For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner … · PROJECT TITLE: Castletroy WwTP Wastewater Discharge Licence ... Synopsis is attached to this assessment as Appendix

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Project No.: 12127

Document No.: 6006_Rev C

Malachy Walsh and Partners

Consulting Engineers

Cork | Tralee | Limerick | London

CASTLETROY WWTP

WWDL APPLICATION FORM

NATURAL HABITATS ASSESSMENT

UNDER

EC REGULATION 32

November 2008

Water Services

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Limerick County Counci l Natural Habitats Assessment Castletroy WwTP WWDL Application under EC Regulation 32

PROJECT TITLE: Castletroy WwTP Wastewater Discharge Licence

DOCUMENT TITLE: Natural Habitats Assessment

Under EC Regulation 32 DOCUMENT No.: 12127_6006 CLIENT: Limerick County Council PROJECT LOCATION:

Castletroy, Co. Limerick

Rev Date Issue Description By Checked Approved

A 26/11/2008 Issued for Approval PS MC MJO’S

B 11/12/2008 Final Issue to EPA PS MC MJO’S

C 19/03/2009 Re-Issued to EPA PS MC MJO’S

This Document Comprises of:

DCS TOC Text Tables Figures Appendices

1 1 16 - 3 4

DOCUMENT ISSUED FOR:

Entire Document Issued this Revision

In-House Review Tender

Information Only Construction

Revised Pages Only Issued this Revision Client Approval Final Issue

Project Manager Authorisation: _______________________ Date: _______________

Client Authorisation: _______________________ Date: _______________

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 i Rev. C

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 1

IDENTIFYING THE PROTECTED SITES REQUIRING ASSESSMENT ..................................................... 2

THE LOWER RIVER SHANNON AND THE RIVER SHANNON AND RIVER FERGUS ESTUARIES ........... 6

CONCLUSION.............................................................................................................................. 16

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A1 SAC Site Synopsis (Code 002165) – Lower River Shannon

APPENDIX A2 SPA Site Synopsis (Code 004077) – River Shannon & River Fergus Estuaries

APPENDIX B Extracts from ‘The Status of EU Protected Habitats & Species in Ireland’

(References to Habitats)

APPENDIX C Extracts from ‘The Status of EU Protected Habitats & Species in Ireland’

(References to Fauna)

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 1 Rev. C

INTRODUCTION

Regulation 32, Paragraph (1), of the EC (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No.

94/1997), as amended by S.I. No’s 233/1998 and 378/2005, states;

‘Where an operation or activity or an established activity to which an

application for a licence or a revised licence or a review of a licence or revised

licence, as appropriate, under any of the enactments set out in Part II of the

Second Schedule applies is neither directly connected with nor necessary to

the management of a European site but likely to have a significant effect

thereon either individually or in a combination with other operations or

activities or established activities a local authority, the Board or the

Environmental Protection Agency shall ensure that an appropriate assessment

of the environmental implications for the site in view of the site's conservation

objectives is undertaken.’

This assessment of the environmental implications due to the discharge from the

Castletroy Wastewater Treatment Plant has been prepared by Malachy Walsh and

Partners at the request of Limerick County Council and in response to queries raised by

the ‘Development Applications Unit’ of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and

Local Government (letter reference E2008/142, dated 5th November 2008) having

reviewed the Wastewater Discharge Licence Application submitted by Limerick County

Council for Castletroy WwTP.

This assessment also addresses those concerns raised by the ‘Development Applications

Unit’ in the aforementioned correspondence, which are:

i) [The] ability of the WwTP and pumping stations to accommodate extra projected

population equivalent loading, especially in relation to overflow at times of peak

loading,

ii) [The] Nutrient and BOD loading likely in the receiving waters (especially during low

water in freshwater rivers),

iii) Industrial and other discharges potentially leading to heavy metal and / or

persistent organic contaminant concentrations and,

iv) [The] susceptibility of WwTP or pumping stations to flooding.

This assessment is meant to be read as an addendum to the original Waste Water

Discharge Licence Application for Castletroy WwTP (Register Number D0019-01).

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 2 Rev. C

IDENTIFYING THE PROTECTED SITES REQUIRING ASSESSMENT

The Natura 2000 Network is a network of important ecological sites across the European

Union. The EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) placed an obligation on Member States of

the EU to establish the Natura 2000 network. The network is made up of Special

Protection Areas (SPAs), established under the EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC), and

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), established under the Habitats Directive itself.

Ireland's contribution to Natura 2000 is being created under the European Communities

(Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997 (S.I. 94 of 1997 as amended by S.I. 233 of 1998

and S.I. 378 of 2005). These regulations transpose the EU directives into Irish national

Law.

In general SACs are selected from the list of proposed Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) in

every county, published some years ago. Those proposed NHAs which meet the

requirements of the EU Habitats Directive are proposed as candidate SACs.

The total land and freshwater area within the Natura 2000 Network in Ireland is some

11,644km2: this includes some 2,300km2 of designated marine areas.

The designation of an area as a site in the Natura 2000 Network does not mean the

limitation of activities within the site and surrounding area if these are environmentally

sustainable and do not affect the integrity of the area or its habitats, or the objectives of

species conservation.

Protected Sites for Assessment

The discharges (both Primary and Secondary Discharges) referred to in the Castletroy

WwTP Wastewater Discharge Licence (WWDL) Application are located within or upstream

of Protected Sites, as defined on the National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS)

website.

The figure on the next page, Figure 1, indicates the area (highlighted in yellow) searched

on the NPWS website. The figure also shows the list of the various protected sites found

within the area searched.

For the area checked (highlighted in yellow) the following are listed on the NPWS

website;

Natural Heritage Areas (NHA) 1

Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHA) 14

Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) 5

Special Protection Areas (SPA) 1

Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs)

Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) and Proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs) are not

required to undergo an ‘appropriate assessment’.

Only Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) require

an assessment of the environmental impacts within those areas that may be attributed to

the discharge from the Wastewater Treatment Plant at Castletroy.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 3 Rev. C

Figure 1 Area checked for Existing and Proposed Protected Sites

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)

Special Areas of Conservation are prime wildlife conservation areas in the country,

considered to be important on a European as well as Irish level. Most SACs are in the

countryside, although a few sites reach into town or city landscapes, such as Dublin Bay

and Cork Harbour. Special Areas of Conservation are selected according to the EU

Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC).

The directive lists certain habitats and species that must be protected. Irish habitats

include raised bogs, active blanket bogs, turloughs, sand dunes, machair (flat sandy

plains on the north and west coasts), heaths, lakes, rivers, woodlands, estuaries and sea

inlets. The 25 Irish species which must be afforded protection include: Salmon, Otter,

Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Bottle-nosed Dolphin and Killarney Fern.

Some habitats are deemed “priority” and have greater requirements for designation of

sites and protection. Ireland has contributed some 420 SACs to the Natura 2000

Network. These sites have been adopted as Sites of Community Importance.

SACs within the Area surrounding Castletroy WwTP

Five sites are listed within the area highlighted in Figure 1 above, however only the

Lower River Shannon (Site Code 002165) is relevant to the discharges referred to in the

WWDL Application. The other four Special Areas of Conservation are as follows;

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 4 Rev. C

Curraghchase Woods (Site Code 000174)

Glenomra Wood (Site Code 001013)

Askeaton Fen Complex (Site Code 002279)

Ratty River Cave (Site Code 002316)

These four sites are far removed from the body of the River Shannon downstream of the

discharge point associated with Castletroy WwTP. As such the sites are also far removed

from any impacts on the water quality of the receiving waters (i.e. the River Shannon)

and therefore will not be affected by the discharge. No further consideration is given to

these four areas.

