RAISED BOG MONITORING PROJECT 2004 –2005
DOCUMENT 3 SITE REPORTS and MAPS VOLUME 3
A REPORT TO THE NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE, DUBLIN
Fernando Fernandez Valverde Maeve Fanning Mark Mccorry William Crowley
August, 2005 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Flughany Bog, Cos. Mayo/Sligo
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 497 6” Sheet: MO 52 & SO 44 Grid Ref.: G 600 060 1:50,000 Sheet: 32 SAC area 2005 (ha): 231.09 High bog area 2005 (ha): 147.17 Dates of Visit: 06/04/2005 Townlands: Flughany, Cloonfeightrim, Ogham, Mountirvine, Knocknahoo & Gortygara.
2. SITE LOCATION Flughany bog is situated on the Sligo/Mayo border approximately 7km northeast of Charlestown, Co. Mayo and 5.5km southeast of Tobercurry, Co. Sligo. Roads run to the south, west and southeast of the site and access is easy from these. This site is located to the north-east of Derrynabrock Bog, Gowlan Bog and Kilgarriff Bog which are all part of the River Moy SAC (SAC 2298) and Tawnaghbeg Bog (SAC 547).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY This survey, carried out on 6th April 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Flughany Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004. Local NPWS management staff collaborated on the survey and information on impacts and activities at the site were obtained.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG This bog is shaped with two main lobes connected by a mineral ridges and the longest axis is orientated N-S. The southern lobe is the largest and is oblong shaped with the longest axis orientated NW-SE. This bog has been classified as a Ridge Basin bog type (Kelly et al., 1995). This bog is also classified as a Western/Intermediate type raised bog (Cross, 1990).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Flughany SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 8.75 ha of active raised bog overall (all lobes) on the high bog at Flughany Bog composed of central, sub-central and active flush ecotope (See Map 1) with 8.24 ha occurring in lobe 1. This accounts for 5.95% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has declined somewhat since 1995 in the main lobe when there was 9.88 ha of active raised bog in the main lobe 1 and 44% of this area was central ecotope. The active raised bog occurs on flat or gently sloped parts of the bog. The main area of central ecotope occurs in the south-eastern area (C1 & SC2). There are also several other small patches of active raised bog including a small patch of active flush in flush Z, a small patch of sub-central ecotope north of flush Z (SC2), and a small area of sub-central ecotope in lobe 3, which was not surveyed in 1995. The largest active raised bog area contains good quality central ecotope. This area has well-developed pool topography with large inter-connecting pools typical of western type raised bogs. The pools have a high quality Sphagnum cover with both S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum present. The pools also contain some algae along with Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Eriophorum angustifolium.
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
The bog surface is very soft. The interpool areas are dominated by flats/lawns with occasional large hummocks. The flats are dominated by Rhynchospora alba with frequent low hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. tenellum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Both Campylopus atrovirens and Racomitrium lanuginosum (western raised bog indicators) are both present. Calluna vulgaris occurs on the larger hummocks. The Cladonia spp. cover is quite low. The sub-central ecotope that surrounds this central area has a similar vegetation. The linear pools in the sub-central areas are quite long but are generally not inter-connected and cover less area. Rhynchospora alba still dominates the flats/lawns of the inter-pool areas. Small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum, .E. angustifolium, Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum are also present. The overall Sphagnum cover of both the pools and the interpool areas is lower compared to the central ecotope. Occasional small patches have a relatively high cover of algae and are of sub-marginal quality. A small active flush patch occurs in a depression in flush Z. This area contains a quaking Sphagnum lawn dominated by S. cuspidatum with small patches of S. magellanicum and Aulacomnium palustre. Vaccinium oxycoccos occurs quite frequently on the Sphagnum lawns and the occasional hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. A small patch of sub-central vegetation occurs to the north of flush Z. This area contains frequent good quality small pools and the inter-pool vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum. Another small area of sub-central ecotope occurs in lobe 3, which was not surveyed in 1995. This area contains long tear pools with a good quality Sphagnum cover including S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum, and contain frequent Eriophorum angustifolium. The inter-pool areas are poor in Sphagnum and consist of Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Eriophorum vaginatum.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 138.4 ha (94.1%) of degraded raised bog within this site (all lobes). This habitat includes the face-bank, marginal, sub-marginal and inactive flush ecotopes. The bog surface is generally firm or firm to soft around the margins. The degraded raised bog occurs on flat and gently-steeply sloped parts of the bog. The sub-marginal ecotope dominates the southern lobe with a narrow band of marginal ecotope vegetation around the margins. The central area of the western section contains frequent poor quality tear pools. There are some small areas with well-developed pool topography, but with a poor Sphagnum cover. Most of the remaining degraded raised bog contains few scattered pools. The vegetation is usually dominated by Carex panicea with varying amounts of Narthecium ossifragum and Eriophorum vaginatum in the flats and hollows. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by low hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and less frequent S. tenellum. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also occasionally found in most of the sub-marginal areas on the high bog. Calluna vulgaris occurs frequently on small hummocks and there is a relatively low to moderate Cladonia spp. cover. The south-western part of the southern lobe contains a sub-marginal complex characterised by the presence of scattered Phragmites australis, possibly indicating a thin peat layer in this area. Rhynchospora alba dominates small areas of flats and hollows around the main active raised bog area and also dominates a large section north-east of the main active raised bog area, were there are few hummocks. The marginal slopes are usually quit firm and are dominated more frequent Carex panicea compared to the sub-marginal ecotope. Trichophorum cespitosum also frequently occurs on the marginal slopes. The area between flush Y and Z occurs on a slope with south-western aspect and several erosion channels occur on the slope. Trichophorum cespitosum is also frequent in this area. The northern part of the main lobe contains a range of complexes with Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum where flats and hollows are dominant. Some areas around the flushes are characterised by frequent Myrica gale and robust Calluna vulgaris and tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum, indicating some element of flushing in the general high bog vegetation. Several inactive flushes occur on this site. Flush Z occurs along the northern boundary of the southern lobe and has a characteristic drainage channel flowing across the bog with several swallow holes here the stream disappears underground. The channel is vegetated by Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale with the sides of the flush dominated by Molinia caerulea. Several Betula pubescens and Salix spp. trees and Ulex europaeus bushes occur along the channel. The swallow holes contain a range of species. Flush Y occurs in the northern part of main lobe and is vegetated by tall Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale with Molinia caerulea. This flush has been modified by a drain cutting across it. A third large flush occurs at the north of the main lobe (Flush X). This flush has been particularly modified by peat-cutting in these area, with the intact parts characterised by the dominance of Molinia caerulea or
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 the dominance of Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum with Myrica gale. There are several Betula pubescens scattered through this flush. This survey also surveyed several smaller high bog lobes scattered around the main lobe that were not included by Kelly et al., (1995) but are within the SAC. These lobes are separated from the main section by cutover bog and associated drains and by old tracks in some cases. The vegetation of these areas is similar to the main lobe. Sub-marginal vegetation occurs in the central areas, with more frequent Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum in places and a softer bog surface. The sub- marginal zone of lobe 3 also contains some tear pools.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions occur relatively frequently on the high bog and occur within both the active and degraded raised bog in mosaic with these habitats. Relatively good quality examples of this habitat occur within the central ecotope areas. The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Flughany Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 4/35 This central complex is found in the south-east of the main lobe of the high bog (GR. 161280, 306060) and its area is elongated in a NW/SE direction extending for ca. 300 m by 80 m. The surface is very soft underfoot and hummocks, hollows, flats and pools characterise the micro-topography. The pools are linear (10-15 m long and <1 m wide) and are orientated in a NW/SE direction. They interconnect in places, covering 20-30% of the surface area of the complex. Both Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are found in the pools at a combined cover of 10-15% (approximately half of pools). Some of the pools have algae and Eriophorum angustifolium and Drosera anglica are also present. Campylopus atrovirens is found at the pool margins. Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) dominates the vegetation in flats and depressions and at pool margins. Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) is found on hummocks along with E. vaginatum (10%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 40-50% with the inter-pool Sphagna accounting for 30%. This is composed mostly of low hummocks of S. papillosum (10-15%) and S. capillifolium (10-15%) with S. tenellum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum also present. There are occasional larger (>0.3 m) hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. imbricatum, which are topped with Dicranum scoparium, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Hypnum jutlandicum and Pleurozium schreberi. Racomitrium lanuginosum and Pleurozia purpurea are also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is 5%, being largely confined to hummocks. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 4/9a + Pools (4/9a + P) This sub-central complex is found in the south-east of the main lobe of high bog on Flughany to the south of the area of central ecotope (GR. 161390, 305985). The surface is soft to very soft underfoot and the topography, in general, is flat though a gentle slope towards the margin occurs in places. Hummocks, hollows, flats and pools characterise the micro-topography. The pools are linear (5-10m
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 long, <1m wide) and cover 10% of the surface area and occasionally there area larger hummocks (>0.3m). Rhynchospora alba (30-40%) dominates the flats and hollows along with Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%). The Sphagnum cover is 30% and is composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum with S. imbricatum and S. fuscum also present. There is also a patchy cover of S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum (5-10% combined) in the pools, which also support Menyanthes trifoliata and Drosera anglica as well as Campylopus atrovirens at the margins. Carex panicea (5-10%) and Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) are found in flats and hummocks as well as E. vaginatum (5%). Hummocks of Racomitrium lanuginosum are occasional and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is 5-10%, being largely confined to hummocks. There are some poor quality patches within this complex with a high cover of algae (up to 10%) that are of a sub-marginal- like quality. Quadrat Qsc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Complex 4 + Pools (4 + P) This sub-central complex is found in the south-east of the main lobe of high bog on Flughany to the north and north-west of the area of central ecotope (GR. 161130, 306240). The surface is soft underfoot and flats, low hummocks, hollows and pools characterise the micro-topography. The pool cover averages at 5-10%, but is higher in places. A patchy cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are found in the pools with Campylopus atrovirens and S. papillosum found around the pool margins. Drosera anglica is also present in the pools. Rhynchospora alba (30-50%) dominates the vegetation occurring particularly in flats and depressions where there is little or no Sphagnum and a sometimes contains an algal mat. Calluna vulgaris (10%) is present on low hummocks as is Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) is found in some hollows and flats. There are also occasional hummocks of Racomitrium lanuginosum and the overall Sphagnum cover is 20-40% composed mostly of S. papillosum, which is found at the pool margins and in low hummocks. Hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. imbricatum are also present. In the south-west of the complex (GR. 161020, 306185), the pool cover and the Sphagnum cover are lower and the complex has many sub-marginal qualities, while closer to the area of central ecotope (GR. 161084, 306212 and 161088, 306260), the pool and the Sphagnum cover are higher and become more central-like in quality. Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I. This complex also occurs to the north of the central ecotope complex in the south-eastern region of the high bog. The bog surface is soft and quaking in places. The vegetation is dominated by flats of Rhynchospora alba (50-60%) with small amounts of Narthecium ossifragum (10%). The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% with frequent lawn patches and low hummocks of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Some of this complex contains large central ecotope quality pools (10-15% cover) but the Sphagnum cover is degraded. Campylopus atrovirens and Racomitrium lanuginosum are both relatively frequent in this complex.
Complex 7/9 + Pools (7/9 + P) This sub-central complex is found in a small area of the main lobe (SC2) of high bog between Flush Y and Flush Z (GR. 161190, 306600) (SC2). Hummocks, hollows and interconnecting pools characterise the micro-topography with pools covering 20% of the surface area. These pools support a patchy to good cover of Sphagnum with S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum both present as well as Drosera anglica and Rhynchospora alba. The surface in the inter-pool area is firm to soft underfoot and 0.3 m Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation. Myrica gale and Molinia caerulea are also present and the overall Sphagnum cover is 25-30% with aquatic species accounting for 10-15% and inter-pool species also accounting for approximately 15%. S. papillosum dominates the inter-pool Sphagnum component with S. capillifolium and S. tenellum also present. Carex panicea (10-15%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%) are also present.
Complex 9/3 +Tear Pools (9/3 +TP) This active complex is located in the southern section of lobe 3 to the north of the site (SC3). Long tear pools (20-30 m long & 1.5 m wide) characterise this complex. They cover 40% of the complex surface and consist of open water, Menyanthes trifoliata, Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Drosera anglica. Rhynchospora alba occurs within the pools and also
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 at the edges. Sphagnum papillosum is found forming lawns. Low hummocks are also present and mainly consist of S. capillifolium and S. tenellum. The inter-pool areas are poor in Sphagnum and consist of Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Eriophorum vaginatum. The overall Sphagnum cover is 40-50%, although it decreases in some sections of the complex. Eriophorum vaginatum (10- 20%), Carex panicea (20%), Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (20-30%, combined) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%) are common species. The Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%. The northern section of the complex corresponds to a depression in the ground. The Sphagnum cover is 50- 60% here and the ground is wetter. Eriophorum angustifolium cover is also increased.
Active Flushes
Flush Z A small active patch occurs within flush Z. This area contains a quaking lawn dominated by S. cuspidatum with small patches of S. magellanicum and Aulacomnium palustre. There are small patches that contain Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and Narthecium ossifragum, and Vaccinium oxycoccos occurs quite frequently on the lawns of Sphagnum. The Sphagnum lawns are surrounded by large hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and Calluna vulgaris.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/9a This community complex is commonly found throughout the western section of the main lobe. This complex is wetter than complex 6/3/2 and low hummocks (Sphagnum capillifolium, S. tenellum and S. subnitens) and hollows containing Eriophorum angustifolium (20%), Narthecium ossifragum (10%) and Carex panicea (10%) are characteristic. Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix are also occasional (10%). The overall Sphagnum cover varies from 15 to 20%. Cladonia portentosa is also present at 10% cover. There is Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum hummocks close to the Phragmites patch (complex 7/9a) within this complex. The Sphagnum cover is increased (20-30%) within this section. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%.
Complex 3/9 This complex is similar to the above complex. However, Eriophorum vaginatum is quite frequent (20%) and is scattered in flats and hollows. Eriophorum angustifolium becomes less frequent.
Complex 3/9 + Tear Pools (3/9 + TP) This community complex covers the southern section of lobe 3. Low hummocks (Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum) tear pools and flats (Carex panicea (20%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%)) characterise the micro-topography of the complex. The tear pools, which cover 10-205 of the surface, are aligned in a NE-SW direction and are up to 5m long. They contain Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and open water. Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix are also common (20-30%, combined). The overall Sphagnum cover varies from 20 to 30% and it is poor in the inter-pools area.
Complex 3/7/9 This complex is similar to the above complex. However, Calluna vulgaris becomes more frequent (20%) and there is less Narthecium ossifragum occurring in the hollows. This complex occurs north of flush Y. Parts of this complex may be slightly flushed and Myrica gale is present (3/7/9 + Myr).
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Complex 3/6 + Tear Pools (3/6 + TP) This complex is found to the north-west of the southern section of the main lobe of the high bog (GR. 160870, 306565). It has both sub-marginal and sub-central characteristics with pools covering 20% of the surface area. These pools have a patchy to good cover of Sphagnum (10-15%) with S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum both present as well as Drosera anglica and Menyanthes trifoliata. Campylopus atrovirens is found around the pool margins. However, the surface in the inter-pool areas is firm underfoot with flats dominating. Carex panicea (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20-25%) dominate the vegetation and there is a very poor Sphagnum cover with hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum with S. imbricatum occurring occasionally. Calluna vulgaris (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum occur on low hummocks and occasional larger hummocks. The overall Sphagnum cover is approximately 20%. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. This complex also occurs to the south of flush Z higher on the slope. The pools are better developed in this area with some irregular shaped pools that are typical of a central 35 micro-topography (3/6 +P). There are irregular-shaped pools with small islands present. Some of the pools contain S. cuspidatum and small amounts of S. auriculatum though most of the pools contain open water. There are small areas that reach sub-central ecotope quality. These areas have some small lawn patches of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium around the edges of the pools.
Complex 4 This complex occurs in the south-eastern corner of the high bog to the north of the active raised bog. The bog surface is quite soft in places. The micro-topography was formerly well-developed but is now degraded. The complex is dominated by Rhynchospora alba-dominated flats and hollows (60%) with small amounts of Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%). There are small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (< 5%) and Carex panicea (< 5%). Occasional small hummocks containing Calluna vulgaris (10%) are scattered through the complex. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. The general Sphagnum cover is 20%. There are occasional relic hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. There are occasional good quality pools present (5-15%) that become more frequent in places. These contain S. cuspidatum (5%). Pedicularis sylvatica occurs in this complex.
Complex 6/3 + Tear Pools (6/3 + TP) This complex occurs in the western section of the main lobe close to the drain complex bE (GR. 160754, 306578). Tall Calluna vulgaris/Sphagnum capillifolium hummocks are present. Pleurozium schreberi, Andromeda polifolia and Campylopus introflexus occur in some of these hummocks. The pools are linear tear pools and contain Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Rhynchospora alba. Some Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum hummocks also occur at the edges of the pools. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20 to 30% although the cover is very poor in the inter-pool area. Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%), Carex panicea (10%) and Calluna vulgaris (10%) dominate the vegetation. Trichophorum cespitosum is present (5%). Cladonia species are abundant at 20% cover. A similar complex with more frequent flats and hollows dominated by Rhynchospora alba (10-20%) also occurs in the central part of the southern main lobe (6/3/4) (GR. 161044, 306368).
Complex 6/3/9a This complex occurs close to the south-eastern margin of the high bog. There is a gentle slope in this area with an eastern aspect. The bog surface is firm to soft. The micro-topography is relatively poor with low hummocks and hollows. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) in flats and hollows with frequent Carex panicea (20%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%). There are smaller amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%) and Rhynchospora alba (< 5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is 10-20%. The general Sphagnum cover is 20- 25% with frequent S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum hummocks. Hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are both present. Occasional small pools (< 5%) occur in this complex, some of which contain S. cuspidatum but are mainly algal. Racomitrium lanuginosum occurs in this complex. This is a good quality sub-marginal complex.
6 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Complex 6/3/9 This complex occurs in the northern lobe of the high bog north of flush Y. The bog surface is quite soft. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Carex panicea (10-20%) in hollows and flats. In some areas Carex panicea becomes dominant. There are also frequent Calluna vulgaris hummocks (15%) and scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%), which both increase in abundance towards flush Y. The general Sphagnum cover in this complex is quite poor (10%) with relatively few hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. There are occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum. Occasional small pools (< 5%) occur in this complex, which contain S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum but mainly contain open water. Racomitrium lanuginosum occurs in this complex. There are scattered patches of Myrica gale in some parts (6/3/9 + Myr). In some parts Rhynchospora alba dominates the flats and hollows (6/4/9). The Sphagnum cover is relatively poor and this is a poor quality sub-marginal complex. A similar complex dominated by Carex panicea (20-30%) with less frequent Narthecium ossifragum also occurs quite extensively in the sub-marginal ecotope (3/6/9).
Complex 6/3/2 This complex is commonly found at the west of lobe 4, southwest of southern section of lobe 1 and to the north lobe 3. To the west of lobe 4 Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks, hollows and flats (Narthecium ossifragum (20%) & Carex panicea (10%)) are found. Eriophorum vaginatum/E. angustifolium (10%), Calluna vulgaris/Erica tetralix (20-30%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%) are also present. Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks occur in this area. Hypnum jutlandicum also frequently occurs on robust Calluna vulgaris tall hummocks. Myrica gale is present in patches. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. Cladonia portentosa and C. uncialis is found at 5% cover. This complex becomes wetter at the centre of the western section (lobe 4). Rhynchospora alba becomes frequent in hollows within this section. This complex at the southwest corner of the main lobe comprises of low hummocks (Sphagnum capillifolium, S. tenellum and Calluna vulgaris), hollows and flats dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) and Carex panicea (10%). Eriophorum angustifolium (5-10%) and Trichophorum cespitosum tussocks are also found. The total Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. There is a gradual slope towards the southern and the ground is soft to firm in places. Cladonia species cover is 5 to 10%.
Complex 6/7/9 This complex occurs to the south of flush Z on a gentle to steep slope with a northern aspect. The bog surface is firm to soft. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) on low hummocks with scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). Narthecium ossifragum dominates in the hollows (20%). There are small amounts of Eriophorum angustifolium (< 5%) in this complex. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. The Sphagnum cover is quite poor with small patches of S. capillifolium dominating. This is a poor quality sub-marginal complex.
Complex 7/9/3 This sub-marginal complex is situated in several locations within lobe 4. Robust Calluna vulgaris is present, up to 30% in places (< 0.4m). Carex panicea (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) occurs in hollows. Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) tussocks are also common. Eriophorum angustifolium is only occasional (< 5%). The overall Sphagnum cover varies from 10 to 20%, and mainly consists of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. There is evidence of burning in the past (old burnt tussocks, Campylopus introflexus) to the west of drain b5 (GR. 160432, 366053). This section was probably burnt more than ten years ago as Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. Myrica gale was also recorded within this section. A similar sub-marginal complex with more frequent Eriophorum angustifolium covers a small section to the north of drain bC within lobe 1 (GR. 160682, 306584) (Complex 7/9a/3). Hypnum jutlandicum occurs under the Calluna vulgaris. The Sphagnum cover is 20% and mainly consists of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum.
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Complex 9a/7 This complex covers the northern section of lobe 3, to the north of the sub-central ecotope. The ground is soft and the surface is flat. Low Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum hummocks are present, as well as Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks. Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) are common in flats and hollows. Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (20-30%, combined are recorded within the flats. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20%. Cladonia portentosa is found at 10% cover. Myrica gale is found in a section of this complex (GR. 161211, 307509) and this is mapped as 9a/7 + My. Scattered Sphagnum papillosum/S. cuspidatum pools are found near the Myrica patch and the Sphagnum cover is slightly increased (20-30%). Carex panicea also found within this complex and becomes more frequent towards complex 3/9+TP at the centre of lobe 3. A similar complex with more frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and less frequent Eriophorum angustifolium occurs along the southern margin of flush Y (GR. 161589, 306992) and is probably slightly flushed (9/7).
Complex 7/9a + Phragmites (7/9a + Ph) This sub-marginal complex is present in the south-western section of the main lobe (GR. 160647, 306524). Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks are occasional. The hollows contain Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum. The ground is soft and there is gentle slope towards the south. Eriophorum angustifolium cover is 10 to 20%, E. vaginatum (10%), Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (30%, combined), Carex panicea (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Scattered Phragmites australis (5%) characterises this complex. The total Sphagnum cover varies from 20 to 30% and Cladonia species (5%).
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3 This complex occurs along the margin of the high bog in the south-eastern region. The bog surface is firm and there is a gentle slope with a southern aspect close to the high bog margin. The micro- topography is poorly developed. The vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (30-40%) with less frequent Eriophorum angustifolium (10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Calluna vulgaris (5-10%), Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%). There are patches of Molinia caerulea encroaching onto the high bog from the margin (3 +Mo).
Complex 3/2 This complex occurs in the south-eastern region of the high bog adjacent to the high bog margin. A small area has been burnt in the past and there are signs of surface damage from cutting or associated with cutting. The bog surface is quite firm. This area is re-vegetating with Carex panicea (20-30%) and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum are frequent. The Calluna vulgaris cover is less than 5%. Some rows occur in this area and are vegetated by Calluna vulgaris. The bare peat cover is 5-10% and Campylopus introflexus is present. The general Sphagnum cover is 5%. This complex also occurs in the eastern lobe, east of flush Z. There are occasional extensive patches of more frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and Eriophorum angustifolium present and some cutting or other disturbance may have occurred in places on the high bog in this area. There are occasional patches of Myrica gale in this area.
Complex 3/4 This complex occurs in the south-eastern corner of the high bog in a narrow band close to the margin. The bog surface is firm and the micro-topography is quite poorly developed. Flats and hollows are dominated by Rhynchospora alba (20%) and Carex panicea (30%). Other species present include Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%) and Calluna vulgaris (5%). There are occasional small pools that contain open water.
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Complex 3/6 This complex occurs in the north-eastern part of the high bog close to the high bog margin. A small area (P122) has some tear pools containing S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum.
Complex 2/3/6 This complex occurs between flush Z and flush Y on a steep slope with a southerly aspect. The bog surface is quite firm. The micro-topography is quite poor and uneven with some large mounds and vegetated erosion channels. The vegetation is characterised by frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10-20%) with Carex panicea (20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) in the flats and hollows. There are small hummocks with Calluna vulgaris (10%) (0.3 m high) scattered through the complex. Some algal hollows occur in this complex. There are small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with small dried patches of S. capillifolium dominating and S. subnitens and S. tenellum also present. The general Cladonia spp. cover is 10%. Some of the erosion channels are vegetated by patches of Molinia caerulea which extend down the slope from flush Y.
Complex 2/3/9 This complex occurs in the northern part of the high bog along the south-eastern margin of the northern lobe. The bog surface is firm and the micro-topography is quite poor. The vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (20-30%) in flats and hollows with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). Other species present include Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) (0.1-0.2 m high). The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. This complex also occurs in the southern part of lobe 3. Here there is a substantial amount of bare peat (10%) (2/3/9 + bp).
Complex 2/3 This complex is found along the edge of the high bog in several locations within lobes 1 (main lobe), lobe 3 (northeastern lobe) and lobe 4 (southwestern lobe). To the south of lobe 4 this complex has firm ground and gentle slope towards the edge. The micro- topography consists of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks and flats. These are comprised of Carex panicea (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%). There is very little Sphagnum cover (<10%) and it consists of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum low hummocks. Surface cutting occurred in the southeastern section of this lobe (GR. 158327, 303849) and thus bare peat covers 5% of the complex surface. Towards the west (between drains b1 and b2) bare peat is absent and Molinia caerulea and Myrica gale are common (2/3 + Mo +My). The southern section of the lobe is dominated by Molinia caerulea (2/3 + My). To the north of this lobe an extensive cutover area separates lobe 4 from lobe 1. The former turf plots are being colonised by Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus and Rubus fruticosus. Some sections of the adjacent high bog ground are devoid of vegetation as this section was used for spreading turf. The area surrounding the northern tip of drain b3 is also characterised by complex 2/3. The high bog features 10 to 20% bare peat and Rhynchospora alba is occasional 10% (2/3 + bp).
