738 C1/36/2 x x

8736 C1/37 x x

8577 C1/4 x x x x x x

8592 C1/4/1 x x x x x

8590 C1/4/2 x x x x

8591 C1/4/2/1 x x

8589 C1/4/3 x x x x

8579 C1/4/4 x x x x

8578 C1/4/4/1 x x

8580 C1/4/4/2 x

8594 C1/5 x x x x x

8600 C1/6 x x x x x

8605 C1/6/1 x x x x

8610 C1/7 x x x x

8611 C1/8 x x x

8623 C1/9 x x x

8626 C1/9/1 x x x

8625 C1/9/2 x

8624 C1/9/3

C10 x x x x

C10A x x x x

C11 x x x x

Channel Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343) Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

Channels

OVERALL_ID REF Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater

Channel Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343) Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

8559 C2 x x x x x x

8560 C2/1 x x x x

8558 C3 x x x x x x

8554 C4 x x x x x x

8555 C4/1 x x x x

8551 C5 x x x x

8548 C6 x x x x x x

8547 C7 x x x x x x

8743 C8 x x x x

C9 x x x x

8567 D1 x x x x x x

8596 D10 x x x x

8597 D10 x x x x x

8618 D11 x x x

8627 D12 x x x

8628 D12 x x

8640 D12 x x

8645 D12 x x

8655 D13 x x

8656 D13 x x

8570 D14 x x x x x x

8574 D15 x x x x x x

8584 D16 x x x x x x

8586 D16 x x x x

8582 D17 x x x x x x

8593 D2 x x x x x

8604 D20 x x x x x

8619 D22 x x x

8620 D22A x x x

8622 D23 x x x

8621 D23A x x x

8649 D24 x x

8651 D25 x x

8648 D26 x x

8661 D27 x x

8662 D28 x x

8663 D28 x x

8671 D29 x x

8608 D3 x x x x x

8668 D30 x x

8682 D31 x x

8680 D32 x x

8692 D34 x x

8557 D35 x x x x x x

8552 D36 x x x x x x

8549 D37 x x x x x x

8545 D38 x x x x x x

8544 D39 x x x x x x

8609 D4 x x x x x

D41 x x x x

8562 D42 x x x x x x

D43 x x x x

D43A x x x x

D44 x x x x

D45 x x x x

D46 x x x x

D47 x x x x

8601 D47A x x x x x

8641 D5 x x x

8630 D52 x x

8631 D53 x x

8677 D6 x x

8690 D6 x x

8564 D7 x x x x x x

8572 D8 x x x x x x

8598 D9 x x x x x

8599 D9 x x x x x x

Outfall Creek x x x x

Embankments

TYPE_ID UNIQUE_ID Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater

8588 x x x x

8602 x x x x x

8613 x x

8614 x x

8632 x x

8633 x x

8637 x x

8638 x x

8642 x x

8643 x x

8674 x x

8675 x x

8684 x x

x x x x

8587 x x x x

E1 8566 x x x x x x

E10 8616 x x

E11 8617 x x

E12 8654 x x

E13 8683 x x

E14 8569 x x x x x x

E15 8573 x x x x x x

E16 8583 x x x x x x

E18 8581 x x x x x x

E19 8585 x x x x

E2 8660 x x

E2 8607 x x x x x

E22 8603 x x x x x

E23 8612 x x

E24 8615 x x

E25 8646 x x

E26 8647 x x

E27 8669 x x

E27 8659 x x

E28 8667 x x

E29 8665 x x

E3 8676 x x

E30 8666 x x

E31 8681 x x

E32 8679 x x

E33 8689 x x

E34 8691 x x

E35 8704 x x

E36 8703 x x

E37 8556 x x x x x x

E38 8553 x x x x x x

E39 8550 x x x x x x

E4 8685 x x

E40 8546 x x x x x x

E41 8742 x x x x x x

E43 x x x x

E43 8561 x x x x x x

E43A x x x x

E44 x x x x

E47 8606 x x x x

E5 8707

E7 8563 x x x x x x

E8 8571 x x x x x x

E9 8595 x x x x x x

x x x x

x x x x

E46 x x x x

E44 x x x x

Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343)Embankment Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

