, Local Authorities Responsibilities · Local Authorities Responsibilities The implementation of...

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Local Authorities Responsibilities

Table 12 Local Authorities Responsibilities Management Proposals Implementation

Measure I Status Catchment-Wide

Establish a staffed catchment manaoement centre within the Lou!?;h Leane area ~ Organise a water quality education and awareness programme and maintain the Phosphorus

Awareness Campaign ~

Implement the ICDA (Irish Cosmetics and Detergents Associat ion - formerly IDAPA) proposals ,/

Develop the role of the Working Group and create a Management Proposal Implementation

Sub Committee ,/

Secure add itional resources for the implementation of management proposals ,/

Environment Section Structure

Formalise responsibi lity structures and job specifications ,/

Develop forma lized repol1 ing structures ~

Establish a liaison forum regarding environmental issues to address catchment issues ~

Develop and implement water quality strategies and initiatives ~

Industrial Discharges

Review and upgrade of all ex isting Local Authority discharge licences ,/

Establish monitoring and policing procedures -+ Enforce ex ist ing and newly introduced licences by the provision of resources for the

inspection and monitoring of industrial sites -+ Waste Management

Establish a Transfer Station and Operat ional Procedures M anual -+ Undertake add itional monitoring and reporting -+ Implement a Closure Plan for Coolcaslagh landfill si te ~

Upgrade effluent treatment or transfer effluent to Killarney WWTP ,/

Provide a bund around diesel storage tank ,/

Stream organic wastes for recycling initiatives ~

Water Supply

Establish a water abstraction Operational Procedures Manual ~

Ensure that chlorine is stored in suitable locked internal stores ,/

Undertake a review of activities and planning control in the Lough Guitane catchment to address

domestic sewage discharges, agricultural activity and forestry development ~

Make a byelaw for the Lough Guitane catchment regarding agricu ltural priorities ~

Secure add itional resources for the monitoring and implementation of management proposals ~

Municipa l Discharges

Investigate Killarney WWTP's capacity and performance including provision of additional levels

of P removal and storm water tanks ~

Provide an addit ional technician at Killarney WWTP ,/

Continue the pi lot fat removal trials at Killarney WWTP ,/

Develop and implement a Sludge Disposal Strategy under the County Sludge Management Strategy ~

Include NM Ps on spreadlands ~

UndeJ1ake a sewerage study to investigate, monitor and model the performance of pumping stations

and the operat ion of storm water overflows and foul system overflows ~

Undertake further flow and water quality monitoring of the Folly Stream ~

Investigate alternative effluent discharge systems for Ki llarney WWTP ~

33

~ \..eane CatchovQ> ~ "'E>

v ~ "",4101'111 t\t.

Local A uthorities Responsibilities Filla! Report 2003

Undertake a cost benefi t analysis of connecting appropriate outlying treatment plants -+ Upgrade or review operation of outlying treatment works and prioritise provision of treatment at

Barradu ff and Kilcummin -+ Secure additional resources for the monitoring and implementation of management proposals -+

Laboratory Facility

Upgrade the laboratory's capacity and in vestigate the feasibility of new laboratory facilities -+ Continue and extend participation in the EPA intercalibration programme and develop towards

ILAB Compliance. -+ Establish a Laboratory Procedures Manual -+ Upgrade the monitoring database and improve data distribution ." Develop water quality monitoring programmes in response to new legislation -+ Secure additional resources for the implementation of management proposals -+

Pollution Response

Appoint an Executive Engineer/Scientist to fully establish and lead the pollution response team ." Develop a Procedures Manual -+ Raise Pollution awareness through site visits -+ Identi fy risks and develop a contingency plan for response to pollution incidents -+

Tourism Sector

Formulate a policy requiring provision of facilities for separation of fats, oils and greases at source

10 be implemented by the Local Authority by introduction of a Byelaw, notices or licences under the

Water Pollution Act -+ Formulate a policy to develop a fats, oils and greases collection and disposal faci lity -+ Extend towel re-use scheme -+ Participate in Ken-y County Counci l's composting scheme ." Introduce Eco-tourism awards/recognition X

Secure additional resources for the implementation of management proposals -+

Key implemented and ongoing ./ in progress -+ no action X

rev iew progress with reg ard to implementing

man age me nt meas ures . Durin g 2001 a nd 2002

des pit e di sruption of Local Authoriti es' work

schedules due to the Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD)

precautions and reorgani sation under the Belter

L ocal Government initiative, the Local Authorities

made significant progress in implementing " in

house" measures (Table 12) .

not, as yet, been implemented. These outst.anding

work elements are highlighted in the relevant report

sections.

Th e Second In te rim Re port a lso prese nted

agricultural , septic tank and forestry management

proposals. Progress in relation to implementation of

measures in each of these sectors is reported in

Section s 6 , 7 and 8 res pec ti ve ly. It mu st be

emphasised that significant measures which require

Local Authority action , particularl y in relation to

agricultural and septic tank pollution sources, have

34

Kcy Issucs

On a catchment-wide level Kerry County Council

have made resources ava il ab le from wi thin their

ex istin g bud gets, to provi de a catchm ent

manage ment centre and ident ify pe rson nel

res po nsibl e for impl e me ntin g the Proj ec t 's

management proposals such as supporting the Lough

Leane Working Group and its Sub Committees and

organi sing education and awareness programmes .

However, the Working Group has lost impetus and a

fmiher commitment is required from Kerry County

Council to reinforce catchment-wide initiatives .

Local Authorities Responsibilities Fina! Report2003

Undertake a cost benefit analvsis of connectin~aoorooriate outlvino treatment olanls ~

Upgrade or review operation of outlying treatment works and prioritise provision of treatment at

BaITaduff and Kilcummin ~

Secure additional resources for the monitorint! and imolementation of man3Q'ement nronosa]s ~

Laboratory Facility

Upgrade the laboratory's capacity and investigate the feasibility of new laboratory facililies ~

Continue and extend participation in the EPA intercalibration programme and develop towards

[LAB Comoliance. ~

Establish a Laboratory Procedures Manual ~Upgrade the monitoring database and improve data distribution ,/

Develop water quality monitoring programmes in response to new legislation ~Secure additional resources for the imolemelllation of mana~emelllorooosais ~

Pollution Response

Appoint an Executive EngineerlScientistto fully establish and lead the pollution response team ,/

Develop a Procedures Manual ~

Raise Pollution awareness through site visits ~Identify risks and develop a contingency plan for response to pollution incidents ~

Tourism Sector

Formulate a policy requiring provision of facilities for separation of fats, oils and greases at source

to be implemented by the Local Authority by introduction of a Byelaw, notices or licences under the

Water Pollution Act ~

Formulate a policy to develop a fats, oils and greases collection and disposal facility ~

Extend towel re-use scheme ~

Participate in Kerry County Council's composting scheme ,/

Introduce Eco-tourism awards/recognjtion XSecure additional resources for the implementation of management proposals ~

Key implemented and ongoing ./ in progress -+ no action X

review progress with regard to implementing

management measures. During 200J and 2002

despite disruption of Local Authorities' work

schedules due to the Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD)

precautions and reorganisation under the Belter

Local Government initiative, the Local Authorities

made significant progress in implementing "in

house" measures (Table 12).

The Second Interim Report also presented

agricultural, septic tank and forestry management

proposals. Progress in relatjon to implementation of

measures in each of these sectors is reported in

Sections 6, 7 and 8 respectively. Ii must be

emphasised that significant measures which require

Local Authority action, particularly in relation 1'0

agricultural and septic tank pollution sources, have

34

not, as yet, been implemented. These outstanding

work elements are highlighted in the relevant reporl

sections.

Kcy Issucs

On a catchment-wide level Kerry County Council

have made resources available from within their

existing budgets, to provide a catchment

management centre and identify personnel

responsible for implementing the Project's

management proposals such as supporting the Lough

Leane Working Group and its Sub Committees and

organising education and awareness programmes.

However, the Working Group has lost impetus and a

further commitment is required from Kerry County

Council to reinforce catchment-wide initiatives.

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The implementation of the Better Local Government

initiati ve with in Kerry County Council has meant th at the proposa ls in re lat ion to impro ving the

Environment Section Structure have advanced and

are part of th e ongoi ng management sys tem

development.

Revi ew and i mproved enforcement of Lo cal

Authority discharge licences have resulted in onc

installation prov iding add itional on site storage and

transferring eff1uent for treatment to another faci lity

outside the catchment. The upgrades have resulted

in generally improved effluent quali ty thus reducing

th e ris k of s hock load in g to the down st rea m

Killarney Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Management measures relating to waste facilities are also well advanced. A Closure Plan for Cooleaslagh

is being progressed and Kerry County Council has

introdu ced "The Ki ll arney Compostin g and

Recycling Scheme" which addresses organic waste,

dry recyclable and res idual waste. However , the

Counci l have not yet identified an outlet for the

significant volume of fats, oils and greases arising

within the catchment.

