NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT FOR THE PROPOSED ...FIGURE 2.1: DESIGNATED NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN 5 KM OF THE CARCUR LANDFILL SITE..... 6 LIST OF TABLES TABLE 2.1: SUMMARY OF NATURA 2000

NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT FOR THE PROPOSED REHABILITATION OF CARCUR LANDFILL SITE, CO. WEXFORD February 2011

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE

BACKGROUND ................................................................................................................1

1 METHODOLOGY FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT ....................................................2

1.1 STAGE 1: SCREENING .............................................................................................. 2 1.2 STAGE 2: APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT............................................................................ 2 1.3 STAGE 3: ASSESSMENT OF ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS.......................................................... 2 1.4 STAGE 4: ASSESSMENT WHERE ADVERSE IMPACTS REMAIN................................................... 2 1.5 METHODOLOGY FOR THIS ASSESSMENT ........................................................................... 2

2 STAGE 1 (SCREENING) .............................................................................................3

2.1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ............................................................................. 3 2.2 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE NATURA 2000 SITES .............................................................. 3

3 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA............................................................................................7

3.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE ELEMENTS OF THE PROJECT LIKELY TO GIVE RISE TO IMPACT ON NATURA 2000

SITES 7 3.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE LIKELY IMPACT OF THE PROJECT ON NATURA 2000 SITES ............................. 7 3.3 DESCRIPTION OF THE LIKELY CHANGES TO THE SITE............................................................10 3.4 THE LIKELY IMPACTS ON THE NATURA 2000 SITE AS A WHOLE ...............................................12

4 REFERENCES...........................................................................................................14

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LIST OF FIGURES

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FIGURE 2.1: DESIGNATED NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN 5 KM OF THE CARCUR LANDFILL SITE................... 6 LIST OF TABLES TABLE 2.1: SUMMARY OF NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN 5 KM OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT ................ 5 TABLE 3.1: THE MAIN ELEMENTS OF THE PROJECT AND THEIR POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON NATURA 2000 SITES. 7 TABLE 3.2: INDICATORS OF SIGNIFICANCE OF THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS. ..........................................12

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Wexford County Council Natura Impact Statement for

Carcur Landfill Site

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BACKGROUND An Appropriate Assessment is required where any proposed plan or project is likely to have a significant effect on any site that has been designated under the E.U. Habitats Directive, i.e. a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) or the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e. a Special Protection Area (SPA). Collectively, SAC’s and SPA’s are known as Natura 2000 sites. The requirements for an Appropriate Assessment are set out in the E.U. Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of this Directive state:

3. Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives. In the light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public.

4. If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the absence of alternative

solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, the Member State shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted.

Where the site concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a priority species, the only considerations which may be raised are those relating to human health or public safety, to beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment or, further to an opinion from the Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public interest.

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) has recently issued Guidance on Appropriate Assessment ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities’ which provides advice on the information required in an Appropriate Assessment. These guidelines were used in preparing this document. The closed Carcur Landfill site is located partially within two Natura 2000 sites: the Slaney River Valley candidate Special Area of Conservation (SAC, 000781) and Wexford Harbour and Slobs Special Protection Area (SPA, 004076). This Natura Impact Statement screening report assesses the potential impacts of this development on these Natura 2000 sites.

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Section 1 Wexford County Council Natura Impact Statement for



1 METHODOLOGY FOR APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT This assessment follows the methodological guidance set out in the document ‘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’ (2001). This document is referred to as the ‘Guidance Document’ in this report. These guidelines are read in conjunction with the document ‘Managing Natura 2000 sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC’ (2000). This assessment also follows the guidance given in the recent document issued by DoEHLG ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities’ (issued December, 2009). The assessment requirements of Article 6 of the Habitat’s Directive are generally dealt with in a stage by stage approach. The four stages proposed by the Guidance Document are: 1.1 Stage 1: Screening The process which identifies the likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site of a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and considers whether these impacts are likely to be significant.

1.2 Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment The consideration of the impact on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site of the project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, with respect to the site’s structure and function and its conservation objectives. Additionally, where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those impacts.

1.3 Stage 3: Assessment of Alternative Solutions The process which examines alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site.

1.4 Stage 4: Assessment where Adverse Impacts Remain An assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed. Each stage determines whether a further stage in the process is required. If, for example, the conclusions at the end of Stage One are that there will be no significant impacts on the Natura 2000 site, there is no requirement to proceed further. It is Best Practice however to complete a ‘finding of no significant effects’ report. The relationship of the four stages of this Assessment Guidance is illustrated in the Guidance Document.

1.5 Methodology for this Assessment This Appropriate Assessment covers Stage 1 only as the proposed development is not expected to have any significant adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 sites. A Finding of No Significant Effects (FONSE) report has also been carried out and this is available in Appendix 1. Throughout this Appropriate Assessment, those paragraphs in italics refer to specific instructions contained in the Guidance Document.

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2 STAGE 1 (SCREENING)

2.1 Brief Description of the Project The Carcur site is situated immediately north of Wexford Town. Carcur landfill operated from late 1930’s to 1985 and covers an area of approximately 10 hectares. Carcur Landfill site is currently derelict and overgrown. The site is bounded to the east and south east by the Slaney estuary and to the north and west primarily by improved agricultural grassland. A public road and housing estate lies to the south of the site. A causeway (with railway line) runs between the site and the Slaney Estuary to the east, however the mudflats and marsh to the southeast of the site are tidal and seawater floods this area by means of a passage through the causeway. A stream runs under the road to the south of the site and drains into the marsh area to the southeast of the site. The eastern portion of the site, together with the tidal mudflats to the southeast of the site, is contained within the Slaney River Valley cSAC and Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA. Wastes deposited at the site consisted of municipal solid waste, industrial waste and inert material. The estimated total quantity is 287,700 m3. The landfill operated on the ‘dilute and disperse’ principal. Carcur landfill ceased accepting waste more than 21 years ago in May 1985. The site was capped with a thin layer of soil and appears to have been left to re-vegetate naturally. The landfill site currently comprises a mix of grassland, scrub and marsh, with some semi-mature trees present. It is the aim of Wexford County Council to develop an ‘Eco-Park’ at the site to support a wide range of recreational activities. The particulars of the ‘Eco-Park’ design are not yet known and will be subject to a further Appropriate Assessment in conjunction with the Part 8 planning approval process. This Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will cover Stage 1 of the process - that is the surface sealing or re-capping of the derelict landfill site The following system of surface sealing is proposed for the site:

o On the surface of the landfill a combined gas and water drainage layer of 300 mm encompassing a herring-bone network of perforated pipework laid within that layer to facilitate gas collection and conveyance to the perimeter gas venting trench.