Figure 2 below indicates the area covered by the Lower River Shannon SAC and the Site

Synopsis is attached to this assessment as Appendix A1. The natural habitats found

within the SAC are discussed in the following pages as well as the affect of the discharge

on the flora, fauna and bird populations found within the boundary of the SAC.

Figure 2 Special Area of Conservation (002165)

Special Protection Areas (SPAs)

Because birds migrate long distances, it is not sufficient to protect them over just part of

their range. A network of sites is required to protect wild birds at their breeding,

feeding, roosting and wintering areas. The EU Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) addresses

the conservation of all wild birds throughout the European Union, including marine areas,

and covers their protection, management, control and exploitation. It places a broad

requirement on countries to take necessary measures to maintain the populations of all

wild birds at levels determined by ecological, scientific and cultural needs.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 5 Rev. C

The Birds Directive requires designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for:

• Listed rare and vulnerable species such as: Whooper Swan, Greenland White-

fronted Goose, Peregrine Falcon, Corncrake and Terns.

• Regularly occurring migratory species such as: Ducks, Geese and Waders.

• Wetlands, especially those of international importance, which attract large numbers

of migratory birds each year. (Internationally important means that 1% of the

population of a species uses the site, or more than 20,000 birds regularly use the

site.)

Some of the listed species conveniently occur in high numbers and densities. However

others, such as breeding Waders and Birds of Prey, occur at very low densities and so the

designation of sites is a more difficult, although necessary, exercise.

To date, 132 SPAs have been designated. Approximately 25 SPAs are also designated

SAC. The Irish SPAs join a total of around 3,000 sites across the European Union.

SPAs within the Area surrounding Castletroy WwTP

The listed Special Protection Area is that of the River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries

(Site Code 004077). Figure 3 below indicates the area covered by the SPA and the Site

Synopsis is attached as Appendix A2. The natural habitats found within the SPA are

discussed in the following pages as well as the affect of the discharge on the flora, fauna

and bird populations found within the boundary of the SPA.

Figure 3 Special Protected Area (004077)

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 6 Rev. C

THE LOWER RIVER SHANNON AND THE RIVER SHANNON AND RIVER FERGUS ESTUARIES

The Lower River Shannon is a very large site and stretches along the Shannon valley

from Killaloe to Loop Head / Kerry Head, a distance of some 120 km. The site thus

encompasses the Shannon, Feale, Mulkear and Fergus Estuaries, the freshwater lower

reaches of the River Shannon (between Killaloe and Limerick), the freshwater stretches

of much of the Feale and Mulkear catchments and the marine area between Loop Head

and Kerry Head.

The Site Synopsis (Site Code 002615) is attached as Appendix A1.

The River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries form the largest estuarine complex in

Ireland. The site comprises all of the estuarine habitat west of Limerick City and south of

Ennis, extending west as far as Killadysert and Foynes on the north and south shores

respectively of the River Shannon (a distance of some 25 km from east to west). Also

included are several areas in the outer Shannon estuary, notably Clonderalaw Bay and

Poulnasherry Bay, as well as the intertidal areas on the south shore of the Shannon

between Tarbert and Beal Point.

The Site Synopsis (Site Code 004077) is attached as Appendix A2.

Assessment of Impact on Habitats

Lower River Shannon

The Lower River Shannon, defined as the ‘receiving waters’, would fall under the

category of habitat which includes watercourses, or sections of these, where fine

sediments are deposited on the river bed. Depositing conditions are typical of lowland

areas where gradients are low and water flow is slow and sluggish. These rivers vary in

size but are usually larger and deeper than eroding / upland rivers. In a natural state

these rivers erode their banks and meander across floodplains. Because of this, most

have been modified to some extent to control water flow, facilitate navigation or prevent

flooding and erosion. Tidal sections of rivers with brackish water influence are excluded

from this type of habitat.

However, given that the Outfall from the Castletroy WwTP is close to the tidal divide of

the Lower River Shannon, the ‘receiving waters’ could also fall under the category of

habitat used for the lower reaches of rivers or streams, and any artificial watercourses,

that are tidal and where there are regular fluctuations in salinity and turbidity, and in the

rate and direction of water flow. Only the areas that are influenced by brackish water

conditions should be included here. Small tidal creeks off the main river channel are

considered as part of the tidal river habitat, as are muddy, sandy or rocky banks or flats

that are exposed at low tide. The lower limit of a tidal river is defined as the point where

the channel begins to widen as it enters the sea or estuary (the mouth of the river).

The site is a candidate SAC selected for lagoons and alluvial wet woodlands, both

habitats listed in Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for

floating river vegetation, Molinia meadows, estuaries, tidal mudflats, Atlantic salt

meadows, Mediterranean salt meadows, Salicornia mudflats, sand banks, perennial

vegetation of stony banks, sea cliffs, reefs and large shallow inlets and bays, all of which

are habitats also listed in Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive.

Extracts from ‘The Status of EU Protected Habitats & Species in Ireland’ are attached as

Appendix B.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 7 Rev. C

River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries

Estuaries are semi-enclosed bodies of water which have a free connection with the open

sea. They differ from other coastal inlets in that sea water is measurably diluted by

inputs of freshwater and this, combined with tidal movement, means that salinity is

permanently variable. The mixing of two very different water masses gives rise to

complex sedimentological and biological processes and patterns.

Given that the River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries cover such a large site, it has

vast expanses of intertidal flats and is the most important coastal wetland site in the

country regularly supporting in excess of 50,000 wintering waterfowl, a concentration of

international importance.

The habitats included within this site are not designated as priority habitat types, as

listed in Annex I of the Council Directive (92/43/EEC) on the Conservation of Natural

Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora.

Impact of the Discharge on the Habitats

At present the treated effluent from Castletroy WwTP is discharged to the ‘receiving

waters’ (i.e. the River Shannon) through a Two-Port Diffuser Pipe. It is intended as part

of the proposed upgrade works at the Plant to utilise a further two such diffuser pipes

which, while not currently in operation, are in existence. Using these diffusers will

ensure that the discharged treated effluent is assimilated diffusely in to the main body of

the receiving waters thus mitigating against any possible scouring or eroding of the river

bed and the immediate surrounding aquatic environment.

It is noted that all waters of the River Shannon, upstream of the mouth of that river as

defined and marked out on 8th February 1864 by the Special Commissioners for Irish

Fisheries appointed and acting under the Salmon Fishery (Ireland) Act, 1863, as far as

the weir or dam known as the Corbally Mill Weir are defined as ‘tidal waters’.

It is further noted that the discharge point from Castletroy WwTP is approximately 4km

upstream of Corbally Mill Weir. It can be taken with some degree of certainty that any

treated effluent discharged through the diffuser ports to the River Shannon from

Castletroy WwTP will have been fully assimilated before reaching the ‘tidal divide’.

It is also demonstrated elsewhere in the Waste Water Discharge Licence Application that

the Plant at Castletroy is currently using a significantly small portion of the assimilative

capacity of the receiving waters in terms of nutrient assimilation, e.g. BOD5 – 4.8% of

allowable; Nitrates – 1.2% of allowable; Ortho-Phosphates – 12.5% of allowable. (These

figures are based on the Water Quality Management Plan for the Lower Shannon

Catchment, 1990)

In real terms it can be said that the current (and proposed future) treated discharges

from Castletroy WwTP do not / will not exceed current discharge guidelines. (Sampling

results etc provided as part of the Waste Water Discharge Licence Application.)

