Source » Pathway » Receptor

Chains for Appropriate Assessment

Arterial Drainage Maintenance Categories

2

DISCLAIMER

No part of this publication should be taken as a statement of the Office of Public Works’ policy. The views expressed by the author(s) are not necessarily those of the Office of Public Works. The user of this report assumes full responsibility for any policy decisions and for any action taken as a result of any conclusions contained herein. Neither the Office of Public Works, nor the author(s) may be held liable for the outcome of any policy decision or action taken by the users of this publication.

The Office of Public WorksEnvironment SectionHeadfordCo. Galway2014

This document should be cited as:Ryan Hanley (2014a) The Office of Public Works, Arterial Drainage Maintenance Categories, Source » Pathway » Receptor Chains for Appropriate Assessment. Prepared by Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers on behalf of the Office of Public Works.

1

1 Introduction 2

2 Background to Arterial Drainage Maintenance 3

2.1 Arterial Drainage Scheme 3

2.2 Description of Drainage Maintenance Activities 3

2.2.1 Channel Maintenance 4

2.2.2 Structural Maintenance 5

2.2.3 Embankment Maintenance 6

3 Sources of Impacts 11

3.1 Physical Disturbance of Habitats 11

3.2 Release of Suspended Solids 12

3.3 Hydrocarbon Spillage 13

3.4 Other Spillages 14

3.5 Release of Nutrients / Changes in Nutrient Levels 14

3.6 Changes in Water Levels 14

3.7 Noise and Visual Disturbance 14

3.8 Light Pollution 15

3.9 Vibration Related Disturbance 15

3.10 Environmental Training 15

3.11 Environmental Audits 15

3.12 Environmental Management Protocol and Standard Operating Procedure (SOPS) 16

4 Pathway and Receptors 17

4.1 Outside Zone of Influence (For all Pathways) 17

4.2 Outside Zone of Influence for Source Water Pathways 17

4.3 Other Habitats 18

4.4 Attributes and Targets 18

4.4.1 Proposed Attributes 18

4.4.2 Additional Attributes 19

5 Conclusion 35

6 Bibliography 36

Appendix 1 40Surface Water Dependent, Land and Air and Ground Water Dependent Habitats and Species

Contents

2

Ryan Hanley was appointed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to provide environmental consultancy services in relation to statutory arterial drainage maintenance services for 2013.

As part of these environmental services, Ryan Hanley was requested to undertaken a desktop study of the various impacts which can arise from the OPW drainage maintenance activities utilising expert knowledge and opinion derived from practical on-site experience of OPW projects.

As part of the desktop study each of the categories of drainage maintenance activities and associated subcategories were reviewed to identify the presence of complete source » pathway » receptor chains which could result in likely significant effects on Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of Natura 2000 sites.

This report provides details of the various drainage maintenance categories and likely source » pathway » receptor chains. It is intended that this information can be utilised to inform the preparation of Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening Report and Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment (Natura Impact Statement) in light of proposed drainage maintenance activities in Arterial Drainage Schemes.

1 Introduction

3

2.1 ARTERIAL DRAINAGE SCHEMESThe OPW constructed a number of Arterial Drainage Schemes on catchments under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, and Flood Defence Schemes under the Arterial Drainage (Amendment) Act, 1995. Under section 37 of the 1945 Act, the OPW is statutorily obliged to maintain all rivers, flood defence embankments and urban flood defences on which it has executed works since the Arterial Drainage Act 1945 in “proper repair and effective condition”. On a national level the OPW are responsible for the maintenance of circa 11,500km of channel, 730km of embankments, some 18,500 bridges and 750 ancillary structures such as sluice gates, pumping stations and tidal barrages (see Table 2.1).

TABLE 2.1 DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE AS PER THE ARTERIAL DRAINAGE ACT

Maintenance referred to under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 & 1995 includes:

1. The maintenance of river channels in a condition that ensures they are free flowing, thus reducing flood risk and providing adequate outfall for land drainage.

2. The maintenance of river and coastal embankments, in a condition that protects benefiting lands to the extent defined in the Scheme, from risk of flooding.

3. The maintenance, repair and/or replacement of all structures forming part of a Scheme, including accommodation bridges, weirs, sluice barrages, sluices, pumping stations and tidal flap gates.

2 Background to Arterial Drainage Maintenance

2.2 DESCRIPTION OF DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIESDrainage maintenance typically falls under threes main headings: channel, embankment and structural maintenance, and is subdivided into 11 No. categories A-K as described in Table 2.2 and 2.3.

TABLE 2.2 OPW DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE CATEGORIES OPW MAINTENANCE CATEGORIES

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 2.3 BREAKDOWN OF THE OPW DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE CATEGORIES

Channel Maintenance

Embankment Maintenance

Structural Maintenance

A – Silt and Vegetation Management

D – Bush Cutting / Branch Trimming

I – Sluice Maintenance

B – Aquatic Vegetation Cutting

E – Tree Cutting J – Bridge Maintenance

C – Bank Protection F – Mulching C – Bank Protection

D – Bush Cutting / Branch Trimming

G – Mowing D – Bush Cutting / Branch Trimming

E – Tree Cutting H – Gate Installation E – Tree Cutting

K – Other

4

2.2.1CHANNEL MAINTENANCEThe 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, circa 2000km of channels are maintained annually and nearly all of the 11,500km of channels 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 StandardsArterial 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 Channels Requiring MaintenanceIn 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-stream vegetation (Shannon International River Basin District Project, 2008). 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 (see Table 2.5A).

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, 2011).

Plane Bed to Low Gradient ChannelsSome 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-stream 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, 2011). In such channels silt and in-stream 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 levels (Shannon International River Basin District Project, 2008).

Medium to High Gradient ChannelsA 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, 2011) as opposed to channels of low gradient which are subject to rapid accumulation of silt and proliferation of vegetation (Shannon International River Basin District Project, 2008). These channels will have a greater requirement for bank protection works and infrequent gravel removal.

Periods and Cycles of MaintenanceThe average channel requires silt and vegetation management every four to six years.

In contrast to average channels, 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 (WS1) via bush cutting/branch trimming, tree cutting or mulching between 1st September and 28th February to avoid the residential bird nesting season (from the 1st March to 31st August in accordance with the Wildlife Act (1976).

In contrast in-stream works for silt and vegetation management are carried out outside of the salmonid

5

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 Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). As a result there may be a two stage approach to the works where silt and in-stream vegetation management is 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 STRUCTURAL MAINTENANCE

Structural Design StandardsDuring the construction of the Arterial Drainage Schemes under the 1945 Act, some 18,500 accommodation bridges were identified and modified or replaced as required. These bridges provide farmers owning land on both sides of a channel 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 construction of 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 circa 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 MaintenanceIn 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 (see Table 2.5B).

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 (see Table 2.4A)All embankments and associated sluice 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 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 a long reach excavator working from the bank of the channel (see Table 2.4B).

TABLE 2.4A TYPES OF BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

J – Bridge Maintenance

i. Blockage removal

ii. Repairs to Parapets, wing-walls

iii. Replacement of bridge deck

iv. Extension of piped culvert

v. Full bridge replacement

TABLE 2.4B TYPES OF SLUICE MAINTENANCE

I – Sluice Maintenance

i. Blockage removal

ii. Repairs to sluice door

iii. Replacement of sluice door

iv. Full sluice replacement

6

2.2.3 EMBANKMENT MAINTENANCEA 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.

Scheme Design StandardsAs 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 MaintenanceAll embankments and associated sluice structures 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 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 (see Table 2.5C).

7

TABL

E 2.

5A

DESC

RIPT

ION

OF O

PW C

HANN

EL M

AINT

ENAN

CE C

ATEG

ORIE

S

CHAN

NEL

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

TYPE

OF

MAC

HINE

RYLE

NGTH

OF

CHAN

NEL

MAI

NTAI

NED

PER

WEE

K

TYPE

OF

CHAN

NEL/

LOCA

TION

TYPI

CAL

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

PHOT

OGRA

PH O

F M

AINT

ENAN

CE

TYPE

/WAS

TE O

UTPU

TPH

OTOG

RAPH

OF

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

TYP

E

A –

Silt

and

Vege

tatio

n

Man

agem

ent

15 to

nne

stan

dard

hy

drau

lic e

xcav

ator

fit

ted

with

sta

ndar

d bu

cket

700m

to 9

00m

per

w

eek

with

a 1

.5m

wid

e (a

ppro

x) b

ucke

t (ca

paci

ty

500l

trs).

Rat

es m

ay

chan

ge d

ue to

cha

nnel

w

idth

, gro

und

cond

ition

s an

d ac

cess

Smal

l dra

inag

e ch

anne

ls

cate

goris

ed a

s Dr

aina

ge

ditc

hes

(FW

4) (<

1.5m

wid

e)

Smal

l pla

ne b

ed to

low

gr

adie

nt c

hann

els

Larg

e de

posi

ts o

f silt

are

m

aint

aine

d by

the

rem

oval

of

in-s

tream

silt

s an

d aq

uatic

veg

etat

ion

such

as

Fool

s W

ater

cres

s.

Sect

ions

of c

hann

el a

re a

lso

skip

ped

whe

re L

ampr

ey a

nd

Whi

te-c

law

ed C

rayfi

sh a

re

confi

rmed

pre

sent

The

resu

lting

spo

il is

spr

ead

out

over

the

adja

cent

ban

k w

ithin

the

mai

nten

ance

acc

ess

corr

idor

A –

Silt

and

Vege

tatio

n

Man

agem

ent

15 to

nne

stan

dard

hy

drau

lic e

xcav

ator

fit

ted

with

sta

ndar

d bu

cket

700m

to 9

00m

per

w

eek

with

a 1

.5m

wid

e (a

ppro

x) b

ucke

t (ca

paci

ty

500l

trs).

Rat

es m

ay

chan

ge d

ue to

cha

nnel

w

idth

, gro

und

cond

ition

s an

d ac

cess

Larg

er d

rain

age

chan

nels

ca

tego

rised

as

Drai

nage

di

tche

s (F

W4)

(>1.

5m

wid

e). A

lso

back

drai

ns o

n a

flood

def

ence

em

bank

men

t ca

tego

rised

as

a Dr

aina

ge

ditc

h (F

W4)

/ Tid

al ri

ver (

CW2)

Med

ium

siz

ed p

lane

bed

to lo

w

grad

ient

cha

nnel

s

Silt

and

emer

gent

spe

cies

su

ch a

s Co

mm

on R

eed,

Sp

arga

nium

and

Bul

rush

gr

owin

g ac

ross

the

chan

nel

wid

th a

re m

aint

aine

d by

the

rem

oval

of i

n-st

ream

silt

s an

d em

erge

nt v

eget

atio

n.

Sect

ions

of c

hann

el a

re a

lso

skip

ped

whe

re L

ampr

ey a

nd

Whi

te-c

law

ed C

rayfi

sh a

re

confi

rmed

pre

sent

The

resu

lting

spo

il is

spr

ead

out

over

the

adja

cent

ban

k w

ithin

the

mai

nten

ance

acc

ess

corr

idor

A –

Silt

and

Vege

tatio

n

Man

agem

ent

Long

-rea

ch h

ydra

ulic

ex

cava

tors

fitte

d w

ith

stan

dard

buc

ket

200m

to 3

50m

per

w

eek

with

a 1

.5m

wid

e (a

ppro

x) b

ucke

t (ca

paci

ty

appr

ox 3

00lit

res)

. Ra

tes

may

cha

nge

due

to

chan

nel w

idth

, gro

und

cond

ition

s an

d ac

cess

.

Rive

r cha

nnel

s ca

tego

rised

as

a D

epos

iting

/low

land

rive

r (F

W2)

Silt

and

othe

r allu

vial

su

bstra

tes

e.g.

gra

vels

ar

e of

ten

depo

site

d on

m

eand

ers

and

alon

g th

e ba

nks

of ri

vers

and

stre

ams

form

ing

berm

s. W

here

the

capa

city

of a

cha

nnel

is

affe

cted

by

a be

rm, i

t is

man

aged

by

topp

ing

it to

fo

rm a

two-

stag

e ch

anne

l

The

resu

lting

spo

il is

spr

ead

out

over

the

adja

cent

ban

k w

ithin

the

mai

nten

ance

acc

ess

corr

idor

8

CHANNEL M

AINTENANCETYPE OF M

ACHINERYLENGTH OF CHANNEL M

AINTAINED PER W

EEK

TYPE OF CHANNEL/LOCATIONTYPICAL M

AINTENANCEPHOTOGRAPH OF M

AINTENANCE TYPE/WASTE

OUTPUTPHOTOGRAPH OF M

AINTENANCE TYPE

B –

Aquatic

Vegetation Cutting

15 tonne standard hydraulic excavator fitted w

ith weed

cutting bucket

700m to 900m

per w

eek. Rates m

ay change due to channel w

idth, ground conditions and access

Small river channels

categorised as Depositing/low

land rivers (FW2) w

hich experience prolific grow

th of in-stream

vegetation, where

removal of silt or heavy

material is not required

The weed-cutting bucket

allows for the in-stream

vegetation to be cut w

ithout disturbing the channel bed including silts and gravelsThe approach allow

s certain aquatic species to escape from

the bucket during w

orks

The resulting spoil is spread out over the adjacent bank w

ithin the maintenance access corridor

B –

Aquatic

Vegetation Cutting

Weed Cutting

Boat90km

of channel is m

aintained annually by four w

eed cutting boats, operating on a seasonal basis

Large deep and slow m

oving river channels categorised as Depositing/low

land rivers (FW

2) in the West of Ireland

with prolific grow

th of in-stream

vegetation. Where

access is not possible due to the w

idth of the river, or where

the banks are too unstable to allow

for maintenance by

excavators

Vegetation is cut to a m

aximum

depth of 1.3m

, leaving the bed and base of the w

eeds untouched. The species generally cut include Scirpus and Sparganium

sp. em

erging in the open channel

The resulting vegetation is generally carried off dow

nstream. W

here vegetation removal is

undertaken upstream of an urban centre w

ith a bridge crossing structure, the resultant vegetation is rem

oved from the channel dow

nstream of the w

eed cutting boat using a hydraulic excavator

C –

Bank Protection

15 tonne standard hydraulic excavator fitted w

ith standard bucket

N/A. Works carried out

in discrete sectionsRiver channels categorised as Depositing/low

land rivers (FW

2) which experience

bank slippage or damage

resulting in restrictions on flow

. Bank protection works

are generally required along discrete stretches of channels w

here erosion or instability is present due to the absence of vegetation cover.