A proposed upgrade of the Central Regional Water

Supply Scheme (to ensure that adequate treatment is

provided at Lough Guitane) has been included in the

Water Serv ices I nvestment Programme under the

National D eve lopment Plan . Consul ta nts are

prepa rin g a Preli minary Report for the scheme.

H owever , the cause of the transient algal blooms

observed on the lake must be tackled at source by

reduction of nutrient input s. In parti cular,

reco mme nd ed p lannin g control and Bye law

proposals within the Lough Guitane subcatchment

have not yet been implemented by Kerry County

Counci l. Progress in relation to the making of a

Byelaw is discussed further in Section 6. Tn brief, the

Byelaw has been drafted and consultations held but,

the Environmental Strategic Policy Committee has

ye t to recomme nd the Byelaw to the e lec ted

representatives of the Council .

W ith regard to municipal disc harges, K ill arney

WWTP is the catchment's main fac il ity prov iding

effluent treatment capacity for over 50% of the

resident popu lation and a high proportion of the

tourist accommodation and facilities. T he ex isting

treatmen t facility is currentl y operating at peak

efficiency as presented in Tables 13 and 14 and

Figure 7.

Table 13 Killarney Wastewater Treatment Plant Monitoring (Total Phosphorus Loading)

Year Flow Rate Influent Emuent Influent Emuent Percentage m'/day TP TP TP TP Removal

Concentration Concentration Load Load kg/day mgII kg/day rngII

1990 602 1 5.72 0.66 12556.0 1445.4 88.5

199 1 7 134 4 .53 0.54 11 796.8 140 1.6 88. 1

1992 8274 4.09 0.54 1235 1.6 1627.9 86.8

1993 7758 5.07 0 .64 14355.5 1817.7 87.3

1994 8338 3.62 0.54 11015 .7 1631.6 85.2

1995 8980 3.62 0.45 11 866.2 1460.0 87.7

1996 7 128 4.88 0.66 12694.7 17 15.5 86.5

1997 72 11 4.92 0.55 12950.2 1438.1 88.9

1998 7353 4.99 0.44 1339 1.9 1179.0 9 1.2

1999 7855 3.86 0 .43 11070.5 1226.4 88.9

2000 8492 4.3 1 0.36 13359.0 11 06.0 9 1.7

200 1 6540 5.78 0.42 13797.0 992.8 92.8

2002 7932 4.55 0 .34 13176.5 985.5 92.5

35


The implementation of the Better Local Government

initiative within Kerry County Council ha meant

that the propo als in relation to improving the

Environment Section Structure have advanced and

are part of the ongoing management ystem

development.

Review and improved enforcement of Local

Authority discharge licences have resulted in one

in tallation providing additional on site storage and

transferring effluent for treatment to another facility

out ide the catchment. The upgrades have resulted

in generally improved effluent quality thus reducing

the ri k of hock loading to the down tream

Killarney Wa te Water Treatment Plant.

Management mea ure relating to wa te facilitie are

also well advanced. A Closure Plan for Coolca lagh

is being progressed and Kerry County Council ha

introduced "The Killarney Composting and

Recycling Scheme" which addresses organic waste,

dry recyclable and residual waste. However, the

Counci I have not yet identified an outlet for the

significant volume of fats, oils and greases arising

within the catchment.

A proposed upgrade of the Central Regional Water

Supply Scheme (to ensure that adequate treatment i

provided at Lough Guitane) has been included in the

Water Services Investment Programme under the

National Development Plan. Consultants are

preparing a Preliminary Report for the cherne.

However, the cause of the transient algal blooms

observed on the lake must be tackled at source by

reduction of nutrient inputs. In particular,

recommended planning control and Byelaw

proposals within the Lough Guitane ubcatchment


Council. Progre s in relation to the making of a

Byelaw i discus ed further in Section 6. In brief, the

Byelaw ha been drafted and con ultation held but,

the Environmental Strategic Policy Committee ha

yet to recommend the Byelaw to the elected

representatives of the Council.

With regard to municipal discharges, Killarney

WWTP is the catchment' main facility providing

effluent treatment capacity for over 50% of the

resident population and a high proportion of the

tourist accommodation and facilitie . The exi ting

treatment facility is currently operating at peak

efficiency a pre ented in Table 13 and 14 and

Figure 7.

Table 13 Killarney Wastewater Treatment Plant Monitoring (Total Phosphorus Loading)

Year Flow Rate Influent Effluent Influent Effluent PercentagemJ/day TP TP TP TP Removal

Concentration Concentration Load Loadkg/day mg/l kg/day mg/l

1990 6021 5.72 0.66 12556.0 1445.4 88.5

1991 7134 4.53 0.54 11796.8 1401.6 88.1

1992 8274 4.09 0.54 12351.6 1627.9 86.8

1993 7758 5.07 0.64 14355.5 1817.7 87.3

1994 8338 3.62 0.54 11015.7 1631.6 85.2

J995 8980 3.62 0.45 11866.2 1460.0 87.7

1996 7128 4.88 0.66 12694.7 1715.5 86.5

1997 7211 4.92 0.55 12950.2 1438.1 88.9

1998 7353 4.99 0.44 13391.9 1179.0 91.2

1999 7855 3.86 0.43 11070.5 1226.4 88.9

2000 8492 4.31 0.36 13359.0 1106.0 91.7

200J 6540 5.78 0.42 13797.0 992.8 92.8

2002 7932 4.55 0.34 13176.5 985.5 92.5

35

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Local Authorities Responsibilities Final Report 2003

Table 14 Killarney WWTP · Average Monthly Total Phosphorus Results (mgll)

Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May

1999 0 .32 0.26 0 .30 0 .37 0 .40

2000 0 .22 0 .17 0 .28 0 .30 0.45

2001 0 .36 0 .46 0 .37 0.49 0.56

2002 0.36 0 .39 0 .33 0.52 0.5 1

Th e pl ant is co mpl yin g with the efflu e nt TP

concentration standard of 2 mg/l set in the Urban

Waste Water Regulations and has only exceeded the

morc stringent target of 1 mg/l in one month during

th e Projec t 's monitorin g period . How ever a

significant nutrient load bypasses or overflows the

ex isting plant which must be addressed. A proposal

to upgrade the Kill arney sys tem has al so been

inc luded in the Water Services In ves tment Pl an.

Kerry County Council is drawing up a brief for consultants to prepare a Preliminary Report required

to advance the scheme.

The performance of the outlying treatment works in

the catchment is summarised in Table 15.

Th e mo nitorin g res ult s indi c ate th at some

improvements have been achieved in the operation

of the outlying plants. In particular after the teething

problems which the Ross Castle plant experienced in

2000 , the effluent load reduced in 200 l. Muckross

June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

0 .56

0 .46

0 .52

0.23

1.14 0 .60 0.52 0 .33 0 .20 0 .15

0 .64 0.57 0 .24 0 .42 0 .36 0 .37

0.3 1 0.47 0.45 0 .35 0 .37 0 .35

0 .36 0.30 0.26 0 .32 0 .23 0 .26

Park Hotel has now connected into Killarney town

sewer. The effluent quality from the Gneevgullia

plant appears to be variable and improvements in

quality during 2000 were not matched during 200 I .

A proposal to upgrade Gneevgullia WWTP was

included in KelTY County Council 's Assessments of

Needs list for 2002 which has been submitted to

DEHLG.

Kerry County Counci l made formal submissions to

the DEHLG for funding wastewater collection and

treatment facilities for the villages of Kilcummin and

Barraduff and schemes for both villages are included

in th e 2003·2005 Wate r Se rvices In ves tm ent

Programme. Preliminary Reports for both villages

are being examined by the Department.

It is anticipated that some or all of the Ki ll arney

extension, Kilcummin and Barraduff schemes wi ll

be at construction stage by 2005.

lOOOO'------------------------------------------------------~

14000 t-------------

12000

~ I OOOO ~

S -' 8000

'" ~6000

4000

2000

o 1990 199 1 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002

Yenr

I _ In.fillenl • Eftluenl I

Figure 7 TP Influent and Effluent Load at Killarney WWTP 1990 - 2002

36

Local A uthorities Responsibilities

Table 14 Killarney WWTP - Average Monthly Total Phosphorus Re ults (mg/I)

Final Report2003

Year Jan Feb Mal' Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

1999 0.32 0.26 0.30 0.37 0.40 0.56 1.14 0.60 0.52 0.33 0.20 0.15

2000 0.22 0.17 0.28 0.30 0.45 0.46 0.64 0.57 0.24 0.42 0.36 0.37

2001 0.36 0.46 0.37 0.49 0.56 0.52 0.31 0.47 0.45 0.35 0.37 0.35

2002 0.36 0.39 0.33 0.52 0.51 0.23 0.36 0.30 0.26 0.32 0.23 0.26

The plant i complying with the effluent TP

concentration standard of 2 mg/l set in the Urban

Waste Water Regulations and has only exceeded the

more stringent target of 1 mg/I in one month during

the Project's monitoring period. However a

ignificant nutrient load bypasses or overflows the

existing plant which must be addressed. A proposal

to upgrade the Killarney ystem has also been

included in the Water Services Investment Plan.