If we take the assimilative capacity of the receiving waters into account, together with

the significant distance between the location of the outfall (discharge point) and both the

‘tidal divide’ (approximately 4km downstream) and any estuarine or tidal mudflats / salt

meadows etc, it can be said that the discharge will not have any significantly negative

impact on the Salmonid Water Quality of the River Shannon or on that of the River

Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 8 Rev. C

Assessment of Impact on Flora and Fauna

Understanding the ecological requirements of river plants and animals is a prerequisite

for setting conservation objectives, and for generating conservation strategies for SAC

and SPA rivers under Article 6.1 of the Habitats Directive. Thus, the questions an

ecology report must try to answer include:

• What water quality does the species need to survive and reproduce successfully?

• Are there other physical conditions, such as substrate or flow, that favour these

species or cause them to decline?

• What is the extent of interdependence with other species for food or breeding

success?

Plant and animal communities are influenced by numerous factors including substratum

type, water force, nutrient status, water quality, channel size, water depth, human

impact, disturbance and shade.

Within a river channel there may be deep pools, backwaters, banks or mid-channel bars

of gravel, sand or mud, in addition to vegetated islands and fringing reedbeds. The

substratum of depositing / lowland rivers comprises mainly fine alluvial or peaty

sediments. Vegetation may include floating and submerged aquatics, with fringing

emergents in shallow water or overgrowing the banks. Floating aquatics can include

water-lilies (Nuphar lutea, Nymphaea alba), pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.), water-

starworts (Callitriche spp.) and Unbranched Bur-reed (Sparganium emersum). Tall

emergents such as Common Club-rush (Schoenoplectus lacustris), Common Reed

(Phragmites australis) and Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus) may also be present.

Flora

Flora identified in the Site Synopses include a number of species that are Irish Red Data

Book species, several of which are protected under the Flora (Protection) Order 1999.

These include:

• Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triquetrus) - in Ireland this protected species is only

found in the Shannon Estuary, where it borders creeks in the inner estuary.

• Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa) - this protected pondweed is

found in the Shannon where it passes through Limerick City.

• Meadow Barley (Hordeum secalinum) - this protected species is abundant in

saltmarshes at Ringmoylan and Mantlehill.

• Hairy Violet (Viola hirta) - this protected violet occurs in the Askeaton/Foynes

area.

• Golden Dock (Rumex maritimus) - noted as occurring in the River Fergus Estuary.

• Bearded Stonewort (Chara canescens) - a brackish water specialist found in

Shannon Airport lagoon.

• Convergent Stonewort (Chara connivens) - presence in Shannon Airport Lagoon to

be confirmed.

The first three species above are also referred to in the search results when using the

Map Viewer on the NPWS website. Other species referred to on the NPWS website are:

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 9 Rev. C

• Meadow Saffron (Colchicum autumnale) - once locally common in the south-east

of Ireland in old damp meadows and on river banks, intensive agricultural

practices and drainage have led to its decline.

• Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) - rare and decreasing in range in Northern Ireland

and are also protected in the Republic for that reason.

None of the above species of flora are found within or immediately local to the

Wastewater Treatment Plant site and are primarily found much farther downstream and

well below the ‘tidal divide’.

Given the assimilative capacity of the ‘receiving waters’ (as discussed under the

assessment of the impact on habitats) and allowing for the fact that Castletroy WwTP

produces a high standard effluent, i.e. the levels of Dissolved Oxygen, Suspended Solids,

BOD5, Ortho-Phosphates and other Nutrients are quite low and within the recommended

EPA guideline standard limits, these low levels of nutrients in the treated effluent will not

adversely affect the Salmonid Water Quality of the River Shannon, nor will they affect the

species of flora within the site.

It is noted in the Site Synopses that alluvial woodland occurs on the banks of the

Shannon and on islands in the vicinity of the University of Limerick, adjacent to the

Wastewater Treatment Plant site. This woodland can be up to 50m wide on the banks

and somewhat wider on the largest island. It should be noted, however, that these

islands are located upstream of the outfall (discharge point) and as such cannot be

affected by the treated discharge from the Plant.

The most prominent woodland type is gallery woodland where White Willow (Salix alba)

dominates the tree layer with occasional Alder (Alnus glutinosa). The shrub layer

consists of various willow species with sally (Salix cinerea ssp. oleifolia) and what appear

to be hybrids of S. alba x S. viminalis. The herbaceous layer consists of tall perennial

herbs. A fringe of Bulrush (Typha sp.) occurs on the riverside of the woodland. On

slightly higher ground above the wet woodland and on the raised embankment remnants

of mixed oak-ash-alder woodland occur. These are poorly developed and contain

numerous exotic species but locally there are signs that it is invading open grassland.

Alder is the principal tree species with occasional Oak (Quercus robur), Elm (Ulmus

glabra, U. procera), Hazel (Corylus avellana), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and the

shrubs Guelder-rose (Viburnum opulus) and willows.

While the ground flora is species-rich it must be noted that none of the species listed

feature in Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive.

The Site Synopses state that there is a grassland type of particular conservation interest,

Molinia meadows, which occurs in several parts of the site but the examples at

Worldsend on the River Shannon are especially noteworthy. It should be noted that the

area is upstream of the discharges referred to in the WWDL Application and thus will not

be affected.

In summation, the discharge from Castletroy WwTP will not adversely affect the overall

nutrient levels within the River Shannon and as such will not adversely affect the ecology

of the surrounding flora. Nor will the discharge adversely affect the physical attributes of

the river given that the outfall is diffuser, i.e. the discharge will not affect the natural

flow of the river and physical make up of the river bed and banks which may otherwise

cause flora to decline.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 10 Rev. C

Fauna

Fauna identified in the Site Synopsis include, the Bottle-Nosed Dolphin, Sea Lamprey,

River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Atlantic Salmon and Otter.

Bottle-Nosed Dolphins feed primarily on marine life and the natural diet seems to vary

according to its home region. Open water pods tend to feed mostly on pelagic fish, such

as blue whiting, cod fish, and squid. Those found in coastal Atlantic waters feed on

mullet, herring, smelt, capelin, catfish, eels, shrimp, and other crustaceans. Since the

natural habitat of the Bottle-Nosed Dolphin is a significant distance from the outfall

(discharge point) of the Wastewater Treatment Plant the discharge will not adversely

affect its natural food sources nor will it affect the natural habitat itself.

Lampreys (Sea / River and Brook) generally feed on detritus until they grow beyond the

larval stage. Larval lampreys are filter feeders, creating a current that draws organic

particles into the mouth. Although most of their food is suspended material, the constant

shifting of sediments and movement of larvae indicate that benthic organisms may also

be consumed (Moore and Mallatt 1980). Evidence suggests that larvae are not selective

feeders (Beamish 1980). Algae such as diatoms and desmids, as well as detritus, are

frequently eaten by larvae, whereas protozoans, nematodes and rotifers are occasionally

found among the gut contents. Algae, primarily diatoms, and organic detritus are most

frequently found in the intestinal tract of larval anadromous sea lampreys.

Once metamorphosis occurs both the Sea and River Lampreys will migrate to the sea.

The marine interval (parasitic phase) of sea lampreys is reported to last from 18 to 28

months (Farmer 1980). They are known to attack a variety of marine fish, e.g. Basking

Shark, Herring, Atlantic Salmon and Atlantic Cod. Salmon are prone to attack,

particularly when congregating in inshore waters prior to the upstream migration.

Cannibalism among small adult lampreys has also been reported (Davis 1967). River

lampreys also attack a wide range of species, e.g. Bluefish, Smelt, Sprat, Sea Trout and

Flounder. Mature Brook Lampreys do not migrate to the marine environment, and the

adults do not feed. The food sources for all species of lampreys will not be adversely

affected by the discharge from Castletroy WwTP.