o The placing of a 1 m cap of medium to low permeable soil including a topsoil layer of 0.2 m. Depths of subsoil will increase where landscaping berms are created in line with the final ‘Eco-Park’ design.

o A landfill gas venting trench around the entire perimeter of the waste body to reduce the impact of possible landfill gas migration.

The soil should cover all areas where waste has been placed, so as not to endanger animals or persons using the area for recreational activities. The proposed remediation measures will address the risks of leachate and landfill gas. The soil cover and sub-surface stone drainage layer will greatly reduce the quantities of leachate generated at the site. The medium to low permeability soil cover will allow limited vertical migration of landfill gas. The stone layer, perforated pipe-work network and gas venting trench will mitigate the potential for lateral landfill gas migration off-site. An environmental assessment has been completed for the derelict landfill site and the surface water quality within the environs of the site is good (FTC, 2009). Surface water quality is not impacted as a result of the historic landfilling operations. The current situation indicates that there is adequate dilution of any pollutants entering the surface water regime (FTC, 2009). A risk assessment relating primarily to landfill gas and leachate generation was also completed for the site and the site was classified as a low risk Class C in terms of source-pathway-receptor (S-P-R) scoring (FTC, 2009).

2.2 Brief Description of the Natura 2000 Sites Carcur Landfill site is partially located within two Natura 2000 sites:

o Slaney River Valley cSAC (000781) o Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA (004076)

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Table 2.1 summarises the characteristics of each site and Figure 2.1 shows the location of these designated sites in relation to the closed Carcur landfill site. The Slaney River Valley cSAC is a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour as well as the freshwater stretches of the Slaney River as far upstream as the Wicklow Mountains. This site is designated primarily for its habitats; alluvial wet woodlands, floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is further selected for a number of aqautic species listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive. Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA is also a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour and also extending upstream into the Slaney River. The SPA is designated for its internationally important populations of wader and wildfowl species, as well as a range of Annex I species of the EU Birds Directive. The full NPWS site synopses for these sites are available in Appendix 2.

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Table 2.1: Summary of Natura 2000 Sites within 5 km of the proposed development

Designated Site Site Code Reason for designation Minimum Distance

from site (km)

Slaney River Valley cSAC 000781

The site is a candidate SAC selected for alluvial wet woodlands, a priority habitat on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected as a candidate SAC for floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is further selected for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive - Sea Lamprey, River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Twaite Shad, Atlantic Salmon and Otter. Wexford Harbour provides extensive feeding grounds for wading birds and Little Terns, which are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, have bred here in the past. The Slaney is primarily a spring salmon fishery and is regarded as one of the top rivers in Ireland for early spring fishing.

0

Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA 004076

Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA is one of the most important ornithological sites in the country. It is of world importance for Greenland White-fronted Goose, and supports internationally important populations of a further four species (Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit). In addition, it has 25 species of wintering waterbirds with populations of national importance. Also of significance is that several of the species which occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e. Little Egret, Whooper Swan, Bewick’s Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose, Hen Harrier, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, Little Tern and Short-eared Owl. The site is an important centre for research, education and tourism.

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3 ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

3.1 Description of the elements of the project likely to give rise to impact on Natura 2000 Sites

Describe the individual elements of the project (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects) likely to give rise to impacts on the Natura 2000 site. The main elements of the project that could potentially impact on Natura 2000 sites are shown in Table 3.1. The potential impacts occur primarily during the construction phase of the project, which will be short-term in duration (approximately 4-6 months). The likely impacts are discussed in further detail in Section 3.2. Table 3.1: The Main Elements of the Project and their Potential Impacts on Natura

2000 Sites

3.2 Description of the likely impact of the project on Natura 2000 Sites Describe any likely direct, indirect or secondary impacts of the project (either alone or in combination with other plans or projects) on the Natura 2000 site by virtue of:

Size and Scale

The site boundary associated with Carcur Landfill covers an area of approximately 10 hectares. The actual area of Carcur associated with the landfill and the proposed rehabilitation works is estimated at 4.25 ha. The Slaney River Valley cSAC is a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour as well as the freshwater stretches of the Slaney River as far upstream as the Wicklow Mountains. The cSAC covers an area of 6,021 ha. The area of the landfill site located within the cSAC boundary is 1.97 ha and therefore comprises less than 0.05% of the cSAC. Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA is also a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour and also extending upstream into the Slaney River. The area of the SPA is 2,822 ha. The area of the landfill site located within the SPA boundary is 1.97 ha and therefore comprises less than 0.07% of the cSAC.

Project Element Potential Impact on Natura 2000 Sites

Natura 2000 Site Affected

Vegetation removal from the existing landfill cap.

• habitat loss and damage • disturbance and displacement of

protected species

Slaney River Valley cSAC Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA

Construction of new landfill cap, including spreading of topsoil, laying of perforated pipework and construction of gas venting trench.

• Disturbance and mortalities of protected species

• hydrological impacts such as contaminated runoff and increased siltation (mortalities of aquatic flora & fauna)


Operation of the ‘Eco-Park’ • The potential impacts of the ‘Eco-Park’ will be covered by a separate NIS


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The extent of the area to be re-capped within the landfill site boundary is known along the northern, southern and western boundaries. Further investigation along the eastern boundary during the construction stage will determine the precise extent of emplaced waste in this area. It is expected that the waste body extends into the Natura 2000 site.