Kerry County Council is drawing up a brief for

consultants to prepare a Preliminary Report required

to advance the scheme.

The performance of the outlying treatment work in

the catchment is summari ed in Table 15.

The monitoring result indicate that ome

improvements have been achieved in the operation

of the outlying plant. In particular after the teething

problems which the Ross Castle plant experienced in

2000, the effluent load reduced in 2001. Muckross

Park Hotel has now connected into Killarney town

sewer. The effluent quality from the Gneevgullia

plant appears to be variable and improvements in

quality during 2000 were not matched during 2001.

A proposal to upgrade Gneevgullia WWTP wa

included in KelTY County Council's Asse ments of

Needs list for 2002 which has been submitted to

DEHLG.

KelTY County Council made formal submissions to

the DEHLG for funding wastewater collection and

treatment facilitie for the villages of Kilcummin and

Barraduff and schemes for both villages are included

in the 2003-2005 Water Services Investment

Programme. Preliminary Reports for both villages

are being examined by the Department.

It is anticipated that some or all of the Killarney

exten ion Kilcummin and Barraduff schemes will

be at construction tage by 2005.

16000

14000

12000

oil 10000

""'0'".3 000'"g{? 6000

4000

2000

o1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 200 I 2002

Year

Figm"e 7 TP Influent and Effluent Load at Killarney WWTP 1990 - 2002

36

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Local A uthorities Responsibilities

Table 15 Outlying Treatment Works Performance (Total Phosphorus)

Name Population Plant Model Treatment

Moll's 65 Biocycle Combined

Gap Aerobic!

Anaerobic

System

Lady's 150 EPS Extended

V iew Customised Aerat ion

WWTP Clarification

and P

Reduction

Old 140 EPS Extended

Aghadoe Custom ised Aeration with

Vi llage WWTP Terti ary

Treatment

Killarney 11 0 Clearwater Biological

Holiday Filtaclear Treatment Plant

Homes*"'* Model with Plastic

FelO Filter Media

Ross 45 Biasln145 Aerobic

Castle Biological

Treatment*

Muckross 250 Bmsh Activated Sludge

House Rotor System with P

Reduction

Gneevgull ia 541 Oxidation Secondary

Ditch Treatment

System

Muckross 300 FE Extended

Park Hotel Compact Aerat ion,

(Molly ;'One Tank Clarification

Darcy' s) Reactor" with P Removal

Total

Load (kglyr)

* **

P reduction introdllced in November 2000

Effl lIent tankered to Killarney WWTP since 2000

Laboratory procedures, monitoring programmes and

databa se sys tem s ha ve bee n ad va nced. Th e

laboratory can currently cater for over 9,000 samples

annually . Proposa ls have been prepared for the

expansionire location of the laboratory to provide

capacity of over 20 ,000 samples per year envisaged

as a result of the introduction/updates of legislation

s uc h as th e Wat er Fr a me wo rk Directi ve and

Drinking Water Directive .

Maximum Discharge Total Total Total

Flow PhosphOl'us Phosphorus Phosphorus ml/day Load Load Load

1999 (kglyr ) 2000 (kglyr) 2001 (kglyr)

11 .5 Soakaway 26.3 17.5 17.5

(estimate) (esti mate)

30 Percolation 54.2 74.2 33. 1

Area

28 Tributary of 12.6 37.5 29.3****

the Dccnagh

River

19.3 Percolation 42.4 28.1 28 .1

Area (estimate) (estimate)

8. 1 Percolation 40.2 44.2 16.7*

Area

90 Lough 22.6 19.6 24.6

Leane

69.5 Tributary of 172.3 69 .3 143.9

90

37

*** ****

Flesk

(Quagmi re

River)

Cloghereen 18.6 Nil**

Stream

389 290

Connect ion to wet land proposed

New treatment plant installed

Nil**

293

Kerry County Council have provided additional

resources from within existing budgets to augment

their pollution response team.

Tourism is the key service industry in the Lough

Leane catchme nt. Whil st the touri sm measures

involve participation of both the touri st sector and

Kerry County Council , the Local Authority has

taken the initiative in leading the implementation of

these measures . The Council is developing policies


Table 15 Outlying Treatment Works Performance (Total Phosphol'Us)

Name Population Plant Model Treatment Maximum Discharge Total Total Total

Flow Phosphorus Phosphorus Phosphorus

m'/day Load Load Load

1999 (kglyr) 2000 (kglyr) 2001 (kglyr)

Moll' 65 Biocycle Combined 11.5 Soakaway 26.3 17.5 17.5

Gap Aerobic/ (estimate) (estimate)

Anaerobic

System

Lady' L50 EPS Extended 30 Percolation 54.2 74.2 33.1

View Customised Aeration Area

WWTP Clarification

and P

Reduction

Old 140 EPS Extended 28 Tributary of L2.6 37.5 29.3****

Aghadoe Customi ed Aeration with the Deenagh

Village WWTP Tertiary River

Treatment

Killarney 110 Clearwater Biological 19.3 Percolation 42.4 28.1 28.1

Holiday Filtaclear Treatment Plant Area (estimate) (e timate)

Homes*** Model with Pia tic

FCIO Filter Media

Ro 45 Biostat 45 Aerobic 8.1 Percolation 40.2 44.2 16.7*

Castle Biological Area

Treatment*

Muckros 250 Bru h Activated Sludge 90 Lough 22.6 19.6 24.6

House Rotor System with P Leane

Reduction

Gneevgullia 541 Oxidation Secondary 69.5 Tributary of 172.3 69.3 143.9

Ditch Treatment Flesk

System (Quagmire

River)

Muckross 300 FE Extended 90 Cloghereen 18.6 I Nil** Nil**

Park Hotel Compact Aeration, Stream

(Molly "One Tank Clarification

Darcy' ) Reactor' with P Removal

Total 389 290 293

Load (kglyr)

***

P reduction introduced in November 2000

Effluent tankered to Killarney WWTP since 2000*******

Connection to wetland proposed

New treatment plant installed

Laboratory procedures, monitoring programmes and

database systems have been advanced. The

laboratory can currently cater for over 9,000 samples

annually. Proposals have been prepared for the

expansion/relocation of the laboratory to provide

capacity of over 20,000 samples per year envisaged

as a result of the introduction/updates of legislation

such as the Water Framework Directive and

Drinking Water Directive.

37

Kerry County Council have provided additional

resources from within existing budgets to augment

their pollution response team.

Tourism is the key service industry in the Lough

Leane catchment. Whilst the tourism measures

involve participation of both the tourist sector and

Kerry County Council, the Local Authority has

taken the initiative in leading the implementation of

these measures. The Council is developing policies

Fo

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Cons

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EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:49

Local A uthorities Responsibilities Filial Repor/ 2003

in relation to wastes from tourism facilities . The

Eco-Tourism awards have not yet been introduced.

Phosphorus Loading Trends

Thc per fo rm ance of Killarney WWTP has been

improved and measured TP loading in the effluent

has decreased from 1.2 tonnes in 1999 to below 1.0

tonnes in 2002 (Table 16). The plant is considered to

be performing at peak effi ciency.

The operation of outlying treatment plants has also

been reviewed and some upgrades have already been

implemented. When all the plants are operating at

full efficiency it is estimated that the loading from

the plants will reduce fro m 0 .4 tonnes recorded in

1999 to 0.2 tonnes in future years (Table 16).

The nutrient loading which bypasscs the plant is of

concern as it is almost as significant as the plant

discharge itself. Funding is awaited from DEHLG to

extend the plant to provide for additional storage and

to investigate overflows and misconnections to the

Folly Stream. It is considered that the deficiencies

can be comprehensively addressed and the loading

e ffec ti ve ly e limin a ted. Thi s should have a

considerable beneficial effect 011 the water quality in

the Folly Stream and within the shallow waters of

Ross Bay.

Conclusions

Kerry County Council has made substantial progress

in relation to " in house" acti viti es which were

ide ntified in th e manageme nt proposa ls of the

Second Interim Report .

Improvements have been made in the performance

of licensed industries and existing effluent treatment

facilities which have either directly reduced nutrient

loadings to the catchment or have mjnimised the risk

of di sruption to Kill arney WWTPs performance.

Further upgrade/prov ision of new treatment at

Kill arney and outlying facilities will further reduce

nutrient loading.

fmplementation of National Initiatives such as the

[CDA agreement to increasc the use of phosphate-

free detergents has reduced nutrient loading from the

domestic population including those reliant on septic

tanks.