Freshwater Pearl Mussels (Margaritifera margaritifera) are one of the longest-lived

invertebrates known, and individuals can survive for over 100 years (Bauer 1992). The

mussels live buried or partly buried in coarse sand and fine gravel in clean, oligotrophic,

fast-flowing and unpolluted rivers and streams. They require cool, well-oxygenated soft

water free of pollution or turbidity. They inhale water through their exposed siphons to

filter out minute organic particles on which they feed. Where the species was formerly

abundant, it is possible that this filtration acted to clarify river water to the benefit of

other species, including juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown or sea trout

(Salmo trutta) (Zuiganov et al. 1994).

The freshwater pearl mussel life cycle involves an adult stage, living as a filter feeder, a

juvenile stage living interstitially in sediment, and a larval (glochidial) stage living

attached to the gills of trout or salmon. All life stages therefore need consideration, as

does the viability of the host species of fish. Adults are more tolerant of a wider range of

in-river conditions than juveniles (Hastie et al. 2000a).

The mussel spends its larval, or glochidial, stage attached to the gills of salmonid fishes.

Only sea trout, brown trout and Atlantic salmon are known to host complete

metamorphosis in Europe, where they are the only native host species (Young & Williams

1984). Brown trout are the main host species in Ireland (Beasley 1996). The larvae

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 11 Rev. C

attach themselves during mid to late summer and drop off the following spring to settle

in the riverbed gravel where they grow to adulthood. Host fish become progressively

resistant to glochidial infection as they mature.

Population declines have been caused by factors such as pearl-fishing, pollution,

acidification, organic enrichment, siltation, river engineering, and declining salmonid

stocks.

Water chemistry is widely quoted in the literature when environmental parameters for

optimum mussel survival are under discussion. Bauer (1988) is most often quoted, and

there is a general acceptance that the pearl mussel prefers oligotrophic conditions – poor

in nutrients, pH 7.5 or less, and with low overall conductivity. Sampling results for

Castletroy WwTP (included in the Waste Water Discharge Licence Application) show that

the discharge would not be unfavourable in this regard, e.g. downstream sampling

results show the following averages; BOD <2 mg l-1, Dissolved Oxygen 7.23 mg l-1,

Nitrates 1.6 mg l-1, Phosphates 0.03 mg l-1, pH 7.9 and conductivity 413.

The critical parameters affecting recruitment are BOD (biochemical oxygen demand),

calcium and phosphate levels in the water. Bauer (1988) observed that increased levels

of BOD, calcium and phosphate were correlated with decreasing survival and

establishment of juveniles. It is noted, however, that a few atypical populations in

England and Ireland appear to be adapted to tolerate more calcareous water chemistry,

where the surrounding geology increases calcium content beyond the levels suggested by

Bauer.

Again, sampling results for Castletroy WwTP show that the discharge would not be

unfavourable in this regard with phosphate levels well below the allowable assimilative

capacity and the downstream phosphate level of 0.03 mg l-1 is the recommended level.

Similarly BOD levels are also well below the allowable assimilative capacity.

Siltation of suitable substrates can be a severe problem caused by increased sediment

load and detrital production due to eutrophication. If the interstitial spaces are clogged,

the young mussels suffocate (Hastie et al. 2000a). The level of 30 mg l-1 of suspended

solids has been noted by Valovirta (1998) as the limit of tolerance by adult mussels, a

limit that is far above the average downstream concentration for Castletroy (measured as

being less than 2 mg l-1).

In brief, the discharge will not adversely affect the Freshwater Pearl Mussel.

Atlantic Salmon is an anadromous species, living in fresh water for at least the first 2

or 3 years of life before migrating to sea. Relatively large cool rivers with extensive

gravelly bottom headwaters are essential during their early life. Smolts migrate to sea

where they may live for 1 or 2 years before returning to fresh water. The movements of

Atlantic Salmon at sea are not well understood. Tagging has shown that while some

salmon wander, the great majority return to the river in which they were spawned.

When at sea, salmon seem to prefer temperatures of 4 to 12 C. They may withstand

exposure to temperatures in their lower lethal limit (-0.7 C) and their upper lethal limit

(27.8 C), but only for a short period of time (Bigelow, 1963). Sampling results show that

the average temperature of the River Shannon is 14.4 C just downstream of the outfall

from Castletroy WwTP, a temperature which lies approximately mid-way between the two

lethal extremes.

Freshwater streams and estuaries provide important habitat for many salmon species.

Young Atlantic salmon in streams eat mainly the larvae of aquatic insects such as

blackflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and chironomids. Terrestrial insects may also be

important, especially in late summer. When at sea, salmon eat a variety of marine

organisms. Plankton such as euphausiids are important food for pre-grisle but

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 12 Rev. C

amphipods and decapods are also consumed. Larger salmon eat a variety of fishes such

as herring and alewives, smelts, capelin, small mackerel, sand lace, and small cod. Prior

to spawning, salmon cease to feed; they do not eat after they re-enter fresh water to

spawn, despite their apparent willingness to take an artificial fly (Bigelow, 1963). The

discharge from Castletroy WwTP will not adversely affect the food sources in either the

freshwater habitats or the marine habitats.

Eggs are laid in deeper water with larger gravel, and need cool water and good water

flow (to supply oxygen) to the developing embryos. Mortality of salmon in the early life

stages is usually high due to natural predation and human induced changes in habitat,

such as siltation, high water temperatures, low oxygen conditions, loss of stream cover,

and reductions in river flow. Estuaries and their associations wetlands provide vital

nursery areas for the salmon prior to their departure to the open ocean. Wetlands not

only help buffer the estuary from silt and pollutants, but also provide important feeding

and hiding areas. Again, the discharge from Castletroy WwTP will not adversely affect

the either the freshwater habitats or the marine habitats. The discharge is by means of a

diffuser, mitigating against bed erosion and increased siltation. The temperature is

acceptable and the oxygen levels are reasonably high at 7.23 mg l-1 (with the BOD levels

measured at less than 2 mg l-1).

Given that the Atlantic Salmon is not adversely affected by the discharge from Castletroy

WwTP it should be noted that this also impacts positively on the Freshwater Pearl Mussel

since the Atlantic salmon acts as host for part it the mussel’s life cycle.

Otters are now one of the most threatened mammals in Ireland. Recent survey work

has shown that the species has declined by approximately 18% in the last 25 years or

so, with much of that decline occurring in the 1980s. Poor water quality, the loss of

riverside habitats and road kill have been identified as the major concerns.

A recent survey in Northern Ireland found a small but significant decline in the

occurrence of otters since the original surveys (Preston et al . 2006). This decline is not

restricted to particular habitats or catchments, further indicating that it may be due to

some widespread factor such as water quality or food availability.

The diet of the European otter, which feeds in coastal and freshwater environments, is

highly specialised when compared to other carnivores. The otter has been described as a

‘fish specialist’ (Mason and Macdonald 1986). However, several studies suggest that it

may be better described as an opportunistic specialist, with its feeding behaviour largely

dependent on the availability of prey (Ottino and Giller 2004). Diet may comprise fish,

mammals, amphibians (at certain times of the year) and birds (Conroy et al, 1993).

However, fish are the most important food item, constituting over 80% of otter diet

(Mason and Macdonald 1986), with Salmonid, Stickleback and Eel being the most

predominant species. There have been several detailed studies of otter diet throughout

Europe (see Clavero et al . (2003) for review), including several studies in southern

Ireland (O’Sullivan 1994; Fairley 2001; Clavero et al. 2003).

It has been shown that the discharge from Castletroy WwTP will not adversely affect the

Salmonid Water Quality status of the Lower River Shannon and as such will not adversely

affect the fish population within the habitat. By extension it can be said that the principal

food source of the otter will not be threatened.

Also, the use of a diffuser type outfall mitigates against the decline of the otter’s riverside

habitat.