Land Take

The area of Carcur Landfill site contained within the boundary of the cSAC and SPA is already highly modified, having been landfilled for several decades and capped in the 1980’s. It should be noted that the cSAC and SPA boundaries at this location overlap and cover the same area of the landfill site. The lands in question overlap slightly with the eastern boundary of the landfill site and the habitats here are terrestrial, mainly grassland and scrub, and do not contain any of the key habitats for which the cSAC is designated, i.e. alluvial wet woodland, floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands. Furthermore, the habitats on the site are not suitable for the key wader and wildfowl species for which the SPA has been designated (i.e. Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit). It is possible that some wader and wildfowl species could use this area to roost at high tide, however the sward height is high at this location and this would discourage birds from landing on the site. The adjacent mudflats which are not contained within the Carcur landfill site are of much higher value to the key species of the SPA than the site itself. As mentioned above, the area of the landfill site contained within the cSAC represents less than 0.05% of the overall cSAC and the area of land contained within the SPA represents less than 0.1% of the overall SPA. The land-take associated with the proposed rehabilitation works is therefore extremely small in proportion to the size of the Natura 2000 sites in question. It should be noted that the cSAC and SPA are chiefly designated for their aquatic habitats and the fact that some terrestrial lands are included at this location may be an artifact of the mapping methodology used, or may indicate that this area has been infilled since the designated site boundaries were delineated. In any case, the lands to be impacted are already highly modified and are unlikely to contribute to the conservation value of the cSAC or SPA. The proposed re-capping works will comprise the stripping of vegetation from this area and the introduction of new top-soil and associated gas venting pipework. The area will immediately be re-seeded and is likely to retain a similar character to it’s previously capped state. There will be no loss of protected habitats of the cSAC as a result of the proposed works and no loss of suitable foraging or roosting areas for protected avian species of the SPA. No habitat loss of the adjacent mudflats will take place.

Distance from Natura 2000 Site or key features of the site

Table 2.1 displays the distance of the Natura 2000 sites from Carcur Landfill site. The eastern edge of the landfill site is partially contained within both the Slaney River Valley cSAC and Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA. Therefore there are potential impacts on these sites in terms of habitat loss and disturbance to key species. As mentioned above, the habitats contained within the landfill site boundary are terrestrial and highly modified as a result of previous landfill site activities. The site does not contain any of the key habitats of the cSAC or any habitats suitable for the species of the SPA. Therefore there will no direct loss of protected (i.e. Annex I) habitats of the cSAC and no loss of suitable foraging or roosting areas on the SPA. It is possible that avian species occurring in the SPA, for example on the adjacent mudflats, could suffer disturbance impacts as a result of the proposed re-capping of the landfill site. The disturbance impacts may arise as a result of increased vehicular movement and noise on the site, which lies adjacent to the mudflats. This disturbance will be temporary in duration however, lasting approximately 4-6 months and is amenable to mitigation. Alternative suitable habitats are available in the harbour and any affected birds can move to alternative foraging areas during this time. It should be noted that the key species of the SPA (i.e. Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit) are present in the area almost exclusively in the winter period (i.e. October to March inclusive) and the proposed re-capping of the landfill site will take place over the summer months (April to September inclusive). Therefore it is not expected that there will be any significant disturbance impacts on avian species of the Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA as a result of the proposed works.

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Potential hydrological impacts can occur at Natura 2000 sites located downstream of a proposed development through contamination of watercourses, or increased siltation during construction. The proposed re-capping of the landfill site will take place in the summer months, thereby avoiding the time of highest rainfall and flooding risk. There are no streams located on the landfill site, however one stream flows along the southern boundary of the site (underneath the public road) and discharges into saltmarsh and estuarine habitats to the southeast of the site. Run-off from the eastern portion of the site is likely to flow directly into the estuary and will disperse with the tide. Surface water quality at the site was tested in 2006 and was found to be good (FTC, 2009) and the current situation indicates that there is adequate dilution of any pollutants entering the surface water regime (FTC, 2009). It is therefore considered likely that any temporary increase in siltation which may occur at the time of the re-capping works will not significantly impact on the adjacent water quality of the estuary and the wider Wexford Harbour area. Any soil washed from the newly constructed cap will be adequately diluted and dispersed. The run-off from the eastern portion of the site is expected to be low due to the relatively flat profile of the landfill site at this location. Furthermore, the immediate re-seeding of the top-soil will promote the rapid stabilisation of the new cap. Following the installation of the new cap, the soil cover and sub-surface stone drainage layer will greatly reduce the quantities of leachate generated at the site and is predicted to enhance the water quality draining from the site to the adjacent SPA and cSAC. There are no other Natura 2000 sites located within 5 km of Carcur Landfill site and therefore no other Natura 2000 sites are potentially impacted by the proposed rehabilitation works.

Excavation and Resource requirements (water abstraction etc.)

There will be no excavation or resource requirements from any Natura 2000 site as a result of the proposed development. There is a quantity of soil stockpiled on site for use, but soil for the new cap and construction materials will be predominantly sourced off site and will be transported to the landfill site by public road by licensed contractors. There will be no water extraction from the Wexford Harbour SPA or Slaney River Valley cSAC.

Emission (disposal to land, water or air)

There will be no emissions to the surrounding watercourses or estuary/harbour as a result of the proposed rehabilitation works. Conversely, following the installation of the new cap, the soil cover and sub-surface stone drainage layer will greatly reduce the quantities of leachate generated at the site and will therefore enhance the water quality draining from the site to the adjacent SPA and cSAC. It is possible that there may be some run-off of top-soil from the new cap following its installation. However the new cap will be installed during the dryer summer months and will immediately be re-seeded in order to promote the stabilisation of the soil. Furthermore, the eastern portion of the landfill site which is located within the Natura 2000 sites is relatively flat and it is not expected that there will be a risk of any significant run-off of top soil into the adjacent estuary. Any soil which does enter the estuary will be quickly dispersed by the tide. Any construction waste will be disposed of at licensed disposal sites and will not impact on any Natura 2000 sites.