Improvement of organi sa ti onal stru ctures and

development of procedures through the Environment

Section's activities will also ensure an improved co-

ordinated approach to catchment management.

Howe ver th ere are substantial ta sks requiring

ad diti onal L oca l Authority ac ti on whi ch are

outstand ing, parti cularly implementat ion of the

measures to address ph os ph oru s losses from

agriculture and septic tanks nutrient contribution as

detailed in Sections 6 and 7.

Furthermore the cause of the transient algal blooms

observed on Lough Gui tane must be tack led at

source by reduction of nutrient inputs. In particular,

reco mmended plannin g control and Bye law

proposals within the Lough Guitane subcatchment


Council.

Table 16 Target Total Phosphorus Reduction following Full Implementation of the Management Measures

Source Baseline Load (1999) Future Load Target Reduction

(tonnes/year) (tonnes/year) (tonnes/year)

Urban Agglomerations 1.2 Killarney WWTP 0.9 Killarney WWTP 0.3*

(Improved operation of 0 .4 Outlying WWTPs 0 .2 Outlying WWTPs 0 .2*

Killarney WWTP. sewer 0.8 Fo lly Stream

~ \...eane Catch o"'~ ~ "'~

'J ~ '),...

Agriculture

The overall export rates recorded in dai ry and dry

stock farming areas were the highest recorded in the

Lough Leane catchment.

The results of the Project's monitoring programme

in 1999 determined that the nutrient loss from the

agricultural sector accounted for 47% of the total

catchment MRP loading to Lough Leane in that year.

Since agriculture is the source of a major portion of

the nutrient loading to Lough Leane it is essential

that sign ifi cant reductions in nutrient losses are

achieved by thi s sector in order to restore water quality of the rivers and lakes of the catchment to

acceptable levels.

Special Studies

To provide an insight into local farming practices

agricultural investigations were undertaken in two

areas which were selected as being representative of

the range of farming ac ti v iti es and physica l

conditions in the catchment. The study areas (Map 2)

were the Deenagh Headwaters Special Study Area

(dairy/dry stock enterprises) and the Lough Guitane

Special Study Area (sheep farming).

All farmers who have land and farmyards in the

study areas were invited by Teagasc to participate in

Nutrient Management Planning. The farmers were

offered free soil sampling of th eir land s and

assessment of farmyard management and facil ities.

Wh ere appropr iate. recom mendati ons for

improvements were made. Fanning practices and

phosphorus inputs during the Project were monitored

by Teagasc for each farm. Specialist investigations

of sheep dipping practices were also undertaken by

the Project.

The respollse of the farmers in tlte special study

areas was positive and the Project enabled

improvemellts to be made ill nutriellt mallagemelll

alld, where feasible, in farmyard facilities.

40

Deenagh Headwaters

Final Report 2003

Overall stocking rates in the Deenagh area reduced

signi fica ntl y during the study from 1.4 li ves tock

units (LU) per ha in 1999 to 1.0 LU per ha in 200 I

due to chan ges of land ownership and

grazing/w intering practices , transfer from dairy to

beef farming, destocking for various reasons (such

as FMD precaut ions and ease of workl oad) and

transfer of land to forestry.

The patterns of decreasing employment in . and

reli ance upon , agri culture and in part icular the

decline in the numbers of small farms noted in the

Deenagh stud y area , reflects the result s of the

nati ona l agricultura l census (CSO, J Ulie 2000).

Nationally over the period 1991 to 2000 there was a

reduction of 17.5% in the number of farm workers

with only 55.7% of fa rmers in 2000 working solely

in agriculture. a reduction from 74.7% full time in

1991. Within the Deellagh catchment farm workers

have also reduced and currently 54.S% of farmers

are full time.

The So il Phosphorus concentrations are generally

not excessive in either the Deenagh study area or in

the overall Lough Leane catchment (Map 9). The

physica l conditions within the catchment indicate

that so il leaching from areas of excess ive Soil

Phosphorus levels is not a major source of nutrient

loading from agricultural areas . However , better

advice on chemical fertili ser application is beneficial

to the farmer in terms of agronomic output and has

resulted in a slight reduction in chemical fertiliser

appli cation w ith assoc iated cos t sav in gs. Th e

application of chemical phosphorus fertiliser in the

D eenagh study area was reduced by approx imately

10% (S15 kgs P) between 1999 and 200 1 as a result

of the advice provided in the Nutrient Management

Plans.

Farm surveys identified a significant storage deficit

within the Deenagh study area. Currently there are

25 farms, (59.5% of farms), which have a s lurry

storage deficit based on a comparison between actual

storage capacity and a calculated 20 week storage

requirement recommended under REPS plans. At the

start of the Project, 33 farms had a slurry storage

Agriculture

The overall export rates recorded in dairy and dry

stock farming areas were the highest recorded in the

Lough Leane catchment.

The results of the Project's monitoring programme

in 1999 determined that lhe nutrienl loss from the

agricultural sector accounted for 47% of the total

catchment MRP loading to Lough Leane in that year.

Since agriculture is the source of a major portion of

the nutrient loading to Lough Leane it is essentialthat significant reductions in nutrient losses are

achieved by this seclor in order to restore waterquality of the rivers and lakes of the catchment to

acceptable levels.

Special Studies

To provide an insight into local farming practices

agricultural investigations were undertaken in two

areas which were selected as being representative of

the range of farming activities and physical

conditions in the catchment. The study areas (Map 2)

were the Deenagh Headwaters Special Study Area

(dairy/dry stock enterprises) and the Lough Guitane

Special Study Area (sheep farming).

All farmers who have land and farmyards in the

study areas were invited by Teagasc to participate in

Nutrient Management Planning. The farmers were

offered free soil sampling of their lands and

assessment of farmyard management and facilities.

Where appropriate, recommendations for

improvements were made. Fanning practices and

phosphorus inputs during the Projecl were monitored

by Teagasc for each farm. Specialist investigations

of sheep dipping practkes were also undertaken by

the Project.

The respoIISe of rhe farmers ill rhe special srudy

areas was positive alld the Project ellabled

i11lpro\'emellts 10 be made ill Ilutrielll 11lonoge11lellt

and, whereJeasibJe, in !armyard!aciJities.

40

Final Report2003

Deellagh Headwaters

Overall stocking rates in the Deenagh area reduced

significantly during the study from 1.4 livestock

units (LU) per ha ill 1999 to 1.0 LU per ha in 2001

due to changes of land ownership and

grazing/wintering practices, transfer from dairy to

beef farming, destocking for various reasons (such

as FMD precautions and ease of workload) and

transfer of land to forestry.

The patterns of decreasing employment in, and

reliance upon, agriculture and in particular the

decline in the numbers of small farms noted in the

Deenagh study area. reflects the results of the

national agricultural census (Csa. JUlie 2000).

Nationally over the period 1991 to 2000 there was a

reduction of 17.5% in the number of farm workers

with only 55.7% of farmers in 2000 working solely

in agriculture, a reduction from 74.7% full time in

1991. Within the Deenagh catchment farm workers

have also reduced and currently 54.8% of farmers

are full time.

The Soil Phosphorus concentrations are generally

not excessive in either the Deenagh study area or in

lhe overall Lough Leane catchment (Map 9). The

physical conditions within the catchment indicate

that soil leaching from areas of excessive Soil

Phosphorus levels is not a major source of nutrient

loading from agricultural areas. However. better

advice on chemical fertiliser application is beneficial

to the fanner in terms of agronomic output and has

resulted in a slight reduction in chemical fertiliser

application with associated cost savings. The

application of chemical phosphorus fertiliser in the

Deenagh study area was reduced by approximately

10% (815 kgs P) between 1999 and 2001 as a result

of the advice provided in the Nutrient Management

Plans.

Farm surveys identified a significant storage deficit

within lhe Deenagh sludy area. Currently there are

25 farms, (59.5% of farms), which have a slurry

storage deficit based on a comparison between actual

storage capacity and a calculated 20 week storage

requirement recommended under REPS plans. At lhe

start of the Project. 33 farms had a slurry storage

I

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:49

~ \..eane Catchtq ovr.'fJ ~ $-:>

" ..... "'On, ,,\I,'(fo.

lOring & Management S'J

S9;1 phQsnhQDIS Index

Index 3 _ !nde~4

Map 9 Soil Phosphorus Status

deficit. The reduction of 8 fanners is accounted by 3

additional farmers no longer wintering animals, 2 no

longer farming and 3 farmers who expanded their

slurry/soiled water storage facilities .

The current average slurry storage deficit on these

25 farms is 79.25m' or 51 % of volume. In 1999 the

average slurry storage deficit on the 33 farms was

55%. The storage deficit reduction results from

reduced stock in g in the stud y area, from storage

improvement on three farm s and from farmers

respo nding to adv ice to redu ce the vo lum e of

un co ntroll ed so il ed water where only mod est

expenditure was required. Some farmers improved

cha nn e ls around their yard or eave chutes and

downpipe arrangements.