Extracts from ‘The Status of EU Protected Habitats & Species in Ireland’ are attached as

Appendix C.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 13 Rev. C

Assessment of Impact on Bird Life

Overall, the River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries support the largest numbers of

wintering waterfowl in Ireland. Species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive

which contributed to these totals include: Great Northern Diver, Whooper Swan, Golden

Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit and Dunlin. These are discussed further below.

In the past, three separate flocks of Greenland White-fronted Goose were regularly found

but none were seen in 1993/94. Other wintering waders and wildfowl present include

Greylag Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Mallard, Pintail, Shoveler, Tufted Duck, Scaup,

Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Lapwing, Knot, Dunlin, Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew,

Redshank, Greenshank and Turnstone. A number of wintering gulls are also present,

including Black-headed Gull, Common Gull and Lesser Black-backed Gull.

This is the most important coastal site in Ireland for a number of the waders including

Lapwing, Dunlin, Snipe and Redshank. It also provides an important staging ground for

species such as Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.

Annex I listed species

Species: Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Status: Winter visitor - September to April

Diet: Mostly fish but also feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, annelids, insects and

amphibians.

Breeding: Great Northern Divers do not breed in Ireland.

Wintering: Great Northern Divers occur along the Irish coastline between September

and April and are usually observed as single birds or small groups. They

are the most numerous of the divers occurring in Ireland and are

particularly abundant off the south, west and northwest coasts over the

winter. Great Northern Divers occur along a variety of coastlines,

particularly deeper bays and inlets, as well as shallow bays with sandy

shores. They can forage up to 10 km offshore and numbers close to shore

tend to be highest when winds blow onshore.

Species: Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)

Concern: Amber-listed (National, BoCCI)

Status: Winter migrant, occurring in Ireland between October & April.

Diet: Aquatic vegetation, but they are increasingly being recorded grazing on

grass in pasture and spilt grain, as well as potatoes from cultivated land.

Breeding: Open shallow water, by coastal inlets, estuaries and rivers. The population

occurring in Ireland breeds in Iceland.

Wintering: Most on lowland open farmland around inland wetlands, regularly seen

while feeding on grasslands and stubble.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 14 Rev. C

Species: Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria)


Status: Summer visitor from France & Iberia (though possibly some remain year-

round in Ireland) & winter visitor from Iceland. Most in Ireland between

October & February

Diet: Feed on a variety of soil and surface-living invertebrates, principally beetles

and earthworms, but also on plant material such as berries, seeds and

grasses. They regularly feed in association with Lapwing & Black-headed

Gulls.

Breeding: Breed in heather moors, blanket bogs & acidic grasslands. Distribution

limited to the uplands of northwest counties in Ireland.

Wintering: Throughout the winter, Golden Plovers are regularly found in large,

densely-packed flocks, and in a variety of habitats, both coastal and inland.

Their distribution is widespread in Ireland.

Species: Bar-Tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica)


Status: Winter visitor from Russia & Scandinavia. Most occur between October &

Diet: Feed along the tidal edge, or in shallow water (up to 15 cm depth). They

usually commence feeding on an ebbing tide, and feed continuously for up

to 6 hours. Polychaete worms, particularly lugworms, form a large

proportion of their diet. On the muddier estuaries, where lugworms may

be absent, they take ragworms and bivalves.

Breeding: Breeds in northern Norway, Finland and further to the north and east.

Wintering: Wintering distribution entirely coastal. They are largely confined to

estuaries, with largest numbers recorded on sandy estuaries. Small

numbers recorded using non-estuarine coastline.

Species: Dunlin (Calidris alpina schinzii)

Concern: Amber-listed (National, BoCCI), SPEC 3 depleted, large historical decline

(Europe)

Status: Summer visitor from NW Africa/SW Europe, winter visitor from Scandinavia

to Siberia, passage migrant from Greenland (heading south to winter in

Africa). Most occur during the mid-winter period.

Diet: Feed predominantly on small invertebrates of estuarine mudflats,

particularly polychaete worms and small gastropods. They feed in flocks,

in the muddier sections of the estuaries and close to the tide edge.

Breeding: Nests on the ground in sparse, low vegetation - in Ireland favours machair

habitats.

Wintering: Common along all coastal areas - especially on tidal mudflats and

estuaries. Very few inland.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 15 Rev. C

It has been shown previously that the discharge from the Castletroy WwTP will not have

an adverse impact on the habitats within the Lower River Shannon and the River

Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries. Therefore, it can be said that there will be no

negative impact on the breeding grounds and feeding grounds of the bird life found in

these areas.

It has also been shown that the Salmonid Water Quality of the River Shannon will not be

affected, nor will the water quality decline to such an extent that plant life and lower

animal species (crustaceans, molluscs, annelids, insects and amphibians etc) will be

adversely affected. In this regard, the food sources of the bird life will remain unchanged

by the discharge from the Plant.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 16 Rev. C

CONCLUSION

At present, and as is documented in the Wastewater Discharge Licence Application, the

discharge from the Castletroy WwTP is meeting the required standards as per the EPA

recommended guideline limits. The additional loading expected to arise from the

increase in the population equivalent (due primarily to the trade effluent from the

Vistakon Plant) will require some minor upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

These upgrades, part of the Improvement Works Contract, will ensure that the current

high standards of effluent quality are maintained into the future and therefore the natural

habitats surrounding the Outfall (and those further downstream within the estuaries) will

remain protected.

The WwTP and its pumping stations will be able to accommodate the increased load,

including the additional hydraulic strain (which will only see a minimal increase due to

the high concentration of the aforementioned Vistakon trade effluent). There is little

additional risk of overflows occurring during peak flows as the WwTP and pumping

stations are not susceptible to flooding. The additional hydraulic throughput will not

impact on any of the Annex I species discussed in this assessment, nor will it impact on

any other species within the area.

Pollutants from industry and other sources have been measured as part of the application

process and the concentrations evident in the final effluent are within the allowable limits

and will not threaten the Salmonid Water Quality of the ‘receiving waters’ and the

surrounding habitats.

While further discharges downstream of Castletroy WwTP may cumulatively affect the

water quality in the River Shannon, it is noted that the assimilative capacity of the river

(at the location of the Outfall) is sufficient to cater for the current and proposed future

discharges from the Plant.

From the foregoing, it can be said that the discharges referred to in the Castletroy WwTP

Wastewater Discharge Licence Application will not adversely affect the habitats

surrounding the Outfall, nor will they affect the species found within those habitats.

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 Rev. C

APPENDIX A1

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME : LOWER RIVER SHANNON

SITE CODE : 002165

This very large site stretches along the Shannon valley from Killaloe to Loop Head/ Kerry

Head, a distance of some 120 km. The site thus encompasses the Shannon, Feale, Mulkear

and Fergus Estuaries, the freshwater lower reaches of the River Shannon (between Killaloe

and Limerick), the freshwater stretches of much of the Feale and Mulkear catchments and the

marine area between Loop Head and Kerry Head. The Shannon and Fergus flow through

Carboniferous limestone as far as Foynes, but west of Foynes Namurian shales and flagstones

predominate (except at Kerry Head, which is formed from Old Red Sandstone). The eastern

sections of the Feale catchment flow through Namurian Rocks and the western stretches

through Carboniferous Limestone. The Mulkear flows through Lower Palaeozoic Rocks in

the upper reaches before passing through Namurian Rocks, followed by Lower Carboniferous

Shales and Carboniferous Limestone. The Mulkear River itself, immediately north of Pallas

Green, passes through an area of Rhyolites, Tuffs and Agglomerates. Rivers within the sub-

catchment of the Feale include the Galey, Smearlagh, Oolagh, Allaughaun, Owveg, Clydagh,

Caher, Breanagh and Glenacarney. Rivers within the sub-catchment of the Mulkear include

the Killeenagarriff, Annagh, Newport, the Dead River, the Bilboa, Glashacloonaraveela,

Gortnageragh and Cahernahallia.