Channels are generally regraded to their original profile by re-profiling the channel in-situ or by im

porting bank protection m

aterial such as rock arm

our, Christm

as trees or log poles.

9

CHAN

NEL

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

TYPE

OF

MAC

HINE

RYLE

NGTH

OF

CHAN

NEL

MAI

NTAI

NED

PER

WEE

K

TYPE

OF

CHAN

NEL/

LOCA

TION

TYPI

CAL

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

PHOT

OGRA

PH O

F M

AINT

ENAN

CE T

YPE/

WAS

TE O

UTPU

TPH

OTOG

RAPH

OF

MAI

NTEN

ANCE

TYP

E

D –

Bush

Cut

ting

/ Br

anch

Trim

min

g

Chai

nsaw

or h

ydra

ulic

sec

ateu

rs fi

tted

to a

hy

drau

lic e

xcav

ator

. Th

e hy

drau

lic s

ecat

eurs

giv

e gr

eate

r flex

ibili

ty in

se

lect

ive

and

clea

n re

mov

al o

f woo

dy v

eget

atio

n.

Hydr

aulic

sec

ateu

rs a

nd tr

ampl

ing

by tr

acks

of t

he

hydr

aulic

exc

avat

or is

util

ised

to a

rres

t suc

cess

ion

to m

atur

e w

oodl

and

alon

g th

e m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

or

All c

hann

el ty

pes

i.e. D

rain

age

ditc

hes

(FW

4)

and

Depo

sitin

g/lo

wla

nd ri

vers

(F

W2)

.M

aint

enan

ce

Acce

ss C

orrid

or

alon

g al

l cha

nnel

ty

pes

Bush

cut

ting/

bran

ch

trim

min

g is

pro

pose

d to

rem

ove

over

hang

ing

bran

ches

with

in o

r jus

t ab

ove

the

wat

er d

urin

g pe

riods

of l

ow fl

ow (T

his

will

ser

ve to

ens

ure

the

pass

age

of d

ebris

dur

ing

perio

ds o

f hig

h flo

w

or fl

ood

even

ts) a

nd to

m

aint

ain

the

mai

nten

ance

ac

cess

cor

ridor

.

Whe

re la

ndow

ner a

gree

men

ts a

re in

pla

ce, t

he lo

cal

land

owne

r rem

oves

the

woo

d of

f site

for p

erso

nal u

se.

The

woo

d is

gen

eral

ly c

ut a

nd le

ft in

2m

long

sec

tions

fo

r the

land

owne

r. A

t som

e lo

catio

ns w

oody

mat

eria

l is

left

on th

e sp

oil h

eap

with

in th

e m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

or o

r pla

ced

in a

mul

cher

and

bur

ied

with

in th

e m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

or in

con

sulta

tion

with

the

land

owne

r

E –

Tree

Cut

ting

Hydr

aulic

she

ars

fitte

d to

a h

ydra

ulic

exc

avat

or o

r a

chai

nsaw

.Al

l cha

nnel

type

s i.e

. Dra

inag

e di

tche

s an

d De

posi

ting/

low

land

rive

rs

(FW

2).

Mai

nten

ance

Ac

cess

Cor

ridor

al

ong

all c

hann

el

type

s

Tree

cut

ting

is re

quire

d,

whe

re th

e ca

paci

ty o

f th

e ch

anne

l is

redu

ced

by tr

ees

grow

ing

in th

e ch

anne

l, or

whe

re tr

ees

have

falle

n in

to th

e ch

anne

l. T

he h

ydra

ulic

sh

ears

giv

es g

reat

er

flexi

bilit

y in

sel

ectiv

e an

d cl

ean

rem

oval

of w

oody

ve

geta

tion

K –

Othe

rLo

ng-r

each

hyd

raul

ic e

xcav

ator

s fit

ted

with

st

anda

rd b

ucke

t, tra

ctor

and

trai

ler.

Rive

r cha

nnel

s ca

tego

rised

as

Dep

ositi

ng/

low

land

rive

rs

(FW

2)

Grav

els

and

sand

s ar

e oc

casi

onal

ly d

epos

ited

in-s

tream

. W

here

the

capa

city

of a

cha

nnel

is

affe

cted

by

a de

posi

t, it

is

man

aged

by

rem

ovin

g th

e m

ater

ial o

ff si

te.

The

resu

lting

gra

vel a

nd s

ands

are

rem

oved

off

site

by

a lic

ense

d w

aste

han

dler

10

TABLE 2.5B Description of OPW

Structural Maintenance Categories

STRUCTURAL M

AINTENANCETYPE OF M

ACHINERY/ M

ATERIALSTYPE OF STRUCTURE / LOCATION

TYPICAL M

AINTENANCEW

ASTE OUTPUTPHOTOGRAPH OF M

AINTENANCE TYPEPHOTOGRAPH OF M

AINTENANCE TYPE

I – Sluice M

aintenanceCrane, hydraulic excavator, integrated subm

ersible pump,

tractor and trailer, consaw

, tipper truck, stone for bedding m

aterial

Sluice structures and gates located in em

bankments

i. Blockage removal

ii. Repairs to sluice dooriii. Replacem

ent of sluice dooriv. Full sluice replacem

ent

Waste pipe m

aterial, concrete, dam

aged non-return valve, other construction and dem

olition waste

J – Bridge M

aintenanceCrane, hydraulic excavator, integrated subm

ersible pump,

tractor and trailer, consaw

, tipper truck, grout, w

aterproof deck sealant

Typically agricultural accom

modation

bridges – low profile

piped culverts. Masonry

bridges (works are

uncomm

on as very few

under OPW

managem

ent)

i. Blockage removal

ii. Repairs to Parapets, w

ing-walls

iii. Replacement of

bridge deckiv. Extension of piped culvertv. Full bridge replacem

ent

Construction and dem

olition waste from

structures includes broken concrete and stone. Steel railings are returned to the depot for recycling

C – Bank ProtectionSee Table 2.5A

Very localised at bridges or culverts

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

D – Bush Cutting / Branch Trim

ming

See Table 2.5AVery localised at bridges or culverts

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

E – Tree CuttingSee Table 2.5A

Very localised at bridges or culverts

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

See Table 2.5ASee Table 2.5A

11

There are a variety of sources pertaining to impacts which may arise from drainage maintenance activities. These have been categorised under a number of headings as follows:• Physical disturbance of habitats (and loss of woody vegetation cover)• Release of suspended solids • Spillage of hydrocarbons• Other spillages• Release or changes in nutrient levels• Changes in water levels• Noise and visual disturbance• Light Pollution • Vibration related disturbance

The following sections provide a description of the source of impacts arising from drainage maintenance activities and should be read in conjunction with the OPW’s Environmental Management Protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which provide a description of the protocols and operating procedures which are deployed to minimise, avoid or mitigate the potential source of impacts arising from drainage maintenance activities (see Section 3.10-3.12).

3.1PHYSICAL DISTURBANCE OF HABITATSThere is potential for impacts to Annex I habitats and supporting wetland habitats as a result of physical disturbance during drainage maintenance activities. However, the selection and use of access routes, maintenance access corridors and site compounds and approaches to channel, embankment and structure maintenance is focused on minimising potential disturbance of habitats.

Access Routes and Maintenance Access Corridor (MAC)The location of drainage maintenance works is generally accessed via public roads and through farmland which minimises the potential for physical disturbance of habitats.

During maintenance, a maintenance access corridor (MAC) is generally utilised along one side of a channel/embankment for maintenance purposes and to access a structure. These established routes are used to track the hydraulic excavators for maintenance and for the disposal of spoil. 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 disturbance of habitats is predominantly temporary as the grasslands are trampled by machinery and can recolonise post completion of the maintenance activities.

Within woodland and scrub habitats a linear path more typical of disturbed vegetation i.e. Scrub/transitional woodland (WS) 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 (WS) dominates.

Plant machinery will utilise the same maintenance access corridor used for channel maintenance to gain access to a bridge or sluice structure. Where individual trees, woodland and scrub habitats are present at the location of the structure, these may be removed to facilitate bridge and sluice inspection and works. Where mature trees are present these are generally avoided by plant machinery (see Table 2.5A and B). Where such trees require removal the typical mitigating measure would be to leave tree in fallen position for 24hrs to allow any bats vacate.

Site CompoundsIn relation to siting of mobile short-term staff welfare facilities, plant storage and car parking there is no requirement for physical disturbance of habitats associated within the provision of these facilities given that the facilities are provided by local landowners.

Haul RoadsHaul roads are generally not required to facilitate drainage maintenance. 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 re-establish. All plant and machinery is confined to one defined access route to minimise disturbance. There is potential for physical disturbance of Wet grassland (GS4) habitats which tend to prevail in soft ground conditions where haul roads are required.

Channel and Structural MaintenanceThe removal of silt and vegetation from in-stream habitats of channels has the potential to impact on the habitat of surface water dependant Annex II species where present. Physical disturbance relates to direct

3 Sources of Impacts

12

mortalities, temporary habitat loss, displacement by bough waves, reduction in vegetation as a food resource and as a refuge.

In relation to Atlantic Salmon, works are undertaken 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. Channel maintenance also avoids spawning gravel habitat where possible.

Lamprey larval burrows are characteristically found at eddies or backwaters, on the inside of bends or behind obstructions, where current velocity is below that of the main stream and where organic material tends to accumulate (Kelly & King, 2001). They favour partially shaded areas, and the presence of aquatic plants. In this regard there is potential for channel maintenance to cause:• Disturbance to in-stream silts and temporary removal of habitat in the form of silts/fines• Disturbance of spawning lamprey• Removal of individuals within the excavator bucket which may result in a localised impact on lamprey populations depending on recruitment rates and frequency of maintenance works

Impacts to white-clawed crayfish from physical disturbance are likely to reflect those of salmonids and lamprey. Other potential species-only effects include: • Breeding crayfish or females carrying eggs may be disturbed (King et al., 2008). • Individuals may be displaced locally as a result of the bough-wave created by the excavator or it may induce an escape reaction resulting in a localised impact on population size• Removal of individuals within the excavator bucket during bed excavation works may result in a localised impact on the population size of White- clawed Crayfish (King et al., 2008)

Restrictions on timing of works may apply in relation to the presence/absence of White-clawed Crayfish and Sea, River and Brook Lamprey to minimise disturbance of habitats.

As bats can inhabit bridges there is potential for disturbance and loss of habitat to bats as a result of maintenance works on bridges. Where masonry bridges require maintenance a bat survey is undertaken by a bat specialist in advance of commencement of works to avoid impacts to bats.

Embankment MaintenanceThe maintenance of embankments requires the regular mowing of the grasslands on the embankment to arrest the growth of woody vegetation. Maintenance may include the removal of woody vegetation where some time has elapsed since the last maintenance period.

There is potential for physical disturbance to habitats in terms of the loss of cover for the Annex II species Otter and birds of Special Conservation Interest where woody vegetation removal is required. In this regard the removal of woody vegetation is planned in discrete work sections to avoid fragmentation of commuting/foraging habitat for Otter and cover for birds.

3.2RELEASE OF SUSPENDED SOLIDSThe release of suspended solids can impact directly on surface water dependant Annex II species by blocking the respiratory organs (i.e. gills) of fish and the breathing apparatus of filter feeders e.g. Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera).

In particular channel maintenance undertaken during periods of low flow, where adult salmon would be dependant on finding deep pool areas to rest up (while waiting for flood conditions to draw them further upstream), has the potential to result in the deposition of silt in downstream pools or low-velocity reaches which could cause stress to fish and may displace adult salmon down river (King, 2007).

In relation to juvenile salmon, the disturbance of gravels in spawning and nursery areas can adversely impact on these life stages. The potential impact is greater in low flow situations that pertain in summer – early autumn. During this time period the release of suspended solids can result in stress in juvenile salmon (King, 2007).

There is also potential for impacts on the diversity/abundances of macro-invertebrate communities and smaller fish species which form part of the food chain of surface water dependant Annex II species due to reductions in habitat quality and water quality.

The release of suspended solids also has the potential to impact on the quality of spawning habitats.

Freshwater Pearl Mussel, in particular juveniles, have low tolerances for suspended solids and

13

unlike the majority of the aquatic species, they have limited ability, via an appendage on the base of their shell (known as a foot), to emigrate from sections of a channel that may be subject to a pollution event with further limitations associated with the probability of finding suitable habitat given their specific requirements. In addition to particular river profile, shade, depth and flow rates and other factors, Freshwater Pearl Mussel require clear water not saturated with small sediment particles (such as those associated with local soils) that could interfere with their ability to feed and breath via their siphons and gills. It should be noted that juvenile Freshwater Pearl Mussels are more vulnerable to fluctuation in environmental conditions than adults and have stricter requirements for survival as a result.

Increases in suspended solids may also bring about a reduction in light penetration which restricts photosynthesis, alters oxygen relationships in surface waters and may cause a shift from primary producers to primarily detritus feeders (with the exception of planktonic species or species living on floating debris). Light penetration is important not only with respect to productivity but also with respect of community composition.

In relation to the Annex I habitat Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260], this vegetation community typically floats on floats on top of the water, therefore impacts arising from a reduction in photosynthesis as a result of increase in suspended solids are unlikely.

However the Annex I habitats Hard oligotrophic-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara sp. [3140] and Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-type vegetation [3150] are benthic macrophyte species. Wetzel and McGregor (1968) reported that low light intensity inhibits germination of Najas flexilis and Chara and would therefore eliminate these two species from a community.