Complex 6/7 This complex occurs in the north of the main high bog (GR. 161482, 306828). The bog surface is firm to soft and there is gentle slope with a southern aspect. The micro-topography is poorly developed and is dominated by flats and hollows, with fewer low hummocks. The flats and hollows are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30-40%) with frequent Carex panicea (10-20%). Calluna vulgaris occurs on the low hummocks (5%) and is more vigorous closer to the flush Y. Eriophorum vaginatum and Trichophorum cespitosum both occur in small quantities throughout the complex. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by low hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Myrica gale occurs in this complex adjacent to flush Y.
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Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This complex occurs at various locations around the margin of the high bog.
Flush Z This flush occurs in the southern part of the high bog. The flush is quite narrow at the eastern side and extends along a drain that was originally part of the natural channel through the flush. The channel has been deepened and the drain ends at a swallow hole. There was a strong flow of water west along the drain at the time of the survey. (Much of this may be water flowing into the site.). The drain is 2 m deep and 1 m wide. The drain banks are dominated by Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris and scattered Myrica gale with patches of Eriophorum angustifolium. Occasional Ulex europaeus bushes and Betula pubescens trees occur along the central channel along with patches of Pteridium aquilinum and Rubus fruticosus. The eastern swallow hole contains Typha latifolia. Further west the channel disappears and then reappears into a series of shallow holes. There are occasional patches within the channel that are dominated by grass species (Anthoxanthum odoratum and Holcus lanatus) with Rumex acetosa. Patches of Rubus fruticosus also occur along the channel. The vegetation on both sides of the channel is dominated by Molinia caerulea with frequent Calluna vulgaris and small amounts of Carex panicea, Eriophorum vaginatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. Tall Calluna vulgaris borders the channel and the swallow holes. The north-east arm of the flush contains a channel that was possibly deepened at some stage but now has naturalised again with some swallow hole like features. Molinia caerulea and frequent Myrica gale occurs in a narrow band on both sides of the channel. There are several Betula pubescens trees along the channel.
Flush Y This flush occurs in the northern part of the high bog and separates the high bog from the northern section. This flush contains scattered Molinia caerulea and is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5-1 m high) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum. Some wet hollows containing S. cuspidatum are present. However, most of the flush has a firm to soft bog surface with some large spongy hummocks of S. capillifolium. The general Sphagnum cover is 10-20%. This flush is inactive.
Flush X This flush occurs at the northern end of the high bog. This flush occurs on a steep slope with a northern aspect that becomes gentle or flat towards the northern margin. At the southern margin the flush is not dominated by Molinia caerulea, which is scattered through the other vegetation. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum, which both have a flushed appearance. Myrica gale is also scattered through this area. There are patches dominated by Molinia caerulea that also contain small Betula pubescens (1-2 m high). Molinia caerulea becomes more dominant towards the northern margin. The western side has been severely affected by cutting, some relatively recently. This flush is inactive.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat occurs occasionally at Flughany Bog. It is generally not very extensive (1-5% cover where present, but more extensive in the active raised bog) and occurs as a mosaic with the active raised bog and degraded raised bog. Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) dominates the vegetation in flats and depressions and at pool margins within the central ecotope 4/35. It occurs in association with S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. This habitat also occurs quite frequently within the sub-central ecotope complex 4/9a + Pools and 4 + Pools. The hollows and pool margins of the sub-central complex also contain S. capillifolium and S. papillosum, although with less cover compared to the central ecotope, and are associated with occasional Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. Occasional Campylopus atrovirens also occurs along the pool margins and in patches on the lawns associated with R. alba. The sub-central ecotope and the sub-marginal ecotope 4 located around the central ecotope in the southern part of the high bog also contain flats or lawns dominated by R. alba
10 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 with occasional Sphagnum cover. Here, R. alba is associated with Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium on the lawns. These lawns are wet and soft. There are occasional patches of algae associated with R. alba cover. This specific habitat (flats) may not be considered as a Rhynchosporion depression community. Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions associated with a poor Sphagnum cover are only occasionally found in complexes of the degraded raised bog.
5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was recorded around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 4/35 Qsc1 Sub-central 4 + pools Qsc2 Sub-central 4/9 + pools Qsc3 Sub-central 9a/3 + tear pools
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- 8.9 km 312 Mechanical removal of peat Domestic use B 2- 0.16 km 501 Paths and tracks C 2- NA 140 Grazing C 1- NA 180 Burning C 0 0 (since 1995) 954 Invasive species C 0 ~ 0 ha
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- NA 162 Forestry Planting B 1- 1.6 ha 150 Restructuring land C 2- NA holding 120 Fertilisation C 0 NA
6.1. Cutting MacGowan et al., (in prep) present that 74.25% (96.5 ha) of the original high bog from the 1800s (130 ha) remains. However, several small lobes around the main high bog have been newly included in this survey. Cutover bog occurs all around the margins of the high bog.
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MacGowan et al., (2005) estimated that 0.16 km (2.6%) of the high bog margin (6.18 km) was being actively cut in 2003 for domestic peat use. Three turf cutting plots were surveyed by MacGowan et al., (2005). These plots are shown on Map 3. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that 3.56 km of the high bog margin was classified as sensitive (within 250 m of active bog (central and sub-central ecotopes) and that 0.07 km of the sensitive bog margin (2.0%) was currently being cut. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that cutting in all three of these plots must be stopped immediately. MacGowan et al., (in prep) also noted that damage by lateral cutting in the northern part of the main lobe (flush X) has been quite severe. Lateral cutting has occurred along wide trenches that also act as drains. The high bog surface is removed and compacted to allow machinery to access the bog surface to cut down into the bog laterally. The high bog is drained intensively to allow for compaction of the bog surface. The result is a ‘mess’ of peat thrown around the landscape, a dried out bog and drains occurring at a greater intensity than normal. There has been some cutting disturbance on high bog between the trenches with patches of bare peat (40%) and regenerating bog surface with Carex panicea, Eriophorum vaginatum, tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum and frequent Campylopus introflexus. Most of this ‘lateral’ cutting has occurred prior to 1995 but some has occurred between 1995-2000. Kelly et al., (1995) noted that difco cutting was being carried out in these areas. The Turf Cutting Assessment Project (MacGowan et al., in prep) did not assess turf cutting around Lobes 2-4. There is one face-bank peat cutting plot (no 4) on the east side of lobe 3 that is 200 m from the active raised bog in this lobe. Heaps of dried turf are found on the high bog at this location (P 000_0044). Current turf cutting is also found at the west of lobe 2 (no 6). Cutting at plots no 4 & 6 must be phased out within ten years. Surface cutting or disturbance associated with the adjacent lateral cutting has occurred at the south-west corner of lobe 3. Lateral cutting in the north of the main lobe (no 5 - GR. 161884,307323) occurs less than 100 m from the west side of active raised bog in Lobe 3. Cutting at this turf bank should be phased out within five years. Some surface cutting or cutting disturbance has occurred along the east side of lobe 4. The current vegetation assessment (2005) does significantly change any of the assessment and conclusions made by MacGowan et al., (in prep.). Most of the margin around the active raised bog in the south-east of the main lobe has not been cut recently. Kelly et al., (1995) noted that 1.14 km (26%) of the high bog margin was actively being cut in 1995. Peat-cutting has had a significant impact in the past on the conservation status of active raised bog and degraded raised bog at this site. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined significantly since 1995. There has been a significant reduction in the length of bog margin being actively cut with 26% of the margin cut in 1995 and 2.6% cut in 2003 (not including the lateral cutting in the north-east of the main lobe. Limited peat extraction by mechanical means is strictly controlled by NPW through the issuing of permits (NPWS 2003). Peat extraction occurs only on existing peat banks, with no new banks being opened within the site. The digging of drains no longer occurs on the site. Commercial peat extraction activities have recently been terminated at the site (NPWS 2003). The intensity of peat extraction has been reduced recently following the implementation of a relocation strategy by NPW. This strategy has involved DELG purchasing an alternative area for peat extraction (i.e. Derrikinlough bog) and the transfer of turbary rights from Flughany Bog to the newly purchased site (NPWS, 2003).
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6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several functional, reduced function and non-functional drains occur on Flughany high bog. These drains are marked on Map 3.
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains Drain bA This drain is located in the southwestern corner of lobe 1. It is 0.4 m deep x 0.4 m wide and there is a steady water flow though this drain. Some Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum are growing at the edges of the drain but it is functional. Drain bB This drain also found in the south western corner of lobe 1. It is deeper than bA (0.5m) and water runs through it. This drain is draining the Phragmites section. This drain is functional. Drain bC This drain located in the south-western section of lobe 1 runs perpendicular to the high bog edge. It is 0.4 m wide and 0.5 mdeep. It is completely covered with Calluna vulgaris but although some sections are getting infilled the water runs through it. This drain is functional. Drain This is a series of five drains at the west of lobe 1, which run perpendicularly to the complex bE high bog edge. These drains are 0.4 m wide x 0.5 m deep and water is flowing through them. Some Calluna vulgaris occurs covering sections of these drains. Drain These two parallel drains are located in the north-western corner of the southern complex bF section of lobe 1. They are 0.5 m wide x 0.75 mdeep and they are mainly bare peat. & F1 There is water flowing at the bottom of these drains. These drains are functional. Drain bH This is a functional drain that crosses the northern end of flush Y. This drain varies from 0.5 m deep on the west side to 2 m deep on the east side. The drain is 1-2 m wide. The drain is infilling in places. An old track may have crossed the bog along this drain. Drain bJ This is a double drain that separates the main lobe of high bog from the north-western lobe (lobe 2). Between the double drains there is a 10 m wide track that is colonised by Trichophorum cespitosum and Calluna vulgaris with frequent Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana. The eastern drain is up to 10 m wide in places with peat cutting having occurred along this drain in the past. The drain is 1.0 m deep and there is a strong water flow to the north-east down a steep slope. The drain/cutover area is colonised by a variety of species including Sphagnum cuspidatum, Juncus effusus, Eriophorum angustifolium, Betula pubescens, Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale. The western drain is 1-2 m wide and 0.5-0.8 m deep. Drain b1 This drain is situated in the south-eastern section of lobe 4. It is 0.4 m wide x 0.4 m deep and is orientated in a N-S direction. Standing water is noted at the centre of the drain and it is in-filling with Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum cuspidatum. This drain is reduced functional. Drain b2 This drain is located at the south-east of lobe 4 and is parallel to drain b1. It stretches along the entire width of the lobe and flows to both north and south. It is 0. 4m x 0.4 m and in-filling is occurring. Drain b2 is considered reduced functional. At the middle veers to the east and joins the northern tip of drain b1. Drain b3 This is a long 1.5 m deep x 1 m wide drain that divides lobe 4 into two sections and runs N-S. This drain discharges into a larger cutover drain that runs E-W between lobe 4 and the main lobe (lobe 1). This cutover drain is 2m deep in it west section and steady water flow is present. Drain b3 is colonised with Molinia caerulea, Juncus effusus, Rubus fruticosus, Urtica dioica, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Angelica sylvestris and Succisa pratensis. Some sections of the drain are up to 4 m wide and were dug for extracting turf. Drain b4 This drain is found in westerns section of lobe 4. It is 0.5 m x 0.5 m and standing water and Sphagnum cuspidatum occur at the centre of the drain. Water is running at the edge. This is a functional drain. Drain b5 This drain is parallel to drain b4 and it contains more open water and less Sphagnum cuspidatum than b4. It is functional. Drain b6 This drain is perpendicular to b5 and is similar to it. It is a 1 m wide o.5m deep
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reduced functional drain. Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. papillosum, algae, Eriophorum angustifolium and Rhynchospora alba occur within the drain. Drain b7 This reduced functional drain is located in the southern section of lobe 3 at the north of the site. Sphagnum cuspidatum, Sphagnum auriculatum and Eriophorum angustifolium are found in-filling the drain. It is 0.6 m wide and 0.5 m deep. It is considered reduced functional. The western section of this drain consists of a double drain and open water, Sphagnum papillosum and S. capillifolium are all present. Drain b8 This drain is also found in the southern section of lobe 3. It is in-filling in places and open water and Sphagnum cuspidatum are present. Its dimensions are 0.5 m wide x 0.5 m deep. It is considered functional. Drain b9 This is a 0.5 m deep x 1 m wide drain with a L shape associated with turf cutting at the eastern edge of lobe 3. Algae occurs within the drain and water is flowing. Thus this drain is considered functional. Drain b9 flows into b10. Drain b10 This is also a functional drain at the eastern edge of the high bog in lobe 3. It is 0.4mwide x 0.5m deep and Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum are colonising this drain. Drain b10 is wider at the edge of the high bog and water flowing was noted. Drain b13 These are a series of functional and reduced-functional drains that occur along complex trenches used for lateral cutting. Drain b21 This is a natural drainage channel that flows through flush Z. The eastern side has been modified and deepened recently. There was a strong flow of water along this drain on the day of the survey. Much of this may be water flowing into the site. The drain is 2 m deep and 1 m wide. Further west the channel appears and disappears and there are several swallow holes. Drain 22 The SAC boundary drain in the west of the north-western lobe is 0.3-0.5 m deep and 2 m wide. It is colonised by Rhynchospora alba, Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum with standing water also present. To the west of this lobe another lobe of high bog is found outside of the SAC. This is being extensively peat cut and is compacted by machinery.
There are old drains scattered all around the high bog associated with peat-cutting in the past. No new drains have appeared since 1995. Deepening of drain b21, the natural drainage channel crossing flush Z possibly occurred after the 1995 survey. The total figures for the length of drainage has increased substantially between 1995-2005 due to more detailed mapping of the drains in 2005 and the addition of drains in lobes 2-5 (Table 6.2.1). Not all drains are described in the above table. The total drainage function affecting the high bog is likely to be similar or to have slightly decreased since 1995 as some drains infill and become less functional. Several drains mapped by Kelly et al., (1995) as functional have been classified as reduced-functional by this survey. Overall, the percentage area of high bog affected by drains in 2005 is probably similar to 1995.
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 1.31 5.11 + 7.59 km (+1150%) 1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 3.79 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3.27 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 0 0 Area affected by 79.1 79.1 0 drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
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6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2005. However there are frequent old drains in cutover areas all around the high bog. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of drainage on the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history No recent burning was noted on this high bog. Kelly et al., (1995) did not record any recent burning. Douglas and Grogan (1986) noted that the site was lightly burned some years prior to their survey. Land in the western portion of the site has been control burned in the past in association with peat cutting (NPWS 2003).
6.4. Invasive Species A single Rhododendron ponticum plant (0.5 m high) occurs on the southern part of the high bog (GR. 161146, 306040). Kelly et al., (1995) did not record any Rhododendron ponticum on the high bog during their survey.
6.5. Roads and tracks There are several tracks around the high bog that separate several of the smaller lobes from the main section of high bog. These tracks access areas of peat cutting and are in various stages of use. Some of the more regularly used tracks are vegetated with acid grassland. Some tracks are overgrown with scrub dominated by Ulex europaeus. There are several old abandoned tracks that cut across the high bog and have revegetated with high bog vegetation. There are functional and reduced functional drains associated with these tracks.
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities Kelly et al., (1995) noted that the high bog north of flush Z including flush Y was suffering from cattle poaching, with cattle encroaching from the west side of the high bog. This part of the high bog is quite degraded but no signs of recent cattle poaching were recorded during this survey. A small Picea sitchensis plantation was planted on cutover at the south of the site adjacent to lobe 4 (planted about 1990). Drains were dug in this area at the time of planting. This plantation is located outside the SAC.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A draft Conservation Plan has been produced for Flughany Bog SAC. No known physical management actions have been carried out to improve the conservation status of the site or any of the habitats at this site. The draft Conservation Plan lists several strategies to alleviate negative management issues including controlling peat cutting, blocking active drains and carrying a hydrological survey. The site is partly in the ownership of DELG (25%), with the Irish Land Commission owning an area in the centre of the site. The remainder of the site is in multiple private ownership. NPWS have bought out some turbary rights and ownership rights of various turf-cutting plots around the bog in the past few years. The draft Conservation Plan states that NPWS are in the process of transferring turbary rights from this site to the adjacent Derrykinlough Bog. The draft Conservation Plan states that DELG owns 25% of the SAC with the remainder in the ownership of the Irish Land Commission and private landowners.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog There has been a small reduction in the main high bog area (lobe 1) between 1995 and 2005 (2000 photo used to measure area) with a reduction of 0.06 ha. Differences in mapping and surveying techniques account for the difference in high bog area of the main lobe between the 1995 report (101.0 ha) and the area measured from the 1995 AP (96.16 ha) in 2005. (The 1995 survey did not have access to GIS software used in this project.) The 1995 aerial photo of this site is of particularly poor quality so the small reduction in high bog area indicated by the comparison of the aerial photos (0.06 ha) between 1995 and 2000 may be under-estimated slightly. Several small lobes of high bog located around the edges of the main high bog within the SAC were included within the 2005 survey but were not surveyed during 1995. These areas are included on the second line of table 8.1 and bring the total high bog area to 147.17 ha. There is has been some peat cutting along the high bog margins of active plots since 2000 so the high bog area is likely to be slightly less than the measured area 96.10 ha (measured from 2000 AP) in 2005. A simple calculation (taking the peat-cutting rate at 2 m/year and 0.16 km of the high bog margin being cut between 2000-2004) gives the loss of high bog as 0.13 ha. So the high bog area in 2004 (96.10 ha) is an over-estimate (by 0.1-0.5 ha), depending on the rate of peat cutting.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 101.0 96.16 96.10 96.10 2 -0.06ha -0.06% NA 147.253 147.173 147.173 N/A N/A 1 based on 2000 photo with 2005 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.1-0.5 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3 includes lobes 2-5, which where not surveyed by Kelly et al., (1995).
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small decrease (15.4%) in the extent of active raised bog in the main lobe 1 from 9.88 ha in 1995 to a total of 8.24 ha in 2005 (see Table 8.2). The decline in extent of active raised bog is most significant around the main active bog area (C1 & SC1). A small area of former active raised bog located in the north-western region of the southern lobe has declined totally to degraded raised bog. A small new active raised bog area (SC2) occurs to the north of flush Z. The small area of active flush, which occurs in flush Z was not included in the area statistics of 1995, but was mentioned in the description of this flush, indicating there probably has been no significant change in this area. A small area of active raised bog also occurs in lobe 3, though this area was not included in the Kelly et al., (1995) survey. The overall area of active raised bog is 8.75 ha (5.95% of the entire high bog). The habitat extent is assessed as B as there has been a significant decrease (15%) in the extent in active raised bog area from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Habitat structure and function The habitat structure and function of the current active raised bog has declined significantly since the 1995 survey with several negative quality indicators present. The large area of former central ecotope located in the central area of the high bog and covering a large part of the well-developed pools complex has declined significantly (-48%), particularly to the north of the current central ecotope where there is now mainly sub-central ecotope now present. The current central ecotope has not changed significantly in quality. Kelly et al., (1995) described this area as having a high Sphagnum
16 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 cover of 40% with a wet and quaking bog surface. These features are still present. The vegetation is still dominated by flats/lawns of Rhynchospora alba, although Narthecium ossifragum may have declined somewhat in 1995. The pools topography has not changed with inter-connected pools still present (20-30% cover). The sub-central ecotope (former central ecotope) located to the north of the central ecotope is similar to the central ecotope but contains several negative quality indicators. The cover of Rhynchospora alba- dominated flats and lawns is more frequent and the pools cover is less. The pools area also less inter- connected. The flats also contain patches of algal mats on the flats. The overall Sphagnum cover is lower (20-40%). Sub-central ecotope also occurs to the west of the central ecotope. It was described as complex 4/6 by Kelly et al., (1995) and as 4 + pools in this survey. However, this area has not changed significantly with the vegetation still dominated by Rhynchospora alba and less frequent Narthecium ossifragum flats and lawns and the general Sphagnum cover is still 20-30%. Douglas and Grogan (1986) also noted the dominance of R. alba-dominated lawns in this area and in the central ecotope area. This area contains less frequent pools (5-10%) compared to the central ecotope. Kelly et al., (1995) did not mention pools in this area but they are likely to have been present. A small patch of sub-central ecotope (7/9 + pools) (SC2) located north of flush Z was mapped as the marginal complex 2/3/6 in 1995. This area may have improved (poaching has declined in this area since the last survey), or may have been missed by the previous survey due to its small size. This area is slightly flushed with both Molinia caerulea and Myrica gale both present. Moderate quality pools occur at eh base of a steep slope with a southern aspect. The small area of active flush that occurs in flush Z was not mapped by Kelly et al., (1995). However, they described this area as a pool that was infilled with S. cuspidatum and some S. recurvum with Menyanthes, Juncus bulbosus, J. effusus and Luzula. This area may have dried somewhat (described as a quaking lawn in 2005) but is still dominated by S. cuspidatum. The Juncus and Luzula species were not recorded in 2005 but this site was surveyed in spring when these plants may not have been detected. The small sub-central patch located in lobe 3 is typical of wet high bog that has developed around long linear tear pools. This area was not surveyed by Kelly et al., (1995). A description of the changes in habitat structure and function of the former active raised bog areas that are now classified as degraded raised bog is given in the conservation assessment of degraded raised bog.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The pools of the central area generally contain moderate to high amounts of S. cuspidatum with less frequent S. auriculatum. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are both present in the active raised bog. These are positive indicators. Some algae occurs in pools of the central ecotope and is more frequent in the sub-central ecotope. Algal mats also occur on some of the flats of the sub-central ecotope. Occasional large hummocks of Racomitrium lanuginosum occur on hummocks within the central ecotope and Campylopus atrovirens is also present around the pools in this area and in the flats of the sub-central ecotope. Pleurozia purpurea is also present. These species are Western type raised bog indicators. Sphagnum imbricatum Andromeda polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos, and S. magellanicum all occur in the active raised bog, with the latter three species occurring in frequently in the active part of flush Z. These species are Midlands type raised bog indicators. The habitat quality is assessed as C as there has been a significant decline in the extent of central ecotope (> 25%) from 1995 to 2005 in the main lobe (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). However the central ecotope at Flughany Bog correspond to a variant of complex 35 (i.e. 4/35). This is a particular case of western raised bog community complex where the inter-pools Sphagnum cover is usually low and the boundary with sub-central ecotope are vague. The current survey is likely to have been slightly more conservative defining this complex boundaries (i.e. higher Sphagnum cover) than the 1995 survey. Therefore the variation in central ecotope is likely to be smaller than the one shown in tables 8.2 and 8.3. Thus, the conservation assessment given to habitat quality is a B.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Future prospects Active raised bog is moderately threatened and is slowly declining. There are poor prospects for its future. The long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area (not including lobes 2-5) ACTIVE 1995 2004 Variation ECOTOPES (adjusted 2) Active Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 4.32 4.50 2.24 2.33 -2.08 -48.2 Sub-central 5.42 5.63 5.86 6.10 0.44 8.2 Active flush 1 0.14 0.15 0.14 0.15 0.0 0.0 Total 9.88 10.27 8.24 8.57 -1.64 -16.6 1 Active flush was not mapped separately by Kelly et al., (1995). Areas taken as equivalent to the 2004/05 survey. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. ] Table 8.2.1. Active raised bog area of entire high bog (ecotope areas of lobes 2-5 added to adjusted 1995 areas). ACTIVE 1995 2004 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (adjusted 2) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 4.32 2.94 2.24 1.52 -2.08 -48.2 Sub-central 5.94 4.03 6.37 4.33 + 0.43 + 7.3 Active flush 1 0.14 0.1 0.14 0.10 0.0 0.0 Total 10.40 7.06 8.75 5.95 -1.65 -15.9 1 Active flush was not mapped separately by Kelly et al., (1995). Areas taken as equivalent to the 2004/05 survey. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. Ecotope areas of lobes 2-5 not surveyed by Kelly et al., (1995) but calculated during this survey are added to the geo-referenced areas of the main high bog calculated from the original Kelly et al., (1995) vegetation map. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The overall conservation status of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small increase in the area of degraded raised bog on the main lobe from 86.3 ha (89.7% of high bog) in 1995 to 87.9 ha (91.4%) in 2005 (Table 8.3). This is due to the degradation of active raised bog between 1995 and 2005, particularly in the southern section of the main lobe. There has been a minor loss of degraded bog habitat due to marginal peat cutting between 1995-2005. The overall area of degraded raised bog has increased as several smaller lobes of high bog not surveyed in 1995 but within the SAC have been included in the 2005 survey (Table 8.3.1). The habitat extent is assessed as A as there has been no significant loss of degraded raised bog area from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
18 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Habitat structure and function The habitat structure and function of the degraded raised bog has not changed significantly. There are both positive and negative quality indicators present. A small area of former sub-central ecotope (4/6) located to the east of the central ecotope has degraded to the sub-marginal complex 4. The vegetation in this area is similar but the Sphagnum cover of the flats is degraded and the pool cover is lowered compared to the sub-central complex 4 + pools. The former sub-central complex 3/6/35 (described by Kelly et al., (1995)), which occurred in the north-western region of the southern lobe, has also degraded to the complex 3/6 + pools. Douglas and Grogan (1986) described this area as containing tear pools and large hummocks. The well-developed inter-connected pool micro-topography with small islands in the pools still occurs in this area. However, the pools are generally poorer in quality compared to the other sub-central areas. This is a high quality sub-marginal ecotope complex and is close to sub-central quality. Kelly et al., (1995) described this area as having good quality pools filled with S. cuspidatum so it may have degraded somewhat since 1995. The former sub-marginal ecotope area has not changed significantly since the last survey. There have been some changes in the dominance of vegetation from complexes dominated by Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum to complexes with more frequent Eriophorum vaginatum. Trichophorum cespitosum abundance has declined in some parts of the sub-marginal ecotope. However, there is still a relatively large area with frequent tear pools located in the north-western part of the southern lobe. An area characterised by scattered Phragmites australis still occurs to the south-west of the southern lobe. Rhynchospora alba flats dominate the complexes around parts of the main active raised bog area. All these features were also noted by Kelly et al., (1995). The boundaries of flush X in the north of the main lobe have changed somewhat since 1995. However, some of this flush is characterised by robust Calluna vulgaris and scattered Myrica gale, which may not have been considered as flush by Kelly et al., (1995). There have been some changes in the extent of marginal ecotope. Sub-marginal ecotope now occurs to the north of flush Y and flush Z where there was previously marginal ecotope in 1995. Parts of these new sub-marginal ecotope areas are now dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum with scattered Myrica gale. Poaching and cattle grazing has declined in these areas since 1995, which may have allowed the high bog vegetation to regenerate. Overall, the extent of marginal ecotope is similar to the 1995 survey and there has been no major degradation of sub-marginal ecotope. Several small lobes located around the main high bog (lobes 2-4) are dominated by degraded raised bog that is similar to that found on the main high bog. These isolated lobes are dominated by marginal ecotope with a firm bog surface dominated by Carex panicea and Trichophorum cespitosum and firm to soft bog with a higher Sphagnum cover in the central parts of these lobes. Another isolated lobe of high bog located to the mid-east of the high bog was not examined during this survey. This area is likely to contain similar marginal vegetation to the other lobes. No interesting features indicating active raised bog in this area are visible on the aerial photos. This area has been modified by drainage and peat-cutting in the past.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Hummocks of Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum are present all through the sub-marginal ecotope. Hummocks of Racomitrium lanuginosum are very occasional in some of the sub-marginal ecotopes. The tear pools contain S. cuspidatum and S. auriculatum. These are positive indicators. However, many of the tear pools also contain algae. Trichophorum cespitosum is relatively frequent in marginal ecotope between flush Y and Z. This area is quite degraded and disturbed. These are negative indicators. Pedicularis sylvatica, Campylopus atrovirens and Racomitrium lanuginosum occur in several complexes of the sub-marginal ecotope. These are all indicators of western type raised bogs. The habitat quality is assessed as A as there has been no overall change in the extent of marginal ecotope relative to sub-marginal ecotope from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
19 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and is slowly declining as long as peat cutting continues. Thus there are poor prospects for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1995 2004 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (adjusted 3) Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 41.15 42.79 44.87 46.69 +3.72 +9.04 Marginal 27.60 28.70 26.75 27.84 -0.48 2 -1.74 Face-bank 1 NA NA 1.33 1.38 N/A N/A In-active flush 5 17.53 18.23 14.91 15.52 -2.62 -15.0 Total 86.28 89.73 87.86 91.43 +1.58 +1.8 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2: This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table. 5: Inactive flush in 1995 has been adjusted. See Appendix III for more details.