The site is a candidate SAC selected for lagoons and alluvial wet woodlands, both

habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for

floating river vegetation, Molinia meadows, estuaries, tidal mudflats, Atlantic salt

meadows, Mediterranean salt meadows, Salicornia mudflats, sand banks, perennial

vegetation of stony banks, sea cliffs, reefs and large shallow inlets and bays all habitats

listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for the

following species listed on Annex II of the same directive – Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Sea

Lamprey, River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Atlantic Salmon

and Otter.

The Shannon and Fergus Estuaries form the largest estuarine complex in Ireland.

They form a unit stretching from the upper tidal limits of the Shannon and Fergus

Rivers to the mouth of the Shannon estuary (considered to be a line across the narrow

strait between Kilcredaun Point and Kilconly Point). Within this main unit there are

several tributaries with their own ‘sub-estuaries’ e.g. the Deel River, Mulkear River,

and Maigue River. To the west of Foynes, a number of small estuaries form

indentations in the predominantly hard coastline, namely Poulnasherry Bay,

Ballylongford Bay, Clonderalaw Bay and the Feale or Cashen River Estuary.

Both the Fergus and inner Shannon estuaries feature vast expanses of intertidal

mudflats, often fringed with saltmarsh vegetation. The smaller estuaries also feature

mudflats, but have their own unique characteristics, e.g. Poulnasherry Bay is stony

and unusually rich in species and biotopes. Plant species are typically scarce on the

mudflats, although there are some Eel-grass beds (Zostera spp.) and patches of green

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algae (e.g. Ulva sp. and Enteromorpha sp.). The main macro-invertebrate community,

which has been noted from the inner Shannon and Fergus estuaries, is a Macoma-

Scrobicularia-Nereis community.

In the transition zone between mudflats and saltmarsh, specialised colonisers of mud

predominate: swards of Common Cord-grass (Spartina anglica) frequently occur in

the upper parts of the estuaries. Less common are swards of Glasswort (Salicornia

europaea agg.). In the innermost parts of the estuaries, the tidal channels or creeks are

fringed with species such as Common Reed (Phragmites australis) and Club-rushes

(Scirpus maritimus, S. tabernaemontani and S. triquetrus). In addition to the

nationally rare Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triquetrus), two scarce species are found

in some of these creeks (e.g. Ballinacurra Creek): Lesser Bulrush (Typha angustifolia)

and Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum).

Saltmarsh vegetation frequently fringes the mudflats. Over twenty areas of estuarine

saltmarsh have been identified within the site, the most important of which are around

the Fergus Estuary and at Ringmoylan Quay. The dominant type of saltmarsh present

is Atlantic salt meadow occurring over mud. Characteristic species occurring include

Common Saltmarsh Grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Aster (Aster tripolium), Thrift

(Armeria maritima), Sea-milkwort (Glaux maritima), Sea Plantain (Plantago

maritima), Red Fescue (Festuca rubra), Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera),

Saltmarsh Rush (Juncus gerardi), Long-bracted Sedge (Carex extensa), Lesser Sea-

spurrey (Spergularia marina) and Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima). Areas of

Mediterranean salt meadows, characterised by clumps of Sea Rush (Juncus

maritimus) occur occasionally. Two scarce species are found on saltmarshes in the

vicinity of the Fergus Estuary: a type of robust Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia

foucaudii), sometimes placed within the compass of Common Saltmarsh-grass

(Puccinellia maritima) and Hard-grass (Parapholis strigosa).

Saltmarsh vegetation also occurs around a number of lagoons within the site. The two

which have been surveyed as part of a National Inventory of Lagoons are Shannon

Airport Lagoon and Cloonconeen Pool. Cloonconeen Pool (4-5 ha) is a natural

sedimentary lagoon impounded by a low cobble barrier. Seawater enters by

percolation through the barrier and by overwash. This lagoon represents a type which

may be unique to Ireland since the substrate is composed almost entirely of peat. The

adjacent shore features one of the best examples of a drowned forest in Ireland.

Aquatic vegetation in the lagoon includes typical species such as Beaked Tasselweed

(Ruppia maritima) and green algae (Cladophora sp.). The fauna is not diverse, but is

typical of a high salinity lagoon and includes six lagoon specialists (Hydrobia

ventrosa, Cerastoderma glaucum, Lekanesphaera hookeri, Palaemonetes varians,

Sigara stagnalis and Enochrus bicolor). In contrast, Shannon Airport Lagoon (2 ha)

is an artificial saline lake with an artificial barrier and sluiced outlet. However, it

supports two Red Data Book species of Stonewort (Chara canescens and Chara cf.

connivens).

Most of the site west of Kilcredaun Point/Kilconly Point is bounded by high rocky sea

cliffs. The cliffs in the outer part of the site are sparsely vegetated with lichens, Red

Fescue, Sea Beet (Beta vulgaris), Sea Campion (Silene maritima), Thrift and Plantains

(Plantago spp.). A rare endemic Sea Lavender (Limonium recurvum subsp.

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pseudotranswallinum) occurs on cliffs near Loop Head. Cliff-top vegetation usually

consists of either grassland or maritime heath. The boulder clay cliffs further up the

estuary tend to be more densely vegetated, with swards of Red Fescue and species

such as Kidney Vetch (Anthyllis vulneraria) and Bird’s-foot Trefoil ( Lotus

corniculatus).

The site supports an excellent example of a large shallow inlet and bay. Littoral

sediment communities in the mouth of the Shannon Estuary occur in areas that are

exposed to wave action and also in areas extremely sheltered from wave action.

Characteristically, exposed sediment communities are composed of coarse sand and

have a sparse fauna. Species richness increases as conditions become more sheltered.

All shores in the site have a zone of sand hoppers at the top and below this each of the

shores has different characteristic species giving a range of different shore types in the

pcSAC.

The intertidal reefs in the Shannon Estuary are exposed or moderately exposed to

wave action and subject to moderate tidal streams. Known sites are steeply sloping

and show a good zonation down the shore. Well developed lichen zones and littoral

reef communities offering a high species richness in the sublittoral fringe and strong

populations of Paracentrotus lividus are found. The communities found are tolerant

to sand scour and tidal streams. The infralittoral reefs range from sloping platforms

with some vertical steps to ridged bedrock with gullies of sand between the ridges to

ridged bedrock with boulders or a mixture of cobbles, gravel and sand. Kelp is very

common to about 18m. Below this it becomes rare and the community is

characterised by coralline crusts and red foliose algae.

Other coastal habitats that occur within the site include the following:

• stony beaches and bedrock shores - these shores support a typical zonation of

seaweeds (Fucus spp., Ascophyllum nodosum and kelps).

• shingle beaches - the more stable areas of shingle support characteristic species

such as Sea Beet, Sea Mayweed (Matricaria maritima), Sea Campion and Curled

Dock (Rumex crispus).

• Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water at all times – there is a known

occurrence of sand/gravel beds in the area from Kerry Head to Beal Head.

• sand dunes - a small area of sand dunes occurs at Beal Point. The dominant

species is Marram Grass (Ammophila arenaria).

Flowing into the estuaries are a number of tidal rivers.