There are few studies available pertaining to the potential for impacts on benthic macrophytes arising from drainage maintenance activities. It is anticipated that there is a potential for impacts on Chara sp. arising from the release of suspended solids. With respect to Chara species and drainage maintenance activities on the Corrib Arterial Drainage Scheme the following has been noted:

“....In a 1986 plant survey of the lake (Krause & King, 1994), the lower lake held very low densities of the more sensitive Chara species, whereas Potamogeton pectinatus a species very tolerant of enrichment and several filamentous algal species totally dominated the central and eastern part of the lower lake, and were locally very abundant. The authors attributed this to inputs from the Clare River. It is, however, possible that more recent improvements in water quality on the Clare River may have facilitated re-establishment of more sensitive Chara spp., an Annex I qualifying habitat for the L. Corrib site, for which there are specific conservation objectives. The EPA monitors macrophytes along many transects throughout the upper and lower lake as part of WFD Lake monitoring programme (pers. comm., Ms. Caroline Plant, EPA). The two transects closest to the confluence of the Clare with the lower lake (Transect 16 just to the north and Transect 17 to the south) were surveyed in 2007 and 2010 and on both occasions returned abundances of filamentous algae generally higher than the majority of other transects within the lower lake, especially transects farther north or on the western side. Transect 16 and 17 also had somewhat lower representation of Chara species. These data partially support the findings of (Krause and King, 1994) for the eastern side of the lower lake. However, the EPA transects in general show that Lower Lough Corrib has a very strong representation of Chara species, which contributes to its good macrophyte status, concurring with its overall ‘Good’ water chemistry status. Furthermore, Potamogeton pectinatus a species tolerant of higher nutrients and turbidity levels than Chara was only rarely or occasionally recorded in the 2010 EPA survey of Lower Lough Corrib compared to the earlier findings of Krause & King (1994), when it was abundant. Chara is believed to out compete Potamogeton pectinatus in lakes where the transparency is high (Van den Berg et al, 1999)....”. In a request for further information on the same project the following statement referring to this project was made: “...A mean transparency in the lake of about 4.25m means that across most or all of the lower lake light penetrates to the bottom most of the time, which supports the current success of Chara. This is the situation in the lake presently under the current maintenance regime employed by the OPW in the main drainage channels to the lower lake....”

3.3HYDROCARBON SPILLAGE The accidental release of hydrocarbons has the potential to impact directly on surface water dependant Annex II species and other species by blocking the respiratory organs (i.e. gills) of fish and the breathing apparatus of filter feeders. A large scale pollution event could result in a severe impact.

14

Hydrocarbons could also damage the respiratory organs and irritate and cause ulcerations on the skin of fish, amongst other impacts.

Impacts arising from the accidental spillage or release of hydrocarbons and other chemicals could result in a slight to moderate negative impact on the Annex I habitat Water courses of plain to montage levels with the Granulation annuitants and Non-theatrical vegetation [3260]. This Annex I habitat provides a micro-habitat e.g. shade, shelter and a food source for an array of aquatic species; therefore the food chain of salmonids and other species could also be indirectly affected.

It should be noted however that the risk of hydrocarbon spillage is considered unlikely given the avoidance measures which are put in place to limit risk of a spillage.

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 machinery used in maintenance activities.

Integrated submersible pumps are also deployed in the event of structural maintenance and the requirement for de-watering of excavations.

Used engine oil and hydraulic oil is disposed of by a licensed waste handler.

3.4OTHER SPILLAGES The accidental spillage of grout, concrete and sealants during works could impact directly on water dependant fish and invertebrate species by blocking the respiratory organs (i.e. gills) of fish and the breathing apparatus of filter feeders. Concrete fines could also damage the respiratory organs and irritate and cause ulcerations on the skin of fish, amongst other impacts by changing the physiochemical properties of the water.

It should be noted that the risk of a significant concrete, grout and sealant spillage is considered unlikely. Grout, concrete and sealants utilised during the repair and maintenance of structures are handled in accordance with the relevant material safety data sheet.

3.5RELEASE OF NUTRIENTS/CHANGES IN NUTRIENT LEVELS During channel maintenance there is potential for localised soil enrichment or changes in pH due to the disposal of spoil in the form of silt and vegetation which is spread thinly along the bank or on top of existing spoil heaps where present within the access corridor. There is also potential for localised soil enrichment from dead wood material, and mulch where the arising are left on site to decompose or where mulched material is buried. Where excess nutrients enter surface waters there is potential for localised enrichment of channels; however this is considered unlikely given the nature and scale of works undertaken on channels.

During the removal of in-stream silts and vegetation and bank protection works there is potential for mobile inorganics N03 and low mobility inorganics P04 to be released from the channel bed which could result in eutrophication in channels and downstream surface water bodies and a reduction in ability to support Annex II species and Annex I habitats.

There is a requirement for water supply and disposal of wastewater from the welfare facilities. There is no potential for impacts via the release of nutrients as all mobile site facilities are maintained by a licensed waste handler.

3.6 CHANGES IN WATER LEVELS Changes in water levels as a result of drainage maintenance activities can result from drainage maintenance activities occurring downstream of surface water dependant Annex I habitats or supporting wetland habitats.

Changes in water levels can also occur as a result of drainage maintenance activities down-gradient or up-gradient of groundwater dependant habitats depending on the typology of the groundwater dependant habitat and the type of groundwater body. For further details relating to changes in water levels refer to Ryan Hanley (2014b).

3.7 NOISE AND VISUAL DISTURBANCEThe types of machinery typically utilised during maintenance works include 3600 hydraulic excavators (from 15 up to 20 tonne excavators), mini-diggers,

15

tractors and trailers, tipper lorries, hydraulic shears, hydraulic secateurs, chainsaw, mulchers and mowers. The removal of heavy 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. Typically there is 1 No. machine working on a channel which is powered down when not in use. Buffer distances relating to the potential for significant effects arising from noise and visual disturbances are detailed in Ryan Hanley (2014b).

3.8 LIGHT POLLUTION With regards to likely significant effects arising from light pollution during drainage maintenance activities it should be noted that all maintenance activities are undertaken during daylight hours. Standard working hours are 8.00am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. In this regard, there is no requirement for temporary site lighting to facilitate works. Therefore in the absence of a complete source » pathway » receptor chain there is no potential for likely significant effects arising from drainage maintenance activities from light pollution.

3.9 VIBRATION RELATED DISTURBANCEThere is limited potential for vibration related impacts to bats species where they inhabit masonry bridge structures as a result of maintenance works on bridges. Where masonry bridges require maintenance a bat survey is undertaken in advance of commencement of works to avoid potential impacts.

3.10 ENVIRONMENTAL TRAININGIn order to minimise the potential for impacts arising from drainage maintenance activities, environmental training of all staff involved in drainage maintenance is an ongoing process. Technical and operational staff 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. This 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 Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 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) 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.

3.11 ENVIRONMENTAL AUDITS A portion of operational crews are audited annually by the OPW Environment Section and IFI for the implementation of the Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (Ten Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance) and the OPW’s Environmental Management Protocol and SOPs.

Auditing is carried out separately by both IFI and OPW Environment Section on a rotational basis to ensure all operational crews are audited at least once every three years. All audit results are forwarded 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 the OPW’s Systems Manager for inclusion in monthly regional benchmarking reports. Management staff ensure, as far as practical, that all operational crews have an opportunity to get experience on EREP projects.

16

The OPW launched its first EREP in 2008. EREP is an OPW funded programme co-ordinated and managed jointly by the OPW and Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). EREP focuses on the enhancement and restoration of the hydromorphology and salmonid habitat of selected salmonid rivers in Ireland which form part of arterial drainage schemes and which have undergone statutory drainage maintenance activities under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945-1995.

EREP involve two different approaches to the enhancement of salmonid rivers, these being Capital Enhancement and Enhanced Maintenance programmes. Capital Enhancement – where capital investment is required, for the importation of rock and gravels (to create spawning habitat). Enhanced Maintenance – where there is no capital investment as available on-site materials (e.g. stone and boulders) are used.

3.12 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL AND STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPS)The OPW’s Environmental Management Protocols 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 7 No. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are applied during operational works. These SOPs set out actions designed to eliminate, or substantially reduce likely impacts to identified species and their associated habitats. These include:• Environmental Drainage Maintenance Guidance Notes (10 Steps to Environmentally Friendly Maintenance)• Lamprey SOP• Crayfish SOP • Otter SOP• Mussel SOP• Invasive Species SOP• Zebra Mussel SOP

Please refer to http://www.opw.ie/en/floodriskmanagement/operations/environmentalactivities/ for further details.

17

The Annex I habitats, Annex II (and IV) species, Article 12 bird species, and supporting wetland habitats which are potential receptors of likely significant effects arising from drainage maintenance activities are detailed in Appendix I (Tables 1- 6). Appendix I identifies which habitats and species can be impacted via the pathways of: 1. Land & Air2. Surface Water3. Groundwater

The tables presented in Appendix I drew on a number of sources including Mayes (2008) and the WFD (2004), the expert advice of Dr. Christopher Peppiatt, ornithologist, in relation to the identification of buffer distances for Article 12 Bird Species, and Dr. Suzanne Tynan and Dr. Pamela Bartley, hydrogeologists, in relation to the identification of groundwater dependant habitats and species.

There are a select number of habitats and species that cannot be impacted by drainage maintenance activities given the nature of the receptor, the absence of a complete source » pathway » receptor chain, or the unlikelihood of an impact via certain pathways. These habitats and species are detailed in below.

Details of complete source » pathway » receptor chains in relation to drainage maintenance activities are outlined in Table 4.1. This table presents detailed information which can be utilised to assess the potential for likely significant effect arising from drainage maintenance activities.

In order to assess potential for likely significant effects on receptors, details of the attributes and targets for the Qualifying Interests of an SAC and the Special Conservation Interests including supporting wetland habitats for SPAs are required from the relevant Site Specific Conservation Objectives document for a Natura 2000 site. Where a Site Specific Conservation Objective document (and site specific attributes and targets) are not available on the NPWS website for a particular SAC a database provided by NPWS provides details of SACs from which attributes and targets can be substituted for the purposes of completing an assessment. Where attributes and targets are not available for a receptor, attributes and targets have been proposed by the author (see Section 4.4 for further details).

4.1OUTSIDE ZONE OF INFLUENCE (FOR ALL PATHWAYS)There are a number of Annex I habitats, Annex II (and IV), Article 12 and supporting wetland habitats

which given their nature and location are unlikely to be encountered or impacted upon by drainage maintenance activities. The following are a list of Annex I habitats which fall into this category:• Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts [1230]• Alpine and Boreal heaths [4060]• Siliceous scree of montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae & Galeopsietalia ladani) [8110]• Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii) [8120]• Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [8210]• Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [8220]

Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts [1230]In relation to [1230] Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts, these habitats are typical of coastal cliffs. Given the nature of these habitats and distance from drainage maintenance activities there is no source or pathway for likely significant effects.

Alpine and Boreal heaths [4060] and Scree and Rocky SlopesIn relation to [4060] Alpine and Boreal heaths and scree and rocky slopes these habitats are typical of upland mountainous regions. Given the nature of these habitats and distance from drainage maintenance activities there is no source or pathway for likely significant effects on these habitats.

Annex II and IV SpeciesThe following is a list of Annex II and IV species which are typically marine species and given the distance from drainage maintenance works are unlikely to be impacted:• Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) [1364]• Common Seal (Phoca vitulina vitulina) [1365]• Bottle-nose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) [1349]• Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) [1351]• Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) [1223]• Whales

4.2OUTSIDE ZONE OF INFLUENCE FOR SURFACE WATER PATHWAYSIn addition to the habitats and species outlined above there are a number of habitats which cannot be impacted via surface water pathways. These are as follows:• Annual vegetation of drift lines [1210]• Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220]

4 Pathway and Receptors

18

• Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritime) [1330]• Mediterranean salt meadows [1410]• Embryonic shifting dunes [2110]• Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes) [2120] • Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes) [2130] • Humid dune slacks [2190]• Machairs (*in Ireland) [21A0]• Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arenariae) [2170]• *Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes (Calluno-Ulicetea) [2150]• *Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum [2140] Note: * denotes priority habitat

Dune HabitatsThese Annex I Dune habitats are coastal onshore habitats are located above the high water mark therefore no pathway exists for likely significant effects via surface water pathways on these habitats.

Annual vegetation of drift lines [1210], Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220], Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritime) [1330] and Mediterranean salt meadows [1410]

The coastal transitional Annex I habitats; [1210] Annual vegetation of drift lines, [1220] Perennial vegetation of stony banks, [1330] Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritime) and [1410] Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) are located on the landward side of Salicornia/Spartina habitats, or above the mean high water mark, therefore no pathway exists for likely significant effects via surface water pathways on these habitats.

4.3 OTHER HABITATS

Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae) [1320]While Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae) [1320] are listed as a Qualifying Interest for a number of SACs in Ireland, this Annex I habitat is dominated by Common Cordgrass (Spartina anglica) which is considered a non-native invasive species in Ireland; in contrast to the rest of Europe. Consequently, conservation objectives for this Annex I habitat have not been set for the Lower River Shannon SAC. According to NPWS (2008) increases in the area and extent of Spartina swards are actually considered

to be unfavourable; however, future expansion in Ireland is considered unlikely (NPWS, 2008). In this regard potential impacts on this habitat from drainage maintenance activities should not be considered under appropriate assessment.

4.4ATTRIBUTES AND TARGETSThe Site Specific Conservation Objectives document provides details of the attributes and targets for the Qualifying Interests of an SAC and the Special Conservation Interests including supporting wetland habitats for SPAs, where available. Where a Site Specific Conservation Objective document (and site specific attributes and targets) are not available on the NPWS website for a particular SAC a database provided by NPWS provides details of SAC for which attributes and targets could be substituted for the purposes of completing an assessment.

4.4.1 PROPOSED ATTRIBUTES For a number of Qualifying Interests, there are no attributes and targets available which can be substituted from another SAC, e.g. Annex I habitats such as Active Raised bog and Annex II species such as Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) [1065].

In light of the requirement to assess the potential for likely significant effects on the structure and function and integrity of Natura 2000 sites, taking into account the associated attributes and targets for the relevant Qualifying Interests and Special Conservation Interests, attributes and targets have been selected by the author to be utilised in the preparation of Stage 2 Appropriate Assessments (Natura Impact Statements) until such time the attributes and targets become available. The following section outlines attributes and targets which have been proposed by the author for the purposes of appropriate assessment.

Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) [1065]There are no attributes and targets available for Marsh Fritillary. In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author. These attributes have drawn on expert advice and scientific literature i.e. Wahlberg et al. (2002). • Patch area• Frequency of patches• Distribution of patches• Patch Type: semi-permanent meadow or clearfell • Patch Age: clear fell

19

• Vegetation structure• Vegetation composition: presence of larval food plant of Devils-bit Scabious• Grazing

Active raised bogs [7110] Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration [7120] Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion [7150]There are no attributes and targets available for Raised Bog and associated habitats. It should be noted that based on expert hydrogeological advice and scientific literature, Raised Bog is a Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE). In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author for Raised Bog and associated habitats:• Habitat area• Vegetation composition• Hydrological regime

Bog woodland [91D0]There are no attributes and targets available for Bog Woodland. It should be noted that based on expert hydrogeological advice and scientific literature Bog Woodland is a precipitation dependant habitat and a Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE). The following attributes have been proposed by the author for Bog Woodland.• Habitat area• Habitat distribution• Woodland size• Woodland structure: cover and height• Woodland structure: community diversity and extent• Woodland structure: natural regeneration• Hydrological regime: depth/height of water table• Woodland structure: dead wood• Woodland structure: indicators of local distinctiveness• Vegetation composition: native tree cover• Vegetation composition: typical species• Vegetation composition: negative indicator species

Hard oligo‐mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara Spp. [3140]There are no attributes and targets available for Oligo-mesotrophic waters. It should be noted that based on expert hydrogeological advice and scientific literature Oligo-mesotrophic waters is a Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE). In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author. • Habitat area• Water quality• Hydrological regime

Taxus baccata woods of the British Isles [91J0]There are no attributes and targets available for Yew woodlands. In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author. • Habitat area• Habitat distribution• Woodland size• Woodland structure: cover and height• Woodland structure: community diversity and extent• Woodland structure: natural regeneration• Woodland structure: dead wood• Woodland structure: veteran trees• Woodland structure: indicators of local distinctiveness• Vegetation composition: native tree cover• Vegetation composition: typical species• Vegetation composition: negative indicator species

Limestone pavements [8240]There are no attributes and targets available for Limestone pavements. In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author:• Habitat area• Habitat distribution• Vegetation composition: typical species• Vegetation composition: notable species

Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis) [6510]There are no attributes and targets available for Lowland hay meadows. In this regard, the following attributes have been proposed by the author:• Habitat area• Habitat distribution• Vegetation structure: broad-leaf herb: grass ratio• Vegetation structure: sward height• Vegetation composition: typical species• Vegetation composition: notable species• Vegetation composition: negative indicator species

4.4.2 ‘ADDITIONAL’ ATTRIBUTES Upon review of the available attributes and targets for Qualifying Interests and Special Conservation Interests, a number of ‘additional’ attributes relative to the Qualifying Interests and Special Conservation Interests which could be impacted upon by drainage maintenance activities were identified by the author. In this regard these attribute have been selected by the author to be utilised in the preparation of Stage 2 Appropriate Assessments (Natura Impact Statements). The following section

20

outlines ‘additional’ attributes and targets which have been proposed by the author for the purposes of appropriate assessment.

Wetlands [A999]Supporting wetland habitats of Special Conservation Interest for SPAs are likely to be surface water dependant. The attribute ‘hydrological regime’ has therefore been included by the author. In addition to this, the attribute ‘water quality’ and ‘vegetation and invertebrate community composition’ has been included in light of potential impacts to the food resources of birds of Special Conservation Interest.

Coastal Transitional HabitatsCoastal transitional habitats are likely to be surface water dependant. The attributes ‘hydrological regime’ and ‘water quality’ have been included in light of potential changes in water levels and change in community composition which could arise as a result of drainage maintenance activities.

Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) [6410]It should be noted that based on expert hydrogeological advice and scientific literature Molinia meadows are a Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE). In this regard an additional attribute has been included in relation to ‘hydrological regime’ in light of its dependency.

*Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) [91E0]It should be noted that based on expert hydrogeological advice and scientific literature alluvial forests are a Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem (GWDTE). In this regard the attribute ‘water quality’ has been included.

Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) [1029]Based on expert advice and scientific literature mussel aggregations in many rivers surveyed to date are associated with areas of shade, normally created by overhanging herbaceous vegetation, scrub and bank-side trees, with little or no bank erosion. Shade keeps water temperatures down during the summer months and inhibits the growth of filamentous algae. Algal mats overgrowing mussel beds can impair respiration, feeding, fertilisation and the release of glochidia (Hastie et al, 2001). The attribute ‘Riparian habitat’ is therefore included.

Brook and River Lamprey (Lampetra Planeri) [1096] and [Lampetra fluviatilis) [1099]Based on expert advice and scientific literature lamprey, in particular Brook Lamprey, are known to be sensitive to pollution. In this regard the attribute ‘water quality’ has been included. There are relatively few data available concerning the water quality requirements of lamprey species (Alabaster & Lloyd 1982).

In the absence of specific tolerance data for River/ Brook Lamprey it must be assumed that conditions in all parts of any river where river/brook lampreys occur, or pass through on migration, are at least UK Water Quality Class B (in England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or A2 (in Scotland) (Maitland, 2003).

White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) [1092] It should be noted that based on expert advice and scientific literature Austropotamobius pallipes is a groundwater dependant species (refer to Ryan Hanley, 2014b). In this regard an additional attribute has been proposed by the author in relation to ‘hydrological regime’ in light of its dependency in order to provide a comprehensive and thorough assessment. It should be noted that based on expert advice and scientific literature overhanging bank-side vegetation has been highlighted as an important factor in determining crayfish abundance, as this provides shade, food and cover (Holdich, 2003). In this regard, an additional attribute has been proposed by the author in relation to ‘riparian habitat’. It should be noted that the attribute water quality only refers to watercourses which support crayfish and which are sampled by the EPA. It is the opinion of the author that this attribute should be deployed to all watercourses supporting crayfish within an SAC where the target should be to maintain Q3-4.

21

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

A –

SILT

AND

VEG

ETAT

ION

MAN

AGEM

ENT

Phys

ical

dis

turb

ance

of

hab

itat

In-s

tream

/MAC

Terr

estri

al h

abita

tsBy

land

Dire

ctTe

mpo

rary

hab

itat d

istu

rban

ce a

s a

resu

lt of

m

achi

nes

track

ing

alon

g th

e ba

nksi

de a

nd a

s a

resu

lt of

the

depo

sitio

n of

spo

il on

the

bank

side

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat o

r “s

uppo

rting

wet

land

hab

itat”

is

pre

sent

with

in th

e rip

aria

n co

rrid

or

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsBy

land

/sur

face

wat

erDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

and

a re

duct

ion

in

the

abili

ty to

sup

port

Anne

x II

spec

ies

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat,

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t”

or A

nnex

II s

peci

es is

pre

sent

in

-stre

am

In-s

tream

alo

ng le

ngth

s of

dr

aina

ge lo

cate

d w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Prec

ipita

tion

depe

ndan

t hab

itats

By la

ndDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

as

a re

sult

of

mac

hine

s tra

ckin

g al

ong

the

bank

side

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat o

r “s

uppo

rting

wet

land

hab

itat”

is

pre

sent

with

in th

e rip

aria

n co

rrid

or o

r adj

acen

t hab

itats

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsBy

land

Dire

ctTe

mpo

rary

hab

itat d

istu

rban

ce a

s a

resu

lt of

m

achi

nes

track

ing

alon

g th

e ba

nksi

deYe

s. If

an

Anne

x I h

abita

t or

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t is

pre

sent

with

in th

e rip

aria

n co

rrid

or o

r adj

acen

t hab

itats

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Coas

tal o

nsho

re

habi

tats

By la

ndDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

as

a re

sult

of

mac

hine

s tra

ckin

g on

shor

eYe

s. If

an

Anne

x I h

abita

t or

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t is

pre

sent

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Coas

tal t

rans

ition

al

habi

tats

By

land

Dire

ctTe

mpo

rary

hab

itat d

istu

rban

ce a

s a

resu

lt of

m

achi

nes

track

ing

alon

g th

e ba

nksi

deYe

s. If

an

Anne

x I h

abita

t or

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t is

pre

sent

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

Di

rect

and

indi

rect

Dire

ct m

orta

litie

s, te

mpo

rary

hab

itat l

oss,

di

spla

cem

ent b

y bo

ugh

wav

es

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

In

-stre

am a

long

leng

ths

of

chan

nel l

ocat

ed w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e)

Surfa

ce w

ater

Di

rect

and

indi

rect

Dire

ct m

orta

litie

s, te

mpo

rary

hab

itat l

oss,

di

spla

cem

ent b

y bo

ugh

wav

es, r

educ

tion

in

vege

tatio

n as

a fo

od re

sour

ce a

nd a

s a

refu

ge

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

In

-stre

am a

long

leng

ths

of

chan

nel l

ocat

ed w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

22

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Physical disturbance of habitatPhysical disturbance of habitat

In-stream/

MAC

Other Annex II & IV Species

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

Waterbirds of Special

Conservation InterestBy land and surface w

ater Indirect

Temporary habitat disturbance as a result of

machines tracking along the bankside, reduction

in vegetation as a food resource

Yes. If “supporting wetland

habitats” are present in-stream

or on the bankside

In-stream along lengths of

channel and along maintenance

access corridors located within

Natura 2000 Sites

Terrestrial raptors of Special Conservation Interest e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

Release of suspended solids

At location of works

and downstream

(in-stream

) habitats

Terrestrial habitatsNone

NoneNone

NoN/A

Surface-water

dependant habitatsSurface w

aterIndirect

Turbidity, reduction in photosynthesis and ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present in-stream

or adjacent Natura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km

(marine) and 5km

(freshwater)

of drainage maintenance w

orks

Precipitation dependant habitats

Surface water

connectivity with a

fen/bog habitat

IndirectTurbidity, reduction in photosynthesis and ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 5km of

drainage maintenance w

orks

Groundwater

dependant habitatsSurface w

ater through sink-holes or percolation

IndirectIncreased turbidity and a reduction in photosynthesis and the ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km

(marine) and 5km

(freshwater)

of drainage maintenance w

orks

Coastal onshore habitats

Surface water

IndirectIncreased turbidity and a reduction in photosynthesis and the ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km of

drainage maintenance w

orks

Coastal transitional habitats

NoneNone

None No

N/A

23

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Rele

ase

of

susp

ende

d so

lids

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

dow

nstre

am (i

n-st

ream

) hab

itats

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

In

dire

ct

Asph

yxia

tion

at g

reat

er th

an n

atur

al b

ackg

roun

d le

vels

or 2

5mg/

l sus

pend

ed s

olid

s (2

0mg/

l su

spen

ded

solid

s in

rela

tion

to F

resh

wat

er P

earl

Mus

sel),

stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

ani

mal

s, re

duct

ion

in

qual

ity o

f spa

wni

ng g

rave

ls d

ue to

pre

senc

e of

silt

Rem

oval

of b

arrie

r to

fish

pass

age,

pro

visi

on o

f ha

bita

t for

Ann

ex II

spe

cies

, rem

oval

of s

uspe

nded

so

lids

from

sys

tem

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es

are

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

and

do

wns

tream

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s w

ithin

5km

of

drai

nage

mai

nten

ance

wor

ks

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e an

d es

tuar

ine)

Surfa

ce w

ater

In

dire

ct

Asph

yxia

tion,

stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

ani

mal

sYe

s. If

Ann

ex II

spe

cies

ar

e pr

esen

t in-

stre

am a

nd

dow

nstre

am

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s w

ithin

3km

of

drai

nage

mai

nten

ance

wor

ks

Othe

r Ann

ex II

& IV

Sp

ecie

sSu

rface

wat

er

Indi

rect

Loca

lised

redu

ctio

n in

pre

y ba

se fo

r bat

s. T

he

rem

oval

of i

n-st

ream

veg

etat

ion

may

loca

lly

redu

ce th

e pr

ey b

ase

(of a

eria

l aqu

atic

inse

cts)

su

ch a

s si

mul

id b

lack

flie

s th

at o

ccur

in h

igh

dens

ities

on

aqua

tic v

eget

atio

n

Yes.

If b

ats

are

pres

ent

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s w

ithin

1km

of

drai

nage

mai

nten

ance

wor

ks

Wat

erbi

rds

of S

peci

al

Cons

erva

tion

Inte

rest

By la

nd a

nd s

urfa

ce

wat

er

Indi

rect

Re

duct

ion

in w

ater

cla

rity

and

asso

ciat

ed im

pact

s on

kin

gfish

er id

entif

ying

pre

yIm

pact

s on

food

cha

in fr

om a

redu

ctio

n ph

otos

ynth

esis

and

aqu

atic

inve

rtebr

ate

dive

rsity

Yes.

If “

supp

ortin

g w

etla

nds

habi

tats

” ar

e pr

esen

t in-

stre

am

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s lo

cate

d w

ithin

3km

(mar

ine)

and

5k

m (f

resh

wat

er) o

f dra

inag

e m

aint

enan

ce w

orks

Terr

estri

al ra

ptor

s of

Sp

ecia

l Con

serv

atio

n In

tere

st e

.g.

Pere

grin

e Fa

lcon

, He

n Ha

rrie

r

None

None

None

NoN/

A

Rele

ase

of n

utrie

nts

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

dow

nstre

am

habi

tats

Terr

estri

al h

abita

tsBy

land

Soil

enric

hmen

t or c

hang

es in

pH

from

dep

ositi

on

of s

poil

Yes

if se

nsiti

ve h

abita

ts a

re

pres

ent o

n th

e ba

nksi

deAl

ong

mai

nten

ance

acc

ess

corr

idor

s lo

cate

d w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

erEu

troph

icat

ion,

redu

ctio

n in

abi

lity

to s

uppo

rt An

nex

II sp

ecie

s Ye

s if

sens

itive

hab

itats

are

pr

esen

t dow

nstre

amNa

tura

200

0 Si

tes

loca

ted

with

in

5km

of d

rain

age

mai

nten

ance

w

orks

24

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Release of nutrients At location of w

orks and dow

nstream

habitats

Precipitation dependant habitats

Surface water

connectivity with a

fen/bog habitat

Eutrophication, reduction in ability to support Annex II species

Yes if sensitive habitats are present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites located w

ithin 5km

of drainage maintenance

works

Groundwater

dependant habitatsVia surface w

ater through sink-holes or percolation

Eutrophication, reduction in ability to support Annex II speciesM

obile inorganics N03; indirect aquifer recharge from

stream bed

Low m

obility inorganics P04; direct aquifer recharge from

stream bed in karst/fissured

aquifers

Yes if sensitive habitats are present dow

nstream.

Wetlands w

ith #direct groundw

ater discharge

Natura 2000 Sites located within

5km of drainage m

aintenance w

orks

Coastal onshore habitats

Surface water

Eutrophication, reduction in ability to support Annex II species and increased ability to support opportunistic w

aterbirds

Yes if sensitive habitats are present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites located w

ithin 5km

of drainage maintenance

works

Coastal transitional habitats

NoneNone

None No

No

Water dependant

Annex II Species (freshw

ater)

Surface water

Indirect Asphyxiation, stress in individual anim

als, reduction in quality of spaw

ning gravels due to algal and m

acrophyte growth.