Table 8.3.1. Variation in degraded raised bog (includes lobes 2-5 surveyed during 2005). INACTIVE 1995 2004 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (adjusted 3) Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 50.73 34.45 54.45 37 +3.72 +7.33 Marginal 58.97 40.05 58.12 39.49 -0.48 2 -0.81 Face-bank 1 1.14 0.77 2.46 1.67 N/A N/A In-active flush 5 17.53 11.91 14.91 10.13 -2.62 -15.0 Unsurveyed lobe 5 8.48 5.76 8.48 5.76 0.0 0.0 Total 136.85 92.94 138.42 94.05 +1.57 +1.1 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. Ecotope areas of lobes 2-5 not surveyed by Kelly et al., (1995) but calculated during this survey are added to the geo-referenced areas of the main high bog calculated from the original Kelly et al., (1995) vegetation map. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table. 5: Inactive flush in 1995 has been adjusted. See Appendix III for more details.
! The overall conservation status of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat occurs frequently in the active raised bog in the south-eastern part of Flughany Bog. Kelly et al., (1995) mapped sub-central and sub-marginal complexes dominated by Rhynchospora alba in the area around the central ecotope so Rhynchosporion depression communities have not declined
20 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 significantly. Hollows dominated by Rhynchospora alba occur occasionally in patches in the degraded raised bog area. However, this is also a negative quality indicator of habitat function and of the drying of the high bog. There are also extensive wet lawns and flats dominated by Rhynchospora alba with occasional Sphagnum cover that may not fall within the Rhynchosporion depression communities habitat category. This habitat is listed as having a percentage cover of 1% on the Flughany Natura form. The Natura form explanatory notes indicate that Rhynchosporion depression communities are particularly well- developed compared to other sites due to the large area of central ecotope. The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and therefore no areas are calculated for its extent. However, the area indicated on the Natura form is a reasonable estimate of this habitat.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Flughany Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog The extent and habitat quality of the active raised bog has declined somewhat since 1995 according to the comparison of the statistics. There are some negative quality indicators present in the current sub- central ecotope occurring around the central ecotope. The change in area of the central ecotope indicates that peat-cutting, drainage and other activities on and around the high bog are likely to have had some impact on the conservation status of the raised high bog at Flughany. The intensity of impacts on the high bog has declined since 1995. However, these impacts were probably more intense and had a greater influence in the past. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined since 1995 with 2.6% of the high bog margin being recently actively cut (previously 26% in 1995). Drainage has also had a significant impact with 8.9 km of functional and non-functional drains in total on the main high bog and the several lobes. Some old drains have infilled and have become non-functional. The drainage function is likely to be similar to 1995 and no new drains were dug (a small amount may have been maintained) during this period. This site has not been burnt extensively recently though the Cladonia spp. cover was relatively low in places for a site that supposedly has not been disturbed by burning for a long time. The changes in the extent and quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2004 as indicated by the statistics may exaggerate the decline in extent and habitat quality of active raised bog and the change in conservation status. This is particularly evident in the large area of active raised bog located in the eastern region of the southern part of the main lobe. A comparison of the descriptions of the central and sub-central ecotope complexes in this area seems to indicate that negative changes (decline of central to sub-central ecotope) are not very significant. The description of sub-central complex 4 + pools, which occurs to the north of the current central ecotope and degraded from former central ecotope, is somewhat similar to the description of the central ecotope complex described by Kelly et al., (1995), although with a lower Sphagnum cover. The description of the sub-marginal complex 4 located to the east of the central ecotope, is also somewhat similar to the former sub-central complex 4/6, that was formerly present in this area. There probably has been some degradation of the former small area of sub-central ecotope located to the west of the main active raised bog areas (former sub- central complex 3/6/35). Therefore this site has probably not degraded significantly (not as significant as indicated by the statistics) and some differences may be due to differences in criteria used to classify ecotopes between the two surveys, rather than negative changes in habitat extent and quality between 1995-2005.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog This site was given the rating Bi by Cross (1990) following the National Raised Bog surveys. This second-best rating was given to good quality sites with wet and soft areas still present, where the hydrology was not seriously damaged. This rating if applied today would probably be re-applied again as the habitat extent and quality of active raised bog has not declined significantly.
21 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
The assessment of the conservation status of the Annex 1 habitats at Flughany Bog should take into account differences in surveying and mapping techniques between the 2004/5 survey and the 1995 survey. The change in the quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2005 (i.e. reduction in area of the central ecotope) may be related to a combination of differences between the two surveys and actual impacts from peat-cutting, drainage and other activities.
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Flughany Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Douglas, C. & Grogan, H. 1986. Survey to locate raised bogs of scientific interest in counties Longford, Westmeath and Mayo. Internal report to the Forest and Wildlife Service, Dublin. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. Service, Dublin. NPWS 2003. Draft Conservation Plan for Flughany Bog cSAC – working document. National Parks & Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
22 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 4/35 4 + P 4/9 +P 9/3 +TP GPS READING 161309, 306048 161182, 306240 161396, 306023 161997, 307323 QUADRAT NAME QC1 QSc1 QSc2 QSc3 FIRMNESS soft soft very soft firm-soft CRACKING no no no no BOG BURST no no no no SLOPE flat flat gentleslope flat DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains BURNT TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% < 5% < 5% absent ALGAL POOL 5% < 5% < 5% absent BARE PEAT 1% < 5% < 5% absent POOL COVER 30% 10% 5% 40% POOLS inter-cnncting reg pools tear pools pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY high hum, hol, low hums, hols, pool high hum, hol, low hums, hols, pool pool pool COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 25% 5% 10% 10% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% < 5% absent LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK < 5% < 5% absent 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 5% 20% 5% 5% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks & hummocks & hummocks & lawns & pools hollows hollows hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS absent absent absent absent S. MAG HABITATS S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent absent absent 30% R. FUSCA HOLLOWS absent absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS 30% 40% 50% 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS < 5% 5% < 5% 15% NARTHECIUM < 5% 5% 10% < 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollows lawns S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent absent absent absent S. SUBNITENS absent absent S. AURIC POOLS 5% < 5% < 5% < 5% S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS absent absent absent S. CUSP 15% 5% < 5% 25% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 20% 10% 5% 30% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 15% 20% 15% 10% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 40% 30% 25% 40% E. ANGUS 10% < 5% 10% 10% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricat S. imbricat S. imbricat POOLS INDICATORS all all all all CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 5% 5% 10% CLADONIA COVER 5% 5% 10% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 15% 10% 15% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 OTHER DETAILS OTHER SPECIES camy a raco COMPLEX VARIATIONS SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DETAILS Raco
23 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Appendix II Photographical records
Image Feature Grid Reference Date Number 000_0044 Face bank perpendicular to HB. Heaps of dried E 162235 - N 307363 07/04/2005 turf on the HB.
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES Kelly et al., 1995 Original figures 1 Figures calculated Adjusted 1995 Adjusted 1995 from 1995 geo- figures 3 figures with referenced additional ecotope vegetation map 2 areas of lobes 2-5 4 Area % of HB Area % of HB Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) (ha) (ha) Central 4.2 6.8 4.31 4.50 4.32 4.50 4.32 2.94 Sub-central 5.4 8.7 5.4 5.63 5.42 5.63 5.94 4.03 Sub-marginal 41.5 66.9 41.03 42.79 41.15 42.79 50.73 34.45 Marginal 6.1 9.9 27.52 28.70 27.60 28.70 60.11 40.82 Flushes (active 4.8 7.7 17.62 18.38 17.67 18.38 17.67 12.00 and inactive) (Active flush) 4 (0.14) (0.15) (0.14) (0.15) (Inactive flush) 4 (17.53) (18.23) (17.53) (18.23) Unsurveyed 8.48 5.76 lobe 5 Total 62 100 95.88 100 96.16 100 147.25 100 `1 Original figures listed in Kelly et al., (1995). 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. 3 The total area of the high bog measured from the 1995 aerial photograph in 2005 was 96.16 ha. This area is 100.29% of the total area of the ecotopes measured from the 1995 geo-referenced vegetation map 2 (95.88 ha.) Therefore each individual ecotope area listed in Kelly et al., (1995) has been modified (increased by 0.29%) so that the total ecotope area is equivalent to 96.16 ha 3. 4 Inactive flush and active flush were both included within the flushes ecotope category by Kelly et al., (1995). The areas of the adjusted 1995 ecotopes are taken as equivalent to the 2005 areas. The sum of these areas is equivalent to the area of flush measured by Kelly et al., (1995) and then adjusted (12.0 ha).
24
Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
All Saint’s, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 566 6” Sheet: OY 29 Grid Ref.: N 01 11 1:50,000, Sheet: 53 SAC area 2004 (ha):( ) 386.92 Highg bogg area 2004( (ha):) 228.01 Dates of Visit: 10/02/05 Townlands: Glaster, Ballynasrah, Kilnaglinny, Coolaghansglaster and Macnamanny or Fulough.g
2. SITE LOCATION
The bog is located 8km north-northwest of Birr and 6km south of Banagher. The Rapemills River borders the northern edge. A gravel ridge runs to the south, south of which the Little Brosna River flows. The site may be accessed from a small road that runs beside the gravel pit at its southern side. This small road is to the west off the Cloghan to Borrisokane road (R438), just north of the Little Brosna River. A grassy track from beside an old house leads onto the southern side of the bog. Kelly et al. (1995) grouped All Saint’s with the raised bogs of S Offaly/N Tipperary. It lies 7km to the east of Redwood Bog (SAC 2353). It also lies approximately 5-6km to the north of Ballyduff and Clonfinane (SAC 641).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out on the 10th of March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at All Saint’s Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
All Saint’s bog has a triangular like simple shape. The site has been cut away most intensively along the northern edge, resulting in a gradual indent in this margin. The whole bog is generally rather flat in the central part with slopes towards the edges particularly to the north. In some places the slopes may be steeper due to subsidence caused by drainage and/or peat cutting. This medium size bog is an example of ridge river bog (Cross, 1990), as it lies at the bottom of a slope adjacent to Little Brosna River. According to Cross (1990) this is a midland raised bog. Cross (op cit) describes the site as the only known example of a raised bog in Ireland with an extensive wet Betula woodland. According to Kelly et al. (1995) a mineral ridge runs E-W under the site coincident with the main flush. The peat layer is shallower in this area.
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the All Saint’s Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120), bog woodland (EU code 91D0) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004/05 survey.
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 37.29ha of active raised bog on the high bog at All Saint’s Bog composed of sub-central ecotope, active flush and bog woodland (See Map 1). This accounts for 16.35% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has significantly declined since 1995 when there was 66.61ha of active raised bog (29.11% of high bog area). This habitat is mainly confined to the area surrounding the bog woodland part of the large flush Y that runs in a NW-SE direction. Scattered patches of sub-central ecotope are found to the north (SC11, SC3 and SC10) and to the south of the flush (SC5, SC6 and SC9). The entire southern section of the high bog has been burnt recently (2002/03) and this fire event also affected part of the bog woodland, flush Y and the southern sub-central patches. The occurrence of SC5 and SC6 is probably related to the presence of an old infilled drain visible on the aerial ortho-rectified images. The microtopography consist mainly of hummocks, hollows and lawns, and very few permanent pools are found. Kelly et al. (1995) already outlined the dryness of the site and the low occurrence of pools. The most frequent vascular plants in the vegetation of this habitat are Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix. Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are also found and Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Trichophorum cespitosum become more frequent in the drier section of the habitat, some sections of the habitat were recently burnt and are transitional vegetation towards sub-marginal ecotope. Close to flush Y flushed conditions species are found (Aulacomnium palustre, Molinia caerulea and Vaccinium oxycoccos). The overall Sphagnum cover averages at 40-50% and consists of S. capillifolium, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum hummocks. The latter is also found forming lawns. S. imbricatum, S. fuscum are also noted but are less frequent. S. cuspidatum is found within hollows and very occasionally in pools. The presence of S. magellanicum is an evidence of the midland conditions of the site. A large Betula pubescens, Pinus sylvestris dominated flush is the main feature of interest of All Saint’s Bog. This contains large areas where the tree canopy increases and thus the flush is deemed bog woodland (91D0) (see section 5.1.4). The presence of Betula trees decreases in some sections of the flush and these clearing patches are considered active flush due to the dense Sphagnum layer. The clearings are characterised by scattered Betula scrub and occasionally Pinus sylvestris. Sphagnum capillifolium, S. palustre, S. papillosum, S. recurvum and S. fimbriatum dominated the Sphagnum layer. Eriophorum vaginatum, Calluna vulgaris, Aulacomnium palustre, Pleurozium schreberi, Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum cupressiforme, Osmunda regalis, Polytrichum commune, P. alpestre, Blechnum spicant, Rubus fruticosa, Vaccinium oxycoccos V. myrtillus and Myrica gale are all found.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 190.71ha of degraded raised bog on the high bog at All Saint’s Bog composed of facebank, marginal, sub-marginal ecotope and inactive flush (See Map 1). This accounts for 83.64% of the high bog area. The habitat extent has increased as a result of degradation of active raised bog and the habitat quality has slightly declined due to ongoing peat cutting, drainage and regular burning. There were 162.2ha of degraded raised bog (70.89% of high bog area) in 1994. Sub-marginal ecotope dominates the degraded raised bog habitat at All Saint’s Bog. The southern half of the high bog was severely affected by the 2002/2003 burn and as a result some sections of sub-central ecotope described by Kelly et al. in 1994 has declined in quality and currently correspond to sub-marginal ecotope. This process has been particularly significant in the southeast of the high bog. The habitat microtopography consists of hummocks, hollows and flats. Pools, which mainly contain algae, are only found in a small section of this habitat (complex 6/3+P, 7/9/3+P) to the northwest of flush Y. However Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are also present within the pools. The Sphagnum hummocks consist of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also found. The hollows contain Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium, open water and occasionally Sphagnum cuspidatum. Narthecium ossifragum colonise the hollows in drier sections of the habitat. The dominant vascular plants are Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea in the southern half and Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix and Eriophorum vaginatum in the unburnt northern half. Eriophorum angustifolium becomes frequent in small wet pockets at the southeast, close to flush Y. Species typical of flushed conditions such as Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and Empetrum nigrum are found close to the large flush Y.
1 This refers to ecotope areas on map 1
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Trichophorum cespitosum are more common at the edge of the high bog. The overall Sphagnum cover within sub-marginal ecotope averages at 20 to 30% and dead hummocks are occasionally found in the southern half. The Sphagnum cover decreases to 10% at the edges of the bog, where marginal ecotope dominates. Species characteristic of midland raised bogs such as Sphagnum magellanicum and Andromeda polifolia are found within the habitat, however their cover is low. Bare peat and dead sphagna are commonly found at the south of the high bog as evidence of the recent fire event. Cladonia spp. are only found in the unburnt northern half, whereas they are absent from the southern half recently burnt. Kelly et al. (1995) noted the presence of Dactylorhiza maculata on a number of areas of the high bog and it was especially noticeable on the southeastern section of the bog. Although the species was not recorded during the current survey, this is mainly due to the fact that the vegetation survey was carried out in a period when the species is not visible, however it is still likely to be present on the high bog. The outer section of the flush Y is consists of a dry flush dominated by Calluna vulgaris with occasional low bushes of Betula and Pinus sylvestris. Two dry mounds are found at the northwest of the high bog. The largest is dominated by Phragmites and thus it is deemed inactive flush (flush Z).
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. The habitat occurs in both active and degraded raised bog. Only Rhynchospora alba was recorded within the 2004/05 survey. It is commonly found within wet hollows dominated by Sphagnum (S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum), however it is also recorded within drier hollows colonised by Narthecium ossifragum and with high bare peat cover. Rhynchospora alba is also noted within drier section of the bog, but always associated with features where the wetness is locally high such as erosion channels within degraded raised bog.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) A large Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris bog woodland dominates the central section of the site. This is considered the most extensive example of wet birch wood on a raised bog of Ireland (Cross, 1990). There are suggestions that it may be part of and ancient woodland (Cross, 1987; O’Connor and Speight, 1987). Five different sections of bog woodland were described and mapped in map 1. This contains a mosaic of different birch and pines ages areas and densities. The trees are mostly 8-10m but some reach 12 and 15m. Betula, Pinus and Salix dominate the shrub layer. The understorey contains Molinia caerulea, Calluna vulgaris, Vaccinium myrtillus, Dryopteris dilatata, Pteridium aquilinum, Eriophorum vaginatum, Rubus fruticosus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Hedera helix, Osmunda regalis and Myrica gale. The abundance of bryophyte species is a common factor within the five sections of the bog woodland. Sphagnum species are frequently found forming hummocks and hollows, being S. capillifolium, S. fimbriatum S. recurvum, S. palustre and S. cuspidatum the most common species. Other mosses recorded are Aulacomnium palustre, Hylocomium splendens, Dicranum scoparium and Rhytidiadelphus sp. A recent fire has affected the southern section of the habitat. There are 17.78ha of bog woodland on the high bog at All Saint’s Bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of All Saint’s Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Central Ecotope Complexes No central ecotope complexes are present on All Saint’s Bog.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in the northwest of the high bog (SC3-GR. 200620, 211710). The surface is soft to very soft underfoot and the complex appears to be located in a slight depression. Tall hummocks, hollows and lawns characterise the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 40% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium (20%) and lawns/low hummocks of S. magellanicum (10%). S. papillosum, S. imbricatum, S. fuscum and S. cuspidatum are also present at low cover values. Eriophorum vaginatum (20-25%) characterises the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20-25%). There are occasional pools in places within this complex (5-10% cover). However, these are generally algal with a patchy cover of S. cuspidatum. There are also scattered Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) hollows. In places the Sphagnum cover improves to >50% and the complex is labelled as Complex 10/9. This complex is found in patches inter-mixed with the sub-marginal complex 9/7/6 to the north of flush Y (SC1 and SC10). There is an increased amount of Narthecium ossifragum (10%) in these parts of the complex. This complex is also found surrounding the western arm (D1, GR. 200644, 211325) of the flush Y and it is named as SC2. . Tall Sphagnum papillosum and S. imbricatum hummocks are found. As well as pools dominated by open water and Sphagnum magellanicum. The ground is very soft to quaking near the pools. The overall Sphagnum cover is 40%, although it could be higher in places. Eriophorum angustifolium (20-30%), Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) dominate the vegetation, and Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Trichophorum cespitosum are also found. Pools are absent in some sections of the complex and there the microtopography consists of Eriophorum angustifolium tussocks, Sphagnum capillifolium, S. imbricatum hummocks and hollows colonised by S. cuspidatum and S. papillosum. These latter sections are closer to the flush and feature flushed characteristics such as Aulacomnium palustre and V. oxycoccos in hummocks. The cover of robust Calluna vulgaris is locally increased within the complex at the north of flush Y (SC11- GR. 201043, 211661). Thus, the vegetation is termed complex 7/9/10. Quadrat Qsc1, Qsc2, Qsc3 were taken within complex 9/10 and their location is shown on Map 1 and details in appendix I.
Complex 9/10 recently burnt (9/10+rb) This complex occurs in small patches in the southeastern part of the high bog (SC5). The bog surface is quite soft and spongy. The micro-topography is poor with occasional low hummocks. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (10-15%) with less frequent Narthecium ossifragum (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (5%) and Erica tetralix (5%). These small patches have much more frequent live Sphagnum cover (20-30%). However, the Sphagnum cover is in poor condition with hummocks showing signs of damage from the recent fire. The dead Sphagnum cover is 20-30%. The bare peat cover is 10-20%. This complex is also found along the southern section of flush Y (SC4, SC8 and SC9). Despite the burn a good Sphagnum living layer remains (40-50%). Hummocks are composed of Sphagnum imbricatum, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. The hollows contain S. cuspidatum. Eriophorum vaginatum is frequent (20-30%) and E. angustifolium is found in wet patches, Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea become more frequent than in the non-burnt section. Quadrat Qsc4 was recorded within this sub-central complex. Its location is shown on map 1 and its details in Appendix I.
Complex 9a/10 recently burnt (9a/10+rb) This complex occurs along the eastern margin of flush Y (SC7). This area is quite soft and wet. Flats and lawns with few low hummocks dominate the microtopography. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum angustifolium (20-30%) with less frequent Narthecium ossifragum (5-15%), Calluna vulgaris (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is dominated by low hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum with less frequent S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum in lawns. There are
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 occasional Molinia caerulea tussocks present. Some parts of this complex contain occasional large hummocks of S. imbricatum and less frequent infilled S. cuspidatum pools (5-10%).
Complex 6/10 recently burnt (6/10+rb) This complex although was affected by the 2002/03 burn remains very soft and quaking in places and the living Sphagnum cover is moderate 40-50%. Thus, it is still considered peat forming. The surface is flat. It is located at the southeast of the high bog (GR. 201573, 210678) and is named SC6. The microtopography consists of Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Hollows are also found, and are mainly open water and bare peat, colonised by Eriophorum angustifolium. Narthecium ossifragum at 20% and Eriophorum angustifolium also at 20% dominate the complex. Other species found are Aulacomnium palustre, Eriophorum vaginatum, Trichophorum cespitosum and Drosera anglica. Bare peat covers 20% of the complex’s surface. Cladonia species are absent.
Active Flushes
Flush Y This is the main feature of interest of the site and runs E-W with arms to the north and south. The tree cover is not uniform throughout this flush and there are some partial clearings, areas of scrub and areas if dense tall trees. The area of dense woodland is seen in four places and is named D1 to D5 for describing purposes. These are described under bog woodland habitat (section 5.2.4). The clearings are also divided into five sections (C1 to C5) and their location is shown in map 1. The abundance of Sphagnum species varies within the clearings as well as the wetness of the ground.
C1 & C2 This part of the flush is located in the middle of flush Y. The Pinus trees are quite sparse in this area (range between 0.5-5 m high) and these areas are not wooded. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris dominate the ground vegetation. There are fewer areas with open bryophyte cover. Some patches contain active flush and have a frequent Sphagnum cover dominated by Aulacomnium palustre, S. capillifolium, S. palustre, S. papillosum, S. recurvum and S. fimbriatum. Other common bryophyte species are Pleurozium schreberi, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum cupressiforme. C1 is considered inactive flush and although C2 mainly contain inactive flush the area between D1 and D2 is considered active flush. A large section of C1 and C2 was recently burnt.
C3 This section of the flush (GR. 201593, 211159) was described by Kelly et al. (1995) as partially drained and dominated by Betula scrub. A dense Sphagnum layer consisting of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. fimbriatum and S. papillosum dominates the understorey of this Betula scrub. This section is considered active flush. C3 was escaped recent burnt.
C4 The recent burn (2002/03) affected this section of flush Y, as the presence of burnt Calluna vulgaris stumps indicate. Despite this fact the Sphagnum cover is still high 50-60% and consists of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. palustre hummocks as well as S. recurvum in hollows. Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum commune, P. alpestre, Blechnum spicant, Vaccinium oxycoccos and V. myrtillus are also found. Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks are also frequent (20%). The largest section of C4 is considered active flush. This section of the flush features a sparse cover of Betula and Pinus sylvestris trees. The southern boundary of this flush was severely damaged by burning and thus a band of inactive flush is depicted on map 1.
C5 This part of the flush is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale and is similar to the edges of D5. There are only scattered trees present in this area. This part of the flush is inactive.