Freshwater rivers have been included in the site, most notably the Feale and Mulkear

catchments, the Shannon from Killaloe to Limerick (along with some of its tributaries,

including a short stretch of the Kilmastulla River), the Fergus up as far as Ennis, and

the Cloon River. These systems are very different in character: the Shannon being

broad, generally slow-flowing and naturally eutrophic; the Fergus being smaller and

alkaline; while the narrow, fast-flowing Cloon is acid in nature. The Feale and

Mulkear catchments exhibit all the aspects of a river from source to mouth. Semi-

natural habitats, such as wet grassland, wet woodland and marsh occur by the rivers,

however, improved grassland is most common. One grassland type of particular

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conservation significance, Molinia meadows, occurs in several parts of the site and the

examples at Worldsend on the River Shannon are especially noteworthy. Here are

found areas of wet meadow dominated by rushes and sedges and supporting a diverse

and species-rich vegetation, including such uncommon species as Blue-eyed Grass

(Sisyrinchium bermudiana) and Pale Sedge (Carex pallescens).

Floating river vegetation characterised by species of Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus

spp.), Pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.) and the moss Fontinalius antipyretica are

present throughout the major river systems within the site. The rivers contain an

interesting bryoflora with Schistidium alpicola var. alpicola recorded from in-stream

boulders on the Bilboa, new to county Limerick.

Alluvial woodland occurs on the banks of the Shannon and on islands in the vicinity

of the University of Limerick. The woodland is up to 50m wide on the banks and

somewhat wider on the largest island. The most prominent woodland type is gallery

woodland where White Willow (Salix alba) dominates the tree layer with occasional

Alder (Alnus glutinosa). The shrub layer consists of various willow species with sally

(Salix cinerea ssp. oleifolia) and what appear to be hybrids of S. alba x S. viminalis.

The herbaceous layer consists of tall perennial herbs. A fringe of Bulrush (Typha sp.)

occurs on the riverside of the woodland. On slightly higher ground above the wet

woodland and on the raised embankment remnants of mixed oak-ash-alder woodland

occur. These are poorly developed and contain numerous exotic species but locally

there are signs that it is invading open grassland. Alder is the principal tree species

with occasional Oak (Quercus robur), Elm (Ulmus glabra, U. procera), Hazel

(Corylus avellana), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and the shrubs Guelder-rose

(Viburnum opulus) and willows. The ground flora is species-rich.

Woodland is infrequent within the site, however Cahiracon Wood contains a strip of

old Oak woodland. Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea) forms the canopy, with an

understorey of Hazel and Holly (Ilex aquifolium). Great Wood-rush (Luzula

sylvatica) dominates the ground flora. Less common species present include Great

Horsetail (Equisetum telmeteia) and Pendulous Sedge (Carex pendula).

In the low hills to the south of the Slievefelim mountains, the Cahernahallia River cuts

a valley through the Upper Silurian rocks. For approximately 2km south of Cappagh

Bridge at Knockanavar, the valley sides are wooded. The woodland consists of Birch

(Betula spp.), Hazel, Oak, Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), some Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)

and Willow (Salix spp.). Most of the valley is not grazed by stock, and as a result the

trees are regenerating well. The ground flora feature prominent Greater wood-rush

and Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) with a typical range of woodland herbs. Where

there is more light available, Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) features.

The valley sides of the Bilboa and Gortnageragh Rivers, on higher ground north east

of Cappamore, support patches of semi-natural broadleaf woodland dominated by

Ash, Hazel, Oak and Birch. There is a good scrub layer with Hawthorn, Willow,

Holly and Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) common. The herb layer in these woodlands

is often open with a typically rich mixture of woodland herbs and ferns. Moss species

diversity is high. The woodlands are ungrazed. The hazel is actively coppiced in

places.

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There is a small area of actively regenerating cut away raised bog at Ballyrorheen. It

is situated approx. 5km north west of Cappamore Co. Limerick. The bog contains

some wet areas with good moss (Sphagnum) cover. Species of particular interest

include the Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccos) and the White Sedge (Carex curta)

along with two other regionally rare mosses including S. fimbriatum. The site is being

invaded by Birch (Betula pubescens) scrub woodland. Both commercial forestry and

the spread of rhododendron has greatly reduced the overall value of the site.

A number of plant species that are Irish Red Data Book species occur within the site -

several are protected under the Flora (Protection) Order, 1999:

• Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triquetrus) - in Ireland this protected species is only

found in the Shannon Estuary, where it borders creeks in the inner estuary.

• Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa) - this protected pondweed is

found in the Shannon where it passes through Limerick City.

• Meadow Barley (Hordeum secalinum) - this protected species is abundant in

saltmarshes at Ringmoylan and Mantlehill.

• Hairy Violet (Viola hirta) - this protected violet occurs in the Askeaton/Foynes

area.

• Golden Dock (Rumex maritimus) - noted as occurring in the River Fergus Estuary.

• Bearded Stonewort (Chara canescens) - a brackish water specialist found in

Shannon Airport lagoon.

• Convergent Stonewort (Chara connivens) - presence in Shannon Airport Lagoon to

be confirmed.

Overall, the Shannon and Fergus Estuaries support the largest numbers of wintering

waterfowl in Ireland. The highest count in 1995-96 was 51,423 while in 1994-95 it

was 62,701. Species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive which contributed

to these totals include: Great Northern Diver (3; 1994/95), Whooper Swan (201;

1995/96), Pale-bellied Brent Goose (246; 1995/96), Golden Plover (11,067; 1994/95)

and Bar-tailed Godwit ( 476; 1995/96). In the past, three separate flocks of Greenland

White-fronted Goose were regularly found but none were seen in 1993/94.

Other wintering waders and wildfowl present include Greylag Goose (216; 1995/96),

Shelduck (1,060; 1995/96), Wigeon (5,976; 1995/96); Teal (2,319; 1995-96); Mallard

(528; 1995/96), Pintail (45; 1995/96), Shoveler (84; 1995/96), Tufted Duck (272;

1995/96), Scaup (121; 1995/96), Ringed Plover (240; 1995/96), Grey Plover (750;

1995/96), Lapwing (24,581; 1995/96), Knot (800; 1995/96), Dunlin (20,100;

1995/96), Snipe (719, 1995/96), Black-tailed Godwit (1062; 1995/96), Curlew (1504;

1995/96), Redshank (3228; 1995/96), Greenshank (36; 1995/96) and Turnstone (107;

1995/96). A number of wintering gulls are also present, including Black-headed Gull

(2,216; 1995/96), Common Gull (366; 1995/96) and Lesser Black-backed Gull (100;

1994/95). This is the most important coastal site in Ireland for a number of the waders

including Lapwing, Dunlin, Snipe and Redshank. It also provides an important

staging ground for species such as Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.

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A number of species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive breed within the

site. These include Peregine Falcon (2-3 pairs), Sandwich Tern (34 pairs on Rat

Island, 1995), Common Tern (15 pairs: 2 on Sturamus Island and 13 on Rat Island,

1995), Chough (14-41 pairs, 1992) and Kingfisher. Other breeding birds of note

include Kittiwake (690 pairs at Loop Head, 1987) and Guillemot (4010 individuals at

Loop Head, 1987)

There is a resident population of Bottle-nosed Dolphin in the Shannon Estuary

consisting of at least 56-68 animals (1996). This is the only known resident

population of this E.U. Habitats Directive Annex II species in Ireland. Otter, a species

also listed on Annex II of this directive, is commonly found on the site.

Five species of fish listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive are found within

the site. These are Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), Brook Lamprey (Lampetra

planeri), River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis), Twaite Shad (Allosa fallax fallax) and

Salmon (Salmo salar). The three lampreys and Salmon have all been observed

spawning in the lower Shannon or its tributaries. The Fergus is important in its lower

reaches for spring salmon while the Mulkear catchment excels as a grilse fishery

though spring fish are caught on the actual Mulkear River. The Feale is important for

both types. Twaite Shad is not thought to spawn within the site. There are few other

river systems in Ireland which contain all three species of Lamprey.