Bridges

Type ID Channel_ID Unique ID Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater

B16 C1/2 17735 x x x x

BX1 C1/2 17730 x x x x x

BX2 C1/2 17732 x x x x x

B18 C1/3 17733 x x

BX1 C1/3 17734 x x

BX1 C1/3/1 17739 x x x x x

BX1 C1/4 17773 x x x x

B20 C1/4/1 17743 x x x x

BX1 C1/4/1 17750 x x x x x

BX1 C1/4/2 17767 x x x x

BX2 C1/4/2 17766 x x x x

BX3 C1/4/2 17758 x x x x

BX4 C1/4/2 17755 x x

B21 C1/4/3 17771 x x

BX1 C1/5 17744 x x x x

B125 C2 17726 x x x x

BX1 C2 17724 x x x x x

B127 C3 17717 x x x x x x

BX1 C3 17723 x x x x x

BX2 C3 17728 x x

B128 C4/1 17714 x x x x

BX1 C4/1 17716 x x x

BX2 C4/1 17718 x x

BX3 C4/1 17720 x x

BX4 C4/1 17722 x x

BX1 C6 17698 x x x x

BX1 C7 17696 x x x x x x

BX2 C7 17695 x x x x x x

BX3 C7 17694 x x x x x x

BX4 C7 17693 x x x x x x

BX1 D20 17776 x x x x

BX2 D3 17779 x x x x x

BX3 D3 17778 x x x x x

BX1 D36 17709 x x x x

BX1 D37 17703 x x x x

BX2 D37 17705 x x x x

BX3 D37 17706 x x x x

BX4 D37 17707 x x x x x x

BX1 D7 17725 x x x x x x

BX1 D9 17754 x x x x x x

BX2 D9 17747 x x x x x x

BX4 D9 17762 x x x x x

BX5 D9 17765 x x x x x

BX1 E9 17772 x x x x x

B10 x x

B100 x x

B101 x x

B102 x x

B104 x x

B105 x x

B106

B107 x x

B108 x x

B109 x x

B11 x x

B110 x x

B111 x x

B112 x x

B113 x x

B114 x x

B115 x x

B116 x x

B117 x x

B118 x x

B119 x x

B12 x x

B120 x x

B121 x x

B122 x x

B123 x x

B124 x x

B13 x x

B14 x x

B24 x x x x

B27 x x x

B29 x

B29 x x

B3

B30

B31

B34 x x

B37 x x

B38 x x

B4 x x

B4

B44 x x

B45 x x

B5

B57 x x

B58 x x

B59

B6

B62 x x

B63 x x

B64 x x

B65 x x

B66 x x

B67 x x

Bridge Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343) Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

Bridges



B68 x x

B7 x x

B72

B75

B76

B77 x x

B78

B79

B8 x x

B80

B81

B82

B83 x x

B86

B87

B89 x x

B89

B9 x x

B90 x x

B91 x x

B92

B93

B94

B95

B96

B98 x x

B99 x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x

Bx x x x x x

Bx x x x x

Bx x x x x

Bx x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

Bx x x x x x x

BX1 x x x x

BX1 x x x x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x

BX1 x x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1

BX1

BX1

BX1 x x

BX1

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX1 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2