Transportation requirements

The installation of the new cap will involve small scale traffic movements with vehicles delivering soil and construction materials to the development site. This increase in traffic will be temporary (4-6 months) and the no major haulage routes crosses the Natura 2000 sites. There will be no significant impacts to the cSAC or SPA as a result of the transportation requirements for the proposed development.

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Duration of construction, operation, decommissioning

It is estimated that the duration of construction of the new cap will be approximately 4-6 months and the construction activities are planned to take place in the summer months (April to September inclusive). Any disturbance to avian species occurring in the SPA will be temporary and affected birds can move to alternative habitats during this period. The timing of the construction works is such that it avoids the time of highest bird abundance in the SPA (i.e. October to March inclusive). Following the installation of the new cap, the soil cover and sub-surface stone drainage layer will greatly reduce the quantities of leachate generated at the site and will therefore be predicted to enhance the water quality in the adjacent SPA and cSAC. It is proposed that the new cap will be permanent and there are no current plans for any future replacement of the cap.

3.3 Description of the likely changes to the Site Describe any likely changes to the site arising as a result of:

o reduction of habitat area o disturbance to key species o habitat or species fragmentation o reduction in species density o changes in key indicators of conservation value (water quality etc)

Reduction in habitat area

The Slaney River Valley cSAC is a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour as well as the freshwater stretches of the Slaney River as far upstream as the Wicklow Mountains. The cSAC covers an area of 6,021 ha. The area of the landfill site located within the cSAC boundary is 1.97 ha and therefore comprises less than 0.05% of the cSAC. Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA is also a very large site, covering Wexford Harbour and also extending upstream into the Slaney River. The area of the SPA is 2,822 ha. The area of the landfill site located within the SPA boundary is 1.97 ha and therefore comprises less than 0.07% of the cSAC. The land-take associated with the proposed rehabilitation works is therefore extremely small in proportion to the size of the Natura 2000 sites in question. The area of Carcur Landfill site contained within the boundary of the cSAC and SPA is already highly modified, having been landfilled and capped in the 1980’s. The lands in question form the eastern boundary of the landfill site and the habitats here are terrestrial, mainly grassland and scrub, and do not contain any of the key habitats for which the cSAC is designated, i.e. alluvial wet woodland, floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands. Furthermore, the habitats on the site are not suitable for the key wader and wildfowl species for which the SPA has been designated (i.e. Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit). The proposed re-capping works will comprise the stripping of vegetation from this area and the introduction of new top-soil and associated gas venting pipework. The area will immediately be re-seeded and is likely to retain a similar character to it’s previously capped state. There will be no loss of protected habitats of the cSAC as a result of the proposed works and no loss of suitable foraging or roosting areas for protected avian species of the SPA. It is possible that the new landfill cap will provide suitable high-tide roost sites for some wader and wildfowl species as sward height is likely to be lower – at least initially – than at the present time.

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Disturbance to key species

The key habitats for which the Slaney River Valley cSAC has been designated are alluvial wet woodlands (a priority habitat on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive) and floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands (listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive). The key species for which the site is designated are; Sea Lamprey, River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Twaite Shad, Atlantic Salmon and Otter (listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive). The key species of Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA are Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit (all of which occur in internationally important numbers). In addition, The SPA has 25 species of wintering waterbirds with populations of national importance and several regularly occurring species which are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e. Little Egret, Whooper Swan, Bewick’s Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose, Hen Harrier, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, Little Tern and Short-eared Owl. There will be no loss of key protected habitats and species of the Slaney River Valley cSAC as a result of the proposed works as no key protected habitats occur on the landfill site. There will be no disturbance to key habitats or species in the wider cSAC as a result of the proposed development as there are no predicted negative impacts to water quality in the cSAC as a result of the re-capping of the landfill site. It is possible that avian species occurring in Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA, for example on the adjacent mudflats, could suffer some disturbance impacts as a result of the proposed re-capping of the landfill site. The disturbance impacts may arise as a result of increased vehicular movement and noise on the site, which lies adjacent to the mudflats. This disturbance will be temporary in duration however, lasting approximately 4-6 months. Alternative suitable habitats are available in the harbour and any affected birds can move to alternative foraging areas during this time. It should be noted that the key species of the SPA (i.e. Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit) are present in the area almost exclusively in the winter period (i.e. October to March inclusive) and the proposed re-capping of the landfill site will take place over the summer months (April to September inclusive). Therefore it is not expected that there will be any significant disturbance impacts on key avian species of the Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA as a result of the proposed works.

Habitat or species fragmentation

No habitat or species fragmentation will occur in either of the Natura 2000 sites located on the development site. Carcur landfill site is located on the edge of the Natura 2000 site boundaries and the habitats here have already been highly modified by the operation and subsequent capping of the landfill site in the 1980’s. The habitats on Carcur landfill site are of low ecological value and they do not contribute to the conservation value of the Natura 2000 sites.

Reduction in species density

There will be no reduction in species density at either of the Natura 2000 sites as a result of the re-capping of the landfill site. The habitats on the site are of low ecological value and are not key habitats of the cSAC. Therefore the alteration of these habitats to facilitate the new landfill cap will not result in a reduction in floral species diversity in the Slaney River Valley cSAC. The proposed development is not expected to have any impacts on the protected aquatic fauna in the cSAC (i.e. Sea Lamprey, River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Twaite Shad, Atlantic Salmon and Otter) as there will be no reduction in water quality as a result of the installation of the new landfill cap. Conversely, following the installation of the new cap, the soil cover and sub-surface stone drainage layer will greatly reduce the quantities of leachate generated at the site and may therefore enhance the water quality in the cSAC There will be no reduction in avian species density in Wexford Harbour SPA as a result of the proposed development as the habitats on the site are not suitable for waders and wildfowl. The re-capping of the site will take place in the summer months and will therefore avoid the time of highest wader and wildfowl abundance in the SPA (many species occur exclusively in the winter months, typically between October and March). Any disturbance to avian species occurring adjacent to the site will be temporary and affected birds can move to alternative foraging habitats in the wider harbour.