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9 recently burnt (9 + rb) This sub-marginal complex is found in the southeast of the high bog (GR. 201815, 210780) in part of the area of bog that was classified by Kelly et al. in 1995 as sub-central complex 10/6+. The area has suffered from a severe burn in recent years (2002/2003), however, and it is thus difficult to estimate what the Sphagnum cover of the area may have been before the burn. Indeed from the abundance of burnt Sphagnum hummocks it would appear that the Sphagnum cover may have been 50% and it is plausible to speculate that the area could have still been classified as active raised bog in 2002/03 immediately before the burn occurred. The current cover of living sphagna is less than 20%. The microtopography consist of hummocks and hollows. Hummocks are mainly Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. imbricatum. Hollows although are mainly bare peat, also contain S. cuspidatum. In general, the bog surface in this area is soft underfoot and there are occasional small wet patches where S. imbricatum, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum have survived the burn unharmed. Eriophorum vaginatum (20-30%) dominates the vegetation along with low-growing (0.1-0.2m) Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and Erica tetralix (10-20%). Carex panicea (5-10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) are present at low cover values and bare peat covers 10-20% of the surface area. Eriophorum angustifolium becomes dominant (40%) in small pockets of the complex, close to flush Y (GR. 201610, 210873 & 201353, 210968) and thus it is termed 9a+rb in map 2. The bog surface is soft and Calluna vulgaris is less frequent (10%). There are small amounts of Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%) and occasional tussocks of Molinia caerulea. The general Sphagnum cover is 10-20% with some better quality patches. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by S. capillifolium and Aulacomnium palustre is relatively frequent. Hypnum cupressiforme is also relatively frequent. Vaccinium oxycoccos, Andromeda polifolia and Empetrum nigrum all occur in this complex. The complex is probably slightly flushed.
Complex 9/3 recently burnt (9/3 +rb) This sub-marginal complex is also found scattered throughout the southeastern section of the bog in the area that was classified as 10/6+ by Kelly et al. in 1995 and was burnt in 2002/03. The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover before the fire was probably averaging at 30%. Bare peat now covers approximately 20% of the surface area and tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Carex panicea (15-20%). There is also a high cover of Erica tetralix (20-30%) and Calluna vulgaris (10%) that is low-growing (0.1-0.2m). E. angustifolium occurs at an average cover of 10% and increases in places where the surface is softer underfoot (complex 9a+rb).
Complex 6/3/9 recently burnt (6/3/9 + rb) This complex dominates the southern section of the high bog that was completely burn in 2002/2003. This complex adjoins complex 9 + rb in the section classed as 10/6+ (sub-central ecotope) by Kelly et al. in 1995 and occasionally there is not clear boundary between the two of them. Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea become more frequent and on the other hand Eriophorum vaginatum decreases. Although the current living Sphagnum cover is 20-30%, evidence indicate that this was higher previous the fire event, at least 40%. Sphagnum hummocks are still common: S. capillifolium, S. papillosum, S. magellanicum, S. fuscum and S. imbricatum. Hollows are mainly Narthecium ossifragum, bare peat and Rhynchospora alba. Overall there is a mosaic of poorer quality patches and better quality patches with more frequent Eriophorum vaginatum. The quality of this complex increases towards the centre of the high bog with the live Sphagnum cover increasing from 5-10% nearer the high bog margin, to 15-30% towards the inner part of the bog. Furthermore the bog surface also becomes softer towards the inner part of the high bog. This complex also dominates those sections of the high bog classified as 10/6 and 10/6- by Kelly et al. in 1995 deemed sub- marginal ecotope according to current criteria. Large damaged hummocks of S. imbricatum occur more frequently in some parts of this complex.
6 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Complex 6/3 recently burnt (6/3 + rb) This sub-marginal complex is found in scattered areas throughout the southwestern section of the high bog and characterises the bog surface classified as 10/6 and10/6- by Kelly et al. in 1995. It was also severely damaged by the recent burn. The surface is firm to soft underfoot and Narthecium ossifragum (30-40%) dominated flats characterise the vegetation along with Carex panicea (20-30%), Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (10-20%, combined). The Sphagnum cover is 15-20% and bare peat covers 10-20% of the surface area. Hummocks are composed of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. fuscum. Cladonia species are absent and Rhynchospora alba is also found (<5%). The Sphagnum decreases towards the west, closer to the edge of the high bog and Narthecium ossifragum becomes dominant. Leucobryum glaucum hummocks where also found in this location. Trichophorum cespitosum becomes frequent towards the southwestern edge of the high bog (GR. 201378, 210351 & 201027, 210625) and there the complex is named 6/3/2 + rb. There are occasional individual Pinus sp. trees on the high bog, which have been damaged by the recent fire and show no recent signs of regeneration.
Complex 6/3 +Pools (6/3 +P) This community complex is located to the west of the high bog (west of SC2- GR. 200558, 211271). The ground is firm to soft in places, the surface flat and occasionally regular pools are found. Hummocks, pools and flats compose the microtopography. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. imbricatum. The pools, that cover 10% of the complex’s surface, are mainly open water and algae, but occasionally Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are present. The flats are vegetated by Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Carex panicea (20%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 20%. Calluna vulgaris is also frequent at 20 - 30% cover and shorter than 0.3m. There is a high presence of Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks at GR. 200663, 211092.
Complex 9/7 This sub-marginal complex is found in a small area in the northwest of the bog adjacent to the sub-central complex 9/10. The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 30-40%. Eriophorum vaginatum (15- 20%) and Calluna vulgaris (20-25%) dominate the vegetation. The complex is intermediary between the sub- marginal complex 9/7/6 and the sub-central complex 9/10. It differs from the sub-central complex in that it has a lower cover of Sphagnum and a lower cover of E. vaginatum and differs from the sub-marginal complex 9/7/6 in that it has a high cover of Sphagnum and a lower cover of Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%).
Complex 9/7/6 This sub-marginal complex is found in patches of the north of the high bog in the area assigned to complex 10/6/2 by Kelly et al. (1995), which has been downgraded to sub-marginal ecotope according to current criteria. The surface is soft underfoot and low hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography. This complex grades into the sub-central complex 9/10 (SC1) and is inter-mixed with it in places. Generally, however, the Sphagnum layer in the complex 9/7/6 is thinner and has a slightly lower cover (averaging at 30%). S. capillifolium is the most dominant Sphagnum within this complex with S. tenellum also frequent and only small amounts of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum recorded along with very occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. Eriophorum vaginatum (10-15%), Calluna vulgaris (20-25%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) characterise the complex.
Complex 7/9/3 + Pools (7/9/3+P) This community complex is seen to the west of the northern arm (D1) of the central flush in a area assigned to complex 6/2+P (sub-marginal ecotope) by Kelly et al. in 1995 and also surrounding the current sub-central section SC3. The microtopography consists of low Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum hummocks and pools. The pools cover 20% of the complex’s surface and contain Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and open water. The overall Sphagnum cover is moderate (30%). Evidence of old fire event (burnt tussocks and Campylopus introflexus) are found. Calluna vulgaris (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (20%), Carex panicea (20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) characterise the complex. Cladonia species cover is 5%.
7 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Complex 7/9/6 This sub-marginal complex is found in the north of the high bog, north of the flush (GR. 201110, 211531). The surface is firm to soft underfoot and medium sized hummocks and hollows dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 25-30% and is composed mostly of S. capillifolium though S. papillosum and S. magellanicum are present. There are also occasional small hollows infilled with S. cuspidatum. Bare peat covers approximately 10% of the surface area and 0.2-0.3m Calluna vulgaris (20-30%), Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) characterise the vegetation. Rhynchospora alba (10%) is also found in hollows, often with S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. This complex is also found to the northeast of the high bog adjacent to complex 7/9 + Cl (GR. 201450, 211460). However the latter features wetter ground. The ground is firm and the surface is flat within complex 7/9/6. The microtopography consists of low Sphagnum capillifolium hummocks and hollows colonised by Narthecium ossifragum or cover in bare peat. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20 to 30%. Cladonia species cover is lower than in complex 7/9 Cl (10%). The dominant vascular species are Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (30%, combined), Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (10-20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%). The wettest sections of this complex have Rhynchospora alba in Sphagnum papillosum shallow hollows.
Complex 7/9 + Cladonia (7/9 + Cl) This sub-marginal complex is found in the north of the flush Y and west of the area that was recently exploited for moss peat (GR. 201365, 211418). The surface is soft underfoot and tall hummocks and hollows dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is composed mostly of S. capillifolium though S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. imbricatum are all present. However, it is Hypnum jutlandicum that dominates the ground layer. This is usually found underneath the Calluna vulgaris, which grows in robust form (0.4-0.5m in height) and dominates the vegetation at approximately 50% cover. Eriophorum vaginatum (15- 20%) is also frequent and the presence of Vaccinium oxycoccos indicates that the area may be slightly flushed. The midland indicator Andromeda polifolia is also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa (40%) indicates that it has been a long time since this area suffered any burn. This complex contain small patches with tall Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks but the hollows contain little Sphagnum cover, only S. cuspidatum, and mainly consists of Narthecium ossifragum and bare peat. Occasionally scattered pools are found within this complex (GR. 201238, 211522). These are mainly drying out and consist of bare peat, Sphagnum papillosum and Rhynchospora alba. Some Sphagnum imbricatum tall hummocks are seen at the edges of the pools. However the overall Sphagnum cover within these wettest sections is only moderate 30%. This complex is also found to the northeast of SC2 (GR. 200791, 211437).
Complex 6/3/7 This complex is located to the southeast of flush Z (GR. 200853, 211395). The ground is rather dry, firm and the surface is flat. Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Carex panicea (20%) dominate the complex forming flats. Hollows are also found and contain open water and Sphagnum cuspidatum. S. capillifolium low hummocks are seen at the edges of the hollows. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20 to 30%. Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (<5%), within hollows, are also found. This complex is also found to the west of flush Z (GR. 2004645, 211500) and the Sphagnum cover is decreased as hollows are mainly bare peat and Narthecium ossifragum, very occasionally Eriophorum angustifolium. This complex is also found at the northwest of the high bog covering the area allocated to the sub-central complex 9/10 by Kelly et al. in 1995
Complex 6/7/9 This sub-marginal complex is found towards the northern margins of the high bog on a gentle slope down to the margin (GR. 201395, 211611). The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium. Narthecium ossifragum (30%) dominated flats, Calluna vulgaris (20- 25%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) dominate the vegetation. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is approximately 10%.
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Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6 recently burnt (3/6+rb) This complex dominates marginal ecotope and forms a narrow band along the high bog edge. The southern section of this complex was burnt in 2002/03 and as a result is Sphagnum is poor or absent in places and bare peat cover reaches 40%. A steep slope towards the edge is noted and the surface is firm. The microtopography consists of burnt Trichophorum cespitosum tussocks and flats dominated by Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum. Cladonia species are also absent. The northern half of the high bog was no burnt and there the Sphagnum cover is low (10%), mainly S. capillifolium. Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum dominate.
Complex 7/6 This complex is located at the northeast of the high bog, at the west of the moss peat exploitation (GR. 201567, 211508). The ground is firm and bare peat cover is 10 to 20%. Tall and robust Calluna vulgaris (0.3- 0.4m) dominate the complex at 30-40% cover. The microtopography is rather even and consists of bare peat / Narthecium ossifragum hollows and Trichophorum cespitosum tussocks. The overall Sphagnum cover varies from 10 to 20%.
Complex 2/3/7 This complex is found along parts of the northern margin of the high bog. The surface is firm underfoot and there is a steep slope towards the high bog margin. The Sphagnum cover is poor at 10% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium. Bare peat covers 10% of the surface area and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10%), Carex panicea (10-15%) and Calluna vulgaris (20-25%) characterise the vegetation. Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) dominated erosion channels are also present.
Complex 7 This complex is found in an area of high bog to the north of the flush that was exploited for moss peat in the past. Thus there are functional parallel drains extending through this complex in a NNE/SSW direction every 15-20m. The surface is firm and dry underfoot and bare peat covers 20-25% of the surface area. There is also a high cover of Campylopus introflexus and scattered Cladonia floerkeana. Robust (ca. 0.5m) Calluna vulgaris (40%) dominates the vegetation and there is scattered birch and pine. Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) is also present and Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant.
Complex 2 recently burnt (2+rb) This complex occurs along the southeastern margin of the high bog. A narrow band of vegetation characterised by more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) occurs parallel to the margin. The bog surface is quite firm and the complex occurs on a gentle to steep slope with a southeastern aspect. Other species present include small amounts of Carex panicea (5-10%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and low Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (10%). The are patches of Pteridium aquilinum encroaching from the high bog margin. The Sphagnum cover is less than 5% with some regenerating damaged hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. tenellum present.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This complex occurs in the northeastern margin of the high bog adjacent to the bog woodland. A narrow band of unburnt vegetation occurs at this location. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 0.3-0.4 m high and dominates the vegetation (60%). There are small amounts of Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Carex panicea (5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is 20%. Hypnum cupressiforme is quite frequent and there are small hummocks of S. capillifolium present (5%). This complex is also found in several locations at the edge of the high bog.
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Complex 1 recently burnt (1+rb) A narrow facebank complex occurs along the northeastern margin of the high bog adjacent to the commercial peat cutting. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 5-10% (0.1 m high) and the ground cover is dominated by bare peat. A narrow band along the face-bank has been stripped of vegetation and a parallel ridge of spoil material occurs 10 m from the facebank.
Flushes
Flush Y This flush is the main feature of interest of the site. Although active raised bog and bog woodland habitat dominates the flush there are some sections of inactive flush. Clearing 2 (C2 in map 1) and part of clearing 1 (C1) are inactive peat forming. They are described under flushes within section 5.2.1. Active Raised Bog.
Flush Z Flush Z is a small feature at the western end of the main flush. It consists of a raised which is dominated by Calluna (up to 70cm tall) and thriving Phragmites. There is also scattered Betula with a bryophyte layer of Hypnum jutlandicum. To the south there is a drier L-shaped mound which is dominated by Calluna and Vaccinium myrtillus. It is hard and dry underfoot.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat occurs at All Saint’s Bog in both active and degraded habitats. Only Rhynchospora alba was recorded within the 2004/05 survey at this site. R. fusca was recorded in 1994 in pools found within complex 6/2+P. These pools are still present on the bog and thus the species is still likely to be present. All Saint’s Bog is characterised by the low presence of wet pools and thus Rhynchospora spp. are practically devoid of one of their most frequent location. However Rhynchosporion depressions are found in the form of hollows along with Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum within both active raised bog (complex 9/10) and degraded raised bog (complex 7/9/6 & 7/9 + Cl). Rhynchospora alba is also found within drier hollows along with Narthecium ossifragum and bare peat within degraded raised bog (complex 6/3/9 + rb, 6/3 + rb). The species is again found within erosion channels (marginal ecotope - complex 2/3/7) where the wetness is increased locally.
5.2.4. Bog Woodland The woodland is a mosaic of different aged areas dominated by Pinus sylvestris, Betula pubescens and mixtures of these two species. Five different areas of dense bog woodland were described by Kelly et al. (1995) and remain at All Saint’s Bog (see Map 1, D1-D5). The bryophyte layer dominates the ground cover in a substantial part of the woodland but this is frequently dominated by other bryophyte species with Sphagnum species less frequent. Some areas have a greater development of microtopography with frequent tussocks on hummocks and frequent wet hollows containing S. cuspidatum and S. recurvum. Bog woodland is considered to have high water table and good Sphagnum cover and thus is considered active raised bog. The recent fire has damaged the southern section of the woodland. The burn-line extends quite far into the bog woodland in D1, D2 and D4 (see map3).
D1 This part of the flush occurs on the western side and is mainly wooded. A group of evenly-aged Pinus trees (8- 10 m high and with a 20-30 cm dbh) occurs in the southern part (GR. 201000, 211100). The ground layer is dominated by Molinia caerulea with frequent Calluna vulgaris and Vaccinium myrtillus. Other species present include Dryopteris dilatata, Pteridium aquilinum, Eriophorum vaginatum, Rubus fruticosus, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus, Hedera helix and Potentilla erecta. There are frequent litter cover and some scattered scrub cover. There are several smaller Betula pubescens, Pinus and occasional Ulex europaeus in the scrub layer. The bryophyte layer is abundant and is dominated by Aulacomnium palustre and S. recurvum, with less present S. palustre hummocks and S. cuspidatum in hollows. Polytrichum alpestre, Hypnum cupressiforme, Hylocomium splendens, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Dicranum scoparium are all present.
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A younger portion of woodland occurs at the western edge of the bog woodland (GR. 200692, 211312). The woodland is dominated by Pinus and the trees are mainly between 1-3 m high. Some are up to 6m high. The ground layer is dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris. The bog surface is firm to soft and the bryophyte layer is dominated by Hypnum cupressiforme. Other species present include Pleurozium schreberi, Blechnum spicant, Osmunda regalis and Myrica gale. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. This area contains inactive flush. The north-east part of this section is dominated by Betula pubescens, which are up to 8-9m high and have a dbh of 5-25 cm (GR.211300, 200800). The modal dbh is 3-10 dbh. The scrub and herbaceous layer is quite sparse (5-10%) and is dominated by Calluna vulgaris with Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%), Vaccinium myrtillus and Molinia caerulea (5-30%). The bryophyte layer is well-structured in this area and is dominated by Aulacomnium palustre with frequent Polytrichum alpestre, P. commune, Hylocomium splendens, Hypnum cupressiforme, Thuidium tamariscinum, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, R. squarrosus, S. capillifolium, S. cuspidatum, S. recurvum and S. palustre. The bog surface is spongy, soft and dry. This area has a relatively low Sphagnum cover 5-10% but the bryophyte cover is extensive (75%). The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. The epiphyte cover is relatively poor, which may indicate older burning disturbance. This area is considered active raised bog even though the overall Sphagnum cover is low in some areas. There are occasional wet hollows containing S. cuspidatum and S. recurvum. There are occasional patches in the northeast part of this area that are quite open and contain scrub rather than bog woodland. Species diversity and abundance was recorded in a 10 x 10 m releve located in a woodland stand dominated by Pinus.
Table 5.2.4.1 Releve recorded within the bog woodland (GR. 200831, 211251)
Species % cover Pinus sylvestris 35 Betula pubescens 5 Calluna vulgaris 5 Erica tetralix 1 Molinia caerulea 60 Juncus effusus <5 Eriophorum vaginatum 1 Anthoxanthum odoratum 1 Dryopteris carthusiana 1 Aulacomnium palustre 40 Sphagnum fimbriatum 20-30 Sphagnum palustre 15 Hylocomium splendens 5-10 Pleurozium schreberi 5-10 Hypnum cupressiforme 5 S. capillifolium <5 Polytrichum commune <5 Pseudoscleropodium purum 1 Eurhynchium praelongum 1 Polytrichum alpestre 1 Canopy Abundant Scrub Occasional Herb Abundant Litter Occasional Bryophyte Abundant
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Table 5.2.4.2. Releve information showing stem dbhs, strata position and estimated height for trees with > 7 cm dbh.
Tree number Species dbh (cm) Canopy position height (m) 1 Pinus 10 Canopy 10 2 Pinus 8 Canopy 10 3 Pinus 20 Canopy 12 4 Pinus 10 Canopy 10 5 Betula 10 Canopy 12 6 Betula 15 Canopy 12 7 Betula 15 Canopy 12 8 Pinus 40 Canopy 15 9 Pinus 7 Understorey 8
Table 3. Releve information showing details of stems < 7cm dbh. Species < 1m 1-2 m 2-4 m > 4 m Betula (single 59 stemmed) Betula (multi- 8 stemmed)
D2 This part of the flush is dominated by Pinus trees, which are up to 6m high and between 3-10 cm dbh. There are occasional trees with a dbh of 30-40 cm. There are patches of ground cover dominated by Pteridium aquilinum. The bryophyte layer is similar to other parts of the woodland and there is a mosaic of active and inactive areas.
D3 &D4 This part occurs on the eastern side of the flush. This part of the woodland is dominated by Betula pubescens with an average canopy height of 6-8 m high and a dbh of 20-30 cm. Some trees are up to 10 m high and are 20- 30 cm in dbh. The canopy cover is 30-40%. The recent fire burned some of this area on the southeastern side. The shrub layer is occasional and is dominated by younger Betula pubescens, occasional Salix sp. with small amounts of Calluna vulgaris (< 5%) and Vaccinium myrtillus (< 5%). The herbaceous layer is occasional to frequent and contains Pteridium aquilinum, Molinia caerulea, Eriophorum vaginatum, Juncus effusus, Dryopteris dilatata, Anthoxanthum odoratum and Empetrum nigrum. The ground cover is dominated by bryophytes (80%). The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% with frequent S. palustre, S. capillifolium,S. fimbriatum. Other frequent bryophyte species include Hypnum cupressiforme, Pleurozium schreberi, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, R. triquetrus, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum alpestre and P. commune. Some parts of the bog surface is quite firm. This area of the flush is dominated by active flush and forms a mosaic with inactive flush. Patches on the eastern side are characterised by scattered Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens trees. The ground cover of this area contains Vaccinium myrtillus, Andromeda polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccos, Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, Luzula sylvatica, Pteridium aquilinum, Eriophorum angustifolium, and Dryopteris dilatata. The micro-topography is tussocky with some open patches of bryophyte cover. There is standing dead Calluna vulgaris and young Betula pubescens and Pinus saplings are present. The Sphagnum cover is not dominant in most of this area. Some areas are dominated by S. capillifolium and S. palustre with frequent Aulacomnium palustre. Sphagnum fimbriatum is also present. Hummocks of Polytrichum alpestre and P. commune are present.
D5 This part of the flush occurs at the southern tip and is a small wooded area separated from the main bog woodland. There are some clumps of trees with taller Pinus tress (6 m high). Many of the smaller trees (1-2 m high) have been burnt and are standing dead. The ground layer has also been burnt. The ground layer is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum. The outer zone of the flush has a relatively higher Sphagnum cover (20- 30%). Leucobryum glaucum occurs in this zone. There are occasional Molinia caerulea patches. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum occur in this part of the flush. Aulacomnium palustre and Hypnum cupressiforme are quite frequent. Some of the bog surface is spongy and wet with an abundant bryophyte layer dominated by Polytrichum alpestre, Aulacomnium palustre, Hypnum cupressiforme and Hylocomium splendens. Some patches
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 are dominated by S. capillifolium. Empetrum nigrum, Andromeda polifolia and Vaccinium oxycoccos are all present in this complex. D5 contains a patchy cover of Sphagnum species after the burning and thus active and inactive vegetation, overall is considered active peat forming. The southern section of D5 has a lower trees canopy and high Sphagnum cover despite the recent burnt, this section is considered active raised bog.
5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qsc1 Sub-central 9/10 Qsc2 Sub-central 9/10 Qsc3 Sub-central 9/10 Qsc4 Sub-central 9/10 + rb Qbw Bog Woodland Bog Woodland
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of A (-2) peat Commercial use 19.45% of HB (abandoned) Domestic use 0.93km of HB 810 Drainage A (-2) 28.84km 180 Burning (Yr) A (-2) 97ha-42%of HB (2002/2003)
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area(ha)orLength(km) 810 Drainage B (-1) NA 300 Sand gravel extraction B (-1) NA
6.1. Cutting Over 52% of the original high bog area has been cut away since 1840s (MacGowan et al., in prep.). 2.9km of the high bog margin were considered actively cut in 1994 by Kelly et al. Currently, this figure has been reduced to 0.93 km, which equates to a reduction of 65% in the length of margin actively cut since 1994. The 2003 survey by MacGowan et al. identified 26 turf-cutting plots: 14 plots were deemed currently cut and 12 cut within the last five years. Cutting has been apparently abandoned at the west, southwest and east of the high bog. It also seems reduced along the northern margin, where several plots (seeMap3) were not cut away within the last five years according to MacGowan et al. survey in 2003. 0.8ha (0.35% of High Bog) of the high bog have been cut away between 1995-2000 (see Table 8.1). Similar figure is likely to have been lost in the period 2000-2005. There is a large commercial development by “Erin Peat” for moss peat in the northeast corner, representing 17.45% of the high bog surface. The exploitation has been carried out for some time and is negatively impacting
13 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 the site due to the insertion of long drains leading from active areas to the margin. The surface is bare of vegetation and the whole area is lower than the high bog. Furthermore the active raised bog is only 25m from this exploitation. This exploitation was halted sometime within the period 1995-2003. The most extensive cutting is taking place along northern edge and the hopper method is used. The cutting is apparently for domestic use. Peat cutting is also being carried out on the northwest, where some drains on the high bog are inserted (Drain Complex bC) and along the south side. There is a dense drainage network of 26.3km on the high bog associated with peat cutting, as well as dense marginal drainage. During this current survey 2004/05 a reassessment of the vegetation at All Saint’s Bog was carried out and was found that some of the sub-central described and depicted in 1995 by Kelly et al. are sub-marginal ecotope under current criteria. The proximity of turf bank to this active section was a crucial factor to assess the impact of turf cutting on the high bog. Thus, a reassessment of the impact of turf cutting on the high bog is required taking into consideration the reassessed active raised bog in 1995 and any relevant change within the last ten years. According to MacGowan et al. (in prep.) cutting along the north section of the site is the most threatening activity at the site. Plots 1,2,3,5,11,12 and 13, with an impact potential ranging between 10 and 20, represent the most serious threat to the large sub-central area to the north of the high bog. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) calculated that cutting was taking place within 50m from active ecotope. Currently the nearest active community complex 10/6/2 (sub-central ecotope) has been re-assessed and considered to be sub-marginal in 1995. Nonetheless, turf banks 1,2 and 13 were less than 50m from active habitat (sub-central community complex 10/9) and cutting at these turf banks must be stopped immediately. Cutting at plot 21 at the south of the high bog also occurred within 50m from active raised bog (complex 10/6+) and also must be stopped immediately. Furthermore, according to MacGowan et al. (in prep.) cutting on plot 1 takes place near functional drains (drain bD and adjacent) which are associated with the commercial moss peat exploitation. These drains run towards the north edge of the high bog. Thus, cutting on plot 1 may increase the flow of water from the high bog, resulting in a drying out of the sub-central area and thus degradation of the active raised bog. Therefore it is recommended blocking of these drains. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) also considered necessary to immediately stop cutting at plots 3,11 and 12. Mainly due to their proximity to active raised bog (complex 10/6/2). Although complex 10/6/2 is deemed sub-marginal ecotope under current criteria, cutting at turf banks 3,11 & 12 takes place within 100m from active raised bog and should be stop within short term (five years). Furthermore, these plots are adjacent to plots 1, 2 and 13 and therefore it is recommended that they are phased out simultaneously (immediately). Cutting at turf bank 5 should also be stopped immediately as all the adjacent turf plots. A significant decrease in active raised bog has occurred in the northern section of the bog according to this current survey (section 8.11.). Thus this fact illustrates the impact of turf cutting on the northern margin. According to the 2003 survey (MacGowan et al., in prep.) cutting on plots 4,6,7,8,9,10 and 14 appears to have been abandoned. If cutting on these plots were to be restarted it would pose a serious threat to the remaining active bog and thus this should not be allowed to occur. Cutting at plots 22 and 23 at the southeast of the high bog would also pose a serious threat to active areas if cutting was restarted. Thus cutting should neither be restarted at plots 22 and 23. Cutting at plots 15 & 16 occurs within 150-200m from active raised bog and has low impact potential score. Thus cutting at these plots should be phased out within ten years according to the 2003 survey. The vegetation survey carried out during this project indicates that active raised bog (SC3 in map 1) is currently closer to cutting in plots 19 and 20 than considered in 2003. Cutting at plot 20 takes place within 50m from active bog and at plot 20 70m from SC3. Therefore, although cutting at plot 19 should be stopped within 5 years (low impact potential score but less than 100m from active bog). It is necessary to immediately phase out cutting at plot 19 as cutting in the adjacent plot 20 occurs within 50m from SC1 and must be phased out immediately. Furthermore, GPS measurement taken in this area during the current survey (see map 3) indicatse that cutting rate at these plots is high (4m/year). Cutting at plots 17 & 18 immediately north of plots 19 & 20 should be phased out within ten years according to the 2003 survey. The current survey does not change this assessment. To summarise, it is necessary to immediately phase out cutting in plots 1,2,3,5,11,12,13,19,20 and 21, and to phase out cutting on plots 19 and 20 within the next five years. The commencement of active peat cutting in plots 4,6,7,8,9,10,14,22 and 23 should be prevented due to its detrimental effect on the active sub-central. The remaining turf plots at the site (15,16,17,18,24,25,26) should be phased out in a medium term; that is 10 years.