BX2

BX2

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

Bridges



BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX2 x x

BX3 x x

BX3 x x

BX3 x x

BX3

BX3 x x

BX3

BX3 x x

BX3 x x

BX3 x x

BX4 x x

BX4 x x

BX4 x x

BX4

BX4 x x

BX4 x x

BX5 x x

BX5 x x

BX6 x x

BX6 x x

BX7 x x

BX7 x x

SL.1 x x x x x x

SL.10 x x x x x

SL.100 x x x

SL.101 x x x

SL.102(2) x x x

SL.103 x x

SL.104 x x

SL.105 x x

SL.106 x x

SL.107 x x

SL.108 x x

SL.109 x x

SL.11 x x x x x

SL.110 x x

SL.111 x x

SL.112(2) x x

SL.113 x x

SL.114 x x

SL.115 x x

SL.116 x x

SL.117 x x

SL.118 x x

SL.119 x x

SL.12 x x x x x

SL.120 x x

SL.121 x x

SL.122 x x

SL.123 x x

SL.124 x x

SL.125 x x

SL.126 x x

SL.127 x x

SL.128 x x

SL.129 x x

SL.13 x x x x x

SL.130 x x

SL.131 x x

SL.132 x x

SL.133 x x

SL.134 x x

SL.135 x x

SL.136 x x

SL.137 x x

SL.138 x x

SL.139 x x

SL.14 x x x x x

SL.140 x x

SL.141 x x

SL.142 x x

SL.143(2) x x x x x x

SL.144(2) x x x x x x

SL.145 x x x x x x

SL.146 x x x x

SL.147 x x x x

SL.148 x x x x x x

SL.149 x x x x x x

SL.15 x x x x x

SL.150 x x x x

SL.151 x x x x x x

SL.152(2) x x x x x x

SL.153 x x x x

SL.154 x x x x

SL.155 x x x x

SL.156 x x x x x x

SL.157 x x x x x x

SL.158(2) x x x x x x

SL.159 x x x x x x

SL.16 x x x x x

SL.160 x x x x x x

SL.161 x x x x x x

SL.162(2) x x x x x x

SL.163 x x x x x x

Bridges



SL.164 x x x x x x

SL.165 x x x x x x

SL.166 x x x x x x

SL.167 x x x x x x

SL.168 x x x x x x

SL.169 x x x x x x

SL.17 x x x x x

SL.170 x x x x x x

SL.18 x x x x x

SL.19 x x

SL.2 x x x x x x

SL.20 x x x x

SL.21 x x x x

SL.22 x x x

SL.23 x x x

SL.24 x x x

SL.25 x x x

SL.26 x x x

SL.27 x x

SL.28 x x

SL.29 x x

SL.3(2) x x x x x x

SL.30 x x

SL.31 x x

SL.32 x x

SL.33 x x

SL.34 x x

SL.35 x x

SL.36(2) x x

SL.37 x x

SL.38

SL.39

SL.4 x x x x x x

SL.40

SL.41

SL.42

SL.43(2) x x

SL.44

SL.45

SL.46 x x x x x x

SL.47 x x x x x x

SL.48 x x x x x x

SL.49 x x x x x x

SL.5 x x x x x x

SL.50 x x x x x x

SL.51 x x x x x

SL.52 x x x x x

SL.53 x x x x x

SL.54 x x x x x

SL.55 x x x x x

SL.56 x x x x x

SL.57 x x x x

SL.58 x x x x

SL.59 x x x x

SL.6 x x x x x x

SL.60 x x x

SL.61 x x x

SL.62 x x x

SL.63 x x x

SL.64 x x

SL.65 x x

SL.66 x x

SL.67 x x

SL.68 x x

SL.69 x x

SL.7 x x x x x x

SL.70(2) x x

SL.71 x x

SL.72(2)