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Changes in key indicators of conservation value

The key indicators of conservation value of for the Slaney River Valley cSAC would be the quality of the key protected habitats, i.e. alluvial wet woodlands, floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands. The key indicators of conservation value for Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA would be the abundance of Key species, i.e. Greenland White-fronted Goose, Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit. It is not expected that there will be any changes to the key indicators of conservation value of either of these Natura 2000 sites as a result of the proposed development. No loss of protected habitats or species will occur and no reduction of water quality in the Natura 2000 sites is expected.

3.4 The likely Impacts on the Natura 2000 Site as a whole Describe any likely impacts on the Natura 2000 site as a whole in terms of:

o interference with the key relationships that define the structure of the site; o interference with key relationships that define the function of the site.

It is not considered likely that there will be any impacts on the key relationships that define the structure or function of the Natura 2000 sites considered in this Natura Impact Statement. There will be no loss or degradation of protected habitats at either if the Natura 2000 sites as a result of the proposed development and any disturbance to avian species will be temporary and any affected birds can move to alternative habitats in the SPA. No reduction in water quality is expected as a result of the proposed development. 3.4.1 Indicators of Significance of these Impacts Provide indicators of significance as a result of the identification of effects set out above in terms of:

o loss o fragmentation o disruption o disturbance o change to key elements of the site (e.g. water quality etc.)

No potential impacts on Natura 2000 sites are expected as a result of the proposed development. However the following indicators can be monitored. Table 3.2: Indicators of significance of the potential impacts.

Potential Impact Significance indicator

Disturbance to key avian species Decline in abundance of key avian species in the SPA. Trends can be assessed using I-WeBS data held by BirdWatch Ireland

Decline in water quality due to increased siltation/turbidity

Change in water quality status in the watercourse downstream of the site and adjacent estuary (baseline data contained in environmental report – FTC, 2009)

Habitat loss or degradation Percentage of loss in the Natura 2000 sites

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3.4.2 The likely Significance of the Potential Impacts Describe from the above those elements of the project or plan, or combination of elements, where the above impacts are likely to be significant or where the scale or magnitude of impacts are not known. There will be no significant impacts on any Natura 2000 site as a result of the proposed development.

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4 REFERENCES European Commission Directorate-General. 2001. 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. European Commission Directorate-General. Oxford. European Commission. 2000. Managing Natura 2000 sites: The provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC. FTC, 2009. Environmental Assessment for the closed Carcur Landfill, Wexford Town. Prepared by Fehily Timoney & Company for Wexford County Council. January, 2009.

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APPENDIX 1

Finding of No Significant Effects Report

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Finding of no Significant Effects Report

Name and location of the Natura 2000 sites

o Slaney River Valley cSAC (000781) o Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA (004076)

The eastern edge of Carcus Landfill site is contained within the boundaries of these Natura 2000 sites.

Description of the project or plan

It is the aim of Wexford County Council to develop an ‘Eco-Park’ at the site to support a wide range of recreational activities. This Natura Impact Statement (NIS) covers Stage 1 of the process - that is the surface sealing or re-capping of the derelict landfill site. This will involve: o On the surface of the landfill a combined gas

and water drainage layer of 300 mm encompassing a herringbone network of perforated pipework laid within that layer to facilitate gas collection and conveyance to the perimeter gas venting trench.

o The placing of a 1 m cap of medium to low permeable soil including a topsoil layer of 0.2 m. Depths of subsoil will increase where landscaping berms are creating in line with the final ‘Eco-Park’ design.

o A landfill gas venting trench around the entire perimeter of the waste body to reduce the impact of possible landfill gas migration.

Is the Project or Plan directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site (provide details)?

No

Are there other projects or plans that together with the project of plan being assessed could affect the site (provide details)?

No

The Assessment of Significant Effects

Describe how the project or plan (alone or in combination) is likely to affect the Natura 2000 site

It is not expected that there will be any significant impacts to the Natura 2000 sites as a result of the re-capping of the landfill site.

Explain why these effects are not considered significant

No protected habitats of the cSAC occur on the site and the habitats are not suitable for the key species of the SPA. Any disturbance impacts on avian species of the SPA will be temporary and affected species can move to alternative habitats in the wider harbour. No reduction in water quality in the Natura 2000 sites is expected.

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Name of Agency or Body Consulted Summary of Response

National Parks and Wildlife Service

(Mr Dominic Berridge – Wexford Wildfowl Reserve)

A formal consultation was not held, however the proposed development was discussed with Mr Berridge by phone on 20th October 2010. He was not aware of any ecological issues at the Carcur Landfill site. No known concentrations of key wader and wildfowl species of the SPA occur on the landfill site.

Data Collected to Carry out the Assessment

Who carried out the assessment

Sources of Data

Level of assessment completed

Where can the full results of the assessment be accessed and viewed

This Natura Impact Statement was completed by Fehily Timoney and Company.

Environmental Assessment report (FTC, 2009)

The NPWS designated site synopses were used and the locations of the Natura 2000 sites were obtained from NPWS (Sept, 2010).

Environmental Assessment and a source-pathway-receptor (S-P-R) Risk Assessment (FTC, 2009)

The Environmental Assessment is available from Wexford County Council.

Overall conclusions It is not considered likely that there will be any impacts on the designated sites covered by this report. These are:

o Slaney River Valley cSAC (000781) o Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA (004076

Therefore an Appropriate Assessment (Stage 2) is not required for these Natura 2000 sites.