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Although cutting intensity has been reduced in the last ten years. This activity is considered to have a high intensity and high negative influence on the high bog habitats (see Table 6.1).
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage The site has relatively few drains on the high bog apart from the development in the NE corner and some short drains on the western edge. According to Kelly et al. (1995) the long linear flush which runs across the centre of the site was damp in places. This flush may be part of an internal drainage system. Some old drains (bA, bB and bH) were noted in the field which were not evident on the aerial photography. They were all infilled and non-functional although they may have affected the surrounding vegetation in the past. The location of high bog drains in shown map 3.
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain bA This drain is found at the W of the site is old and infilled. It is no visible on the aerial photograph. Drain bB This drain is at the northern side of the site close to the mound with Phragmites at the west end of the main flush. It is very old, infilled and not easily seen in the field. It appears to be non-functional. Drain This is a series of 12 short drains associated with active peat cutting on the western Complex bC bog edge. They are all bare of vegetation apart from some algae. Erosion channels leading into some of the drains were seen. Drain bD This drain, 0.5m wide and 0.3-0.4m deep, is considered functional. The upper section of this drain is getting infilled with Sphagnum papillosum, S. cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. However the lowest section is mostly bare peat and open water. It is considered functional. Drain bE Kelly et al. (1995) described this drain as a new drain. It runs NW/SE across Drain bD. It is 0.25m wide by 0.5m deep and is functional. Drain They consist of 19 drains, which are part of the Erin Peat development. They have Complex bF been cut for some time and infilling is occurring. They are 0.25 deep and wide and contain stagnant water. This area has not been harvested. They are still functional. Drain bG This drain runs along the southern edge of the Erin Peat area (P 000_0027). It is 2m deep by 2m wide, decreasing to 0.5m wide at the base. It is bare of vegetation and there is flow of water to the east. This drain is functional and flow towards the east was noted. Drain This is a series of 54 parallel drains part of the Erin Peat area. They are 15-20m apart Complex bJ and bare of vegetation. The area high bog surface is only bare peat and regeneration is not occurring.
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1994/95 2004/05 Variation 1994/95- 2004/05 (%) Length of functional 29930 28841 1089 1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 0 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 1219 N/A drains (m) Area affected by 87.6 83.33 N/A drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
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Although the table 6.2.2 above indicates a reduction in the length of functional drains there has no been any actual variation. This difference is only due to the use of different measuring techniques for each survey. Drains bA, bB and BH were already non-functional in 1995. However Kelly et al. (1995) did not provide a figure for its length. Although table 6.2.2. illustrates a variation in the area affected by drainage this is also due to discrepancies defining the flush boundaries. Although some infilling occurs within some high bog drains, the high bog drainage is considered to have no changed. High bog drainage is considered to have high intensity and high negative influence (see Table 6.1).
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004/05. Kelly et al. (1995) described a number of drains associated with hopper cutting along the entire site cutover. This drainage was more extensive to the north where peat cutting is currently occurring, west and east. A number of drains were also associated with the moss peat exploitation. Bog margin drainage has changed very little since 1995. Some infilling processes may have occurred in those turf cutting plots were the activity has ceased. However, they continue drying out the high bog and thus pose a threat to the habitats present on it. According to Kelly et al. (1995) the Rapemills River to the N of the site has been deepened and straightened. Bog margin drainage is considered to have medium intensity and moderate negative influence as illustrated in table 6.2. See Kelly et al. (1995) for more details of drainage on the cutover.
6.3. Fire history
Burning occurs regularly at the site. Kelly et al. (1995) described a band of recently burnt vegetation at the southern edge of the site. They also recorded some burn signs at the northwest and west. A severe fire event has recently (2002/03) affected the southern half of the high bog. This burn severely damaged the active raised bog habitat present on the southeastern corner of the bog (sub-central complex 10/6+ according to Kelly et al., 1995). A large section of the central flush and the Bog Woodland was also detrimentally affected (see Map3). As a consequence the southeastern section of high bog has degraded to sub-marginal ecotope (complexes 6/3/9 + rb, 9+rb and 9a+rb) and only scattered sub-central ecotope patches remain (SC6 & SC9) in the wettest sections of the high bog. The bog woodland quality has declined; reduction in Sphagnum cover, microtopography degraded, etc.
6.4. Gravel Extraction
This is being carried out in Coneycarn pit at the S of the site. The pit is located in an esker deposit. This quarry was not visited within the survey. However according to the Natura Form this activity as low intensity (C) and moderate negative influence on the site habitats (-1).
6.5. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as cultivation (mowing/cutting – 102), fertilisation (120), grazing (140) hunting (230), urbanised areas (dispersed habitation – 403) and communication network (502) were reported within and around the site in the Natura Form. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage.
16 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS
There is not Management Plan produced for All Saint’s Bog SAC 566. However a Draft Conservation Plan is currently being developed by MPSU and is expected to be finished by the end of 2005. No known physical management actions have been carried out to improve the conservation status of the site or any of the habitats at this site.
8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog A different figure for the 1995 high bog area has been obtained for the 1995 survey and 2004 survey. This is mainly due to differences in mapping techniques. The second figure (2004), obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). The high bog area has decreased by 0.8ha in the period 1995-2000 due to peat cutting, as the table 8.1 below illustrates. This accounts for a reduction of 0.35%. Similar reduction in high bog extent is likely to have occurred in the period 2000-2005.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2000) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 234 228.81 228.01 228.01 2 0.8ha 0.35% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004/05 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by c.a. 0.5 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog Habitat extent There has been an overall reduction in extent of active raised bog from 66.61ha in 1995 (1994 survey) to 37.29ha in 2004 (44.02% reduction in the original active raised bog area). A reduction in active raised bog area greater than 15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of unfavourable declining (see table 3.2.4 chapter 3- Summary Report). Kelly’s vegetation has been re-interpreted during this current survey to allow a more accurate comparison between both surveys. Complexes 10/6 and 10/6- were described as sub-central in the 1994/95 survey and are considered sub-marginal under the current criteria (see Map 4). Both community complexes were described as having moderate Sphagnum cover 25% for complex 10/6- and 30% for complex 10/6. Indeed a community complex with Sphagnum cover lesser than 30% is not considered active peat forming under the criteria used during this current survey, particularly in midland raised bogs. The recently burnt sub-marginal complex 6/3/9 + rb characterises a large section of the high bog formerly occupied by 10/6 and 10/6-. Similar Sphagnum species to complexes (10/6 and 10/6-) are found within complex 6/3/9 + rb. The sub-marginal complex 6/3+P covers a small section of the former complex 10/6. This community complex escaped the recent burn and resembles complex 10/6. This evidence also confirms the hypothesis that complex 10/6 was sub-marginal ecotope in 1994/95. The former complex 10/6/2, which was sub-central ecotope according to Kelly et al. (1995), has been also downgraded to sub-marginal ecotope according to current criteria. The sub-marginal complex 9/7/6 currently dominates this section of the high bog and have similar features than Kelly’s complex 10/6/2. These features consist of similar Sphagnum cover averaging at 30%, similar Sphagnum species and microtopography (Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum hummocks). Thus this section of the bog is considered to have slightly changed or no changed within the last ten years. The sub-marginal complexes 9 + rb, 9a+rb, 9/3+rb, dominate the southeast of the high bog and characterise part of the high bog area that was classified by Kelly et al. in 1995 as sub-central complex 10/6+. This area was severely affected by the recent burn (2002/03). The Sphagnum cover was estimated to be circa 50% before the
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 burn occurred. The wetness of the ground is still high in places but the Sphagnum cover averages at 20-30%. Thus there has been a considerably decline in quality which also has posed a decrease in active raised bog extent. Complex 10/6+ extent was 24.57ha. A considerable decrease in habitat extent has also occurred at the northeast of the high bog, where Kelly et al. (1995) depicted complex 10/9 (sub-central ecotope). Currently a smaller section of sub-central ecotope is found (SC1). Peat cutting to the north and drainage to the east (bD and bE) are likely to have negatively influenced this section of the habitat. However, complex 7/9+Cl is found dominating a large section of the area formerly allocated to sub-central complex10/9. Kelly et al. (1995) already described this section of the high bog as much drier than the rest of complex 10/9, where the Sphagnum cover was 55%. Thus, although the comparison between current ecotope map (map1) and Kelly’s geo-referenced and re-interpreted map (map 4) indicate a substantial change in this section of the bog, this is likely to have been less severe. Hence some sections of former complex 10/9 correspond to current 7/9+Cl where little change occurred. Kelly et al. (1995) described a sub-central ecotope patch to the west of the high bog dominated by complex 9/10. Currently this pacth of sub-central ecotope (SC3) is found slightly to the north of this original area. This drifting of active ecotope could be either a consequence of mapping discrepancies or an actual change in vegetation: drying out of 1995 sub-central ecotope and development of sub-central to the north, maybe induced by subsidence caused by peat cutting and drainage. There is no figure for active flush extent provided by Kelly et al. (1995). Therefore it is not possible to accurately calculate any variation in extent. Active flush is assumed to have no changed in terms of extent (see table 8.2). However a large section of the central flush was severely damaged by the recent burn and decline in quality has occurred.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Habitat structure and function The methodology used to assess the conservation status of habitat structure and functions of active raised bog considers the variation in central ecotope as the overriding attribute. However, there is no central ecotope present on All saint’s Bog and neither was there any recorded in 1994. Thus other attributes such as variation in Sphagnum cover and presence of disturbance indicators are used to assess variation in habitat quality. The microtopography consist mainly of hummocks, hollows and lawns, and very few permanent pools are found. Kelly et al. (1995) already noted the low presence of pools. The Sphagnum cover averages at 40-50% and it is higher in places.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Good quality hummock indicators such as Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum are still common within the habitat. Sphagnum cuspidatum considered a good quality pool indicator is also recorded, but mainly within hollows, as pools are no frequent. Overall there has been an increase in disturbance indicators as a result of the recent burn: bare peat, dead Sphagnum hummocks and higher Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea occurrence, particularly in the southern half. Kelly et al. already recorded algae in 1994 currently present within the infrequent pools. The decline in sub-central ecotope extent and its fragmentation illustrate this trend.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Active raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There are poor prospects for its future and the long-term viability is not assured.
18 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/5 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures2) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-central 38.69 16.91 9.37 4.11 (-)29.32 (-)75.78 Active flush 1 10.44 4.56 10.44 4.58 0 0 Bog Woodland 1 17.48 7.64 17.48 7.66 0 0 Total 66.61 29.11 37.29 16.35 (-)29.32 (-)44.02 1 Kelly et al. did not provide a figure for either active flush or Bog Woodland. Their extent is considered to have no changed in the period 1994/95-2004/05. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. See map 4.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at All Saint’s Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog Habitat extent According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.4 chapter 3 - Summary Report), both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. In addition an increase in the extent of degraded raised bog as a result of loss of active raised bog is not considered as a more favourable condition for the habitat. Thus, when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1994/95 has increased only as a result of degradation of active raised bog the habitat extent is assessed as no changed and thus favourable maintained. There has been a loss of 0.8ha (0.35% of high bog) of degraded bog habitat due to peat cutting between 1995- 2000. Similar amount is likely to have been lost in the period 2000-2005.
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function
The habitat microtopography consists of hummocks (S. capillifolium, S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and occasionally S. imbricatum and S. fuscum), hollows and very occasionally algae dominated pools (complex 6/3+P & 7/9/3+P). However Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea flats dominate the drier sections of the habitat. The Sphagnum cover averages at 30% and declines at the edges of the high bog (marginal ecotope). Kelly et al.’s sub-central complexes 10/6, 10/6- and 10/6/2 have been re-interpreted and downgraded to sub- marginal ecotope as their description correspond to sub-marginal ecotope under the criteria used during this survey. Their area accounts for 60.58ha and this figure has been added to the original sub-marginal ecotope Kelly et al. (1995) figure. The inclusion of these complexes under degraded raised bog implies an increase in habitat quality: higher Sphagnum cover and better structured microtopography. However, this not represents any actual change in habitat structure or functions. A large section of the 1995 active raised bog habitat has decline in quality and thus degraded to sub-marginal ecotope. This process has been significant in the southeastern section of the high bog where complexes 9+rb, 9a+rb, 6/3/9+rb and 9/3+rb are found. As a consequence the structure and functions of degraded raised bog as slightly improved. This is not considered a favourable process for the overall high bog and thus can not be assessed as an enhancement in the habitat quality. Similar process has occurred in the southern half of the bog where the sub-marginal complex 6/3/9 dominates and features a mosaic of good quality patches and poorer patches. The entire complex was burnt in 2002/03. The quality of complex 6/3/9 increases towards the centre of the bog and particularly in the southeast where complex 10/6+ was described in 1995.
19 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Table 8.3 below shows an increase in marginal ecotope of 27.80%(9.53ha), however 4ha correspond to the former damaged area that have developed marginal ecotope. Thus the actual variation in marginal ecotope as a result of decline in habitat quality is 16.12% (5.53ha). According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report), an increase in marginal ecotope between 5-25% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable declining.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Good quality hummock indicators (Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum) are found within sub-marginal ecotope in complexes 9 + rb, 9a+rb, 6/3/9+rb and 7/9+Cl. The good quality pool indicator Sphagnum cuspidatum is found within sub-marginal ecotope in complexes 9 + rb, 9a+rb and 6/3/9+rb and S. auriculatum within 6/3+p. The presence of disturbance indicators (bare peat and dead Sphagnum hummocks) has also increased within this habitat, particularly on the southern half of the high bog that was recently burnt. There are also evidence of old burning in the northern section of the high bog (burnt tussocks and Campylopus introflexus), however this is likely to have occurred more than 10 years ago. This increase in disturbance indicators also verifies a decline in habitat quality.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There are poor prospects for its future and the long-term viability is not assured as long as peat cutting, burning and drainage continue.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 76.26 33.33 97.04 42.56 (+)20.78 (+)27.25 Marginal 34.28 14.98 35.71 15.66 9.53 2 (+)27.80 Face-bank 1 NA NA 8.1 3.55 N/A N/A In-active flush 5 NA NA 10.08 4.42 N/A N/A Damaged 49.36 21.57 39.78 17.45 (+)9.58 (-)19.41 Total 162.2 70.89 190.71 83.64 (+)28.51 (+)17.57 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1994/95 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1994/95 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004/05. 3 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be slightly smaller (c.a. 0.5ha) to the one shown in the above table. 5Kelly et al. did not provide a figure for inactive flush. It extent is considered to have changed very little in the last ten years. Flush Y is much larger than originally mapped by Kelly et al. (1995). This is as a result of difference in mapping the flush boundaries rather than an actual change. Nonetheless, 3ha of inactive flush have developed at the northeast of flush Y where Kelly et al. (1995) depicted damaged bog.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at All Saint’s Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
20 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. Rhynchospora alba is only occasionally found within both active and degraded raised bog. All Saint’s Bog is characterised by the low presence of wet pools, which are typical location for Rhynchospora spp. However Rhynchospora alba is found within hollows and occasionally erosion channels. Kelly et al. only recorded Rhynchospora alba in a few locations in 1995 and thus the extent and quality of the habitat is likely to have no changed in the last ten years. R. fusca was recorded in 1995 in pools found within complex 6/2+P. These pools are still present on the bog and thus the species is still likely to be present at the site, despite no been recorded during the current survey.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at All Saint’s Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
8.1.4. Bog Woodland The Bog Woodland present at All Saint’s Bog is considered as the best developed bog woodland of its type in Ireland according to the Natura Form. The site supports a rich invertebrate fauna, including several insect species, which are rare in Ireland or found only on this site. Kelly et al. did not provided a figure for the habitat extent in 1995. Thus it is assumed that this has not changed in the period 1994/95-2004/05. The southern section of the habitat was recently burnt (2002/03) and this fire event affected section D1, D2, D4, and D5 (see Map 3). As a result, the Sphagnum cover and the presence of epiphytes have decreased, the understorey has been damaged and some patches of the habitat have become inactive. Burning and drainage particularly in the moss peat exploitation at the east of the high bog pose a serious threat to the habitat and the long-term viability is not assured.
! The conservation status of the Bog Woodland at All Saint’s Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog
Peat cutting intensity has reduced at All Saint’s Bog in the last ten years. However the northern margin of the high bog is still extensively cut using hopper method. This activity in addition to marginal drainage associated with peat cutting, which is found along the entire high bog margin is likely to have taken part in the decline in active raised bog in the north section of the bog. Moss peat exploitation takes places to the northeast of the high bog, although no longer active still poses a serious threat to active raised bog. A dense functional drainage network within this moss peat exploitation continues drying out the high bog. Furthermore this is adjacent to flush Y that includes large bog woodland. The area is completely devoid of vegetation and is lower than the adjacent high bog, leading to subsidence. Major remedial works are required. Burning occurs regularly at All Saint’s Bog. The 2002/03 fire event seriously affected the southern half of the high bog and degraded part of the flush including a large section the bog woodland and sub-central ecotope. The former sub-central complex 10/6+ has declined in quality, and as a result the area covered by this complex is currently sub-marginal ecotope (complexes 9+rb, 9a+rb and 6/3/9+rb). The Sphagnum is estimated to have decreased from 40-50% to 10-30% and Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea are more common. Bare peat cover is high at 20% in places. Only those sections of the high bog where the surface wetness was higher remain active, such as SC5 and SC6. This is due to the presence of an infilled old drain (bH) across this sections where the substrate wetness is locally higher.
21 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog
The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has substantially decreased (29.32ha – 44.02%) at All Saint’s Bog since the last survey (1994). Kelly et al. (1995) already noted the absence of central complexes, permanent pools and the low presence of sub-central ecotope. They suggested that marginal drainage and peat- cutting effects have been significant and this seems to have continued within the last ten years (1995-2005). As a consequence of the ongoing degradation process on the high bog, active raised bog is mainly confined to a band around the large central flush. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad). As regards the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent has increased as a result of the degradation of former active raised bog. The extent of marginal ecotope has also increased. The burn event recently occurred (2002/03) also affected degraded raised bog, degrading its structure and functions. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate). Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are only occasionally found at All Saint’s Bog within both active or degraded raised bog. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable). All Saint’s Bog has the example of most extensive bog woodland (91D0) habitat in Ireland. Although its extent is considered to have no changed within the reporting period, its quality has declined as a result of being affected by the recent burn. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at All Saint’s Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. (in prep.) Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES Appendix I Quadrats ECOTOPE SUB-CENTRAL SUB-CENTRAL SUB-CENTRAL SUB-CENTRAL BOG WOODLAND COMPLEX NAME 9/10 9/10 9/10 9/10 + rb Bog woodland QUADRAT NAME Qsc1 QSc2 QSc3 QSc4 Qbw EASTING 201137 200650 200628 200886 200831 NORTHING 211445 211322 211722 211105 211251 FIRMNESS firm-soft soft very soft very soft CRACKING no no no no BOG BURST no no no no SLOPE flat flat depression flat DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains BURNT no 1 year ago 2002/03 TREND wetter ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% absent < 5% < 5% ALGAL POOL absent absent < 5% BARE PEAT < 5% absent < 5% 10% POOL COVER < 5% absent 10% absent POOLS reg pools reg pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY high hum, hollows, pool high hums and hollows high hums and hollows low hums and hollows COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% 30% 20% 10% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS 10% absent absent < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent absent 5% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK < 5% absent absent < 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent S. PAP COVER absent 10% 5% 15% S. PAP HABITAT hollows hummocks hollows and lawns S. MAG COVER absent absent 10% < 5% S. MAG HABITATS hummocks & lawns hummocks S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS 10% 5% absent absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS absent absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 5% absent E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS < 5% 25% 5% NARTHECIUM HOLLOWS < 5% 5% < 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollows lawns S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent absent 5% absent S. SUBNITENS absent absent absent S. AURIC POOLS absent absent absent absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS absent absent < 5% absent S. CUSP 10% 5% 5%
23 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 10% absent 10% absent SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 20% 40% 30% 20% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 40% 50% 40% 25% E. ANGUS < 5% < 5% < 5% 30% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS Sphagnum imbricatum S. fuscum S. imbricatum POOLS INDICATORS S. cuspidatum S. cuspidatum S. cuspidatum CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 10% 10% absent CLADONIA COVER 5% 10% absent DISTURBANCE INDICATORS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS absent NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA absent OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 40% 30% 5% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.1 OTHER DETAILS OTHER SPECIES Vaccinium oxycoccos, frequent Erica tetralix Andromeda polifolia COMPLEX VARIATIONS SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DETAILS surrounds bog woodland
24 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Appendix II Photographical records
Image Number Feature Grid Reference Date 000_0027 Drain bG (functional) E 202062 - N 210927 10/03/2005 000_0028 Complex 6/3/9 RB (Sub-marginal ecotope) previously complex 10/6 E 201896 - N 210834 10/03/2005 (Sub-central ecotope) 000_0029 Sphagnum fimbriatum. Bog Woodland (D4) NA 10/03/2005 000_0030 Sphagnum fimbriatum. Bog Woodland (D4) NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0309 Peat cutting E 202448 - N 211087 10/03/2005 HPIM0310 commercial peat cutting NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0311 commercial peat cutting E 202399 - N 211104 10/03/2005 HPIM0312 commercial peat cutting E 202399 - N 211104 10/03/2005 HPIM0313 commercial peat cutting drains E 202399 - N 211104 10/03/2005 HPIM0314 burnt margin of high bog E 201689 - N 210522 10/03/2005 HPIM0315 Sub-marginal ecotope (complex 9 +rb) E 201494 - N 210946 10/03/2005 HPIM0316 Sub-marginal ecotope (complex 9 +rb) E 201494 - N 210946 10/03/2005 HPIM0317 view of bog woodland E 201494 - N 210946 10/03/2005 HPIM0318 Sub-central ecotope (complex 9a/10+rb) pool E 201059 - N 211062 10/03/2005 HPIM0319 Pine stand in flush (D1) E 201059 - N 211062 10/03/2005 HPIM0320 Flush Y close to D1 E 200671 - N 211327 10/03/2005 HPIM0321 Flush Y close to D1 E 200671 - N 211327 10/03/2005 HPIM0322 Birch bog woodland NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0323 Pine bog woodland NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0324 Birch bog woodland NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0325 Lichen NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0326 Lichen NA 10/03/2005 HPIM0327 Lichen NA 10/03/2005
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES Kelly et al., 1995 Original figures Figures calculated from 1995 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Sub-central 105.7 45.17 41.69 1 18.22 Sub-marginal 15.2 6.5 76.26 33.33 Marginal 38.1 16.28 34.28 2 14.98 Flushes (active 29 12.39 27.22 11.89 and inactive) Damaged 46 19.66 49.36 21.57 Total 234 100 228.81 100
1 The original Kelly et al. (1995) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. Complex 10/6, Complex 10/6- and complex 10/6/2 were described as sub-central in the 1994/95 survey. However under the criteria used during the current survey, these complexes would be considered as sub-marginal. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1995 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 60.58ha. Thus the area measured for the 1995 Kelly et al. geo-referenced map is 41.69ha. However, approximately 3ha of this 1995 ecotope has been mapped as active flush during this survey and thus should be subtracted from this figure (41.69ha -3ha=38.69ha). The revised ecotope map of Kelly et al. (1995) is given here as Map 4. 2 There is a difference between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly et al. is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 35.16ha.