SL.73

SL.74

SL.75 x x

SL.76

SL.77

SL.78

SL.79 x x x x x x

SL.8 x x x x x

SL.80 x x x x x x

SL.81 x x x x x x

SL.82 x x x x x x

SL.83 x x x x x x

SL.84 x x x x

SL.85 x x x x x x

SL.86 x x x x x

SL.87 x x x x x

SL.88 x x x x x

SL.89 x x x x

SL.9 x x x x x

SL.90 x x x x x

SL.91 x x x x x

SL.92 x x x x

SL.93 x x x x

SL.94 x x x x

SL.95 x x x x

SL.96 x x x x

SL.97 x x x x

SL.98 x x x

SL.99 x x x

Sluices


D13 17845 SL x x

D6 17831 SL x x

D6 17838 SL x x

D7 17727 SL x x x x x x

E2 17808 SL

E4 17870 SL

E40 17699 SL x x x x x x

17769 SL x x x x

D36 17710 SL 171 x x x x x x

D37 17704 SL 173 x x x x x x

D37 17702 Sl 174 x x x x x x

D39 17995 SL 180 x x x x

E23 17796 SL(2) 124 x x x

D39 17996 SL(2) 179 x x x x x x

D1 17738 SL(2) 5 x x x x x x

D35 17713 SL(2)167 x x x x x x

D1 17742 SL10 x x x x x

E13 17896 SL101

E13 17910 SL102

D14 17736 SL103 x x x x x x

D14 17737 SL104 x x x x x x

D16 17749 SL108 x x x x x x

D16 17756 Sl109 x x x x x

D2 17751 SL11 x x x x x

D16 17752 SL110 x x x x x

D17 17753 SL114 x x x x x x

D17 17761 SL115 x x x x x x

D17 17759 SL116 x x x x x

D17 17760 SL117 x x x x x

D17 17764 SL117A x x x x x

D2 17757 SL12 x x x x x

D22 17795 SL123 x x x

D23 17797 SL128 x x x

D23 17800 SL129 x x x

D2 17763 SL13 x x x x x

E26 17826 SL130 x x

E25 17823 SL131 x x

E25 17824 SL133 x x

D28 17829 SL138 x x

D29 17840 SL139 x x

D2 17770 SL14 x x x x x

D29 17846 SL140 x x

E28 17837 SL144 x x

E36 17882 SL161 x x

D35 17719 SL164 x x x x x x

D35 17711 SL170 x x x x x x

D36 17708 Sl172 x x x x

E39 17701 SL174A x x x x x x

E40 17700 SL175 x x x x x x

E40 17697 SL177 x x x x x x

D3 17775 SL18 x x x x x

D42 17721 SL184 x x x x x x

D42 17715 SL185 x x x x x x

D4 17785 SL21 x x x x x

D4 17790 SL22 x x x x

D4 17793 SL25 x x x

E2 17806 SL30 x x

D5 17810 SL33 x x

D5 17820 SL35 x x

17830 SL37 x x

E4 17856 SL46 x x

E4 17857 SL47

E4 17864 SL48

E4 17865 SL49

E4 17878 SL51 x x

E5 17884 SL52

E5 17895 SL53

D7 17729 SL58 x x x x x x

D7 17731 SL59 x x x x x x

D8 17740 SL61 x x x x x x

D8 17745 SL62 x x x x x x

D9 17748 SL64 x x x x x

D9 17768 SL66 x x x x x

E9 17774 SL69 x x x x x

D9 17777 SL70 x x x x x

D10 17784 SL71 x x x x x

D10 17789 SL72 x x x x

D10 17791 Sl73 x x x x

17792 SL74 x x x x

17794 SL75 x x x

E24 17798 SL76 x x x

D12 17804 SL77 x x x

17807 SL82 x x

E11 17813 SL84 x x

D1 17741 SL9 x x x x x

C1/21 17866 SL97

E13 17872 SL98

E13 17880 SL99 x x

D6 17843 SLX1 x x

E13 17909 SLX1

Sluices Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343) Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

Sluices


Sluices Castlemaine Harbour SAC (000343) Castlemaine Harbour SPA (004029)

E35 17888 SLX1 x x

E36 17889 SLX1 x x

E36 17890 SLX2 x x

Offices at

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Limerick

Registered Office

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Corbally

Limerick

Ireland

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