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APPENDIX 2

NPWS Site Synopses

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SITE NAME: SLANEY RIVER VALLEY cSAC SITE CODE: 000781 This site comprises the freshwater stretches of the Slaney as far as the Wicklow Mountains; a number of tributaries the larger of which include the Bann, Boro, Glasha, Clody, Derry, Derreen, Douglas and Carrigower Rivers; the estuary at Ferrycarrig and Wexford Harbour. The site flows through the counties of Wicklow, Wexford and Carlow. Towns along the site but not in it are Baltinglass, Hacketstown, Tinahely, Tullow, Bunclody, Camolin, Enniscorthy and Wexford. The river is up to 100 m wide in places and is tidal at the southern end from Edermine Bridge below Enniscorthy. In the upper and central regions almost as far as the confluence with the Derry River the geology consists of granite. Above Kilcarry Bridge, the Slaney has cut a gorge into the granite plain. The Derry and Bann Rivers are bounded by a narrow line of uplands which corresponds to schist outcrops. Where these tributaries cut through this belt of hard rocks they have carved deep gorges, more than two miles long at Tinahely and Shillelagh. South of Kildavin the Slaney flows through an area of Ordovician slates and grits. The site is a candidate SAC selected for alluvial wet woodlands, a priority habitat on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected as a candidate SAC for floating river vegetation, estuaries, tidal mudflats and old oak woodlands, all habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is further selected for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive - Sea Lamprey, River Lamprey, Brook Lamprey, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Twaite Shad, Atlantic Salmon and Otter. Floating river vegetation is found along much of the freshwater stretches within the site. Species present here include Pond Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus peltatus), Water-crowfoot (Ranunculus spp.), Canadian Pondweed (Elodea canadensis), Broad-leaved Pondweed (Potamogeton natans), Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum spp.), Common Club-rush (Scirpus lacustris), Water-starwort (Callitriche spp.), Hemlock Water-dropwort, Fine-leaved Water-dropwort (Oenanthe aquatica), Common Duckweed (Lemna minor), Yellow Water-lily (Nuphar lutea), Unbranched Bur-reed (Sparganium emersum) and the moss Fontinalis antipyretica. Two rare aquatic plant species have been recorded in this site: Short-leaved Water-starwort (Callitriche truncata), a very rare, small aquatic herb found nowhere else in Ireland; and Opposite-leaved Pondweed (Groenlandia densa), a species that is legally protected under the Flora Protection Order, 1999. Good examples of wet woodland are found associated with Macmine marshes, along banks of the Slaney and its tributaries and within reed swamps. Grey Willow (Salix cinerea) scrub and pockets of wet woodland dominated by Alder (Alnus glutinosa) have become established in places. Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Birch (Betula pubescens) are common in the latter and the ground flora is typical of wet woodland with Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), Angelica (Angelica sylvestris), Yellow Iris, Horsetail (Equisetum spp.) and occasional tussocks of Greater Tussock-sedge (Carex paniculata). These woodlands have been described as two types: one is quite eutrophic, is dominated by Willow and is subject to a tidal influence. The other is flushed or spring-fed subject to waterlogging but not to flooding and is dominated by Alder and Ash. Old oak woodlands are best represented at Tomnafinnoge though patches are present throughout the site. At Tomnafinnoge the wood is dominated by mature, widely spaced Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea), which were planted around 1700, with some further planting in 1810. There is now a varied age structure with overmature, mature and young trees; the open canopy permits light to reach the forest floor and encourages natural regeneration of Oak. As well as Oak, the wood includes the occasional Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Birch (Betula sp.), Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) and Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris). The shrub layer is well-developed with Hazel (Corylus avellana) and Holly (Ilex aquifolium) occurring. The ground layer consists of Great Wood-rush (Luzula sylvatica) and Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), with some Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) and Brambles (Rubus fruticosus agg.). Herbaceous species in the ground layer include Primrose (Primula vulgaris), Wood-sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), Common Cow-wheat (Melampyrum pratense) and Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta). Many of the trees carry an epiphytic flora of mosses, Polypody Fern (Polypodium vulgare), and lichens such as Usnea comosa, Evernia prunastri, Ramalina spp. and Parmelia spp. Tomnafinnoge Wood is a remnant of the ancient Shillelagh Oak woods, and it appears that woodland has always been present on the site. In the past, the wood was managed as a Hazel coppice with Oak standards, a common form of woodland management in England but not widely practised in Ireland.