25
Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Blackcastle, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
NHA no.: 0570 6” Sheet: OY 4 Grid Ref.: N 580 350 1:50,000 Sheet: 49 NHA area 2004 (ha): 167.70 High bog area 2004 94.58 (ha): Dates of Visit: 19/08/04 Townlands: Ballymacwilliam, Ballybryan and Ballyheashill, Clonmo, Lenanarran, Mountwilson.
2. SITE LOCATION
This small raised bog is situated approximately 3km north-west of Edenderry, Co. Offaly. The site may be accessed by a bog road, which runs around much of the site. Kelly et al. (1995) grouped Blackcastle Bog along with Raheenmore Bog as the raised bogs of W Offaly.
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in August 2004, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Blackcastle bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Apart from Ballynafagh bog (SAC 391), Blackcastle is the most easterly of the remaining raised bogs in the country. The high bog consists of one crescent-shaped lobe, which is quite flat with no permanent pools and and a poorly developed microtopography (Kelly et al., 1995).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU annexed habitats are found in the Blackcastle Bog NHA; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) The current (2004) area of active raised bog at Blackcastle is estimated to be approximately 7.49ha (7.92% of high bog). This is a decline of 16.06ha (68.20%) from the 1995 area.
The active raised bog at Blackcastle is largely confined to small pockets of sub-central ecotope that are found mostly towards the centre of the northern lobe. The Sphagnum cover in these areas is up to 70% (averaging at 50%), but there are no pools or very wet areas. Furthermore, there are no large hummocks present and neither S. imbricatum nor S. fuscum have been recorded on the site. Thus, the microtopography is composed mostly of lawns and low hummocks and the most frequent Sphagna are S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium with S. cuspidatum recorded occasionally in hollows. The bog would appear to have suffered from burning frequently in the past illustrated by the Calluna vulgaris, which is generally low-growing. Lawns of
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Rhynchospora alba and Eriophorum vaginatum are frequent and flush indictors are also present such as Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and Polytrichum alpestre.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) The current (2004) area of degraded raised bog at Blackcastle is estimated to be approximately 87.10ha (92.09% of high bog). This is an increase of 14.18ha (19.45%) from the 1995 area. This increase is accounted for because of the degradation of active raised bog. Approximately 1.90ha of high bog has been lost to peat cutting in the last ten years.
Degraded raised bog covers most of Blackcastle. The microtopography is poorly developed and together with the low-growing Calluna vulgaris this suggests that the vegetation has suffered repeatedly from burns in the past. In general the surface is dry underfoot, but there are spongy moist areas where there is a good cover of Sphagnum (averages at 15-20% cover, but up to 30-40% cover in places). Hypnum jutlandicum forms a large component of the bryophyte layer and Rhynchospora alba is often the most dominant higher plant. However, in those areas that have escaped burning for over 20 years Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum are more prominent and there is a moderate cover of Cladonia portentosa. There are occasional tall hummocks of Leucobryum glaucum scattered throughout the west and centre of the eastern lobe and Pinus sylvestris as well as Betula pubescens seedlings are found scattered in the east of the high bog. Vaccinium oxycoccus, Andromeda polifolia, Narthecium ossifragum and Erica tetralix are all frequent.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread at Blackcastle, but it is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. It is found in both active and degraded raised bog habitats on Blackcastle. It is best developed in areas that have suffered from fire in the last 10-20 years with Rhynchospora alba characterising many of these complexes. In active areas it is found dominating along with lawns and low hummocks of Sphagnum mostly S. magellanicum and S. papillosum. In degraded areas Calluna vulgaris is also usually dominant and Eriophorum vaginatum is frequent in both habitat types.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Blackcastle.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Blackcastle Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
There are no central ecotope complexes present on Blackcastle.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/4 This is the wettest and most Sphagnum-rich complex on Blackcastle and is found towards the centre of the northern lobe of bog (SC1: GR. 257925, 235510). Lawns of Rhynchospora alba (25-30%) and low hummocks/lawns of Sphagnum (50-60%) dominate. The surface is very soft underfoot and there are infillled hollows of S. cuspidatum (10-15%). The tallest Sphagnum hummocks are those of S. capillifolium and these do
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 not exceed 0.2m with low hummocks and lawns of S. magellanicum (5%) and S. papillosum (15%) being the most prominent of the Sphagna. S. tenellum is also present as is Hypnum jutlandicum. 0.2-0.3m Calluna vulgaris generally occurs at approximately 10% cover and Eriophorum vaginatum at 10-20% cover. A 1.5m Betula pubescens tree is found within this complex at GR. 257937, 235539 and there is an understory of Eriophorum vaginatum, Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and Polytrichum alpestre. Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and details in appendix I.
Complex 9/10/4 This sub-central complex is found between drains bA and bB (SC6: GR. 258170, 234900). The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 40% composed of infilled hollows of S. cuspidatum (10-20%) and low hummocks of S. capillifolium (10-20%) and S. papillosum (10%). Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%), 0.2m Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and Rhynchospora alba (10-20%) dominate the vegetation and Trichophorum cespitosum is occasional (5%). There also are mounds of Calluna vulgaris within this complex that can be seen as dark circles on the 2000 aerial photograph. This complex is also found in the north-east of the northern lobe (SC2: GR. 258050, 235655). Parts of this area are labelled as Complex 9/10 due to the lower cover of Rhynchospora alba.
Complex 4/10 This sub-central complex is found in SC3, SC4 and parts of SC5, all towards the centre of the northern lobe of the bog. It is similar to Complex 10/4, but is slightly more degraded. Lawns of Rhynchospora alba (20%) and low hummocks/lawns of Sphagnum (40-50%) dominate. The surface is soft underfoot and there are infillled hollows of S. cuspidatum (5%). The tallest Sphagnum hummocks are those of S. capillifolium with low hummocks and lawns of S. magellanicum (5%) and S. papillosum (15%) being the most prominent of the Sphagna. 0.2-0.3m Calluna vulgaris generally occurs at approximately 10-20% cover and Eriophorum vaginatum at 10-15% cover. However, the cover of Calluna vulgaris is increased in places where the complex is termed Complex 4/7/10.
Complex 9/7/10 This sub-central complex is found in scattered patches of the high bog. It forms small pockets of active raised bog within sub-marginal ecotope, particularly Complex 9/7 and 9/7 + Cl. These are not mapped in the Ecotopes Map (Map 1) as they are considered too small, but can be seen as distinct points on the Complex Map (Map 2). Parts of SC5 are also considered as Complex 9/7/10 such as at GR. 257985, 235035. The surface within this complex is soft underfoot and there is a high cover of bryophytes (80-90%). The Sphagnum layer is 40-60% composed mainly of low hummocks of S. capillifolium (30-40%) along with S. papillosum, S. cuspidatum, S. tenellum and S. magellanicum. The cover of Hypnum jutlandicum is also high and Aulacomnium palustre is present. Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) and 0.2m Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) dominate the vegetation.
Active Flushes
There are no active flushes present on Blackcastle.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 4/7 This sub-marginal complex covers large areas of the northern lobe of high bog at Blackcastle. The Sphagnum cover is good averaging at 30% (increasing to 40% inwards into the bog and decreasing to 20% towards the margins). The microtopography is poorly developed with lawns of Rhynchospora alba dominating (25-30%) and extensive low hummocks/lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum and S. papillosum usually underneath. There are also frequent low hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. tenellum and algal hollows (5%), which are occasionally colonised by S. cuspidatum. The ground is soft and spongy underfoot, but the surface is relatively dry or moist. Hypnum jutlandicum is also abundant growing in a lawn-like fashion and it dominates the bryophyte layer in large patches. Vaccinium oxycoccus is abundant throughout the complex and Calluna
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 vulgaris though co-dominant (20-30%) is low growing (0.1-0.2m), which along with the fact that the Cladonia portentosa cover is <5% indicates that large patches of the complex may have been burned in the last ten years. Eriophorum vaginatum is also frequent within this complex occurring at up to 10-15% cover and Narthecium ossifragum, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum all occur at approximately 5% cover.
Complex 9/7 This sub-marginal complex is found in scattered patches of the high bog, particularly towards the north of the northern lobe (GR. 257995, 235725) and between drains bA and bB (GR. 258110, 234870). The surface is soft underfoot and low hummocks and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% composed mostly of low hummocks of S. capillifolium (20%) as well as S. papillosum and S. magellanicum with occasional S. cuspidatum in hollows. A very small patch of S. pulchrum was found at GR. 257970, 235733. The overall bryophyte cover is 70-80% as there is also a high cover of Hypnum jutlandicum (25-30%). Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and 0.2-0.3m Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) dominate the vegetation along with occasional Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) particularly where the vegetation grades into the sub-marginal complex 9/7/4. Vaccinium oxycoccus is common and there are occasional algal hollows (5%). The cover of Cladonia portentosa is 5-10%. In the eastern lobe a variety of this complex is found that has not been burned for a number of years. There are some larger hummocks here and the cover of C. portentosa is 30-40%. This complex has a number of sub-central characteristics and in places (e.g. GR. 258395, 234885) there are patches of the sub- central complex 9/7/10. These are shown as points on the Complex Map (Map 2), but are considered too small in area to illustrate on the Ecotopes Map (Map 1).
Complex 9/7/4 This sub-marginal complex occurs in both the northern and the eastern lobes of Blackcastle. The complex has been burned towards its southern and eastern extent approximately 5-10 years ago and the remainder was burned ca. 30 years ago. The surface is firm to soft underfoot and the microtopography is poorly developed with only very occasional tall hummocks of Leucobryum glaucum scattered throughout the complex in the east. The Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 20-30% though it increases in some patches (e.g. GR. 258075, 234890) to 30-40%. Eriophorum vaginatum cover is approximately 25-30% and Calluna vulgaris cover is also 25-30%. The cover of Rhynchospora alba is variable averaging at 10-15 % cover but increasing in places to dominate large tracts of lawns where this complex grades into the sub-marginal complex 4/7. Narthecium ossifragum is frequent in patches occurring at up to 15% cover in the southern and eastern burned sections of the complex. The dominant Sphagna in this complex are S. capillifolium, S. tenellum, S. magellanicum and S. papillosum are also frequent. There are also occasional trees of Pinus sylvestris towards the east of this complex.
Complex 4/9 This sub-marginal complex is found in small areas of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 20-30%. Rhynchospora alba (20%) dominates in hollows along with Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) and there is a high cover of Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). The cover of Cladonia portentosa is <5%.
Complex 7/9/4 + Cladonia (7/9/4 + Cl) This complex is found close to the centre of the eastern lobe where the high bog has not been burned in over 30 years. The surface is firm underfoot and the microtopography is poor to moderately developed with occasional hummocks present. Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant on these hummocks and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is approximately 20% and the Calluna vulgaris (30-35%) grows to 0.3m in height. The Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 20-30% though it increases in some patches (e.g. GR. 258475, 234860) to 30-40%. Eriophorum vaginatum cover is approximately 10-20% and Rhynchospora alba occurs at approximately 10% cover. It grades into the sub-marginal complex 9/7 + Cl in places.
Complex 7/9 + Cladonia (7/9 + Cl +Pine) This sub-marginal complex is found in the north of the site in an area that has escaped burning for some time as evidenced by the cover of Cladonia portentosa (>40%). The microtopography is poorly developed and is dominated by low hummocks, flats and lawns. Calluna vulgaris dominates in this area at approximately 25-30% cover though it appears to be dying back in places and is 0.3m tall. The surface is soft underfoot and Hypnum
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 jutlandicum is abundant underneath the Calluna. The Sphagnum cover is 20-25% consisting mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. tenellum with small amounts of S. magellanicum and S. papillosum also present. Eriophorum vaginatum cover is approximately 10-20% and Rhynchospora alba is present at a low cover value of <5%, usually occurring in hollows and often with Sphagnum magellanicum. Vaccinium oxycoccus is abundant in this complex also and Andromeda polifolia and Erica tetralix are both present. There are scattered Pinus sylvestris trees up to 4m tall within this complex.
Complex 7/9 This complex is found in an area to the north-west of the site, which was considered to have been recently burned by Kelly et al. in 1994. It is similar to the above complex, but with a less extensive cover of Cladonia portentosa (5-10%) and with a higher cover of Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%).
Complex 6/4 This complex occurs in the east of the eastern lobe between drains bC and bD. There is a gentle slope towards the east and the surface is firm to soft underfoot. Narthecium ossifragum lawns (25%) dominate the vegetation along with Rhynchospora alba (20%). The Sphagnum cover is approximately 15-20% with very little Sphagnum found in the Narthecium lawns. Calluna vulgaris cover is approximately 10% and there are frequent scattered Betula pubescens seedlings. Trichophorum cespitosum is abundant in places and the complex becomes Complex 6/2. Towards drain bA, there are Sphagnum lawns with some sub-central characteristics.
Complex 6/7/4 + Cladonia (6/7/4 + Cl) This complex is found in the very east of the site, east of drain bD. The surface is firm underfoot and there is a gentle slope towards the margins. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 15% consisting mostly of low hummocks of S. capillifolium up to 0.2m in height. The vegetation is dominated by hollows and lawns of Narthecium ossifragum (15%), which support little or no Sphagnum. Calluna vulgaris cover is approximately 15-20% and Rhynchospora alba occurs at 15% cover. The area has not been burned for some time as evidenced by the high cover of Cladonia portentosa (30%) and there are scattered Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens up to 4m in height. Where the slope towards the bog margins increases, the cover of Rhynchospora alba increases and the Sphagnum cover decreases and the complex grades into a marginal-type complex.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 7/6 This complex is found close to the high bog margin in the NW of the eastern lobe and in the SE of the northern lobe. There is lots of cracking and slumping of the high bog in the area and low-growing (0.2m) Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation (40%) along with Narthecium ossifragum (15-20%). The Sphagnum cover is 5-10% as is the cover of Cladonia portentosa. Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant and Eriophorum vaginatum, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum are all present at low abundance values.
Complex 4 This complex is found around the northern edge of the eastern lobe of the bog where there is a gentle slope towards the margin. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 5-10%. Rhynchospora alba (40%) dominates and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) are frequent. There area also scattered 0.5m Betula pubescens saplings.
Complex 2/7 This marginal complex is found in the east of the bog in a narrow band associated with the non-functional drains bC. The ground is firm underfoot and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%) dominate the vegetation. Cladonia portentosa cover is < 5% and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 5-10%. Molinia caerulea is found scattered throughout the complex and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) occurs in the wetter parts occasionally with Sphagnum cuspidatum.
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Complex 2 This complex is found in a small rectangular area in the southern side of the site that was difco cut in the past. There is a gentle slope towards the margin and the surface is firm underfoot with a very low Sphagnum cover (5%). Tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum dominate (30%) along with 0.2-0.3m Calluna vulgaris (15-20%). Large tracts of bare peat are also present and there is occasional Eriophorum angustifolium and Molinia caerulea. A line of robust Calluna vulgaris separates this complex from the adjoining sub-marginal complex to the north.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This complex is found in places close to the high bog margin and is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Hypnum jutlandicum. The surface is firm underfoot and there is very little Sphagnum present.
Flushes
There are no inactive flushes present on Blackcastle.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Rhynchosporion vegetation is found in both active and degraded raised bog habitats on Blackcastle. It is best developed in areas that have suffered from fire in the last 10-20 years with Rhynchospora alba characterising many of these complexes.
In active areas (complex 4/10) Rhynchospora alba is found dominating along with lawns and low hummocks of Sphagnum mostly S. magellanicum and S. papillosum and there are occasional hollows with S. cuspidatum. Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum are also common and flush indicators such as Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and Polytrichum alpestre are also present.
In degraded areas Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum usually accompany the Rhynchospora alba with the cover of R. alba decreasing in areas that have not been burned for some time (Complex 7/9 + Cl and 7/9/4 + Cl). Towards the east Narthecium ossifragum also becomes frequent (Complex 6/4) and there is a small area close to the north of the eastern lobe where Trichophorum cespitosum occurs with R. alba (Complex 4).
5.2.4. Bog Woodland There is no bog woodland present on Blackcastle.
5.3. Regenerating cutover
The cutover at Blackcastle bog was not surveyed during the 2004 survey.
5.4. Quadrats
A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
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Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qsc1 Sub-Central 10/4
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of A (2-) 0.97km peat (16.7% of HB margin) 954 Invasive species C (1-) NA 810 Drainage B (1-) 1.74km (100% of HB) 180 Burning (Yr) A (1-) 28.53ha (29.86% of HB since 1995)
Table 6.2. Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage A (2-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al. (1995) considered 9.7% of the high bog margin actively cut in 1994. Currently, this figure has been increased to 16.7%, which equates to an increase of 7% in the length of margin actively cut since 1994.
According to the survey carried out by MacGowan et al. (in prep.) in 2003 most of the active turf cutting is taking place in the northern lobe of high bog, with cutting on the eastern lobe restricted to the west of the northern margin and one plot along the southern margin. All the cutting activity appears to be related to domestic use and 36 active turf plots were identified in 2004 (see Map 3). A further two plots not described by MacGowan et al. (in prep.) were recorded during the current survey (labelled 18a and 18b). MacGowan et al. (in prep.) concluded that it was necessary to phase out cutting at plots 6-18 within five years and to phase out the remaining turf cutting at the site within ten years. However because a new area of sub-central ecotope (SC2) was described close to the eastern margin of the northern lobe, it is now considered necessary to phase out plots 19- 21 as well as plots 18a and 18b within five years also.
A comparison between 1995 and 2000 aerial images shows that 0.95ha were cutover. The peat cutting along the eastern margin of the northern lobe (and the northern margin of the eastern lobe) is causing massive cracking and subsidence of the high bog with the bog surface slumping in places. The drainage in the cutover in this area is also extremely intensive. From the facebank location readings taken during the current survey the rate of cutting can be estimated to be 2-3m/yr in most actively cut plots. The amount of high bog cutaway between 2000-05 appears to be similar to that cut away between 1995-2000 (0.8-1.0ha).
The slumping and subsidence is particularly severe adjacent to plots 7-10 so that these plots should be prioritised when phasing out peat cutting. Location of turf plots is shown in Map 3 attached derived from Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs project MacGowan et al. (in prep.).
Peat cutting was already considered as the main effect on the vegetation of the site in 1994 (Kelly et al, 1995). Currently this impact continues and both cutting and its associated drainage activity are deemed as the activities with the highest negative influence on the high bog.
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6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several active and reduced function drains occur on Blackcastle high bog. No new drains have been excavated at the site since 1995 (see tables 6.2.1 and 6.2.2). See Kelly et al. (1995) for a more detailed description of the drainage on the high bog.
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains Drain bA This is a non-functional drain that runs NE/SW across the site. It is infilled with Molinia caerulea, Sphagnum magellanicum, S. capillifolium, Eriophorum angustifolium, Polytrichum alpestre and Calluna vulgaris. A 2-3m Betula pubescens was also recorded within this drain. Towards the north of this drain, there are areas of Sphagnum lawns extending out from the drain onto the high bog. Drain bB This is a double drain that has an NE/SW orientation and runs across the centre of the bog, separating it into a northern lobe and an eastern lobe. The more westerly of the two drains is considered functional as running water flowing south was observed close its southern extent and running water flowing north was observed close to its northern extent. This drain was estimated to be 0.3m wide and 0.5m deep. The more easterly of the two drains is reduced functional and is infilled with Sphagnum, including S. cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium, Eriophorum angustifolium and Calluna vulgaris. The inter-drain area, which is 7-8m wide is dominated by Facebank/Marginal ecotope vegetation with tall and robust C. vulgaris dominating along with tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum and Molinia caerulea and scattered Betula pubescens. The bog expanse slopes down towards this drain at either side of the drain. Drain This is a non-functional triple drain. There has been recent machinery disturbance on complex bC the high bog in this area resulting in a 10-15cm deep trench following alongside an old drain. Drain This is a reduced functional double drain that is infilled with 5m tall Betula, Ulex, complex bD Pteridium and Polytrichum commune. There is some flow to the north.
Although table 6.2.2. below indicates that there has been a substantial decrease in the lengths of functional drains since 1995, this is not the reality. Instead it would appear that the drains described by Kelly et al. (1995) as non- functional (drains bA and bC) were mistakenly included in the total length of functional drains. Thus as there has been no new drains excavated and no drains blocked since the 1995 survey, it would appear likely that the high bog drainage intensity and influence is similar to that which it was in 1995.
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 4371.5 600 (-) 2627.52 drains (m) 1 Length of reduced- 0 1144 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3687 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 0 0 Area affected by 100 100 0 drainage (ha - %) 1 includes several old drains likely to have pre-dated 1995. 2 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
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6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004. However, it was noted that the drain running perpendicular to bog margin in north of eastern lobe (GR. 258427, 235170) appears to have recently been dredged and is 2m deep and 2m wide at the surface and 0.5m wide at the base. The overall drainage in the cutover appears to be severe. Kelly et al. (1995) did not carry out a survey of the cutover drains either.
6.3. Fire history Burning has been a frequent occurrence at this site illustrated by the low growth of the Calluna vulgaris, the low lichen cover and lack of hummocks in the microtopography. In the aerial photograph from 1973 the entire northern lobe and the west of the eastern lobe have been recently burnt. Two small patches of high bog were recorded as recently burned in 1994 by Kelly et al. (1995), one in the north-west of the eastern lobe and the other in the south-west of the northern lobe.
Subsequently two large sections of the bog were burned between the ground survey of March 1994 and the aerial photograph of June 1995.
(1) The first, the smaller of the two occurs as a 200m strip running E/W across the northern lobe of the site close to the northern edge. This burn affected approximately 10.10ha of high bog. (2) The second covers a large area (16.94ha) of the eastern lobe, running N/S west of drain bD for a width of approximately 300-400m as well as running E/W across the eastern lobe close to the southern margin.
An additional small patch of the bog (1.49ha) in the west of the site was burned in the late 1990s and is visible on the 2000 aerial photograph. There hasn’t been any burns on the high bog since then.
6.4. Afforestation Areas of coniferous forestry lie to the east and the NNW of the site on cutaway peat.
6.5. Invasive Species Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens are invading the high bog, particularly in the east of the eastern lobe and in the very north of the northern lobe where Complex 7/9 + Cl + Pine is described.
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities No other damaging impacts were recorded.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS No Conservation Plan has been produced for Blackcastle Bog NHA 570. No known physical management actions have been carried out to improve the conservation status of the site or any of the habitats at this site.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1995 survey and 2004, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). The 2004 high bog area has been estimated considering a peat cutting rate similar to the period 1995- 2000. Thus, the high bog area is likely to have decreased by about 1.90ha since 1995 due to peat cutting. This accounts for a reduction of 1.97%. The decrease in high bog area for the term 2000-2004 is allocated to marginal ecotope as there is an outer rim of this ecotope on Blackcastle Bog (see Map 1). This accounts for a reduction of 0.95ha of marginal ecotope in the period 2000-2004. This figure is subtracted from the 2000 high bog area to obtain the ecotope areas in 2004 (see table 8.3).
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 97.5 96.48 95.53 94.58 2 (-) 1.90ha (-) 1.97% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 this is assuming that peat cutting proceeded at the same rate between 2000-2005 as it did between 1995 and 2000. The facebank location points (Map 3) taken during the current survey indicate that this to be the case.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall reduction in area of active raised bog from 23.55ha in 1995 (1994 survey) to 7.49ha in 2004 (68.20% reduction in the original active raised bog area). Although this figure is likely to have been exaggerated due to differences in mapping techniques and vegetation analysis, there is no doubt that the area of active raised bog has significantly declined in the last ten years at Blackcastle. The habitat extent is assessed as C (Unfavourable Bad) as the decrease in active raised bog area from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is greater than 15% (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Habitat structure and function The habitat quality of the remaining active raised bog appears to have been maintained. Although the Sphagnum cover is quite high (50%), no permanent pools or large hummocks are present as was the case when the bog was surveyed in 1994.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators No permanent pools are present on Blackcastle, indicating that unless severe restoration works were undertaken on the high bog and in the surrounding cutover, it is unlikely that any central communities will return to the high bog. Furthermore, no hummocks of Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum have been recorded from the site. However, a small patch of S. pulchrum was recorded.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
10 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Future prospects Active raised bog is under severe impact from threats and is rapidly declining. There are very bad prospects for its future and the long-term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (adjusted1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub-central 23.55 24.4 7.49 7.92 (-) 16.06 (-) 68.20 Total 23.55 24.4 7.49 7.92 (-) 16.06 (-) 68.20 1 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The 1995 high bog area measured from the 1995 photos was X% of the Kelly et al., (1995) high bog area. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Blackcastle bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent The area covered by degraded raised bog has increased from 72.92ha in 1995 (1994 survey) to 87.10ha in 2004. This increase is not considered a favourable condition since it has resulted from the loss of active raised bog (- 16.06ha). There has been 1.90ha (1.97%) of high bog lost to peat cutting in the last ten years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see section 3, chapter 3 - Summary Report), both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. In addition an increase in the extent of degraded raised bog as a result of loss of active raised bog is not assessed as a more favourable condition for the habitat. Thus when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1994/95 has not changed significantly (i.e >5% lost to peat cutting) the habitat extent is assessed as favourable maintained.