Yes if sensitive species are present in-stream

and dow

nstream e.g. Chara sp.

Natura 2000 Sites located within

5km of drainage m

aintenance w

orks

Water dependant

Annex II Species (m

arine and estuarine)

Surface water

IndirectAsphyxiation, stress in individual anim

als, reduction in quality of habitat due to algal grow

thYes if sensitive species are present in-stream

and dow

nstream

Natura 2000 Sites located within

5km of drainage m

aintenance w

orks

Other Annex II & IV Species

NoneNone

NoneNo

No

Waterbirds of Special

Conservation InterestBy land and surface w

ater Indirect

Impacts on food chain from

increased algal grow

th, decrease in algal and invertebrate species diversity.

Yes. If supporting wetlands

are present in-stream and

downstream

Natura 2000 Sites located within

5km of drainage m

aintenance w

orks

Terrestrial raptors of Special Conservation Interest e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

25

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Chan

ges

in w

ater

le

vels

(Dee

peni

ng

and

wid

enin

g of

ch

anne

l to

orig

inal

De

sign

leve

l

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

upst

ream

ha

bita

ts

Terr

estri

al h

abita

tsNo

neNo

neNo

neNo

N/A

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

erIn

dire

ctIn

crea

sed

capa

city

and

flow

in c

hann

el le

adin

g to

hyd

rolo

gica

l im

pact

s, re

duct

ion

in a

bilit

y to

su

ppor

t Ann

ex II

spe

cies

Yes.

If A

nnex

I ha

bita

t is

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

In

-stre

am a

nd u

pstre

am h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Prec

ipita

tion

depe

ndan

t hab

itats

Surfa

ce w

ater

co

nnec

tivity

with

a

fen/

bog

habi

tat

Indi

rect

Refe

r to

grou

ndw

ater

Yes.

If A

nnex

I ha

bita

t is

pres

ent u

pstre

am o

r adj

acen

t to

the

chan

nel

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

er

thro

ugh

sink

-hol

es o

r pe

rcol

atio

n th

roug

h ov

erbu

rden

Indi

rect

Incr

ease

d ca

paci

ty a

nd fl

ow in

cha

nnel

lead

ing

to

a re

duct

ion

in w

ater

leve

ls a

nd h

ydro

geol

ogic

al

impa

cts

on T

urlo

ugh

hab

itats

, red

uctio

n in

abi

lity

to s

uppo

rt An

nex

II sp

ecie

s an

d An

nex

I spe

cies

Yes.

If A

nnex

I ha

bita

t is

adja

cent

to th

e ch

anne

lRe

fer t

o Ry

an H

anle

y (2

013b

)

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

er

thro

ugh

sink

-hol

es o

r pe

rcol

atio

n th

roug

h ov

erbu

rden

Indi

rect

Dire

ct a

quife

r rec

harg

e fro

m s

tream

bed

in k

arst

/fis

sure

d aq

uife

rs a

nd a

redu

ctio

n in

abi

lity

to

supp

ort A

nnex

I an

d II

spec

ies

Wet

land

s w

ith #

dire

ct

grou

ndw

ater

dis

char

geRe

fer t

o Ry

an H

anle

y (2

013b

)

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

er

thro

ugh

sink

-hol

es o

r pe

rcol

atio

n th

roug

h ov

erbu

rden

Indi

rect

Low

erin

g of

cha

nnel

wat

er le

vels

due

to in

crea

sed

chan

nel c

onve

yanc

e w

ill in

crea

se th

e hy

drau

lic

grad

ient

bet

wee

n th

e ba

nksi

de u

ncon

fined

gr

ound

wat

er ta

ble

(or p

iezo

met

ric s

urfa

ce);

ther

efor

e po

tent

ially

incr

easi

ng th

e di

scha

rge

to

the

chan

nel a

nd c

hang

es in

the

abso

lute

val

ue

and

patte

rn o

f var

iatio

n in

gro

undw

ater

leve

ls (o

r pi

ezom

etric

sur

face

) and

pot

entia

lly th

e lo

catio

n of

gro

undw

ater

div

ides

. The

dis

tanc

e fro

m th

e ch

anne

l at w

hich

an

impa

ct o

ccur

s is

dep

ende

nt

on th

e su

bsoi

l and

bed

rock

aqu

ifer c

hara

cter

istic

s.

Lead

ing

to a

redu

ctio

n in

abi

lity

to s

uppo

rt An

nex

I and

II s

peci

es

Wet

land

s w

ith #

dire

ct

and

indi

rect

gro

undw

ater

di

scha

rge

Refe

r to

Ryan

Han

ley

(201

3b)

26

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Changes in water

levels (Deepening and w

idening of channel to original Design level

At location of works

and upstream

habitats

Coastal onshore habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

Coastal transitional habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

Water dependant

Annex II Species (freshw

ater)

Surface water or

groundwater

IndirectIm

pacts on food chain as a result of changes in aquatic invertebrate and plant com

munities

Stress on individuals, loss of suitable habitat leading to m

ortalities due to change in water level

Yes. If Annex II species are present

Upstream or adjacent habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Water dependant

Annex II Species (m

arine and estuarine)

Surface water

(estuarine only) Indirect

Impacts on food chain as a result of changes in

aquatic invertebrate and plant comm

unities Stress on individuals, loss of suitable habitat leading to m

ortalities

Yes. If Annex II species are present

Upstream or adjacent habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Other Annex II & IV Species

Surface water

NoneNone

NoN/A

Waterbirds of Special

Conservation InterestSurface or groundw

aterIndirect

Loss of suitable habitat, Impacts on food chain

Yes. If supporting wetlands

are present in-stream and

downstream

Upstream or adjacent habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Terrestrial raptors of Special Conservation Interest e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

B – AQUATIC VEGETATION CUTTING

Physical disturbance of habitat

At location of works

Terrestrial habitatsBy land

DirectTem

porary habitat disturbance as a result of m

achines tracking along the bankside and as a result of the deposition of spoil on the bankside

Yes. If an Annex I habitat or “supporting w

etland habitat” is present w

ithin the riparian corridor

Along maintenance access

corridors located within Natura

2000 Sites

27

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Phys

ical

dis

turb

ance

of

hab

itat

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsBy

land

/sur

face

wat

erDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

and

a re

duct

ion

in

the

abili

ty to

sup

port

Anne

x II

spec

ies

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat,

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t”

or A

nnex

II s

peci

es is

pre

sent

in

-stre

am

In-s

tream

alo

ng le

ngth

s of

dr

aina

ge lo

cate

d w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Prec

ipita

tion

depe

ndan

t hab

itats

None

None

N/A

N/A

N/A

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsNo

neNo

neN/

AN/

AN/

A

Coas

tal o

nsho

re

habi

tats

None

None

N/A

N/A

N/A

Coas

tal t

rans

ition

al

habi

tats

No

neNo

neN/

AN/

AN/

A

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

Di

rect

and

indi

rect

Dire

ct m

orta

litie

s, te

mpo

rary

hab

itat l

oss,

di

spla

cem

ent b

y bo

ugh

wav

es

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

In

-stre

am a

long

leng

ths

of

chan

nel l

ocat

ed w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e)

Surfa

ce w

ater

Di

rect

and

indi

rect

Dire

ct m

orta

litie

s, te

mpo

rary

hab

itat l

oss,

di

spla

cem

ent b

y bo

ugh

wav

es, r

educ

tion

in

vege

tatio

n as

a fo

od re

sour

ce a

nd a

s a

refu

ge

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

In

-stre

am a

long

leng

ths

of

chan

nel l

ocat

ed w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Othe

r Ann

ex II

& IV

Sp

ecie

sNo

neNo

neNo

neNo

N/A

Wat

erbi

rds

of S

peci

al

Cons

erva

tion

Inte

rest

By la

nd a

nd s

urfa

ce

wat

er

Indi

rect

Te

mpo

rary

hab

itat d

istu

rban

ce a

s a

resu

lt of

m

achi

nes

track

ing

alon

g th

e ba

nksi

de, r

educ

tion

in v

eget

atio

n as

a fo

od re

sour

ce

Yes.

If “

supp

ortin

g w

etla

nd

habi

tats

” ar

e pr

esen

t in-

stre

am o

r on

the

bank

side

In-s

tream

alo

ng le

ngth

s of

ch

anne

l and

alo

ng m

aint

enan

ce

acce

ss c

orrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s

Terr

estri

al ra

ptor

s of

Sp

ecia

l Con

serv

atio

n In

tere

st e

.g.

Pere

grin

e Fa

lcon

, He

n Ha

rrie

r

None

None

None

NoN/

A

28

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Release of suspended solids (w

eed cutting bucket only)

At location of works

and downstream

(in-stream

) habitats

Terrestrial habitatsNone

NoneNone

NoN/A

Surface-water

dependant habitatsSurface w

aterIndirect

Turbidity, reduction in photosynthesis and ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present in-stream

or adjacent Natura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km

(marine) and 5km

(freshwater)

of drainage maintenance w

orks

Precipitation dependant habitats

Surface water

connectivity with a

fen/bog habitat

IndirectTurbidity, reduction in photosynthesis and ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 5km of

drainage maintenance w

orks

Groundwater

dependant habitatsSurface w

ater through sinkholes or percolation

IndirectIncreased turbidity and a reduction in photosynthesis and the ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km

(marine) and 5km

(freshwater)

of drainage maintenance w

orks

Coastal onshore habitats

Surface water

IndirectIncreased turbidity and a reduction in photosynthesis and the ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present dow

nstreamNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 3km of

drainage maintenance w

orks

Coastal transitional habitats

NoneNone

None No

N/A

Water dependant

Annex II Species (freshw

ater)

Surface water

Indirect Asphyxiation at greater than natural background levels or 25m

g/l suspended solids (20mg/l

suspended solids in relation to Freshwater Pearl

Mussel), stress on individual anim

als, reduction in quality of spaw

ning gravels due to presence of siltRem

oval of barrier to fish passage, provision of habitat for Annex II species, rem

oval of suspended solids from

system

Yes. If Annex II species are present in-stream

and dow

nstream

Natura 2000 Sites within 5km

of drainage m

aintenance works

Water dependant

Annex II Species (m

arine and estuarine)

Surface water

Indirect Asphyxiation, stress on individual anim

alsYes. If Annex II species are present in-stream

and dow

nstream

Natura 2000 Sites within 3km

of drainage m

aintenance works

Other Annex II & IV Species

Surface water

IndirectLocalised reduction in prey base for bats. The rem

oval of in-stream vegetation m

ay locally reduce the prey base (of aerial aquatic insects) such as sim

ulid black flies that occur in high densities on aquatic vegetation

Yes. If bats utilise the channelNatura 2000 Sites w

ithin 1km of

drainage maintenance w

orks

29

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Rele

ase

of

susp

ende

d so

lids

(wee

d cu

tting

buc

ket

only

)

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

dow

nstre

am (i

n-st

ream

) hab

itats

Wat

erbi

rds

of S

peci

al

Cons

erva

tion

Inte

rest

By la

nd a

nd s

urfa

ce

wat

er

Indi

rect

Re

duct

ion

in w

ater

cla

rity

and

asso

ciat

ed im

pact

s on

kin

gfish

er id

entif

ying

pre

yIm

pact

s on

food

cha

in fr

om a

redu

ctio

n ph

otos

ynth

esis

and

aqu

atic

inve

rtebr

ate

dive

rsity

Yes.

If “

supp

ortin

g w

etla

nds

habi

tats

” ar

e pr

esen

t in-

stre

am

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s lo

cate

d w

ithin

3km

(mar

ine)

and

5k

m (f

resh

wat

er) o

f dra

inag

e m

aint

enan

ce w

orks

Terr

estri

al ra

ptor

s of

Sp

ecia

l Con

serv

atio

n In

tere

st e

.g.

Pere

grin

e Fa

lcon

, He

n Ha

rrie

r

None

None

None

NoN/

A

Rele

ase

of n

utrie

nts

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

dow

nstre

am

habi

tats

Terr

estri

al h

abita

tsBy

land

Soil

enric

hmen

t or c

hang

es in

pH

from

dep

ositi

on

of s

poil

Yes

if se

nsiti

ve h

abita

ts a

re

pres

ent o

n th

e ba

nksi

deAl

ong

mai

nten

ance

acc

ess

corr

idor

s lo

cate

d w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsSu

rface

wat

erEu

troph

icat

ion,

redu

ctio

n in

abi

lity

to s

uppo

rt An

nex

II sp

ecie

s Ye

s if

sens

itive

hab

itats

are

pr

esen

t dow

nstre

amNa

tura

200

0 Si

tes

loca

ted

with

in

5km

of d

rain

age

mai

nten

ance

w

orks

Prec

ipita

tion

depe

ndan

t hab

itats

None

None

None

No

No

Grou

ndw

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsNo

neNo

neNo

ne

NoNo

Coas

tal o

nsho

re

habi

tats

None

None

None

No

No

Coas

tal t

rans

ition

al

habi

tats

No

neNo

neNo

ne

NoNo

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

In

dire

ct

Asph

yxia

tion,

stre

ss in

indi

vidu

al a

nim

als,

re

duct

ion

in q

ualit

y of

spa

wni

ng g

rave

ls d

ue to

al

gal a

nd m

acro

phyt

e gr

owth

.

Yes

if se

nsiti

ve s

peci

es

are

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

and

do

wns

tream

e.g

. Cha

ra s

p.

Natu

ra 2

000

Site

s lo

cate

d w

ithin

5k

m o

f dra

inag

e m

aint

enan

ce

wor

ks

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e an

d es

tuar

ine)

None

None

None

No

No

30

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Release of nutrients At location of w

orks and dow

nstream

habitats

Other Annex II & IV Species

NoneNone

NoneNo

No

Waterbirds of Special

Conservation InterestNone

NoneNone

NoNo

Terrestrial raptors of Special Conservation Interest e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

Changes in channel m

orphologyAt location of w

orks and upstream

habitats

Terrestrial habitatsNone

NoneNone

NoN/A

Surface-water

dependant habitatsSurface w

aterIndirect

Temporary increased capacity and flow

in channel leading to hydrological im

pacts, reduction in ability to support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present in-stream

In-stream

and upstream habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Precipitation dependant habitats

Surface water

connectivity with a

fen/bog habitat

IndirectRefer to groundw

aterNo.