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The importance of the woodland lies in the size of the trees, their capacity to regenerate, their genetic continuity with ancient woodland and their historic interest. The nearest comparable stands are at Abbeyleix, Co. Laois and Portlaw, Co. Waterford. Below Enniscorthy there are several areas of woodland with a mixed canopy of Oak, Beech, Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), Ash and generally a good diverse ground flora. Near the mouth of the river at Ferrycarrig is a steep south facing slope covered with Oak woodland. Holly and Hazel are the main species in the shrub layer and a species-rich ground flora typical of this type of Oak woodland has abundant ferns - Dryopteris filix-mas, Polystichum setiferum, Phyllitis scolopendrium - and mosses - Thuidium tamariscinum, Mnium hornum, Eurynchium praelongum. North of Bunclody, the river valley still has a number of dry woodlands though these have mostly been managed by the estates with the introduction of Beech and occasional conifers. The steeper sides are covered in a thick scrub from which taller trees protrude. At the southern end of the site, the Red Data Book species Yellow Archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon) occurs. Three more Red Data Book species have also been recorded from the site: Basil Thyme (Acinos arvensis), Blue Fleabane (Erigeron acer) and Small Cudweed (Filago minima). A nationally rare species Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) is also found within the site. Mixed woodlands occur at Carrickduff and Coolaphuca in Bunclody. Oak trees, which make up the greater part of the canopy, were originally planted and at the present time are not regenerating actively. In time, if permitted, the woodland will probably go to Beech. A fair number of Yew (Taxus baccata) trees have also reached a large size and these, together with Holly give to the site the aspect of a south-western Oak wood. The site is considered to contain a very good example of the extreme upper reaches of an estuary. Tidal reedbeds with wet woodland are present in places. The fringing reed communities support Sea Club-rush (Scirpus maritimus), Grey Club-rush (S. tabernaemontani) and abundant Common Reed (Phragmites australis). Other species occurring are Bulrush (Typha latifolia), Reed Canary-grass (Phalaris arundinacea) and Branched Bur-reed (Sparganium erectum). The reed-swamp is extensive around Macmine, where the river widens and there are islands with swamp and marsh vegetation. Further south of Macmine are expanses of intertidal mudflats and sandflats and shingly shore often fringed with a narrow band of salt marsh and brackish vegetation. Narrow shingle beaches up to 10 m wide occur in places along the river banks and are exposed at low tide. Upslope the shingle is sometimes colonised by Saltmarsh Rush (Juncus gerardi), Townsend’s Cord-grass (Spartina townsendii), Common Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia maritima), Sea Aster (Aster tripolium), Hemlock Water-dropwort (Oenanthe crocata) and Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera). Wexford Harbour is an extensive, shallow estuary which dries out considerably at low tide exposing large expanses of mudflats and sandflats. The harbour is largely sheltered by the Raven Point to the north and Rosslare Point in the south. Other habitats present within the site include species-rich marsh in which sedges such as Carex disticha, Carex riparia and Carex vesicaria are common. Among the other species found in this habitat are Yellow Iris (Iris pseudacorus), Water Mint (Mentha aquatica), Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) and Soft Rush (Juncus effusus). Extensive marshes occur to the west of Casltebridge associated with the tidal areas of the River Sow. The site supports populations of several species listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive including the three Lampreys - Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus), River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) and Brook Lamprey (Lampetra planeri), Otter (Lutra lutra), Salmon (Salmo salar), small numbers of Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) and in the tidal stretches, Twaite Shad (Alosa fallax fallax). A survey of the Derreen River in 1995 estimated the population of Freshwater Pearl Mussel at about 3,000 individuals. This is a significant population, especially in the context of eastern Ireland. The Slaney is primarily a spring salmon fishery and is regarded as one of the top rivers in Ireland for early spring fishing. The upper Slaney and tributary headwaters are very important for spawning. The site supports important numbers of birds in winter. Little Egret are found annually along the river. This bird is only now beginning to gain a foothold in Ireland and the south-east appears to be its stronghold. Nationally important numbers of Black-tailed Godwit, Teal, Tufted Duck, Mute Swan, Little Grebe and Black-headed Gull are found along the estuarine stretch of the river.

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The mean of the maximum counts over four winters (1994/98) along the stretch between Enniscorthy and Ferrycarrig is: Little Egret (6), Golden Plover (6), Wigeon (139), Teal (429), Mallard (265), Tufted Duck (171), Lapwing (603), Shelduck (16), Black-tailed Godwit (93), Curlew (81), Red-breasted Merganser (11), Black-headed Gull (3030), Goldeneye (45), Oystercatcher (19), Redshank (65), Lesser Black-backed Gull (727), Herring Gull (179), Common Gull (67), Grey Heron (39), Mute Swan (259) and Little Grebe (17). Wexford Harbour provides extensive feeding grounds for wading birds and Little Terns, which are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive have bred here in the past. The Reed Warbler, which is a scarce breeding species in Ireland, is regularly found in Macmine Marshes but it is not known whether or not it breeds in the site. The Dipper also occurs on the river. The site supports many of the mammal species occurring in Ireland. Those which are listed in the Irish Red Data Book include Pine Marten, Badger, Irish Hare and Daubenton’s Bat. Common Frog (Rana temporaria), another Red Data Book species, also occurs within the site. Agriculture is the main landuse. Arable crops are important. Improved grassland and silage account for much of the remainder. The spreading of slurry and fertiliser poses a threat to the water quality of this salmonid river and to the populations of Annex II animal species within it. Run-off is undoubtedly occurring, as some of the fields slope steeply directly to the river bank. In addition, cattle have access to the site in places. Fishing is a main tourist attraction along stretches of the Slaney and its tributaries and there are a number of Angler Associations, some with a number of beats. Fishing stands and styles have been erected in places. Both commercial and leisure fishing takes place. There are some gravel pits along the river below Bunclody and many of these are active. There is a large landfill site adjacent to the river close to Hacketstown and at Killurin. Boating, bait-digging and fishing occur in parts of Wexford Harbour. Waste water outflows, runoff from intensive agricultural enterprises, a meat factory at Clohamon and a landfill site adjacent to the river and further industrial development upstream in Enniscorthy and in other towns could all have potential adverse impacts on the water quality unless they are carefully managed. The spread of exotic species is reducing the quality of the woodlands. The site supports populations of several species listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive, and habitats listed on Annex I of this directive, as well as important numbers of wintering wildfowl including some species listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. The presence of wet and broad-leaved woodlands increases the overall habitat diversity and the occurrence of a number of Red Data Book plant and animal species adds further importance to the Slaney River site. 24.10.2006 SITE NAME: WEXFORD HARBOUR AND SLOBS SPA SITE CODE: 004076 Wexford Harbour is the lowermost part of the estuary of the River Slaney, a major river that drains much of the south-east region. The site is divided between the natural estuarine habitats of Wexford Harbour, the reclaimed polders known as the North and South ‘Slobs’, and the tidal section of the River Slaney. The seaward boundary extends from the Rosslare peninsula in the south to the area just west of The Raven Point in the north. Shallow marine water is a principal habitat, but at low tide extensive areas of intertidal flats are exposed. These vary from rippled sands in exposed areas to sandy-muds in the more sheltered areas, especially at Hopeland and the inner estuary to the west of Wexford bridge. The flats support a rich macroinvertebrate fauna, including the bivalves Cockle (Cerastoderma edule), Baltic Tellin (Macoma balthica) and Peppery Furrow-shell (Scrobicularia plana), the polychaetes Lugworm (Arenicola marina), Catworm (Nepthys hombergi) and Ragworm (Hediste diversicolor) and the crustacean Corophium volutator. Beds of mussels (Mytilus edulis) also occur. Salt marshes fringe the intertidal flats, especially in the sheltered areas such as Hopeland and towards Castlebridge. The Slobs are two flat areas of farmland, mainly arable and pasture grassland, empoldered behind 19th century seawalls. The lands are drained by a network of channels which flow into two central channels, in parts several hundred metres in width. Water from the channels is pumped into the sea with electric pumps. The channels often support swamp vegetation. The river section of the site is extensive, extending to Enniscorthy, a distance of almost 20 km from Wexford town. It is noticeably tidal as far as Edermine Bridge but with tidal influence right up to Enniscorthy. In places, such as the Macmine marshes, it is several hundreds metres wide and here reedswamp is well developed.