High storage deficits signi fy a high direct risk of

runoff fro m yards or overflow fro m tanks and can

also result in spreading of animal manures during

in appropri ate co ndition s with the as soc iated

increased indirect risk of run·off from lands. Until

adequate storage is available farmers cannot manage

41

Agriculture

slurry spreading activi ties. The increase in storage

capacity at some farms within the Deenagh study

area is therefore a key step towards reduci ng the risk

of nutrient runoff from agricultural land .

Deenag" Special Stlldy Area

Within the Deenagh Special Study Area

implementatioll of NMPs has resulted iii:

• better managemell1 of nutrient applications so that they are applied where they are required

to improve agronomic potential (i.e. to areas

of 101V soil P and not to areas of high soil Pi;

• reduction in chemical Phosphorus purchases

and;

• slight reduction ill slurry storage deficit.

However /llltil adequate storage facilities are put

in place farmers callnot manage slurry spreading

activities and the risk persists of high levels of

nutrient loading being exported 10 Lough Leane

particularly during weI periods which call occur

at any lime of year within the catchment.

/.

:1'\ \..eane Catcho~r:,) ~ ~E>?"~ ....

4tOl)/torlng & MOllDgomOll\ s'Js\G(C\

Soil PhQsphQOIS lodex

_ Index I

Index 2

Index 3_ Index 4

Map 9 Soil Phosphorus Status

deficit. The reduction of 8 farmers is accounted by 3

additional farmers no longer wintering animals, 2 no

longer farming and 3 fanners who expanded their

lurry/soiled water storage facilities.

The current average slurry storage deficit on these

25 farms is 79.25m3

or 51 % of volume. In 1999 the

average slurry storage deficit on the 33 farms was

55%. The storage deficit reduction results from

reduced stocking in the study area, from storage

improvement on three farms and from farmers

responding to advice to reduce the volume of

uncontrolled soiled water where only modest

expenditure was required. Some farmers improved

channels around their yard or eave ch ute and

downpipe anangements.

High storage deficits signify a high direct risk of

runoff from yard or overflow from tanks and can

also result in spreading of animal manures during

inappropriate conditions with the associated

increased indirect risk of run-off from lands. Until

adequate storage is available farmers cannot manage

41

Agriculture

slurry spreading activities. The increase in storage

capacity at some farms within the Deenagh study

area is therefore a key step towards reducing the ri k

of nutrient runoff from agricultural land.

Deenagh Special Study Area

Withill the Deenagh Special Study Area

implementation ofNMPs has resulted il1:

• better management ofnutrient applicatiolls so

that they are applied where they are required

to improve agronomic potential (i.e. to areas

of low soil P and not to area ofhigh soil P);

reduction in chemical Phosphorus purchases

and;

• slight reduction ill slurry storage deficit.

HOlVever /Ill til adequate storage facilities are put

in place farmers cannot manage slurry spreading

activities and the risk persists of high levels of

nllfrient loading being exported to Lough Leane

particularly during wet periods which call occur

at any time o.fyear within the catchment.

rI.

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

Agriculture

Lough Guitane

Lough Guitane is an imp0l1ant regional water supply

ancl transient alga l blooms have been observed in the

lake in recent years. NMPs were implemented on six

farm s by Teagasc between 1999 and 200 I in the

special study area.

A questionnaire survey was conducted to establish

the type and extent of sheep farming practices in the

Lough Guitane spec ial stud y a rea. Th e five

sheep/mixed farmers who dip sheep within the

catchment , use Organo-Phosphorus based sheep dip

(Coopers Winter & Osmonds Goldfleece). All of

these fanners participate in REPS .

A sheep dipping study was concluded by intensively

monitoring speci fic sheep dipping practi ces and

undertaking on-s ite assessment of sheep dipping

facilit ies .

The results of the Project 's sampling indicated that

the Cappagh and Lough Nabrean streams had low

nutrient concentrations. The study area was also

tested for the presence of List II substances arising

under the Dange rous Subs tance s Direc tive

76/464/ EEC. Th e targeted pestic ides were not

detected above guidance va lues in the waters or

sediments of the special study area streams.

Framework Plans for all co mmon ages in Ireland

ha ve been deve loped by th e Dep artm e nt of

Agriculture and Food in conjunction with National

P a rk s and Wi ld life Service. The Commonage

Framework Plans were unveiled in February 2002.

Slurry Spreadillg

42

Final Report 2003

The initial purpose of producing the plan s in the

uplands and peatlands is to arrest degradation caused

by overstockin g, where thi s has occu rred. The

destock ing recommendations relevant to the Lough

Guitane stud y area townland s are as follow s:

Cappag h 14.9 %, Gortdromakiery 19.6 % and

Derrybanane 13.4%.

Lough Guilalle Special Sludy Area

The water quality studies indicated that the

currellt sheep dippillg methods and

impleme1lfatioll of proper disposal practices ill

accordallce with REPS guidelilles result ill 110

discernible adverse impact 011 water quality with

regard to pesticide loadillg ill the Lollgh GlIitalle

study area.

The main objective of the Commonage

Framewo rk Plans' measures is habitat

protectioll. However, the reduction of stock

!lumbers may reduce the loss of subsequent

particulate TP due to overgrazing and erosion

which may have a mi1lor beneficial affect 011

water quality in the catchme1lf.

Comparison

TP nutrient load s exported from the D cenagh

catchment are consistently highcr than those from

the Lough Guitane sheep farming area.

The MRP export rate from the Lough Guitane study , area was genera ll y between 10-20 mg/ m /y r ,

including background , throughout the study - typical

of low intensity sheep farming areas nationally.

The MRP export rate from the Deenagh Headwaters

study area was variable in response to climatic

condition s . In 1999 the reported rate was 20-35

mg/m'/yr, includi ng background , and in 2000 the

equivalent rate was over 45 mg/m2/yr.

Management Proposals Implementation

The agr icultural specia l studies have identified a

number of key issues pcrtain ing to thc Lough Leanc

Agriculture

Lough Guitane

Lough Guitane is an impOltant regional water upply

and transient algal blooms have been observed in the

lake in recent years. NMPs were implemented on six

farms by Teagasc between 1999 and 2001 in the

special study area.

A questionnaire survey was conducted to establish

the type and extent of heep farming practices in the

Lough Guitane pecial study area. The five

heep/mixed farmers who dip sheep within the

catchment, use Organo-Phosphorus based sheep dip

(Coopers Winter & 0 monds Goldfleece). All of

these farmer participate in REPS.

A sheep dipping study was concluded by intensively

monitoring pecific sheep dipping practices and

undertaking on- ite assessment of sheep dipping

facilities.

The results of the Project's sampling indicated that

the Cappagh and Lough Nabrean treams had low

nutrient concentrations. The study area was also

tested for the pre ence of List II ub tances arising

under the Dangerous Substances Directive

76/464/EEC. The targeted pesticide were not

detected above guidance value in the water or

sediments of the pecial study area treams.

Framework Plans for all commonages in Ireland

have been developed by the Department of

Agriculture and ood in conjunction with National

Parks and Wildlife Service. The Commonage

Framework Plans were unveiled in February 2002.

Slurry Spreading

42

Fina! Report2003

The initial purpo e of producing the plans in the

uplands and peatlands is to arrest degradation caused

by overstocking, where this ha' occurred. The

destocking recommendations relevant to the Lough

Guitane study area town land are a follow:

Cappagh 14.9%, Gortdromakiery 19.6% andDerrybanane 13.4%.

Lough Guitalle Special Study Area

The water quality studies indicated fllat the

current sheep dipping method al/d

implemelltation of proper disposal practices in

accordance with REPS guidelines result iI/ /10

di cemible adverse impact 01/ water quality with

regard to pesticide loading iI/ tile Lough GuifCllle

study area.

The mail/ objective of the Comlllonage

Framework Plans' measures is lIabitat

protection. However, the reductioll of stock

/lillI/bus may reduce the loss of subsequent

parriculate TP due to overgrcrillg (I/1d ero iOI/

whicll may have a I/Iinor bel/eficial affect 01/

water quality ill tile catchment.

ComparisonTP nutrient load exported from the Deenagh

catchment are consi tently higher than those from

the Lough Guitane heep fanning area.

The MRP expOit rate from the Lough Guitane study2

area was generally between 10-20 mg/m /yr,including background, throughout the study - typical

of low inten ity heep farming area nationally.

The MRP export rate from the Deenagh Headwaters

study area was variable in response to climatic

conditions. In 1999 the reported rate was 20-35mg/m

2/yr, including background, and in 2000 the

equivalent rate was over 45 mg/m2/yr.