N/A

Groundwater

dependant habitatsSurface w

ater through sinkholes or percolation through overburden

IndirectTem

porary increased capacity and flow in

channel leading to a reduction in water levels and

hydrogeological impacts on Turlough habitats,

reduction in ability to support Annex II species and Annex I species

No. N/A

Coastal onshore habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

Coastal transitional habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

31

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Chan

ges

in c

hann

el

mor

phol

ogy

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

upst

ream

ha

bita

ts

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

or

grou

ndw

ater

Impa

cts

on fo

od c

hain

as

a re

sult

of c

hang

es in

aq

uatic

inve

rtebr

ate

and

plan

t com

mun

ities

Stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

s, lo

ss o

f sui

tabl

e ha

bita

t due

to

cha

nge

in w

ater

leve

l

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e an

d es

tuar

ine)

Surfa

ce w

ater

(e

stua

rine

only

) Im

pact

s on

food

cha

in a

s a

resu

lt of

cha

nges

in

aqua

tic in

verte

brat

e an

d pl

ant c

omm

uniti

es

Stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

s, lo

ss o

f sui

tabl

e ha

bita

t le

adin

g to

mor

talit

ies

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Othe

r Ann

ex II

& IV

Sp

ecie

sSu

rface

wat

er

None

NoN/

A

Wat

erbi

rds

of S

peci

al

Cons

erva

tion

Inte

rest

Surfa

ce o

r gr

ound

wat

erIn

dire

ct

Loss

of s

uita

ble

habi

tat,

Impa

cts

on fo

od c

hain

Ye

s. If

sup

porti

ng w

etla

nds

are

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

and

do

wns

tream

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Terr

estri

al ra

ptor

s of

Sp

ecia

l Con

serv

atio

n In

tere

st e

.g.

Pere

grin

e Fa

lcon

, He

n Ha

rrie

r

None

None

None

NoN/

A

C –

BANK

PRO

TECT

ION

Phys

ical

dis

turb

ance

of

hab

itat

See

Cate

gory

A fo

r det

ails

Rele

ase

of

Susp

ende

d So

lids

See

Cate

gory

A fo

r det

ails

Rele

ase

of n

utrie

nts

See

Cate

gory

A fo

r det

ails

32

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Changes in channel m

orphologyAt location of w

orks and upstream

habitats

Terrestrial habitatsNone

NoneNone

NoN/A

Surface-water

dependant habitatsSurface w

aterIndirect

Increased capacity and flow in channel leading

to hydrological impacts, reduction in ability to

support Annex II species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is present in-stream

In-stream

and upstream habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Precipitation dependant habitats

Surface water

connectivity with a

fen/bog habitat

IndirectRefer to groundw

aterYes. If Annex I habitat is present upstream

or adjacent to the channel

Upstream or adjacent habitats

located within Natura 2000 Sites

Groundwater

dependant habitatsSurface w

ater through sinkholes or percolation through overburden

IndirectIncreased capacity and flow

in channel leading to a reduction in w

ater levels and hydrogeological im

pacts on Turlough habitats, reduction in ability to support Annex II species and Annex I species

Yes. If Annex I habitat is adjacent to the channel

Refer to Ryan Hanley (2013b)

Coastal onshore habitats

None None

Direct aquifer recharge from stream

bed in karst/fissured aquifers and a reduction in ability to support Annex I and II species

Wetlands w

ith direct groundw

ater dischargeRefer to Ryan Hanley (2013b)

Coastal transitional habitats

None None

Lowering of channel w

ater levels due to increased channel conveyance w

ill increase the hydraulic gradient betw

een the bankside unconfined groundw

ater table (or piezometric surface);

therefore potentially increasing the discharge to the channel and changes in the absolute value and pattern of variation in groundw

ater levels (or piezom

etric surface) and potentially the location of groundw

ater divides. The distance from the

channel at which an im

pact occurs is dependent on the subsoil and bedrock aquifer characteristics. Leading to a reduction in ability to support Annex I and II species

Wetlands w

ith direct and indirect groundw

ater discharge

Refer to Ryan Hanley (2013b)

Coastal onshore habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

Coastal transitional habitats

None None

NoNo

N/A

33

TABL

E 4.

1CO

MPL

ETE

SOUR

CE »

PAT

HWAY

» R

ECEP

TOR

CHAI

NS

Sour

ce o

f Im

pact

Loca

tion

of Im

pact

Rece

ptor

Hab

itats

or

Spec

ies

Pote

ntia

lly

Impa

cted

Path

way

Con

nect

ivity

Dire

ct/In

dire

ctTy

pe o

f Im

pact

Like

ly S

igni

fican

t Effe

ctZo

ne o

f Infl

uenc

e of

Lik

ely

Sign

ifica

nt E

ffect

s

Chan

ges

in c

hann

el

mor

phol

ogy

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ks

and

upst

ream

ha

bita

ts

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (fr

eshw

ater

)

Surfa

ce w

ater

or

grou

ndw

ater

Impa

cts

on fo

od c

hain

as

a re

sult

of c

hang

es in

aq

uatic

inve

rtebr

ate

and

plan

t com

mun

ities

Stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

s, lo

ss o

f sui

tabl

e ha

bita

t le

adin

g to

mor

talit

ies

due

to c

hang

e in

wat

er le

vel

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Wat

er d

epen

dant

An

nex

II Sp

ecie

s (m

arin

e an

d es

tuar

ine)

Surfa

ce w

ater

(e

stua

rine

only

) Im

pact

s on

food

cha

in a

s a

resu

lt of

cha

nges

in

aqua

tic in

verte

brat

e an

d pl

ant c

omm

uniti

es

Stre

ss o

n in

divi

dual

s, lo

ss o

f sui

tabl

e ha

bita

t le

adin

g to

mor

talit

ies

Yes.

If A

nnex

II s

peci

es a

re

pres

ent

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Othe

r Ann

ex II

& IV

Sp

ecie

sSu

rface

wat

er

None

NoN/

A

Wat

erbi

rds

of S

peci

al

Cons

erva

tion

Inte

rest

Surfa

ce o

r gr

ound

wat

erIn

dire

ct

Loss

of s

uita

ble

habi

tat,

Impa

cts

on fo

od c

hain

Ye

s. If

sup

porti

ng w

etla

nds

are

pres

ent i

n-st

ream

and

do

wns

tream

Upst

ream

or a

djac

ent h

abita

ts

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Terr

estri

al ra

ptor

s of

Sp

ecia

l Con

serv

atio

n In

tere

st e

.g.

Pere

grin

e Fa

lcon

, He

n Ha

rrie

r

None

None

None

NoN/

A

D, E

, F, G

– B

USH

CUTT

ING

AND

BRAN

CH T

RIM

MIN

G, T

REE

CUTT

ING,

MUL

CHIN

G, M

OWIN

G

Phys

ical

dis

turb

ance

of

hab

itat

At lo

catio

n of

wor

ksTe

rres

trial

hab

itats

By la

ndDi

rect

Rem

oval

of w

oody

veg

etat

ion

grow

th i.

e. b

ranc

hes

belo

w th

e tra

sh-li

ne a

nd d

ead

woo

d m

ater

ial

whi

ch h

as fa

llen

in-s

tream

, dis

turb

ance

of r

ipar

ian

vege

tatio

n Te

mpo

rary

hab

itat d

istu

rban

ce a

s a

resu

lt of

m

achi

nes

track

ing

alon

g th

e ba

nksi

de

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat o

r “s

uppo

rting

wet

land

hab

itat”

is

pre

sent

with

in th

e rip

aria

n co

rrid

or

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

Surfa

ce-w

ater

de

pend

ant h

abita

tsBy

land

/sur

face

wat

erDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

and

a re

duct

ion

in

the

abili

ty to

sup

port

Anne

x II

spec

ies

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat,

“sup

porti

ng w

etla

nd h

abita

t”

or A

nnex

II s

peci

es is

pre

sent

in

-stre

am

In-s

tream

alo

ng le

ngth

s of

dr

aina

ge lo

cate

d w

ithin

Nat

ura

2000

Site

s

Prec

ipita

tion

depe

ndan

t hab

itats

By la

ndDi

rect

Tem

pora

ry h

abita

t dis

turb

ance

as

a re

sult

of

mac

hine

s tra

ckin

g al

ong

the

bank

side

Yes.

If a

n An

nex

I hab

itat o

r “s

uppo

rting

wet

land

hab

itat”

is

pre

sent

with

in th

e rip

aria

n co

rrid

or o

r adj

acen

t hab

itats

Alon

g m

aint

enan

ce a

cces

s co

rrid

ors

loca

ted

with

in N

atur

a 20

00 S

ites

34

TABLE 4.1COM

PLETE SOURCE » PATHWAY » RECEPTOR CHAINS

Source of Impact

Location of Impact

Receptor Habitats or Species Potentially Im

pacted

Pathway Connectivity

Direct/IndirectType of Im

pactLikely Significant Effect

Zone of Influence of Likely Significant Effects

Physical disturbance of habitat

At location of works

Groundwater

dependant habitatsBy land

DirectTem

porary habitat disturbance as a result of m

achines tracking along the banksideYes. If an Annex I habitat or “supporting w

etland habitat is present w

ithin the riparian corridor or adjacent habitats”

Along maintenance access

corridors located within Natura

2000 Sites

Coastal onshore habitats

By landDirect

Temporary habitat disturbance as a result of

machines tracking onshore

Yes. If an Annex I habitat or “supporting w

etland habitat” is present

Along maintenance access

corridors located within Natura

2000 Sites

Coastal transitional habitats

By landDirect

Temporary habitat disturbance as a result of

machines tracking along the bankside

Yes. If an Annex I habitat or “supporting w

etland habitat” is present

Along maintenance access

corridors located within Natura

2000 Sites

Water dependant

Annex II Species (freshw

ater)

Surface water

Direct and indirectDirect m

ortalities, temporary habitat loss,

displacement by bough w

aves Yes. If Annex II species are present in-stream

In-stream

along lengths of channel located w

ithin Natura 2000 Sites

Water dependant

Annex II Species (m

arine)

Surface water

Direct and indirectDirect m

ortalities, temporary habitat loss,

displacement by bough w

aves, reduction in vegetation as a food resource and as a refuge

Yes. If Annex II species are present in-stream

In-stream

along lengths of channel located w

ithin Natura 2000 Sites

Other Annex II & IV Species

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

Waterbirds of Special

Conservation InterestBy land and surface w

ater Indirect

Temporary habitat disturbance as a result of

machines tracking along the bankside, reduction

in vegetation as a food resource

Yes. If “supporting wetland

habitats” are present in-stream

or on the bankside

In-stream along lengths of

channel and along maintenance

access corridors located within

Natura 2000 Sites

Terrestrial raptors of Special Conservation Interest e.g. Peregrine Falcon, Hen Harrier

NoneNone

NoneNo

N/A

Release of Suspended SolidsSee Category A for details

Release of nutrientsSee Category A for details

#Wetlands w

ith direct discharge are those where groundw

ater discharges directly to the wetland.

Wetlands w

ith indirect groundwater discharge are those for w

hich regional groundwater supports w

ater level in the habitat but does not discharge directly to it, these are confined to 7110 Active raised bog, 7120 Degraded raised bog still capable of natural regeneration and 91D0 Bog W

oodland.

35

This report provides additional details relating to potential source » pathway » receptor chains which may arise from drainage maintenance activities. It is intended that information can be utilised to inform the preparation of Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening and Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment (Natura Impact Statements).

5 Conclusion

36

Alabaster, J.S. and R. Lloyd. 1982. Water Quality Criteria for Freshwater Fish. 2nd Edition. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Butterworths, London.

Bailey, M. and Rochford J. (2006) Otter Survey of Ireland 2004/2005. Irish Wildlife Manuals, No. 23. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland.

Barbour, M.T. and Stribling, J. B. (1991) Use of Habitat Assessment in Evaluating the Biological Integrity of Stream Communities. Biological Criteria: Research and Regulation: 25-38. EPA-440/5-91-005. Washington, DC: Office of Water, US EPA.

Bat Conservation Ireland, (2010). Arterial Drainage Maintenance Service Guidance Notes: Protection and Enhancement for Bats. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

Bowers Marriott, B. (1997) Practical Guide to Environmental Impact Assessment: A Practical Guide. Published by McGraw-Hill Professional, 1997, 320 pp.

Chandler, J.R. (1970) A Biological Approach to Water Quality Management. Water Poll. Cont. 69:415-421.

Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (Habitats Directive) and Directive 2009/147/EC (codified version of Directive 79/409/EEC as amended) (Birds Directive) – transposed into Irish law as European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (SI 477/2011).

Crowe, O. (2005) Ireland’s Wetlands and their Waterbirds: Status and Distribution. BirdWatch Ireland, Rockingham, Co. Wicklow.

DANI Advisory Leaflet No. 1 ‘The Evaluation of habitat for Salmon and Trout’ Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland Fisheries Division. EU Salmonid Enhancement Activities.

DEHLG (2009) Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. DEHLG, Dublin.

DOE (1994) Planning Policy Guidance: Nature Conservation (PPG 9), H.M.S.O.

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

DOMNR (1998) Fishery guidelines for Local Authority works. Department of the Marine and Natural Resources, Dublin.

EA (2003) River Habitat Survey in Britain and Ireland: Field Survey Guidance Manual. River Habitat Survey Manual: 2003 version, Environment Agency, 136 pp

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.

EC (2001) Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Articles 6(3) and (4) of the

Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC.

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 (2006) Nature and biodiversity cases: Ruling of the European Court of Justice. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg.

EC (2007a) 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. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. European Commission

EC (2007b) Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats. Version EUR 27. European Commission, DG Environment.

EPA (2002) Guidelines on the information to be contained in Environmental Impact Statements. Environmental Protection Agency.

EPA (2003) Advice Notes on current practice in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements. Environmental Protection Agency EPA website: http://www.epa.ie

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

6 Bibliography

37

Hastie, L.C. and Cosgrove P.J. (2001) The decline of migratory salmonid stocks: a new threat to pearl mussels in Scotland. Freshwater Forum 15, 85-96.