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The site is a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the E.U. Birds Directive, of special conservation interest for the following species: Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Bewick’s Swan, Whooper Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose, Lightbellied Brent Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Mallard, Pintail, Scaup, Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser, Hen Harrier, Coot, Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Lapwing, Knot, Sanderling, Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull and Little Tern. The site is also of special conservation interest for holding an assemblage of over 20,000 wintering waterbirds. The E.U. Birds Directive pays particular attention to wetlands, and as these form part of this SPA, the site and its associated waterbirds are of special conservation interest for Wetland & Waterbirds. The site is of international importance for several species of waterbirds but also because it regularly supports well in excess of 20,000 waterbirds (average peak of 49,030 for the 5 winters 1996/97-2000/01). Wexford Harbour and Slobs is one of the top three sites in the country for numbers and diversity of wintering birds. The combination of estuarine habitats, including shallow waters for grebes, diving duck and seaduck, and the farmland of the polders, which include freshwater drainage channels, provides optimum feeding and roost areas for a wide range of species. Of particular importance is that it is one of the two most important sites in the world for Greenland White-fronted Goose (9,353) (all given figures for species are average peaks for the 5 winters 1995/96-1999/00). The geese feed almost entirely within the Slobs and roost at The Raven (a separate SPA). The site also has internationally important populations of Mute Swan (519), Light-bellied Brent Goose (1,469), Bartailed Godwit (1,843) and Black-tailed Godwit (768). There are at least a further 25 species of wintering waterbirds which occur in numbers of national importance, i.e. Great Crested Grebe (123), Little Grebe (77), Cormorant (443), Whooper Swan (120), Bewick’s Swan (191), Shelduck (903), Wigeon (2,838), Gadwall (37), Teal (1,601), Mallard (3,121), Pintail (78), Scaup (416), Goldeneye (151), Red-breasted Merganser (226), Coot (353), Oystercatcher (1,800), Golden Plover (5,590), Grey Plover (1,412), Lapwing (11,944), Knot (566), Sanderling (262), Dunlin (3,037), Curlew (1,924), Redshank (535), Black-headed Gull (6,136) and Lesser Black-backed Gull (1,036). Other species that use the site include Ringed Plover (69), Turnstone (41), Greenshank (12), Shoveler (24), Tufted Duck (114), Pochard (218), Common Gull (100+) and Little Egret. Several of the above populations represent substantial proportions of the national totals, especially Shelduck (6.2%), Scaup (6.6%), Red-breasted Merganser (6.2%), Grey Plover (21.9% and the top site in the country) and Black-headed Gull (6.1%). The Slobs is the most important and indeed one of the few sites in the country which supports a regular flock of Bewick’s Swan. Numbers of wintering birds are often swelled by hardweather movements from Britain and Europe, notably Golden Plover and Lapwing. The site is a regular location for scarce passage waders such as Ruff, Spotted Redshank and Green Sandpiper, as well as Curlew Sandpiper in varying numbers. The rare Wood Sandpiper is seen each year, mainly in autumn. Short-eared Owl and Hen Harrier are regular visitors in small numbers to the Slobs during winter. Of particular note is the presence of the Hen Harrier communal roost site. The site is important for Little Tern as it has can hold a nationally important breeding colony (30 pairs were recorded in 2000). The Slobs support a nesting colony of Tree Sparrow, a very localised species in Ireland that is listed in the Irish Red Data Book. Another very localised breeding species, Reed Warbler, is well established within the swamp vegetation along the River Slaney and on the South Slob (estimated as at least 10 pairs). A range of duck species breed, including Teal, Tufted Duck and, probably in most years, Shoveler. The site supports populations of Borrer’s Saltmarsh-grass (Puccinellia fasciculata) and Short-leaved Water-starwort (Callitriche truncata), both protected, Red Data Book species. The Slobs are well known for their population of Irish Hare. Part of the North Slob is a Nature Reserve and much of this slob is managed for the benefit of the wintering geese. Monitoring of the wintering birds of the Slobs extends back to the 1960s and nowadays there is an ongoing monitoring and research programme. The North Slob has a wildfowl collection and an interpretative centre.

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There are no imminent significant threats to the wintering bird populations. In the long-term, however, projected increases in sea level could cause problems in maintaining the Slobs as farmland. In recent times, the South Slob has become less suitable due to changes in landuse, including forestry operations, and a sustained programme of scaring. An increase in the amount of new housing in the vicinity of the North Slob has led to increased levels of disturbance in recent times. Localised reclamation has occurred in Wexford Harbour and any further reclamation of estuarine habitat is undesirable. Aquaculture occurs in Wexford Harbour though it is not known what effects, if any, this has on the bird populations. Wexford Harbour and Slobs SPA is one of the most important ornithological sites in the country. It is of world importance for Greenland White-fronted Goose, and supports internationally important populations of a further four species (Mute Swan, Light-bellied Brent Goose, Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit). In addition, it has 25 species of wintering waterbirds with populations of national importance. Also of significance is that several of the species which occur regularly are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive, i.e. Little Egret, Whooper Swan, Bewick’s Swan, Greenland White-fronted Goose, Hen Harrier, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, Little Tern and Short-eared Owl. The site is an important centre for research, education and tourism. 29.5.2007

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Documents

NATURA IMPACT STATEMENT FOR THE PROPOSED ...FIGURE 2.1: DESIGNATED NATURA 2000 SITES WITHIN 5 KM OF THE CARCUR LANDFILL SITE..... 6 LIST OF TABLES TABLE 2.1: SUMMARY OF NATURA 2000