Management Proposals Implementation

The agricultural special studies have identified a

number of key is ue pertaining to the Lough Leane

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

catchment , which will need to be addressed in order

to achieve the desired water quali ty improvements.

These are:

(a) the upgrading of farmyard fac ilities to provide

for the adequate containment and management of

manures gene rated during the winter hou sin g

period;

(b) improved management of farmyard fac ilities,

particularly in relation to waste minimisation by

better control of clean water;

(c) improved management of s lurry spreadi ng

operations.

Based on th e f indin gs o f the catc hment-w ide

mo nit or in g programme, which identified th e

agricultural sector as the main source of Ilutrie nt

load , supported by the results of the agricultural

special studies, the main agricultural management

proposa l identified was the making of a Byelaw

under the Water Pollution Acts . The Byelaw was

recommended to apply to the whole catchment , to

ensure adequate storage for ani mal manures and

consequently improve the ab il ity to manage manure

spreading (Table 17). Add itional catchment-wide

ag ri c ultural recommendations included

impleme ntin g policies coverin g a range of

agricultural initiatives.

Despite efforts made by Kerry County Council and

members of the Working Group and Management

Agriculture

Proposals Impl ementation S ub Co mmittee these

important measures have not yet been implemented .

The agr ic ultura l sec tor represen tati ves c ite

difficulties such as suspension of REPS, restrictions

because of Foot and Mouth Disease precautions

(wi th knock-on effects on farm advisor avai lability)

and un ce rtain ty in the sec to r due to reforms

in stigated at European level as hav ing prevented

more s ub sta nt ia l progress f rom having been

achieved.

Key Issues

A draft Byelaw was prepared by Kerry County

Co un c il and presented to the E n vironmen tal

Strategic Policy Comm ittee (SPC) in January 2002

and the Lough Leane Work ing Group in February

2002. The SPC allowed the Byelaw to go forward to

public consultation. Copies of the draft Byelaw were

made avai lable to the public for inspection and/or

purchase, w ith a set time period for recei pt of

su bmi ssions of v iew and comments. The publi c

consultat ion process started in early March 2002

with written submissions invited by mid April 2002 .

So me organisations required ex tra t ime and

submiss ions were received up to the end of May

2002.

The s ubm iss ion s rece ived were hea rd by the

Env iro nme nta l S PC in Jun e 2002 and the draft

Byelaw discussed in detail. The committee requested

that an approach be made to the Department of

Agriculture and Food regarding an aid package to

Table 17 Agricultural Management Proposals Implementation

Measure Status Make a Byelaw under the Water Pollution Acts regarding the storage and management of wastes ~

Implement policies in relation to additional ag ricultural in it iatives including: ~

- implementation of NMPs;

- preparation of farmyard surveys;

- promotion of the uptake of REPS ;

- development of education/environmental awru'eness programmes;

- development of creative mechanisms to obta in funding of storage or alternat ives;

- consideration of disposal of farm sludges under the County Sludge Management Strategy;

- establishment of a foru m to secure funding/grants for storage provision.

Key IInplemented and ongolllg ./ 1 n progress ~ no actIOn X

43

catchment, which will need to be addressed in order

to achieve the desired water quality improvements.

These are:

(a) the upgrading of farmyard facilities to provide

for the adequate containment and management of

manures generated during the winter housing

period;

(b) improved management of farmyard facilities,

particularly in relation to waste minimisation by

better control of clean water;

(c) improved management of slurry spreading

operations.

Based on the findings of the catchment-wide

monitoring programme, which identified the

agricultural sector as the main source of nutrient

load, supported by the results of the agricultural

special studies, the main agricultural management

proposal identified was the making of a Byelaw

under the Water Pollution Acts. The Byelaw was

recommended to apply to the whole catchment, to

ensure adequate storage for animal manures and

consequently improve the ability to manage manure

spreading (Table 17). Additional catchment-wide

agricultural recommendations included

implementing policies covering a range of

agricu ltural in itiatives.



Agriculture

Proposals Implementation Sub Committee these

important measures have not yet been implemented.

The agricultural sector representatives cite

difficulties such as suspension of REPS, restrictions

because of Foot and Mouth Di ease precaution

(with knock-on effects on farm advisor availability)

and uncertainty in the sector due to reforms

instigated at European level as having prevented

more substantial progress from having been

achieved.

Key Issues

A draft Byelaw wa prepared by Kerry County

Council and presented to the Environmental

Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) in January 2002

and the Lough Leane Working Group in February

2002. The SPC allowed the Byelaw to go forward to

public consultation. Copies of the draft Byelaw were

made available to the public for inspection and/or

purchase, with a set time period for receipt of

submissions of view and comments. The public

consultation process started in early March 2002

with written submissions invited by mid April 2002.

Some organisations required extra time and

submissions were received up to the end of May

2002.

The submissions received were heard by the

Environmental SPC in June 2002 and the draft

Byelaw discussed in detail. The committee requested

that an approach be made to the Department of

Agriculture and Food regarding an aid package to

Table 17 Agricultural Management Proposals Implementation

Measm'e Status

Make a Byelaw under the Water Pollution Acts regarding the storage and management of wastes ~

Implement policie in relation to additional agricultural initiatives including: ~

- implementation of NMP ;- preparation of farmyard urvey

- promotion of the uptake of REPS;

- development of education/environmental awareness programmes;

- development of creative mechanisms to obtain funding of storage or alternatives;

- consideration of disposal of farm sludges under the County Sludge Management Strategy;

- establishment of a forum to secure funding/grants for torage provision.

Key implemented and ongoing ./ 111 progress ~

43

no actIOn X

f

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

Agriculture

upgrade storage facilities to provide the Byelaw's

requirement of 24 weeks storage capacity before any

recommendation to the main council would be madc.

Based on the results of the spec ial study areas in

which 67% of farms required an average investment of approx imately € 19,000, an estimated expenditurc

of €9 million would be required to address farmyard

problems in the fu ll Lough Leane catchment by

provision of conventional slatted storage tanks.

Members of the SPC, the Lough Leane Management Proposals Implementation Sub Committee and Kerry

County Council met with representati ves from the

Department of Agriculture and Food in November

2002 to disc liss the special c ircumstances pCl1aining

to the Lough Leane catch ment and the need fo r

special assistance to compl y w ith the proposed

Byelaw and the recommendations of the Second

Interim Reporl.

Further con sultati ons were held wi th farm ing

organi sati ons in December 2002 and amended

proposals were brought before the Environmental

SPC in January 2003. However a decision was again

deferred.

The nutrient load ing and water qual ity analysis have

cl ea rl y demon strated the potent ial ri sk of hig h

nutrient loading from agri cultural areas entering

Lough Leane. Until adequate storage facilities are

provided, the risk remains that high nutrient loads

wi ll be ex ported to th e lakes. S to rage mu st be

upgraded and Byelaw is the bes t mechanism to

ensure that this is achieved.

It is proposed to present the Bye law proposals,

supported by this Final Report , to the SPC in the

hope that a recommendation will issue for formal

adoption of the Byelaw whieh would be via a vote of

the elected members of Kerry County Council.

Fi nancia l support arrangements, which were

increased as a result of the Partnership discussions,

are in place for farmers to avail of on a nation-wide

basis. The attempt to secure special funding for the

catchment has unnecessari ly delayed progress in the

implementation of the Byelaw.

44

Final Report 2003

Progress is also required in the implementation of

the other agricultura l initiati ves, Kerry County

Council 's pollution response team should proceed

wit h these measures independently of the Byelaw

implementation .


In line with nat ional trends th ere has been an

increase in animal numbers and changes of

agricultural practices wi thin the catchment over the

past few decades whilst other pressures, such as rural

popul ation numbers, have remained largely

unchanged.

The quantification of the future phosphorus loading

reduct ion as a resu lt of implementin g th e

management measures wi ll be assessed by analysis

of indicators including national datasets, in formation

he ld by Department of Agriculture and Food ,

T eagasc and Loca l Authorities as we ll as

continuation of catchment monitoring programmes.

Th e data curren tl y ava il abl e in relation to

agricultural trend indicators is encouraging.

Th e in crease in part icipation in REPS and

implementation of initiati ves such as the Control. of

Farmya rd Pollution and th e Code of Cood

Agricultural Practice to Protect Wat ers f rom

POIIUlioH by Nitrates are expected to bring about a

redu ction in ph osp horu s ex port rates. No tably,

national farm surveys undertaken by Teagasc all an

annual basis have shown that farms within the REPS

scheme have achieved and mainta ined a 4 kg/ha

reduct ion in phosphorus application rates.

Nationally, there has been a significant reduction in

the use of chemical phosphorus fertili ser in recent

years, as a result of the Government's National

Strategy for Sustainable Development (DELC, 1997)

(Table 18). Over the peri od 1996-2002, a 30 %

reduction in the use of chemical phosphorus fertili ser

has been achieved wi th a reduction of more then

10% of chemical nitrogen fert il iser over the same

period.