Holdich, D. (2003) Ecology of the White-clawed Crayfish. Conserving Natura 2000 Rivers Ecology Series No. 1. English Nature, Peterborough.

Holdich, D.M. and Rogers, W.D. (1997) The white clawed crayfish, Austropotamobius pallipes, in Great Britain and Ireland with particular reference to its conservation in Great Britain. Bulletin Francais de la Peche et de la Pisciculture 347, 597_/616.

Hynes H.B.N. (1977) A Key to the Adults and Nymphs of the British Stoneflies (Plecoptera), with Notes on their Ecology and Distribution. Third edition, 1977 (reprinted 1993), 92pp.

IEEM (2005) Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management Draft Guidelines for Ecological Impact Assessment.

Igoe F., Quigley, D.T.G., Marnell, F., Meskell, E., O’Connor W., and C. Byrne (2004) The Sea Lamprey Petromyzon Marinus(L.), River Lamprey Lampetra Fluviatilis (L.) And Brook Lamprey Lampetra Planeri (Bloch) In Ireland: General Biology, Ecology, Distribution And Status With Recommendations For Conservation. Biology and Environment: Proceedings Of The Royal Irish Academy, Vol. 104b, No. 3, 43-56 (2004). Royal Irish Academy.

Kelly & King (2001) A review of the ecology and distribution of three lamprey species, Lampetra fluviatilis (L.), Lampetra planeri (Bloch), and Petromyzon marinus (L.): A context for conservation

and biodiversity considerations in Ireland. Biology and the Environment. 101B(3):165-185.

Kilfeather, P.J., (2007) Maintenance and protection of the inland fisheries resource during road construction and improvement works. Southern Regional Fisheries Board, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary.

King J.J (2007) Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) in relation to Atlantic Salmon in Special Area of Conservation and potential for impact of OPW’s channel maintenance work.

King J.J., Lordan M., & Wightman G.D. (2008) Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) of the Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes).

Krause, W. and King J.J. (1994) The ecological status of Lough Corrib, Ireland as indicated by physiographic factors, water chemistry and macrophytic flora. Vegetatio 110:149-161

Maitland, P.S. (2004) Key to the Freshwater Fish of Britain and Ireland, With Notes on their Distribution and Ecology. Freshwater Biological Association Scientific Publications No. 62.

Mayes, E. (2008) Water Framework Directive: Annex IV protected areas: water dependent habitats and species and high status sites. Guidance on measures under the Habitats Directive and for high status sites.

McGinnity, P., Gargan, P., Roche W., Mills, P., and McGarrigle M. (2003) Quantification of the freshwater salmon habitat asset in Ireland using data

interpreted in a GIS platform. Irish Freshwater Fisheries Ecology and Management Series, Central Fisheries Board, Dublin, 3. 131 pp.

MKOS (2011) OPW Arterial Drainage Maintenance Operations AA Screening Report. McCarthy, Keville, O’Sullivan Ltd, Galway.

Murphy, D.F. (2004) Requirements for the Protection of Fisheries Habitat During Construction and Development Works at River Sites. Eastern Regional Fisheries Board, Dublin.

NPWS (2008) The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Conservation Status in Ireland of Habitats and Species listed in the European Council Directive on the Conservation of Habitats, Flora and Fauna 92/43/EEC.

NPWS (2013) NPWS database of Attributes and Targets for qualifying interests. Draft publication. National Parks & Wildlife Service, 7 Ely Place, Dublin 2.

NRA (2005) Guidelines for the Crossing of Watercourses during the Construction of National Road Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

NRA (2006) A Guide to Landscape Treatments for National Road Schemes in Ireland. Dublin:

NRA (2006) Guidelines for the Protection and Preservation of Trees, Hedgerows and Scrub Prior to, During and Post- Construction of National Road Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

NRA (2006) Guidelines for the Treatment of Badgers prior to the Construction of National Road Schemes (1 ed.). Dublin: National Roads Authority.

38

NRA (2006) Guidelines for the Treatment of Bats during the Construction of National Road Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

NRA (2006) Guidelines for the Treatment of Otters prior to the Construction of National Road Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

NRA (2008) Ecological Surveying Techniques for Protected Flora and Fauna during the Planning of National Road Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

NRA (2009) Guidelines for Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Roads Schemes. Dublin: National Roads Authority.NRA (2008) The Management of Noxious Weeds and Non-native Invasive Plant Species on National Roads. Dublin: National Roads Authority.

OPW (2007a) EcIA No.1 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Screening of Natura 2000 Sites for Impacts of Arterial Drainage Maintenance Operations. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007b) EcIA No.2 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on Raised Bogs & Associated Habitats. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007c) EcIA No.3 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Atlantic Salmon in Special Areas of Conservation & potential for Impact of OPW’s Channel Maintenance Work. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007d) EcIA No.4 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory

Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on the Otter (Lutra lutra). Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007e) EcIA No.5 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on Water Courses of Plain to Montane Levels with Aquatic Vegetation (Floating River Vegetation). Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007f) EcIA No.6 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on birds Dependent on Riparian Habitats. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2007g) EcIA No.7 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on Freshwater Pearl Mussel. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2008a) EcIA No.8 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on the Turloughs. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2008b) EcIA No.9 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on three Lamprey Species (Lampetra planeri Bloch, Lampetra fluviatilis L., and Petromyzon marinus L.). Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2009a) EcIA No.10 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius

pallipes). Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2009b) EcIA No.11 of ISSN 1649 – 9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on Fens, Mires & Whorl Snails. Office Public Works, Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2010) EcIA No.12 of ISSN 1649-9840. Effects of Statutory Arterial Drainage Maintenance Activities on Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) and other Riparian Birds II. Jonathan Swift Street, Trim, Co. Meath.

OPW (2011) Arterial Drainage Maintenance & High Risk Channel Designation Programme 2011 – 2015 Habitats Directive Assessment Environment Section Engineering Services Office of Public Works December

O’ Reilly, P. (2004) Rivers of Ireland – A fly fisher’s guide. 6th Ed. Merlin Unwin Books Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended).

Ryan Hanley (2014b) OPW Stage 1 Appropriate Assessment Screening Methodology for Arterial Drainage Schemes. Ryan Hanley Consulting Engineers, Dublin. January 2014.

Ryan Hanley (2013c) Stage 1: Appropriate Assessment Screening Methodology for the Maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes: Moy Validation Example. Prepared by Ryan Hanley on behalf of the Office of Public Works.

Reynolds, J. D. (1998) Conservation management of the white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes. Irish

39

Wildlife Manuals No. 1. Dúchas, the Heritage Service, Dublin.

Stace, C. A. (1997) New Flora of the British Isles. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Toner, P., Bowman, K., Clabby, K., Lucey, J., McGarrigle, M, Concannon, C., Clenaghan, C. Cunningham, P., Delaney, J., O’Brosna, S., MaCarthaigh, M., Craig, M., and Quinn, R. (2005) Water Quality in Ireland 2001-2003. Environmental Protection Agency, Wexford.

Van den Berg, M.S., Scheffer, M., Van Nes, E., and H. Coops (1999) Dynamics and stability of Chara sp. And Potamogeton pectinatus in a shallow lake changing in eutrophication level. Hydrobiologia, 408/409, 335-342

Wahlberg, N., Klemetti, T. and Hanski, I. (2002) Dynamic populations in a dynamic landscape: the meta-population structure of the Marsh fritillary butterfly. Ecography 25: 224-232.

Wetzel, R.G., and D.L. McGregor. (1968) Axenic culture and nutritional studies of aquatic macrophytes. Amer. Midl. NaturWFD, (2005) The Characterisation and Analysis of Ireland’s River Basin Districts in accordance with Section 7 (2 & 3) of the European Communities (Water Policy) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 722 of 2003)

Woodwiss, F.S. (1964) The biological system of stream classification used by the Trent River Board. Chem. Ind., 11.

40

Appendix I Surface Water Dependant, Land & Air, and Ground Water Dependant Habitats and Species

41

TABLE 1 Surface Water Dependent Habitats & Species

EU Code EU Annex 1 Habitats/Annex II (& IV) Species Dependency

Surface Water Dependant Habitats

91E0 Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae) SWD

3140 Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp. SWD

6430 Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels SWD

3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds SWD

3150 Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition – type vegetation SWD

3130 Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea SWD

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

3270 Rivers with muddy banks with Chenopodion rubri p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation SWD

3260 Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation

SWD

Coastal Transitional / Marine Habitats with Connectivity to Surface Water

1150 Coastal lagoons CT/SW

1130 Estuaries CT/SW

1160 Large shallow inlets and bays M/SW

1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide CT/SW

1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonizing mud and sand CT/SW

1110 Sandbanks which are slightly covered by seawater all the time M/SW

Groundwater habitats with Connectivity to Surface Water (WFD, 2004)

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

91D0 *Bog woodland GWDTE/ #PD

7210 *Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of Caricion davallianae GWDTE

7220 *Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) GWDTE/ SW

3180 *Turloughs GWDTE

7230 Alkaline Fen GWDTE

8310 Caves (not open to the public) GWDTE

Surface Water Dependant Species

1102 Allis shad (Alosa alosa) SWD

1106 Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) SWD

1096 Brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) SWD

1016 Desmoulin’s whorl snail (Vertigo moulinsiana) GWD/SW

1990 Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera durrovensis) SWD

1029 Freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) SWD

1013 Geyer’s whorl snail (Vertigo geyeri) GWD/SW

1014 Narrow-mouthed whorl snail (Vertigo angustior) GWD/SW

1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) SWD

1099 River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) SWD

1095 Sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) SWD

1833 Slender naiad (Najas flexilis) SWD

1103 Twaite shad (Alosa fallax fallax) SWD

1092 White-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) SWD

*indicates Priority Annex I Habitats

GWDTE = Groundwater Dependant Terrestrial Ecosystem

# indicates GWDTEs which are also precipitation dependant

PD = Precipitation Dependant CT = Coastal Transitional

SW = Surface Water GWD = Groundwater Dependant

M = Marine

42

TABLE 2

Surface Water Dependant Article 12 Bird Species

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Supporting Wetland Habitats

A194 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea CS2; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A157 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica LS2 (1140); LS3; LS5

A396 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis CS2; CW2 (1130); GA1; GS4; CM2 (1330; 1410)

A037 Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus bewickii CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7; GA1; GS4; PB3 (7130; 7150); MW4 (1130), GM1

A179 Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus (Larus) ridibundus

Marine islands, lake islands. Any coastal marine, freshwater, tilled fields, GA1; GA2; urban and rubbish sites.

A156 Black-tailed Godwit (Icelandic)

Limosa limosa islandica CW2; MW2 (1160); MW4 (1130); CM1 (1310); FL6 (3180); GM1; GS4; LS3, LS4 (1140); LS5

A182 Common (Mew) Gull Larus canus Any coastal marine, freshwater, tilled fields, GA1; GA2; urban and rubbish sites.

A067 Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7, FL8, CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW2, MW3 (1160); MW4 (1130)

A164 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5; MW2 (1160); MW4 (1130); CW2; FL6 (3180); FL3 (3140); FL4; CW1 (1150); LR (1170); LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5

A229 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis FW2; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); PB4 (peat banks)

A059 Common Pochard Aythya ferina FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7, FL8

A162 Common Redshank Tringa tetanus LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5; MW2 (1160); MW4 (1130); CW2; CM1 (1310); FL6 (3180); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150); LR (1170); LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5

A137 Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LS2 (1140); LS3; LS5

A065 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra nigra FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A048 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna CW2 (1130); CW1 (1150); LS3; LS4; LS5, MW4 (1130).

A193 Common Tern Sterna Hirundo CS2; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A149 Dunlin Calidris alpine LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5; MW2 (1160); MW4 (1130); CW2; CM1 (1310); FL6 (3180)

A125 Eurasian Coot Fulica atra atra FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FW2; FW3; FL7; FL8

A160 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata arquata FL6 (3180); FL5; FL4; FL3; GA1; GA2; GS4; GM1; CW2; CM2 (1330; 1410); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LR (1170); CW1 (1150); CM1 (1310; 1320); LS (1140)

A130 Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); LR (1170); LS1; LS3, LS4 (1140); LS5; MW2 (1160); GA2.

A052 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca crecca FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7; FL8; FW2; FW3; FW4; GM1; GS4; CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LR (1170)

A050 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); CM2 (1330; 1410); GS4; LR (1170); MW2 (1160); FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7, FL8, GM1

A140 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria FL6 (3180); FL5; FL4; FL3; GA1; GS4; GM1; CW2; CM2 (1330; 1410); CD6 (21A0); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LR (1170); HH3 (4010); PB2, PB3 (7130, 7150)

A184 European Herring Gull Larus argentatus Any coastal marine, marine islands, freshwater, tilled fields, GA1; GA2; urban and rubbish sites.

A051 Gadwall Anas strepera strepera FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160)

A017 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo carbo Marine islands, islands in lakes and rivers, in trees or on ground. CS2; FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL7; FW2

A003 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Marine (MW1; MW2; MW3; MW4) (1130, 1160)

A062 Greater Scaup Aythya marila FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7, FL8, CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW2, MW3 (1160); MW4 (1130)

A395 Greenland (Greater) White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons flavirostris FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GA1; GS4; GM1; PB2, PB3 (7130; 7150); CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130)

A141 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5

A043 Greylag Goose Anser anser CW2 (1130); FL6 (3180); FL7; GA1; GS4; MW4 (1130), GM1, MW2 (1160), FL4

43

TABLE 2

Surface Water Dependant Article 12 Bird Species

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Supporting Wetland Habitats

A194 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea CS2; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A183 Lesser Black-backed Gull (British)

Larus fuscus graellsii Any coastal marine, marine islands, freshwater, tilled fields, GA1; GA2; urban and rubbish sites.