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The figures in table 8.3 below suggest that there has been a massive increase in sub-marginal ecotope (196.54%) and a loss in marginal ecotope (62.93%). This difference is likely to have been exaggerated due to surveying and mapping differences. However, it would seem that because of the limited amount of recent fires (1.05ha was burned in 1999-2000, the last known fire to affect the high bog), there may be a slight improvement in the condition of some of the high bog. This would be particularly relevant to parts of the high bog that were dominated by Carex panicea in 1994 due to there having been more recent burning events at the time. Thus, allowing for mapping error, there would appear to be a slight improvement in the degraded raised bog habitat, possibly as a result of improvement after burning. The habitat structure and function is assessed as A as the decrease in area of marginal ecotope from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is greater than 25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators There are no permanent pools in the degraded raised bog habitat at Blackcastle and neither have any hummocks of Sphagnum imbricatum nor S. fuscum been recorded. Indicators of past burns are occasional such as Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana. However, the most recent burn, which occurred in a small area (1-2ha) at the west of the site is at least 4-5 years old.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
11 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/054 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (adjusted3) Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 23.15 24.0 68.65 72.58 (+) 45.50 (+) 196.54 Marginal 49.77 51.6 11.605 12.14 (-) 31.322 (-) 62.93 Face-bank 1 NA NA 6.85 7.17 NA NA Total 72.92 75.59 87.10 92.09 (+) 14.18 (+) 19.45 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1994/95 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2: This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1994/95 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004/05. 3 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The Kelly et al., (1995) high bog area was 98.94% of the 1995 high bog area measured from the 1995 photos. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table. 5 This figure is the marginal ecotope area calculated from Map 1 minus the HB cutaway between 2000-05. The HB cutaway between 2000 and 2005 is estimated to be the same amount as was cut between 1995-2000 judging from the facebank locations taken during this survey and shown in Map 3.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Blackcastle bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities The area of Rhynchosporion vegetation is difficult to measure, but it is found in both active and degraded raised bog habitats on Blackcastle and characterises many of the complexes. Indeed Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread on the site and may in fact be increasing in cover. In 1995 the sub-central complex 10/4 was the only complex recorded as being characterised by Rhynchospora alba while in 2005, the sub-central complex 4/10 as well as the sub-marginal complexes 4/7, 9/7/3, 7/9/4 + Cl, 6/4, 6/7/4 + Cl and the marginal complex 4 were recorded.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Blackcastle is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting and drainage associated with this activity are the most damaging impact activities on Blackcastle bog. The extent of turf cutting is particularly severe along the eastern margin of the northern lobe and the northern margin of the eastern lobe with 16.7% of the entire margin currently cut. Furthermore, the bog has been cutaway from all sides in the past and thus no natural margin is present. The drains on the cutover associated with the turf cutting are deep and well maintained and it is likely that these are contributing greatly to the continued drying out the high bog.
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There have no been major changes in the drainage system in Blackcastle bog since the last survey, as no new drains have been inserted and no maintenance has been carried out on the high bog. However, the double drain bB, which runs through the centre of the site, separating the bog into a northern and an eastern lobe is probably still causing drying out of the bog surface and may have contributed to the loss of active bog habitat from the site.
Although, burns have always been common at Blackcastle high bog its frequency and intensity are currently low. Thus their impact on the habitats currently present on the bog is low.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog
The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has substantially decreased (16.06ha - 68.20%) at Blackcastle bog since the last survey (1994). However, although the habitat has shrunk and fragmented the quality of the remaining active bog is similar to 1994. Furthermore, the figures for the loss of active are likely to be over-estimated due to differences in surveying and mapping techniques and in vegetation analysis. Nevertheless, the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
As regards the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent has increased as a result of the degradation of former active raised bog. However, there has also been an increase in sub-marginal ecotope as a result of there being an improvement from marginal, probably due to succession after a burn. Nonetheless the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are found throughout the entire surface of the high bog, in either active or degraded raised bog. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Blackcastle raised bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government,, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDIX
Appendix I Quadrats CENTRAL COMPLEX NAME 10/4 QUADRAT NAME quadrat QUADRAT NAME (field ID) Qsc1 GRID REFERENCE 257935, 235520 DESCRIPTION TYPE quadrat FIRMNESS very soft CRACKING no BOG BURST SLOPE flat DRAINS no drains BURNT TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% ALGAL POOL absent BARE PEAT < 5% POOL COVER absent POOLS MICRO TOPOGRAPHY flats low hums & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS absent LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent S. PAP COVER 20% S. PAP HABITAT hollows and lawns S. MAG COVER 5% S. MAG HABITATS lawns S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS 15% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 20% NARTHECIUM HOLLOWS < 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent S. SUBNITENS absent S. AURIC POOLS absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS absent S. CUSP 15% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 30% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 20% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 50% E. ANGUS < 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS POOLS INDICATORS S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA < 5% CLADONIA COVER DISTURBANCE INDICATORS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 15% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 OTHER DETAILS OTHER SPECIES P. purpurea? COMPLEX VARIATIONS SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DETAILS
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Appendix II Photographical records No photographs were taken on Blackcastle Bog.
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES 1995 Adjustment 1995 (Kelly et al., 1995) (Adjusted) Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 0 0 X 0.9894 0 0 Sub-central 23.8 24.4 X 0.9894 23.55 24.4 Sub-marginal 23.41 24.0 X 0.9894 23.15 24.0 Marginal 50.31 51.6 X 0.9894 49.77 51.6 Total 97.5 100 96.47 100 1 Complexes 7/9 and 7/9 + Cl are described in the 1995 text as sub-marginal complexes, but were drawn as marginal complexes. Thus their area was calculated (21.4ha) and added to the sub-marginal area (2.0ha) given by Kelly et al. (1995). The 21.4ha were subsequently subtracted from the area of marginal ecotope (71.7ha) given by Kelly et al. (1995).
15
Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Clara Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 572 6” Sheet: OF: 7 & 8 Grid Ref.: N 305 245 1:50,000 Sheet: 48 SAC area 2004 (ha): 873.54 High bog area 2004 443.21 (Total) (ha): 246.78 (Clara West) 196.43 (Clara( East)) Dates of Visit: 07- 09/09/04 Townlands: Doory,y Derries, Ballina, Bohernagrisna,g Clogher,g Bawn, Ballinoughg and Erryy
2. SITE LOCATION
Clara Bog is situated 2km south of Clara village and is split into two by a road running NNW-SSE through the site. Clara is the largest remaining example of the True Midland Raised Bog sub-type (Cross, 1990).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in September 2004, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Clara bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004. Local NPWS management staff collaborated on the survey and substantial information on impacts and activities at the site were obtained.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Clara Bog is bounded in the north by esker ridges running in a NW to SE direction and there are some excellent examples of esker grasslands (some of which are orchid-rich grasslands) included here within the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). To the east there is transition to calcareous woodland and to the south there is a large area of bog that has been cutaway over the last number of centuries. Indeed van Tatenhove and van der Meer (1990) recorded the former southern extent of raised bog peat at this site as being the edge of the Silver River.
In geomorphologic terms Clara can be classed as a Ridge River A type bog (Kelly et al, 1995). The bog is believed to have once had a central dome shape. However, the construction of a road (Clara- Rahan road) running NNE to SSW through the bog has caused subsidence of up to 9-10m at the road and approximately 2m in the present centre part of Clara Bog West (van der Schaff, 2002). Thus the bog now consists of two shallow domes (Clara Bog East and Clara Bog West) which slope towards the road (Bell, 1991). Furthermore, there has been a relatively large subsidence (4-5m) in the area of Clara West around Shanleys Lough. It is believed (van der Schaff, 2002) that this has occurred due to the presence of the large till mound to the west of this area. This mound is thought to have had a former surface position approximately equal to that of the surrounding bog and that after subsidence occurred acted as a barrier to acrotelm flow towards the area around Shanleys Lough. Thus the area dried out (consequently increasing the subsidence) until the surface area was eventually low enough to attract flow from other parts of Clara West along a long flow path around the northern and maybe also the southern end of the western mound. This together with the infilling of the drains in the area caused a rewetting of the area resulting in renewed peat growth. The average subsidence on Clara Bog West between 1982-1991 was recorded as 2cm/yr, indicating that the road is probably still affecting the surface levels on Clara West (van der Schaff, 2002). Furthermore, the deep drainage (with drain levels of about 6m below the bog surface) excavated in the cutaway in the south of Shanleys Lough in the
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
1990s is causing considerable subsidence in the bog area between Shanleys Lough and the southern margin. This drainage combined with the peat extraction appears to have resulted in a change in the hydrology of Shanleys Lough soak area. The average subsidence on Clara Bog East between 1982- 1991 was recorded as 4cm/yr (van der Schaff, 2002). The higher subsidence on Clara East during this period can be attributed to the drainage system that was installed there in 1983.
Today Clara Bog is elongated in an E-W direction and is split into two sections by the Clara-Rahan road. Most of the peat cutting on Clara has taken place in the south of the site. The area around Shanleys Lough is now believed to be the main discharge point for much of Clara West (van der Schaff, 2002). The absence of a clear dome shape on the bog (it is even slightly concave) causes relatively long flow paths without large gradients. In addition the soak system in the area around Shanleys Lough acts as a reservoir and thus outflow from Clara Bog West may continue for a considerable period of time after periods of precipitation (van der Schaff, 2002).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Clara Bog SAC 572 Natura form; Betula bog woodland (EU code 91D0), active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) The current area of active raised bog at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 70.60ha (28.61% of high bog). This is a decline of approximately (see section 8.1.1) 37.16ha (34.48%) since 1992 when it was estimated to have 107.75ha of active raised bog. Clara is recognised as having the finest examples of soak systems remaining in Ireland as well as having well-developed hummock and hollow complexes (Cross, 1990). The active raised bog habitat at Clara West includes central and sub-central ecotope as well as active flush and soak systems, including bog woodland, which is described separately. The central ecotope areas are characterised by wet pool areas, which are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and support Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Eriophorum angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is high (>70%) in these areas and sometimes approaches 100% cover. However, these areas are fragmented and are often found in close association with the flush/soak systems. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also found in these areas. In the sub-central ecotope pools become less frequent as does S. cuspidatum while S. magellanicum is more abundant. Some of the poorer quality sub-central areas have no pools and are dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum and have only a moderate (ca. 40-50%) cover of Sphagnum composed mostly of S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum. There are two main areas of flush/soak habitat on Clara West (F1 & F2 on Map 1a). Parts of these soaks are extremely wet with open water present in places in F2. These soak systems are diverse with areas of wet scrub, wet woodland (see 5.1.4) and central-like-ecotope all present.
The current area of active raised bog at Clara East is estimated to be approximately 29.74ha (15.14% of high bog). This is a decline of up to (see section 8.1.1) 8.97ha since 1993. The active raised bog habitat at Clara East includes central and sub-central ecotope as well as active flush and soak systems. There are four very small areas of central ecotope found in this part of the site. One is located 200m south of Lough Roe (C17 on Map 1b) and is newly developed (since 1993) as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. This area is characterised by wet pools, which are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and support Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Eriophorum angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is high (>50%) with S. magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium also recorded. The other three areas of central ecotope on Clara East appear to be associated with flush/soak systems and are dominated by S. magellanicum with S. cuspidatum also frequent. Flush indicators such as Vaccinium oxycoccus are also present. C16 has formed around a series of infilling pools and the Sphagnum cover in this area approaches 100% in places. Hummocks
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also found in these areas. In the sub-central ecotope pools become less frequent as does S. cuspidatum while S. magellanicum is more abundant. The central ecotope area of frequent pools described by Kelly in 1993 in the south-east of the site has degraded over the last decade and as many of the pools have dried-out, this area is now considered as sub-central ecotope (SC17). Nevertheless, young and actively growing Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks were recorded in this area. The large sub-central area (SC16) found around much of the mound in the south of the site has developed since 1993, probably as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. Here, there is a good Sphagnum cover and the vegetation is dominated by lawns of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum along with frequent tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. However, the microtopography is poorly developed with lawns and flats dominating and only very occasional small pools. Nevertheless there are frequent hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum and occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum.
Of the flush/soak systems on Clara Bog East, Lough Roe (F6) is the main feature of interest as it is the only known floating raft of alkaline vegetation on a raised bog and is species diverse (O’Mahony, draft). Indeed the existence of Lough Roe was one of the main reasons given for conserving Clara in the mid-1980s. It is a relict feature and is presently in transition from being a habitat influenced by minerotrophic conditions to being a habitat influenced by more ombrotrophic conditions (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). However, currently, there is still a zonation from a wet central area to progressively drier conditions at the edges of the system. The vegetation of the central area contains Nuphar lutea, which indicates that in the recent past this area contained open water. This central area is surrounded by a vegetation indicative of poor fen conditions with species such as Carex rostrata, Menyanthes trifoliata, Sphagnum squarrosum and Lychnis flos-cuculi (Connolly et al, 2002). Towards the margins of the soak feature, typical bog species gain importance in the vegetation cover. Rodwell (1991) suggests that as the balance is tipped towards more ombrotrophic or base-poor conditions Betula- Molinia woodland takes over from the Carex rostrata-Sphagnum squarrosum mire. Kelly and Schouten (2002) indicate that this process appears to already be occurring as Molinia caerulea and Betula pubescens are starting to encroach at the outer edges of the soak system. A smaller soak is seen to the south of Lough Roe (F8). This is thought to have developed in a similar fashion to Lough Roe, but has made the transition from minerotrophic to ombrotrophic vegetation more rapidly, probably due to its smaller size and closer proximity to the road (Kelly and Schouten, 2002).
There are also numerous infilling pools found scattered around the north-eastern portion of Clara East, which can essentially be considered as active soaks. These pools are visible on the 1910 6” map and appear to have undergone some direct human interference, possibly having been pools further excavated to encourage ducks to frequent them for shooting purposes (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). The majority of these pools are infilled with an excellent cover of Sphagnum and with open water present in only some of them.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) The current area of degraded raised bog at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 176.64ha (71.58% of high bog). This is an increase of 35.10ha (24.89%) since 1993 when it had 141.01ha of degraded raised bog. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes as well as inactive flushes including dry bog woodland. Although the areas of degraded raised bog have a relatively well-developed raised bog flora they are affected by water loss to varying degrees, and thus are usually devoid of permanent pools. Large areas of the north-west of the site appear to have degraded since the 1993 survey as most of this area, which was formerly sub-central ecotope is now dry and dominated by Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and Narthecium ossifragum, and is hence classed as sub-marginal ecotope. The Sphagnum cover in this area (as in all the degraded raised bog) is generally low (<30% cover) and is composed mostly of S. capillifolium along with patches of S. magellanicum. A burn affected parts of the degraded raised bog in 2000 and parts of the bog have had a regular fire history, particularly the north-east of Clara West (Malone, pers. comm). These areas have an increased cover of Carex panicea, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum. Close to the centre of Clara West there is an area of high bog that has not been burned for sometime and here there is a high cover of Cladonia portentosa and the Calluna vulgaris is tall and robust. In some places the peat depth is naturally very shallow and due to subsidence these areas are now visible as mounds or ridges raised up from the high surrounding high bog expanse. These mounds are generally dominated
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 by dry robust Calluna vulgaris and have little or no Sphagnum cover. Small inactive flushes are also scattered across Clara Bog West. These usually support frequent Myrica gale with swallow holes also present in an area to the south-west of the large mound.
There are also three areas of dry bog woodland on Clara West. These are not included in the figure for the total area of bog woodland as they have a low Sphagnum cover and are not considered to be active peat-forming systems. Thus they are included here as degraded raised bog. DBW1 is found on a low ridge (1-2m) within Flush 1. Betula pubescens trees and saplings (1-6m high) are scattered over the ridge, which is dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (1m high) growing over hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and Aulacomnium palustre. Molinia caerulea scattered Myrica gale and Rubus fruticosus occur on top of the ridge. Two further dry Betula copses (DBW2 & DBW3) are found in the south of flush 2.
The current area of degraded raised bog at Clara East is estimated to be approximately 166.68ha (84.85% of high bog). This is an increase of 7.84ha since 1993. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes as well as inactive flushes. Although the areas of degraded raised bog have a relatively well-developed raised bog flora they are affected by water loss to varying degrees, and thus are usually devoid of permanent pools. Parts of the high bog appear to be re-wetting after the drain blocking of 1996 and may develop to active raised bog in the future. In general, the Sphagnum cover is low (<30%) and is mostly composed of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium as well as frequent patches of Narthecium ossifragum dominate the vegetation. At the north to north-west of the site, the bog is very dry and the surface is firm underfoot. The Sphagnum cover is even lower here (<10%) and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Trichophorum cespitosum. A light fire affected parts of the bog in the mid-1990s and parts of the bog have had a regular fire history, particularly close to the road (Malone, pers. comm). These areas have an increased cover of Carex panicea, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum and a low cover of Cladonia portentosa. In some places the peat depth is naturally very shallow and due to subsidence these areas are now visible as mounds or ridges raised up from the high surrounding high bog expanse. These mounds are generally dominated by dry robust Calluna vulgaris and have a much-reduced Sphagnum cover. Small inactive flushes are also scattered across Clara Bog East.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread on Clara (West and East). It is found in both active and degraded raised bog, but tends to be best developed and most stable in the wettest areas of active raised bog. In these areas the Rhynchosporion vegetation occurs along pool edges and on flats underlain by deep, wet and quaking peat. Typical plant species, which have been recorded along with Rhynchospora alba from this habitat, include Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Menyanthes trifoliata and Eriophorum angustifolium. Rhynchospora fusca is also present at Clara, but appears to be usually associated with the species-poor shallow pools and hollows at the marginal areas of the bog (Kelly and Schouten, 2002).
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) Bog woodland at Clara is confined to Clara West though there is some scrub present in the vicinity of Lough Roe on Clara East.
The current area of bog woodland at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 1.38ha (0.56% of high bog). Each patch of bog woodland is found associated with the flush/soak systems on the high bog. The largest area (BW2) is found close to the centre of Shanleys Lough Flush and is probably associated with subsidence related to drainage, which resulted in focused water flow providing oxygen and a high rate of delivery of low ionic water. Thus providing suitable conditions for Betula development (O’ Mahony, draft). This area is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy height of up to 15-20m with many patches with smaller trees also and adjacent areas of Betula scrub. The ground vegetation is characterised by large tussocks of Molinia caerulea (indicating a fluctuating water table or as is more likely water movement) and a shrub layer of Myrica gale and Vaccinium myrtillus
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
(1m high). The bog surface is soft and wet and can be classified as active raised bog as there is a good cover of Sphagnum palustre and S. recurvum.
The northern wooded area is classed as bog woodland (BW1) and contains two main groups of Betula pubescens trees as well as several scattered Pinus sylvestris trees (3-4m high). The ground vegetation contains frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccus growing on large Sphagnum hummocks. The eastern group of trees has a canopy of about 12-14m high while the western group is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy of 8-10m. Another area of wet bog woodland (BW3) is found to the SW of the open water of Shanleys Lough (flush 2). The Betula trees here grow to approximately 6- 8m in height (average dbh of 10cm) and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 40-50% consisting mostly of S. recurvum with hummocks of S. palustre and S. papillosum present also. The canopy cover is 40-50% and tussocks of Molinia caerulea dominate the ground vegetation along with frequent Juncus effusus. The remaining two areas of bog woodland (BW4 & BW5), are found growing along a series of three parallel (NE-SW) infilled drains. These are small areas, which support a Betula pubescens canopy of approximately 30%. The ground vegetation contains Vaccinium myrtillus, Myrica gale, Erica tetralix, tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum, Empetrum nigrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Calluna vulgaris and hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. palustre.
There is no bog woodland present on Clara East though there is scrub found in the vicinity of Lough Roe (F6). Several clumps and scattered individuals of Betula pubescens (up to 7-8m high) and Salix sp. are found around the margins of the wet area of the lough and along the centre of its southern margin there are numerous Betula saplings between 0.5-1m high. There is also an area of 1-2m tall Salix aurita close to the exit drain at the western edge of the main part of Lough Roe that is found along with Sphagnum palustre and Juncus effusus. The exit drain contains Molinia caerulea with several scattered 1-2m tall Salix spp. bushes and connects Lough Roe to another area of similar active soak ca. 150m to the west (F7). A clump of mature Betula (6-7 m high) with scattered saplings (1-5m high) occurs along the drain connecting this section of the soak to the main part of Lough Roe. Another clump of Betula pubescens (<7cm dbh, 4-5m tall) that is 10-15m in diameter occurs in the soak to the west of Lough Roe (F7).
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Clara Bog West is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Maps 1a and 1b). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Maps 2a and 2b).
5.2.1.1. Clara West Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 14 Apart from some of the soak areas, this complex indicates the wettest conditions on the high bog. Pools are frequent within the complex and are usually infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum. 8 separate areas of this complex were described from Clara West.
This complex is found ca. 170m north of Shanleys Lough on Clara West (C3: GR. 224250, 230300). The area is quaking underfoot and there is a well-developed microtopography with large hummocks, hollows, lawns and pools. The pools cover 20% of the complex and are infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium though towards the north many of the pools also support algae. Rhynchospora alba (10%) is abundant at the pools margins as are lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum (15-20%) with the overall Sphagnum cover reaching approximately 60-70%. Vaccinium oxycoccus and Aulacomnium palustre are frequent and are usually found growing on top of the
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Sphagnum carpets. Narthecium ossifragum (10%), Erica tetralix (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) are found in the inter-pool areas as is Calluna vulgaris (20%), which is usually found on hummocks with Hypnum jutlandicum growing underneath. The main hummock-forming Sphagna within this area are S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Polytrichum alpestre is found on some of the larger hummocks. Quadrat Qc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. Moving northwards, the pools become more scattered (10% cover) and are more frequently algal. The hummocks here are no longer as pronounced and the Sphagnum at the tops of the hummocks is drying out in places. The Sphagnum cover also decreases to approximately 40-50% and thus, this complex grades here into sub-central ecotope.
To the east of Clara West, immediately east of the three parallel blocked drains, another relatively large area of this complex is found (C4: GR. 224500, 230390). This is a flat quaking area with low hummocks, large lawns and interconnecting pools. Hummocks are mainly of Sphagnum papillosum (15%) and S. magellanicum (10%) with some S. imbricatum (5%) and S. capillifolium (5%) also. The hummocks are topped with Calluna vulgaris and Ericoids. Lawns are dominated by S. magellanicum (10%) and S. papillosum (10%) with Narthecium ossifragum (5%). The pools are infilled with healthy looking Sphagnum cuspidatum with Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) and Rhynchospora alba frequent (10%) at the pool edges. Menyanthes trifoliata is present in some pools.
This complex is also found in a small area close to the centre of the site centred around GR. 230275, 223630 (C9). This area has a very well developed microtopography, but is suffering from desiccation and there are very few pools remaining. The Sphagnum cover is thus declining and is being replaced by Rhynchospora alba, Narthecium ossifragum and algae in the former pool areas so that towards the margins of the complex this area is classified as sub-central ecotope. The bog surface, in general, is still very soft and the overall Sphagnum cover is 40-60%. The hollows contain lawns and low hummocks of S. magellanicum (15-20%) and Rhynchospora alba (10-15%) with patches of drying out Sphagnum cuspidatum also present in the pools/hollows. The hummocks are colonised by Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) (0.3-0.4 m high) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and contain Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and some S. magellanicum. Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (<5%). Some scattered pools still occur and some have been infilled. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%.
This complex also occurs surrounded by flush vegetation between the mineral mounds and the lake of Shanleys Lough (C5: GR. 224050, 230130). This area is characterised by an area of frequent pools and a wet quaking bog surface though it has a poorly developed microtopography. The general Sphagnum cover is 90% and is dominated by S. cuspidatum, which is usually found along with Eriophorum angustifolium and Menyanthes trifoliata in pools and infilled depressions. Patches of S. magellanicum in lawns or low hummocks are scattered through this area (30%). There are interpool patches (islands) of dense Narthecium ossifragum and some scattered tussocks of Molinia caerulea and Betula pubescens saplings along the edge of the flush. Aulacomnium palustre and Andromeda polifolia are also present. A similar area (C6: GR. 224130, 230020) is found within the same flush, but to the south of the main area of bog woodland. This area contains quaking lawns of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum with scattered Myrica gale.
Another area of this complex was found to the south-west of Clara West (C12: GR. 223170, 229865). This area has a bean shape, and features hummocks, pools and lawns. Its ground is quaking and its Sphagnum cover is up to 90%. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix cover 40% of the complex surface and Eriophorum angustifolium 10%. Rhynchospora alba is occasional (<5%) and Sphagnum magellanicum compounds hummocks and lawns. Tall Polytrichum alpestre, Vaccinium oxycoccus hummocks are noted, as well as Dryopteris dilatata. The pools are large and mostly contain Sphagnum cuspidatum. The sub-central complex 7/9/10 surrounds this central community complex. Quadrat Qc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. Flushed species like: Molinia caerulea, Aulacomnium palustre and Hydrocotyle vulgaris are found at the north of C12. Some Betula pubescens trees (2.5m tall) and a Pinus sylvestris tree (1.5-2m tall) are included within the complex.
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C10 is seen to the west of Flush 1 and the boundary between both is vague. Here, the central complex 14 supports large Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and Sphagnum cuspidatum pools. The north-western section of C10, supports tall Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks as well as hummocks of S. magellanicum and S. papillosum and large interconnected pools co-dominated by Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. The total Sphagnum cover within this part of the complex is very high (90%). Rhynchospora alba is recorded within the pools and Andromeda polifolia is frequently found.
C11 is found to the south-east of C10 and it has an elongated E-W shape. The frequent interconnected pools are also found and the Sphagnum cover is also high 80 to 90%.
Complex 15 This complex is found with a poor to moderately developed microtopography to the west of the mounds in the south of the bog directly north of a recently formed pond (C8: GR. 223790, 230140). This small area is very soft but not quaking and the micro-topography contains scattered pools and lawns with occasional low hummocks. There are scattered pools (10% general cover) containing Sphagnum cuspidatum and the lawns are dominated by S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and occasional S. cuspidatum with scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) and Erica tetralix (10%) growing through them. Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) is low growing (0.2m) and occurs on low hummocks. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%. The pond to the south (GR. 223755, 230085) contains approximately 10m x 5m of open water. Small clumps of Eriophorum angustifolium occur around the edge of the pond with the lawn of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum that characterises this central complex extending northwards from the pond. At the very north of the complex, close to the boundary with sub-central ecotope (GR. 223829, 230194) hummocks of S. imbricatum were recorded.