Agriculture

upgrade storage facilities to provide the Byelaw's

requirement of 24 weeks storage capacity before any

recommendation to the main council would be made.

Based on the results of the special study areas in

which 67% of farms required an average investmentof approximately EI9,OOO, an estimated expenditure

of €9 million would be required to address farmyard

problems in the full Lough Leane catchment by

provision of conventional slatted storage tanks.

Members of the SPC, the Lough Leane Management

Proposals Implementation Sub Committee and KerryCounty Council met with representatives from the

Deparlment of Agriculture and Food in November

2002 to discuss the special circumstances pC11ainingto the Lough Leane catchment and the need for

special assistance to comply with the proposed

Byelaw and the recommendations of the SecondInterim Report.

Further consultations were held with farming

organisations in December 2002 and amended

proposals were brought before the Environmental

SPC in January 2003. However a decision was again

deferred.

The nutrient loading and water quality analysis have

clearly demonstrated the potential risk of high

nutrient loading from agricultural areas entering

Lough Leane. Until adequate storage facilities are

provided, the risk remains that high nutrient loads

will be exported to the lakes. Storage must be

upgraded and Byelaw is the best mechanism to

ensure that this is achieved.

It is proposed to present the Byelaw proposals,

supported by this Final Report, to the SPC in the

hope that a recommendation will issue for formal

adoption of the Byelaw which would be via a vote of

the elected members of Kerry County Council.

Financial support arrangements, which were

increased as a result of the Partnership discussions,

are in place for farmers to avail of on a nation-wide

basis. The attempt to secure special funding for the

catchment has unnecessarily delayed progress in the

implementation of the Byelaw.

44

Fillal Report2003

Progress is also required in the implementation of

the other agricullUral initiatives, Kerry County

Council's pollution response team should proceed

with these measures independently of the Byelaw

implementation.


In line with national trends there has been an

increase in animal numbers and changes of

agricultural practices within the catchment over the

past few decades whilst other pressures, such as rural

population numbers, have remained largely

unchanged.

The quantification of the future phosphorus loading

reduction as a result of implementing the

management measures will be assessed by analysis

of indicators including national datasets, information

held by Department of Agriculture and Food,

Teagasc and Local Authorities as well as

continuation of catchment monitoring programmes.

The data currently available in relation to

agricultural trend indicators is encouraging.

The increase in participation in REPS and

implementation of initiatives such as the Control. of

Farmyard Pollution and the Code of Good

Agricultural Practice to Protect Waters from

Pollution by Nitrates are expected to bring about a

reduction in phosphorus export rates. Notably,

national farm surveys undertaken by Teagasc on an

annual basis have shown that farms within the REPS

scheme have achieved and maintained a 4 kg/ha

reduction in phosphorus application rates.

Nationally. there has been a significant reduction in

the use of chemical phosphorus fertiliser in recent

years, as a result of the Government's National

Strategy for Sustainable Development (DELG, /997)

(Table 18). Over the period L996-2002, a 30%

reduction in the use of chemical phosphorus fertiliser

has been achieved with a reduction of more then

10% of chemical nitrogen fertiliser over the same

period.

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

Agriculture

Table 18 National Chemical Fertiliser Usage

Year Phosphorus Nitrogen

(,000 tonnes) (,000 tonnes)

1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002

Note: * estimated from data available lip to the end of June 2000

The agricul tura l measures requ ire best practi ce

throughout the Lough Leane catchment. It is difficult

to prec ise ly quant ify the reduct ions that will be

ac hieved by implementing the agricultural sector

measures. However, it is expected that export rates

could be redu ced to the lower end of the ran ge

recorded in the catchment. The present MRP export

rates from agricu ltural areas vary with practice and

annually but, in the northern agricultural areas of the

Lough Leane catchment, rates are generally greater

th an 20 mg/m2/yr, with some areas exceed ing 40

mg/m'/yr. It is expected that the average MRP export . ,

rate could be reduced to approxImately 15 mg/m /yr in line w ith the lower recorded losses in farmed

areas w ithin the Lou gh Lean e catch me nt. Thi s

equates to a reduction in MRP loading in the order

of 3-4 tonnes (or an annual reduction in TP loading

of around 7 lOnnes, (Table 19)).

The effec ti veness of the management measures

should be rev iewed by continued monitoring of

nutrient loading trends as part of the catchment's

environmental management system.

62 54 50 51

49' 42 43

417 379 432 441 408 368 363

Conclusions

The agricultural special studies have successfully

highlighted the key sectoral management issues

w i thin th e Lou gh L eane catc hm ent and have

demonstrated the potential effectiveness of nutrient

management plmming.



Proposals Implementat ion Sub Co mmittee,

important agricultural measures have not yet been

implemented. Progress is essenti al to prov ide

adequate storage faci li ties in the catchment in order

to reduce the risk of farmyard run-off and overflow

and enable proper management of slurry spreading.

Progress is al so req ui red in th e future

implementation of the other agricultural ini tiat ives.

Kerry County Council 's pollution response team

shou ld proceed with these measures independently

of the Byelaw implementation.

Table 19 Target Total Phosphorus Reduction following Full Implementation of the Management Measures



Agricu lture + Background 23.9 16.6 7.3 (Provision of storage faci lities

and implementat ion of

agricultural measures to allow

TP export rates to be reduced , by on average 15 mg/m /yr).

45

Agriculture

Table 18 ational Chemical Fertiliser Usage

Year Pho phoru Nitrogen

(,000 tonnes) (,000 tonnes)1996 62 4171997 54 3791998 50 4321999 51 4412000 49* 4082001 42 3682002 43 363

Note: *estimated from data available up to the end of June 2000

The agricultural measures require be t practice

throughout the Lough Leane catchment. It is difficult

to preci ely quantify the reduction that will be

achieved by implementing the agricultural sector

mea ure . However, it is expected that export rate

could be reduced to the lower end of the range

recorded in the catchment. The pre ent MRP export

rates from agricultural areas vary with practice and

annually but, in the nOlthern agricultural area of the

Lough Leane catchment, rates are generally greater

than 20 mg/m2/yr, with some areas exceeding 40

mg/m2/yr. It i expected that the average MRP export

rate could be reduced to approximately 15 mg/m2/yr

in line with the lower recorded los es in farmed

areas within the Lough Leane catchment. This

equate to a reduction in MRP loading in the order

of 3-4 tonnes (or an annual reduction in TP loadingof around 7 tonnes, (Table 19)).

The effectiveness of the management measures

'hould be reviewed by continued monitoring of

nutrient loading trends as part of the catchment's

environmental management system.

Conclusions

The agricultural special studie have ucce sfully

highlighted the key sectoral management issues

within the Lough Leane catchment and have

demonstrated the potential effectiveness of nutrient

management planning.

De pite efforts made by Kerry County Council and


Proposal Implementation Sub Committee,

important agricultural mea ure have not yet been

implemented. Progress is essential to provide

adequate storage facilities in the catchment in order

to reduce the risk of farmyard run-off and overflow

and enable proper management of slurry spreading.

Progre sial 0 required in the future

implementation of the other agricultural initiatives.

Kerry County Council's pollution response team

hould proceed with these measures independently

of the Byelaw implementation.

Tablc 19 Target Total Phosphorus Reduction fo))owing Full Implementation of the ManagemcntMeasures



gri ulture + Background 23.9 16.6 7.3(Provi ion of storage facilities

and implementation of

agricultural measure to allow

TP export rates to be reduced2

by on average 15 mg/m /yr).

45

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

Groundwater and Septic Tanks Final Report 2003

7.0 GROUNDWATER AND SEPTIC TANKS

Introduction

A substantial number of residential dwell ings, Bed

and Breakfast accommodation and camping/caravan

parks in the Lou g h Lea ne catc hm e nt are not

presently serviced by the urban sewerage network

for Lo ug h Leane and to what exte nt septi c tank

sys te ms contri bute to thi s nutri ent bud ge t. T he

boundary of the study area is shown in Map 10.

The objectives of the study into groundwater and

septic tanks systems were:

• assess the base groundwater flow enteri ng the

and rely 0 11 septic tanks to adequately treat domestic lake;

sewage . The es tim ated TP load in g, pri o r to

treatment , arising due to the 12,000 persons in the

rural catchment dependent on septic tanks in 2002

was estimated at II tannes/annum .

The potential pathways by which nutrients can enter

Lough Leane include:

surface water flow to the lake;

groundwater fl ow contributing to surface water

flow ~

groundwater fl ow directly to the lake.

Nutrients from septic tank effluent have the potential

to impact on the quality of groundwater contribu ting

to surface water fl ow and fl ow ing di rectly to the

lake.