A046 Light-bellied Brent Goose

Branta bernicla hrota CW2 (1130); CW1 (1150); GA1; GA2; GS4; LR (1170); LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5; MW2 (1160)

A053 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos

FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7; FL8; GM1; GS4; CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LR (1170)

A142 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LS5; LR (1170); FL3 (3140); FL4; Fl5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7; GM1; GS4; CW1 (1150); CW2; CM2 (1330; 1410); CD6 (21A0)

A054 Northern Pintail Anas acuta CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7

A056 Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata CW2 (1130); MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7

A143 Red Knot Calidris canutus MW4 (1130); MW2 (1160); LS3 (1140); LS4; LS5

A069 Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); MW2, MW3 (1160); MW4 (1130)

A001 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata FL2 (3130). Marine (MW1; MW2; MW3; MW4) (1130, 1160)

A192 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii dougallii CS2; CW1 (1150)

A169 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres LR (1170); LS1; LS5; CC1

A144 Sanderling Calidris alba LS2 (1140)

A191 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis CS2; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A061 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7, FL8

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla CS1 (1230); CS2; CS3; ER1; FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150)

A038 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus CW1 (1150); CW2 (1130); FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140); FL4; FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FL7; GA1; GS4; PB3 (7130; 7150); MW4 (1130), GM1

MW4 (1130) = Fossitt (2000) code (relevant Annex I habitat code)

TABLE 3Annex I Habitats that can be Impacted by ‘Land & Air’ Pathways

EU Code EU Annex I Habitats Dependency

1130 Estuaries T/ CT/ SW

1140 Mudflats and sandflats not covered by sea water at low tide T/ CT/ SW

1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines T

1220 Perennial vegetation of stony banks T

1230 Vegetated sea cliffs T

1310 Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand T/ CT/ SW

1330 Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) T

1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) T

1420 Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi) T

1420 Halophilous scrub T

2110 Embryonic shifting dunes T

2120 Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (“white dunes”) T

2130 *Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (“grey dunes”) T

2140 *Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum T

2150 *Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes (Calluno-Ulicetea) T

2170 Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arenariae) T

2190 Humid dune slacks T/ GWDTE

21A0 Machairs (*in Ireland) T/ GWDTE

4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix T/ GWDTE/ PD

44

TABLE 3Annex I Habitats that can be Impacted by ‘Land & Air’ Pathways

EU Code EU Annex I Habitats Dependency

4030 Dry heath T

4060 Alpine and sub-alpine heath T

5130 Juniper scrub T

6130 Calaminarian grassland T

6210 Orchid-rich grassland/calcareous grassland T

6230 Species-rich Nardus upland grassland T

6410 Molinia meadows T/ GWDTE

6430 Hydrophilous tall herb T/ SW

6510 Lowland hay meadows T

7110 *Active raised bogs T/ GWDTE/ PD

7120 Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration T/ GWDTE/ PD

7130 Blanket bog (*if active bog) T/ GWDTE/ PD

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs T/ GWDTE/ PD

7150 Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion T/ GWDTE/ PD

7210 *Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of Caricion davallianae T/ GWDTE

7230 Alkaline fens T/ GWDTE

7720 *Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) T/ GWDTE/ SW

8110 Siliceous scree T

8120 Calcareous scree T

8210 Calcareous rocky slopes T

8220 Siliceous rocky slopes T

8240 *Limestone pavement T

91A0 Old oak woodlands T

91D0 *Bog woodland T/ GWDTE/ PD

91E0 Alluvial forests T/ GWDTE

91J0 Yew woodlands T

*indicates Priority Annex I Habitats

T = Terrestrial

GWDTE = Groundwater Dependent Terrestrial Ecosystem

CT= Coastal Transitional

SW= Surface Water

PD= Precipitation Dependent

45

TABLE 4

Annex II, IV and V Species that can be Impacted by ‘Land & Air’ Pathways

EU Code EU Annex II, IV or IV Species Dependency

Annex II Fauna

1013 Geyer’s Whorl Snail (Vertigo geyeri) T

1014 Narrow-mouthed Whorl Snail (Vertigo angustior) T

1016 Desmoulin’s Whorl Snail (Vertigo moulinsiana) T

1024 Kerry Slug (Geomalacus maculosus) T

1029 Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) T

1065 Marsh Fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia) T

1092 White-clawed Crayfish (Austopotamobius pallipes) T

1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) T

1096 Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri) T

1099 River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) T

1102 Allis Shad (Alosa alosa) T

1103 Twaite Shad (Alosa fallax fallax) T

1106 Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) T

1303 Lesser Horseshoe Bat (Rhinolophus hipposideros) T

1349 Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncates) T

1351 Harbour Porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) T

1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) T

1364 Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus) T

1365 Common Seal (Phoca vituline) T

1990 Nore Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera durrovensis) T

Killarney Shad (Alosa fallax kilarnensis) T

Annex II Flora

1393 Slender Green Feather-moss (Hamatocaulis vernicosus) T

1395 Petalwort (Petalophyllum ralfsii) T

1421 Killarney Fern (Trichomanes speciosum) T

1528 Marsh saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) T

1833 Slendar Naiad (Najas flexilis) T

Annex IV Species

various All Bat Species T

1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) T

1024 Kerry Slug (Geomalacus maculosus) T

1202 Natterjack Toad (Epidalea calmita) T

1421 Killarney Fern (Trichomanes speciosum) T

1833 Slender Naiad (Najas flexilis) T

1528 Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) T

various All Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises T

1223 Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coricae) T

Annex V Species

1334 Irish Hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus) T

1213 Common Frog (Rana temporaria) T

1357 Pine Marten (Martes martes) T

1376 Maerl (Lithothamnion corallioides & Phymatolithon calcareum) T

1400 White Cushion Moss (Leucobryum glaucum) T

1409 Sphagnum Species T

1413 Lycopodium Group T

5076 Pollan (Coregonus autumnalis) T

1378 Cladonia Species T

46

TABLE 5 Article 12 Bird Species that can be Impacted by ‘Land & Air’ Pathways

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Dependency

A183 (British) Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii T

A156 (Icelandic) Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa islandica T

A199 (Southern) Common Guillemot Uria aalge albionis T

A194 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea T

A204 Atlantic Puffin Fratercula arctica T

A157 Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica T

A396 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis T

A037 Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus bewickii T

A179 Black-headed Gull Chroicocephalus (Larus) ridibundus T

A188 Black-legged Kittiwake Rissa tridactyla T

A182 Common (Mew) Gull Larus canus T

A067 Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula T

A164 Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia T

A229 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis T

A059 Common Pochard Aythya ferina T

A162 Common Redshank Tringa tetanus T

A137 Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula T

A065 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra nigra T

A048 Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna T

A193 Common Tern Sterna hirundo T

A122 Corncrake Crex crex T

A149 Dunlin Calidris alpina T

A466 Dunlin (Iceland, W. Europe sub-species) Calidris alpina schinzii T

A125 Eurasian Coot Fulica atra atra T

A160 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata arquata T

A130 Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus T

A052 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca crecca T

A050 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope T

A140 European Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria T

A184 European Herring Gull Larus argentatus T

A018 European Shag Phalacrocorax aristotelis aristotelis T

A014 European Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus pelagicus T

A051 Gadwall Anas strepera strepera T

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos T

A017 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo carbo T

A005 Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus cristatus T

A003 Great Northern Diver Gavia immer T

A062 Greater Scaup Aythya marila T

A395 Greenland (Greater) White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris T

A141 Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola T

A043 Greylag Goose Anser anser T

A082 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus T

A015 Leach’s Storm Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa T

A046 Light-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota T

A004 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis ruficollis T

A195 Little Tern Sterna albifrons albifrons T

A053 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos T

A013 Manx Shearwater Puffinus puffinus T

47

TABLE 5 Article 12 Bird Species that can be Impacted by ‘Land & Air’ Pathways

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Dependency

A098 Merlin Falco columbarius T

A999 N/A Wetlands T

A009 Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis T

A016 Northern Gannet Morus bassanus T

A142 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus T

A054 Northern Pintail Anas acuta T

A056 Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata T

A103 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus peregrinus T

Purple Sandpiper Calidris maritima maritima T

A200 Razorbill Alca torda T

Red Kite Milvus migrans T

A143 Red Knot Calidris canutus T

A346 Red-billed Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax T

A069 Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator T

A001 Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata T

A192 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii dougallii T

A169 Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres T

A144 Sanderling Calidris alba T

A191 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis T

A061 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula T

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla T

A038 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus T

48

TABLE 6 Groundwater Dependent Habitats and Species

EU Code EU Annex 1 Habitats/Annex II (& IV) Species Dependency

Groundwater Dependent Annex II Habitats

7110 *Active raised bogs GWDTE/#PD

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

91D0 *Bog woodland GWDTE/#PD

7210 *Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of Caricion davallianae GWDTE

7220 *Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) GWDTE

3180 *Turloughs GWDTE

7230 Alkaline Fen GWDTE

1330 Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) GWDTE

7130 Blanket bog (*if active bog) GWDTE/#PD

8310 Caves (not open to the public) GWDTE

7120 Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration GWDTE/#PD

7150 Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion GWDTE/#PD

2170 Dunes with Salix repens spp. argentea (Salicion arenari) GWDTE

2190 Humid dune slacks GWDTE

6430 Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane alpine levels GWDTE

21A0 Machairs (*in Ireland) GWDTE

1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) GWDTE

6410 Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinia caeruleae) GWDTE

4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix GWDTE/#PD

3270 Rivers with muddy banks with Chenopodion rubri p.p. and Bidention p.p. vegetation GWDTE

7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs GWDTE/#PD

Surface Water Habitats with Connectivity to Groundwater (WFD, 2004)

1150 *Coastal Lagoons GWDSW

3140 Hard oligotrophic-mesotrophic waters with benthis vegetation of Chara sp. GWDSW

3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds GWDSW

3150 Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-type vegetation GWDSW

3130 Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nannojuncetea

GWDSW

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

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

GWDSW

Annex II (and IV) Species Associated with Groundwater Dependant Habitats (WFD, 2004; Mayes, 2008)

1092 Austropotamobius pallipes GWD

1393 Drepanocladus vernicosus GWD

1303 Rhinolophus hipposideros GWD

1528 Saxifraga hirculus GWD

1014 Vertigo angustior GWD

1013 Vertigo geyeri GWD

1016 Vertigo moulinsiana GWD

*indicates Priority Annex I Habitats # indicates GWDTEs which are also precipitation dependent

Source: Table 1 WFD (2004) Guidance on the application of Groundwater Risk Assessment Sheets SWR1A and GWDTERA 1-9 to areas designated for the

protection of species Guidance Doc. No.11 and cited as NPWS...identified Qualifying Interests where the maintenance or improvement of groundwater is

an important factor in their protection.

49

TABLE 7 Groundwater Dependent Article 12 Bird Species

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Supporting Fossitt, 2000 (Annex I) Habitats

A194 Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150)

A396 Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis GS4 (6410); CM2 (1330;1410)

A037 Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus bewickii CW1 (1150); FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GS4

(6410); PB3 (7130; 7150); GM1 (6430)

A156 Black-tailed Godwit

(Icelandic)

Limosa limosa islandica CM1(1310); FL6 (3180); GM1 (6430); GS4 (6410)

Common Gold-

eneye

Bucephala clangula FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); CW1 (1150)

A164 Common Green-

shank

Tringa nebularia FL6 (3180); FL3 (3140); CW1 (1150)

A229 Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis FW2 (3260, 3270); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150);

A059 Common Pochard Aythya ferina FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180)

A162 Common Redshank Tringa tetanus CM1 (1310); FL6 (3180); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150);

A065 Common Scoter Melanitta nigra nigra FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150)

A193 Common Tern Sterna hirundo FL5 (3150); FL3 (3140)

A149 Dunlin Calidris alpina FL6 (3180); CM1 (1310)

A466 Dunlin (Iceland,

W. Europe

sub-species)

Calidris alpina schinzii HH3 (4010); PB2, PB3 (7130, 7150)

A125 Eurasian Coot Fulica atra atra FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); FW2 (3260, 3270)

A160 Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata arquata FL6 (3180); FL5 (3150); FL4; FL3 (3140); CM2 (1330; 1410); CM1 (1310;

1320); GS4(6410); HH3 (4010); PB2 (7130; 7150); PB3 (7150)

A052 Eurasian Teal Anas crecca crecca FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180);FW2 (3260, 3270);

GM1 (6430); GS4(6410); CW1 (1150)

A050 Eurasian Wigeon Anas penelope CW1 (1150); GS4 (6410); GM1 (6430); FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL5

(3150); FL6 (3180)

A140 European Golden

Plover

Pluvialis apricaria HH3 (4010); PB2, PB3 (7130, 7150); CM2 (1330, 1410); GS4 (6410);

GM1 (6430); FL6 (3180); FL5 (3150); FL3 (3140)

A051 Gadwall Anas strepera strepera FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); CW1 (1150)

A017 Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo carbo CW1(1150); FW2 (3260, 3270); FL6 (3180); FL5 (3150); FL3 (3140); FL2

(3110; 3130)

A005 Great Crested

Grebe

Podiceps cristatus cristatus FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150)

A062 Greater Scaup Aythya marila FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); CW1 (1150)

A395 Greenland (Greater)

White-fronted

Goose

Anser albifrons flavirostris FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GM1 (6430); GS4(6410); PB2, PB3

(7130; 7150)

A043 Greylag Goose Anser anser FL6 (3180); GS4 (6410); GM1 (6430)

A082 Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus HH3 (4010); PB1 (7110; 7120; 7150); PB2 (7130); GS4 (6410); PB3

(7130, 7150)

A046 Light-bellied Brent

Goose

Branta bernicla hrota CW1(1150); GS4 (6410)

A004 Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis ruficollis FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150); FL6 (3180);FL2 (3110; 3130)

A053 Mallard Anas platyrhynchos platyrhy-

nchos

FL2 (3110); FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GM1 (6430); GS4 (6410);

CW1 (1150)

A098 Merlin Falco columbarius HH3 (4010); PB1 (7110; 7120; 7150); PB2 (7130); GS4 (6410); PB3

(7130, 7150); WN7 (91D0)

A142 Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus FL3 (3140); Fl5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GM1 (6430); GS4 (6410); CW1

(1150);CM2 (1330; 1410)

A069 Red-breasted

Merganser

Mergus serrator FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); CW1 (1150)

A192 Roseate Tern Sterna dougallii dougallii CW1 (1150)

50

TABLE 7 Groundwater Dependent Article 12 Bird Species

EU Code Common Name Latin Name Supporting Fossitt, 2000 (Annex I) Habitats

A191 Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis FL5 (3150); FL3 (3140)

A061 Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180)

White-tailed Eagle Haliaeetus albicilla FL3 (3140); FL5 (3150)

A038 Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus CW1 (1150); FL2 (3110; 3130); FL3 (3140);FL5 (3150); FL6 (3180); GS4

(6410); PB3 (7130; 7150); GM1 (6430)

51

Notes

52

The Office of Public Works

Environment Section

West Region Drainage Maintenance

Headford

Co. Galway