Two additional fish of note, listed in the Irish Red Data Book, also occur, namely

Smelt (Osmerus eperlanus) and Pollan (Coregonus autumnalis pollan). Only the

former has been observed spawning in the Shannon.

Freshwater Pearl-mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera), a species listed on Annex II of

the E.U. Habitats Directive, occurs abundantly in parts of the Cloon River.

There is a wide range of landuses within the site. The most common use of the

terrestrial parts is grazing by cattle and some areas have been damaged through over-

grazing and poaching. Much of the land adjacent to the rivers and estuaries has been

improved or reclaimed and is protected by embankments (especially along the Fergus

Estuary). Further, reclamation continues to pose a threat as do flood relief works (e.g.

dredging of rivers). Gravel extraction poses a major threat on the Feale.

In the past, Cord-grass (Spartina sp.) was planted to assist in land reclamation. This

has spread widely, and may oust less vigorous colonisers of mud and may also reduce

the area of mudflat available to feeding birds.

Domestic and industrial wastes are discharged into the Shannon, but water quality is

generally satisfactory - except in the upper estuary, reflecting the sewage load from

Limerick City. Analyses for trace metals suggest a relatively clean estuary with no

influences by industrial discharges apparent. Further industrial development along

the Shannon and water polluting operations are potential threats.

Fishing is a main tourist attraction on the Shannon and there are a large number of

Angler Associations, some with a number of beats. Fishing stands and styles have

been erected in places. The River Feale is a designated Salmonid Water under the

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E.U. Freshwater Fish Directive. Other uses of the site include commercial angling,

oyster farming, boating (including dolphin-watching trips) and shooting. Some of

these may pose threats to the birds and dolphins through disturbance. Specific threats

to the dolphins include underwater acoustic disturbance, entanglement in fishing gear

and collisions with fast moving craft.

This site is of great ecological interest as it contains a high number of habitats and

species listed on Annexes I and II of the E.U. Habitats Directive, including the priority

habitat lagoon, the only known resident population of Bottle-nosed Dolphin in Ireland

and all three Irish lamprey species. A good number of Red Data Book species are also

present, perhaps most notably the thriving populations of Triangular Club-rush. A

number of species listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive are also present,

either wintering or breeding. Indeed, the Shannon and Fergus Estuaries form the

largest estuarine complex in Ireland and support more wintering wildfowl and waders

than any other site in the country. Most of the estuarine part of the site has been

designated a Special Protection Area (SPA), under the E.U. Birds Directive, primarily

to protect the large numbers of migratory birds present in winter.

17.05.2005

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 Rev. C

APPENDIX A2

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SITE SYNOPSIS

SITE NAME: RIVER SHANNON AND RIVER FERGUS ESTUARIES SPA

SITE CODE: 004077

The estuaries of the River Shannon and River Fergus form the largest estuarine

complex in Ireland. The site comprises all of the estuarine habitat west from Limerick

City and south from Ennis, extending west as far as Killadysert and Foynes on the

north and south shores respectively of the River Shannon (a distance of some 25 km

from east to west). Also included are several areas in the outer Shannon estuary,

notably Clonderalaw Bay and Poulnasherry Bay, as well as the intertidal areas on the

south shore of the Shannon between Tarbert and Beal Point.

The site has vast expanses of intertidal flats. The main macro-invertebrate community

present is a Macoma-Scrobicularia-Nereis community which provides a rich food

resource for the wintering birds. Other species occurring include Common Cockle

(Cerastoderma edule), Lugworm (Arenicola marina), the polychaete Nepthys

hombergii, the gastropod Hydrobia ulvae and the crustacean Corophium volutator.

Eelgrass (Zostera spp.) is present in places, along with green algae (e.g. Ulva spp. and

Enteromorpha spp.). Salt marsh vegetation frequently fringes the mudflats and this

provides important high tide roost areas for the wintering birds. Characteristic species

occurring include Common Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Aster (Aster

tripolium), Thrift (Armeria maritima), Sea-milkwort (Glaux maritima), Sea Plantain

(Plantago maritima), Red Fescue (Festuca rubra) and Saltmarsh Rush (Juncus

gerardi). In the innermost parts of the estuaries, the tidal channels or creeks are

fringed with species such as Common Reed (Phragmites australis) and club-rushes

(Scirpus maritimus, S. lacustris subsp. tabernaemontani). Also found is the nationally

rare Triangular Club-rush (Scirpus triqueter). Elsewhere in the site the shoreline

comprises stony or shingle beaches.

The site is the most important coastal wetland site in the country and regularly

supports in excess of 50,000 wintering waterfowl (mean of 59,183 for the 4

seasons 1996-97 to 1999/00), a concentration easily of international importance.

The site has internationally important populations of Dunlin (14,987), Black-tailed

Godwit (706) and Redshank (1,983) - all figures are average peaks for 3 of the 5

seasons in the 1995/96-1999/00 period. A further 16 species have populations of

national importance, i.e. Cormorant (148), Whooper Swan (141), Greylag Goose

(88), Shelduck (895), Wigeon (3,025), Teal (1,558), Pintail (40), Shoveler (56),

Scaup (76), Golden Plover (4,073), Grey Plover (564), Lapwing (13,007), Knot

(686), Bar-tailed Godwit (481), Curlew (1,231) and Greenshank (33). The site is

among the most important in the country for several of these species, notably

Dunlin (11% of national total), Grey Plover (7.5% of total), Lapwing (6.5% of

total), Redshank (6% of total) and Shelduck (6.0% of total). The site is also used

by Oystercatcher (363), Ringed Plover (70), Brent Goose (135), Great Crested

Grebe (47), Red-breasted Merganser (14), Mallard (247), Turnstone (71), Mute

Swan (54), Grey Heron (25), Black-headed Gull (1,233) and Common Gull (194).

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The Shannon / Fergus system was formerly frequented by a Greenland White-

fronted Goose population but this declined during the 1980s and 1990s and the

birds now appear appear to have abandoned the area. The site provides both

feeding and roosting areas for the wintering birds. Habitat quality for most of the

estuarine habitats is good. Some species, particularly Whooper Swan and Greylag

Goose, utilise areas outside of the site for feeding.

Apart from the wintering birds, large numbers of some species also pass through the

site whilst on migration in spring and/or autumn. Regular species include Black-

tailed Godwit, Whimbrel and Greenshank.

Much of the land adjacent to the rivers and estuaries has been reclaimed and improved

for agriculture and is protected by embankments (especially along the River Fergus

estuary). Further reclamation, especially near to the urbanised and industrial areas

continues to pose a threat. The site receives pollution from several sources, including

industry and agriculture, but it is not known if this has any significant impacts on the

wintering birds. Aquaculture occurs in some areas of the site – future increases in this

activity could cause disturbance to the habitats and the associated birds. Common

Cord-grass (Spartina anglica) is well-established and may threaten some of the

estuarine habitats. Some disturbance occurs from boating activities.

This site is of great ornithological interest, being of international importance on

account of the numbers of wintering birds it supports. It also supports internationally

important numbers of three species, i.e. Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit and Redshank.

In addition, there are 16 species that have populations of national importance. For

several of the bird species, it is the top site in the country. Also of note is that three of

the species which occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive,

i.e. Whooper Swan, Golden Plover and Bar-tailed Godwit. The site is most

effectively censused from the air and this is carried out in most winters.

1.4.2005

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 Rev. C

APPENDIX B

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MWP March 2009 12127_6006 Rev. C

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Documents

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner … · PROJECT TITLE: Castletroy WwTP Wastewater Discharge Licence ... Synopsis is attached to this assessment as Appendix