The s uscep tibilit y fo r ph os ph o ru s mo bility

und ergro un d is know n to be de penda nt o n the

physical setting of the underl ying aqui fers and the

nature and depth o f subsoil overlying the aquifers. In

general , the susceptibility for phosphorus mobili ty

via underground routes or pathways is significantly

less in areas of thick subsoils, especia lly where the

subsoil is greater than 3.0m thick.

The majority of tanks are situated in a lower lying

part of the Lough Leane catchment which, represents

24% of the entire catchment. Thi s a rea comprises

large areas of thick subsoi l (>3 .0m). Consequently it

was not expected that groundwater would contribute

s ign ificant quanti ties of phosphorus to the lake.

Special Study

• establish the extent, condi tion , sui tability , and

perfo rmance of septi c tanks within the special

study area;

•

de te rmin e to w hat ex te n t g ro und wate r is a

pathway for nutrients;

de termine to what ex tent efflu ent from septi c

tanks is contribu ting to nutrient in surface waters

and groundwater entering the lake;

ident ify manageme nt meas ures to reduce the

ex isting and fu ture potential nu trient inputs from

septic tanks and groundwater.

A n initi a l des kto p hydrogeol og ic al stud y was

undertaken which confirmed the significant volume

of groundwater contribution to Lough Leane. Low

flow fi gures in the River Flesk for the drought year

of 1995 indicate a groundwater flow of 2 m)/s to the

river at Flesk Bridge

An investigation was carried out in to the status of

se pti c ta nk sys te ms. De ta il s o n th e s tud y's

methodology and results are gi ven in the Second

Interim Report . The study concluded the fo llowing:

• typical systems within the study area comprise

single cell block work tanks greater than 20 years

o ld discharging to a soak-away;

• 20 % o f ta nks fai led to meet the m in imum

capacity requirements for single dwellings;

• 47% of percolation tests fa iled to meet minimum

A special study area was estab lished to determine if requ irements;

groundwater was contributing to the nutrient budget

46

Groundwater and Septic Tanks Filla! Report2003

7.0 GROUNDWATER AND SEPTIC TANKS

Introduction

A substantial number of residential dwellings, Bed

and Breakfast accommodation and camping/caravan

parks in the Lough Leane catchment are 110t

presently serviced by the urban sewerage networkand rely on septic tanks to adequately treat domestic

sewage. The estimated TP loading, prior to

treatment, arising due to the 12,000 persons in the

rural catchment dependent on septic tanks in 2002

was estimated at II tannes/annum.

The potential pathways by which nutrients can enterLough Leane include:

surface water flow to the lake;

groundwater flow contributing to surface water

flow;

groundwater flow directly to the lake.

Nutrients from sepLic lank effluent have the potential

to impact 011 the quality of groundwater contributing

to surface water flow and flowing directly to the

lake.

The susceptibility for phosphorus mobility

underground is known to be dependant on the

physical setting of the underlying aquifers and the

nature and depth of subsoil overlying the aquifers. In

general, the susceptibility for phosphorus mobility

via underground routes or pathways is significantly

less in areas of thick subsoils, especially where the

subsoil is greater than 3.0m thick.

The majority of tanks are situated in a lower lying

part of the Lough Leane catchment which, represents

24% of the entire catchment. This area comprises

large areas of thick subsoil (>3.0m). Consequently it

was not expected that groundwater would contribute

significant quantities of phosphorus to the lake.

Special Study

for Lough Leane and to what extent septic tank

systems contribute to this nutrient budget. The

boundary of the study area is shown in Map 10.

The objectives of the study into groundwater and

septic tanks systems were:

• assess the base groundwater flow entering the

lake;

• establish the extent, condition, suitability, and

performance of septic tanks within the special

study area;

determine to what extent groundwater is a

pathway for nutrients;

determine to what extent effluent from septic

tanks is contributing to nutrient in surface waters

and groundwater entering the lake;

• identify management measures to reduce the

existing and future potential nutrient inputs from

septic tanks and groundwater.

An initial desktop hydrogeological study was

undertaken which confirmed the significant volume

of groundwater contribution to Lough Leane. Low

now figures in the River Flesk for the drought year

of 1995 indicate a groundwater flow of 2 m'/s to theriver at Flesk Bridge

An investigation was carried out into the status of

septic tank systems. Details on the study's

methodology and results are given in the Second

Interim Report. The study concluded the following:

• typical systems within the study area comprise

single cell blockwork tanks greater than 20 years

old discharging to a soak-away;

• 20% of tanks failed LO meet the minimum

capacity requirements for single dwellings;

• 47% of percolation tests failed to meet minimum

A special study area was established to determine if requirements;

groundwater was contributing to the nutrient budget

46

Fo

r ins

pecti

on pu

rpos

es on

ly.

Cons

ent o

f cop

yrigh

t own

er req

uired

for a

ny ot

her u

se.

EPA Export 26-07-2013:16:14:50

Groundwater and Septic Tanks

-- Septic Tank Study Aren RivCl" Sampling Stations • Automatic Rcwrdcr • GCIlCnIl catchment • Special Study Ma Groull

Groundwater and Septic Tanks Final Report 2003

Table 20 Groundwater Quality Parameters along the River Flesk

Parameter River Flesk Monitoring Wells

FBHl FBH2 FBH3 FBH4 FBHS FBH6 FBH7 FBH8 FBH9 FBHlO Drinking

Standards

MRP Jlg/l II 12 8 7 9 8 8 7 12 20 30 * N itrate mg/l 22 .7 2 .8 8.2 9.0 5 .2 5. 1 73.4 20.7 I 1.1 13.4 50.0

Chloride mg/I 124.8 23 18 19 19 19 40 23 26 24 250

Ammonia mg/l 0.02


The res ul ts of gro undwate r monitoring have

confi rmed that the attenuati ng characteristics of

thick subsoils limit the migration of phosphorus in

the groundwater regime. It has been establ ished that

groundwater entering the lake is not a sign ificant

pathway for phosphorus entering the lake.

The inves ti gation s undertaken in Barraduff have

shown that surface water qua li ty is affec ted by

discharges from sep ti c tanks as a res ult of the

sha llow subsoil , the high water table and the low

permeability bedrock. These impacts result from

direct discharges to surface waters and from shallow

groundwate r contribution s to surface water flow

parlicu larly during wet weather.

The Individual Septic Tank Study demonstrated that

septic tank effluent has an impact on groundwater

quality where the sept ic tank systems are not

installed in accordance with the EPA Manual (EPA,

2000). Impacts ca n be red uced by prope r

maintenance of septic tanks.

The provision of a septic tank system , constructed

according to the EPA Manual el iminates the impact

o n g round wa ter from phosphorus b u t other

com ponents of the efflu e nt ma y not be fu ll y

removed. The Groundwater Protection Responses

for On-site Wastewater Systems for Single Houses

(DELC, EPA and CSl, 2000) wh ich sho uld be

co ns ulted along with th e EPA Man ua l for th e

insta ll ation of septi c tank systems recom mends

minimum distances to wells and surface waters to

ensure protection of private water supplies. Wh ile

the impact on groundwater quality from septic tank

effluent in the Lough Leane catchment is measurable

loca ll y, s uch impacts do not have a reg ional

dimension and so would not threaten surface water

qual ity except in regions of shallow subsoi l.

These investigat ions have confirmed that phosphorus

mobility is low in areas of free drain ing thick subsoi l

and that the susceptibility for phosphorus mobili ty is

highest in areas of th in subsoil , high water table and

low permeability bedrock.

49

Management Proposals

As a result of the investigation that was undertaken

into the status of septic tanks in years I and 2 of the

P roject, initial mana gement measu res were

recommended to reduce the ri sk of ph osphoru s

enter ing Lough Leane from septic tanks in the

Seco nd Interim Report. The measures were as

fo llows:

• Loca l Authorities should initiate an awareness

campaign with regard to the proper maintenance

of sept ic tanks;

Local Authorit ies should u ndertake ra ndom

sampling and the veri fication of percolat ion test

results;

• Local Authoriti es s hould achieve be tter

e nforceme nt of reg ulation s concerning the

insta llation of septic tanks and percolation areas;

• Local Authorities should draw up a register of approved pe rsons/contractors fo r acceptab le

ce rtification of perco lat io n tests and se pti c

tank/on-site wastewater treatment system design

and installation . T his register should be revised

as needed.

A nalysis of s ubseq uent P roject monitoring d ata

identified that the presence of septic tanks in areas of

s hallow s ub so il con tributes to the phosphorus

loading to Lough Leane. It should also be noted that

septic tank effluent has been shown to affect water

quality with regard to other chemical parameters and

also with regard to the coli forms. In the future these

impacts should be reduced if not e liminated by use

of the EPA Manual and Groundwater Protection

Responses. Other management measures beyond the

object ives of thi s study may also need to be

exami ned to address overall water quality. Such

further measures should include the implementation

of a Groundwater Protection Scheme.


The results of groundwater monitoring have

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