This complex is also found in a small area to the north-east of Shanleys Lough on Clara West (GR. 224365 230291: the east of C3). The area is broadly circular-shaped (ca. 20m in diameter) and occurs in an area that was dissected by three drains (now completely infilled), which ran in a NNE/SSW direction in the past. The vegetation present in this area may be related to the flush/soak, which runs along the axis of the old drains towards the SSW. The vegetation here is essentially that of an infilling pool with Sphagnum cuspidatum dominating at >80% cover and with abundant Rhynchospora alba (30%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5-10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%) present also. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. To the north of this complex there is a small ridge of robust Calluna vulgaris with 7 Betula pubescens (>2m tall). To the west the complex grades into the central complex 14 and to the south it grades into the sub-central complex 9/7/10 with Narthecium ossifragum also becoming more abundant. This complex is also present in a very small area towards the north-east of Clara West (C2: GR. 224165, 230505).
Complex 10/15 This complex is found in the north of Clara West (C1: GR. 224130, 230630). The area may be in a small depression and the microtopography is dominated by hummocks, hollows and pools. The pool cover is approximately 20% and these are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum (15%) and Eriophorum angustifolium with Sphagnum magellanicum (40-50%) forming lawns at the pool margins. The total Sphagnum cover is 80% with hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum present also. Rhynchospora alba (5%), Narthecium ossifragum and Eriophorum vaginatum are all present at low cover values as is Calluna vulgaris, which is low-growing (0.2m). Quadrat, Qc4 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
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Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/9 This complex occurs in the northern half of the high bog (SC6: GR. 223915, 230724). This surface is very soft underfoot but not quaking. The microtopography is dominated by low hummocks, hollows and occasional scattered pools. Although Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in many of these pools, S. magellanicum appears to be colonising them and is, in general, the dominant Sphagnum in the area dominating in lawns and hollows. Rhynchospora alba is frequent around the edges of pools and in patches on the lawns. The general Sphagnum cover averages at 60-70% with hummocks of S. papillosum (15%), S. capillifolium (10%) and occasional small hummocks of S. imbricatum also present. There are occasional larger hummocks topped with low-growing (0.2m) Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (10%). Eriophorum vaginatum is common and Narthecium ossifragum occurs in some hollows and lawns (5%). Some of the S. magellanicum lawns are in poor condition. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is low (<5%). Quadrat, Qsc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Complex 9/10 This complex is seen to the north of C4 (SC8: GR. 234505, 230495) and surrounding C11 as well as to the north and west of C12 (the south-west of SC1: GR. 223105, 229860). SC8 features soft to very soft ground and the surface is slightly depressed. Low hummocks and lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum are occasional and the hollows are colonised by Sphagnum cuspidatum. Eriophorum angustifolium dominates (40%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m) are also frequent (10-20%). Cladonia species are absent within this area of complex 9/10 and the total Sphagnum cover is 50-60%. Quadrat Qsc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. This complex is wetter than the sub-central complex 7/9/10.
Where this complex occurs within SC1 in the south-west of the site, there also are tall Sphagnum capillifolium hummocks dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum. Some Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks are also noted. Low hummocks comprise of S. tenellum and S. papillosum as well as S. magellanicum. The hollows are colonised by either S. magellanicum or S. cuspidatum.A station for measuring Sphagnum growth and water table levels is found within this complex.
Complex 10/4 This complex is found towards the west of Clara West in two small areas (ca. 70m diameters) centred around GR. 223155, 230360 & 223285, 230215). These areas appear to be connected to each other and are labelled SC3 in Map 1a. The complex has a moderately developed microtopography with low hummocks, hollows and pools all present. However, the area is suffering from desiccation and the pools, which cover approximately 15-20% of the complex, are thus being colonised by Rhynchospora alba. The surface is very soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 50%, consisting mostly of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum, which occur, predominantly in and around the drying- out pools. Hummocks of S. capillifolium are frequent and hummocks of S. imbricatum, S. subnitens and S. fuscum are also present. S. cuspidatum occurs at a low cover value in the drying out pools along with Menyanthes trifoliata. Calluna vulgaris (15%) and Erica tetralix (10%) dominate in hummocks along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), while hollows and pools are dominated by Rhynchospora alba (20%), Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Cladonia portentosa is present at <1% cover. Quadrat Qsc5 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Complex 10/6 This complex is found very close to (approximately 20m from) the high bog margin in the south of the bog south of Shanleys Lough flush (the south of SC1: GR. 224000, 229835). The area is very wet and has formed as a result of subsidence, but the Sphagnum is drying out and there is a fast flow of water south-westwards in the drain to its east. There is a large crack in the high bog delineating the southern extent of this complex, south of which sub-marginal and marginal ecotopes are found. The Sphagnum cover within Complex 10/6 is approximately 60-70% consisting of lawns of S. cuspidatum and S.
8 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 magellanicum and lawns and low hummocks of S. papillosum. Narthecium ossifragum occurs at approximately 15% cover and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%), Erica tetralix (10%), Rhynchospora alba (5-10%), Calluna vulgaris (5%) and Myrica gale are all present.
Complex 9/7/10 This complex is found scattered throughout Clara West usually occurring in small pockets and surrounded by the sub-marginal complex 9/7 (occupying much of the area labelled as SC1). Within this complex the surface is generally soft underfoot with a Sphagnum cover of approximately 35-40% consisting of S. magellanicum (15%), S. papillosum (10%), S. capillifolium (10%), S. tenellum and S. fuscum. There are also occasional S. cuspidatum hollows though these are also usually algal. However, the microtopography is usually not very well developed with few or no pools present and hummocks and flats dominating. Eriophorum vaginatum (15%) and Calluna vulgaris (30-35%) dominate the vegetation with an abundant cover of Narthecium ossifragum (15%) present also.
Specific examples of this complex include an area to the north of flush 2 (GR. 224100, 230320). The microtopography contains relatively large hummocks and hollows and occasional pools (and is typical of central hummock/hollow complex though with a poor Sphagnum cover). The bog surface is soft and the vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.1-0.2m) on hummocks and scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (15%). Other species present include Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The general Sphagnum cover is 50% including some patches of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum in hollows and occasional pools. The Cladonia cover is less than 5%. This complex also occurs east of this area ca. 100m north of Shanleys Lough and quadrat Qsc1 was taken here. Its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
This complex also occurs close to the centre of the high bog between two areas of central ecotope (C8 & C9), north of the large mound (GR. 223753, 230277). This area contains a mosaic of active sub- central patches along with lower quality sub-marginal patches. A good quality microtopography of hummocks and hollows is still present in the area though there are no pools. Furthermore, the Sphagnum cover is variable, averaging at 40-50% in sub-central areas, but going as low as 20% cover in some patches, which equate more to a sub-marginal complex 9/7 or 9/7/6. In the better quality areas there are small amounts of S. cuspidatum in hollows, but the main Sphagnum cover is found in the hummocks (including occasional relic hummocks of S. imbricatum) cropped with Calluna vulgaris. In the poorer areas the hollows contain Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Rhynchospora alba.
Another example of this complex is found in the north of Clara West (SC4 & SC5: GR. 223630, 230670), in an area that was formerly described as central ecotope (scattered pools). This area has now been split into two by a sub-marginal strip that runs E-W across the sub-central ecotope.
This complex can be found with the addition of Myrica gale (9/7/10 + My) towards the south-east of Shanleys Lough where it grades into the flush vegetation described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) as Community Complex 24 (Myrica gale/Sphagnum magellanicum Complex).
Complex 7/9/10 This sub-central complex is recorded in several locations at Clara West and covers large patches of the west of Clara West.
It usually features soft ground to very soft in places and consists of low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. magellanicum and S. papillosum. S. magellanicum lawns are also recorded and the hollows are colonised by S. cuspidatum. This sub-central complex differs from the inner central complex by the presence of hollows instead of large pools and the higher occurrence of Trichophorum cespitosum within the sub-central complex. Calluna vulgaris (0.2m) & Erica tetralix (30%) dominate the complex (C12) with Eriophorum vaginatum also frequent (20%). Narthecium ossifragum,
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Andromeda polifolia and Trichophorum cespitosum are also found. The total Sphagnum cover averages at 50-60% and Cladonia species are absent.
In the south-west of the site, to the north-west of C12 (the south-west of SC1) the complex is devoid of Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and Calluna vulgaris increases its occurrence. Hummocks, pools and hollows are found. The hummocks comprise Sphagnum imbricatum, S. capillifolium, S. fuscum, S. tenellum and S. papillosum. S. cuspidatum is noted in pools and hollows along with S. magellanicum. The overall Sphagnum cover is 60-70% and Cladonia portentosa cover is low 5%. The complex is dominated by the same species as in previous description. Towards the north, in the area where large former Complex 15 was noted, the microtopography consists mostly of hummocks and hollows, and pools disappeared as part of the degradation process, as well as the fact that the hollows are either algae or Sphagnum magellanicum. Sphagnum fuscum hummocks and Sphagnum auriculatum in pools are found at the boundary between this complex and C10. Some of the pools show evidence of drying out. Quadrat Qsc4 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Active Flushes
Flush 1 This large flush occurs on the western side of the high bog and contains a variety of vegetation types including wooded areas to the north and south. The central area of the flush is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (70%) (0.5m high) with occasional Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Cladonia (5%). This area had a soft but relatively dry bog surface. Large parts of this area are active with large hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum present. There are occasional patches of Pleurozium schreberi and Polytrichum alpestre with Hypnum jutlandicum found on the Sphagnum hummocks and under the Calluna. Further north, Betula pubescens saplings and trees (0.25-5m high) are scattered through the vegetation. Most of the scattered Betula fall into the 0.25-2m size class. There are also scattered Pteridium aquilinum and Molinia caerulea south of the northern wooded area (GR. 223400, 230400) occurring throughout vegetation dominated by Calluna vulgaris and scattered Betula. There are also numerous standing dead 1m Betula saplings present in this area.
The northern wooded area is classed as bog woodland (BW1) and contains two main groups of Betula pubescens trees as well as several scattered Pinus sylvestris trees (3-4m high). The ground vegetation contains frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccus growing on large Sphagnum hummocks. The eastern group of trees has a canopy of about 12-14m high while the western group (GR. 223450, 230410) is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy of 8-10m and a stem dbh of less than 7cm. There is some Betula pubescens-dominated scrub found between the two main groups of trees and the ground vegetation is dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, Molinia caerulea and Calluna vulgaris. The canopy of the western tree area is about 40% cover and shades the ground vegetation, which is dominated by hummocks of S. papillosum, S. palustre and Aulacomnium palustre with tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum. Other species present include Polytrichum commune, Vaccinium myrtillus, Luzula multiflora, Dryopteris dilatata and Salix sp. (bush).
In the southern part of this flush there is a wet patch present (GR. 223477, 230071). This area is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum with frequent scattered Dryopteris dilatata. Calluna vulgaris, Osmunda regalis, Polytrichum commune, Pleurozium schreberi and Aulacomnium palustre are also present with frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium myrtillus. Some hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum also occur in this area. South of this area there is a zone of scattered Betula saplings (0.5-4 m high).
Another part of this flush is also wooded and is classed as dry bog woodland (DBW1). It occurs on a low ridge and is inactive (GR. 223650, 230000). The ridge is between 1-2m high and is dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (1m high) growing over hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and
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Aulacomnium palustre. Betula pubescens trees and saplings (1-6m high) are scattered over the ridge. Molinia caerulea scattered Myrica gale and Rubus fruticosus occur on top of the ridge.
In the south-west of the flush an area of soak is found. The southern section of the soak supports large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks, as well as S. capillifolium, S. recurvum, S. cuspidatum and Aulacomnium palustre hummocks. A high occurrence of Eriophorum vaginatum is also noted, and Dryopteris dilatata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and tall Calluna vulgaris are found. The central part of the soak is Molinia caerulea dominant and Juncus effusus and Sorbus aucuparia are frequent. The soak is fringed at the W and NW by central complex 15 and the boundary between both is vague. Complex 15 surrounds this soak area and the boundary between both is also vague. Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Sphagnum recurvum and some small trees (<0.5m); Salix aurita and Betula pubescens are found. Another smaller soak is seen to the south of the above soak.
Another smaller soak is seen to the south-west of this soak and is surrounded by the central Complex 15 (C12) and the boundary between the two is also vague. Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Sphagnum recurvum and some small trees (<0.5m); Salix aurita and Betula pubescens are found.
Flush 2 (Shanleys Lough Flush) This is a diverse and largely active flush that occurs mostly to the south and west of Shanleys Lough. It is estimated that 95ha of the Clara Bog West discharges through this soak, maintaining its wet conditions through all seasons (Connolly et al, 2002). In the very south of its extent, directly north of a blocked drain (at GR. 224076, 229835), there is a small very wet area (ca. 30m diameter) that is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (30-40%) and Sphagnum (>70%) with Myrica gale and Molinia caerulea scattered throughout. Pools of Sphagnum cuspidatum cover approximately 25% of this area and S. magellanicum and S. papillosum are also abundant. Vaccinium oxycoccus, Aulacomnium palustre and Andromeda polifolia are all present and there is very little cover of Erica tetralix and Calluna vulgaris. However, there is also an inactive area in this region (GR. 224045, 229885) that is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (50%) with scattered Myrica gale (10%). There are also patches of Molinia caerulea and some Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%). The Sphagnum cover is approximately 10% and is dominated by small patches of S. capillifolium.
There are also two small Betula copses in the south of this flush. The first is located near to the southern margin of the high bog (GR. 224070, 229780). The canopy of this copse is 10m high with most stems less than 7cm dbh (diameter at breast height). There are smaller saplings (1-4m high) scattered around the edge of this copse. The canopy cover is about 60% and the ground vegetation is affected by shading. Molinia caerulea, bryophyte cover and litter dominate the ground vegetation. Some Pteridium aquilinum also occurs around the margins of this copse. This second copse is composed of uniform Betula pubescens standing between 8-12m high with a dbh of about 30cm. This group of Betula occurs in an area of the flush marked as a mound on the old 6 inch map (GR. 224120, 229870). The canopy of this area is 30% and the ground vegetation is dominated by tussocks of Molinia caerulea with some scattered Myrica gale bushes (1m high) and several Dryopteris dilatata. These two copses are considered as inactive bog and are mapped as dry bog woodland (DBW2 & DBW3) on Map 1a. To the north-west of the southern Betula copse there is an area of inactive flush that is dominated by Molinia caerulea with scattered Betula saplings (1-3m high) and occasional mature trees (12m high). There are more frequent Betula saplings towards the high bog margin. To the north-east of the southern Betula copse, a Molinia caerulea-dominated area occurs that is considered active (GR. 224130, 229830). Some Myrica gale also occurs here along with Juncus effusus. The bog surface is wet and soft and the Sphagnum cover is 70% with large hummocks of S. papillosum (0.5 mhigh) and S. capillifolium. A blocked drain crosses this area.
Further north there is an exceptional diversity of community complexes (described by Kelly and Schouten, 2002) within this flush. The lake itself (Shanleys Lough) is found to the north-east of the flush (GR. 224235, 230070) where there is an approximately 30m diameter of broadly circular-shaped open water. Carex rostrata and Eriophorum angustifolium surround the open water as well as Juncus effusus and Menyanthes trifoliata towards the eastern fringe. Carpets of Sphagnum surround this lake
11 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 particularly S. recurvum and S. magellanicum. To the east of the lake Eriophorum vaginatum and Aulacomnium palustre are abundant.
To the south-east of the lake, a flushed complex 9/7 vegetation type occurs along the eastern edge of this flush (GR. 224240, 230030). The general Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium with occasional S. magellanicum. Andromeda polifolia is frequent and clumps of Polytrichum alpestre P. commune, Sphagnum papillosum, Aulacomnium palustre and scattered saplings of Betula (1 m high) also occur. This area is relatively dry and is possibly active. Further north there is a band of inactive flush dominated by Myrica gale (GR. 224255, 230160).
Community Complex 18 (Sphagnum recurvum/Sphagnum cuspidatum lawn complex) and Community Complex 19 (Sphagnum recurvum/Eriophorum vaginatum complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) are similar and indicate flushed rheotrophic soak conditions. These complexes are found close to the open water of the lake itself (particularly immediately west of the lake where Sphagnum cuspidatum is found in extensive pools/lawns with Eriophorum angustifolium), and ca. 100m SW of the lake itself immediately south of the Betula pubescens woodland (BW2: described under section 5.2.4.) in a broadly circular shaped area that has a diameter of ca. 50m (GR. 224130, 230010). This area is similar to central ecotope (and is labelled C6 on Map 1a) with extensive Sphagnum-filled pools covering 70% of the area. Molinia caerulea (10%) indicates some nutrient enrichment and Eriophorum vaginatum is present in distinctive tufts at approximately 10% cover. Vaccinium oxycoccus, Aulacomnium palustre and Menyanthes trifoliata are all present in this area. These complexes (18 & 19) are also found north-west of the woodland centred around GR. 224065, 230135 (C5) and 150m north-east of that again centred around GR. 224145, 230240. Close to the high bog margin in the south-west of the flush these complexes are also found in a broadly rectangular-shaped area measuring 50m x 20m (GR. 223930, 229870). Within this area there is one large (20m x 10m) pool with open water, Sphagnum recurvum and Eriophorum angustifolium surrounded by smaller Sphagnum-filled pools with tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum. Towards the southern edge of this area the Sphagnum is showing signs of desiccation and there is a slope down towards a large crack in the high bog, which delineates the extent of active bog ecotope in this area.
Community Complex 20 (Betula pubescens/Juncus effusus woodland complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is also indicative of flushed rheotrophic soak conditions and is found in a small area to the south-west of the open water of Shanleys Lough at GR. 224200, 230055. The Betula trees here grow to approximately 6-8m in height (average dbh of 10cm) and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 40-50% consisting mostly of S. recurvum with hummocks of S. palustre and S. papillosum present also. The canopy cover is 40-50% and tussocks of Molinia caerulea dominate the ground vegetation along with frequent Juncus effusus. This area is active and considered as bog woodland (BW3).
The central part of Flush 2 contains bog woodland (BW2) dominated by Betula pubescens with smaller isolated patches of Betula surrounding the main part. The bog woodland is described in a separate section (section 5.2.4.). A large area of active bog with frequent scattered Betula saplings (0.5-3 m high) and small dense patches of older trees occurs north of the bog woodland (GR. 224150, 230085). This area is classified as scrub and also has occasional Pinus sylvestris saplings. The Cladonia cover is 50-60% and the vegetation contains scattered Molinia caerulea and Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks. The general Sphagnum cover is 60% with hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, Sphagnum sp. and Aulacomnium palustre. There are also some wet patches with Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum alpestre, Andromeda polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccus and V. myrtillus all occur on hummocks in this area.
Another pond has developed (probably due to subsidence) in the past five years (not on 2000 aerial photograph) to the south-west of the flush (GR. 223960, 229985). Tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum and Juncus effusus occur around the new pond and the margin is fringed with Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex rostrata and other Carex sp. The new pond is 20-30m long and 10-15m wide and shaped in a half moon. The pond narrows into several open water pools containing Sphagnum
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 cuspidatum at the southern end. There is significant run-off from the southern end of this pond to the margin of the high bog. During the site visit, water was flowing at a constant rate (but not visible) from the channel and off the high bog.
To the east of the new pond, there is an area of the flush that is similar to the central ecotope complex 10/15 (GR. 223980, 229970). The bog surface is very soft but not quaking and extensive lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum (50-60%) and pools and depressions of S. cuspidatum (10-20%) dominate the area. Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium scattered over the Sphagnum cover. Small occasional hummocks contain Calluna vulgaris (<5%). Myrica gale (<5%) is also scattered over this area.
Community Complex 23 (Myrica gale Complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is found towards the south of the flush (GR. 223905, 229980) on a ridge leading out from the Calluna vulgaris dominated mound. This part of the flush can be considered inactive as there is a low Sphagnum cover (10-20%) and the area is very dry. Community Complex 24 (Myrica gale/Sphagnum magellanicum Complex) is also found in this area of the flush (GR. 229930, 223970), but is considered active bog as there is a much higher Sphagnum cover (40%) composed mostly of S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium. The vegetation in general is somewhat similar in places to the sub-central complex 9/7/10 with the addition of Myrica gale (20-25% cover).
Community Complex 25 (Molinia caerulea Complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is found scattered in various parts of the flush such as close to GR. 224120, 230190. Here there is an extensive cover of Molinia caerulea (>60%) with hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium frequent as well as S. palustre, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum. Where Molinia is not so dominant there is an increase in the cover of Eriophorum vaginatum and Vaccinium oxycoccus, V. myrtillus, Polytrichum alpestre, Aulacomnium palustre and Empetrum nigrum are all present. There are also frequent scattered trees of Betula pubescens, which grow up to 6-7m tall but average at 2-3m. Kelly and Schouten’s (2002) Community Complex 26 (Molinia caerulea/Myrica gale Complex) and Community Complex 27 (Betula pubescens scrub/Molinia caerulea Complex) are also present in parts of this flush and Community Complex 28 (Betula pubescens woodland), which is found in an approximately 50- 60m diameter (BW2) centred around GR. 224110, 230055 is described using a transect (See section 5.2.4.). A very wet active area occurs to the south of the main section of bog woodland (GR. 224130, 230020). This area (C6) contains quaking lawns of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum with scattered Myrica gale and is described under the central complex 14.
Flush 3 This linear flush is found to the east of Shanley’s Lough and has developed around and into an old blocked drain. The southern part of the flush is dominated by tall Myrica gale and flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5m high) with some scattered Molinia caerulea tussocks and Betula pubescens saplings and trees along the line of the old drain . Away from the drain, the bog surface is firm and there are some patches dominated by Pteridium aquilinum with the species also scattered throughout the flush. This part of the flush is inactive (GR. 224220, 229850). Further north Molinia caerulea becomes more frequent and dominates in places with Myrica gale occurring along the margins (GR. 224250, 229950). Small wetter patches are also present and these usually contain abundant tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum.
Further north close to the centre of this flush there are some linear clumps of Betula pubescens between 5-7m tall. These areas are classed as bog woodland (BW4 & BW5), but are not described in detail under the bog woodland section (5.2.4) as the largest clump is approximately 20m x 30m in extent. The canopy cover is about 30% and most of the stems have a dbh of < 7cm. The ground vegetation contains Vaccinium myrtillus, Myrica gale, Erica tetralix, tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum, Empetrum nigrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Calluna vulgaris and hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. palustre. Some parts of this wooded flush area have a relatively high bryophyte cover and are active.
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Near the northern end Empetrum nigrum is abundant in hummocks with Vaccinium oxycoccus. The Sphagnum hummocks are mainly S. capillifolium. Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale are both over 1m tall. Other species present are Potentilla erecta and Hypnum jutlandicum. There is an abundance of Birch saplings in this area and a Myrica patch to the east.
5.2.1.2. Clara East
Complex 10/15 This complex is found ca. 100m to the ESE of flush 3 on Clara East (C17: GR. 225375, 229805). The surface is very soft underfoot and is quaking in places. Scattered Sphagnum cuspidatum filled pools cover 15-20% of the complex and the overall Sphagnum cover is approximately 50-70%. Hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are frequent and there is also occasional S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba (15%) dominates around the pool margins and Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%) occur at low abundance values. Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) dominate on hummocks. This area of central ecotope has developed in recent years (the area was recorded as marginal by Kelly in 1993) as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. Cladonia portentosa is almost completely absent from this area as the area was burned in the mid-1990s (Malone, pers. comm.). Quadrat Qc5 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1b and its details in appendix I.
This complex is also found in two small areas to the north of the site (C14 and C15: GR. 225875, 230095 & 225740, 230175). C14 is found in an area where the blocked drains meet at a junction and is essentially an infilling pool composed mostly of Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum cuspidatum (60% cover). The pool is surrounded by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum topped with Vaccinium oxycoccus and Calluna vulgaris with Narthecium ossifragum is present in islands within the pool. Quadrat Qc5 was taken within this complex. To the south the complex quickly grades into the sub-marginal complex 9/7, and then onto a small low mineral ridge where there are scattered Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris seedlings. C15 is found ca. 150m to the WNW of C14 and is an area of lawns and hollows with some low hummocks. Sphagnum dominates with S. magellanicum lawns (30- 40% cover) and S. fuscum hummocks as well as occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. The area is wet and quaking with a generally flat topography. Rhynchospora alba is frequent at approximately 10- 15% cover at the pool edges with Eriophorum vaginatum at 15% cover. In the inter pool areas Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix amount to 10% cover and are up to 0.3m tall. Narthecium ossifragum is frequent (15%) in flats/lawns and there are occasional hollows with S. cuspidatum. A small band of subcentral complex 10 forms a band around this area of central, particularly in the west.
Another example of this complex is found in the north-east of the site to the east of the linear set of pools (C16: GR. 226205, 230025). This consists of large in-filled pools dominated by Sphagnum magellanicum lawns. Sphagnum covers 100% of the complex’s surface and Eriophorum angustifolium, Erica tetralix, Rhynchospora alba and Menyanthes trifoliata are also found.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/15- This sub-central complex is found in the south-east of Clara East (SC14: GR. 225625, 229495). It has a good microtopography with a moderately developed hummock/hollow complex. There are frequent hummocks of young and actively growing Sphagnum imbricatum and overall the Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 40%. However, algal hollows are frequent and pools are showing signs of desiccation though Sphagnum cuspidatum is present. Lawns of S. magellanicum are also present and there are very occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and frequent S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Erica tetralix is the dominant higher plant with low growing Calluna vulgaris also abundant as well as frequent Rhynchospora alba and tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum. Cladonia portentosa is present at a very low cover value (<5%) as the area was burned in the mid-1990s.
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Complex 10/9 This complex is found scattered throughout parts of Clara East, occurring most notably in a semi- circular arc around the mineral mound in the south of the site (SC15). However, the most Sphagnum- rich area is found to the south-west of Lough Roe at GR. 225275, 230005 (SC16). The surface, in general, is soft to very soft underfoot with occasional quaking areas. There is a good Sphagnum cover (60%) and the vegetation is dominated by lawns of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum along with frequent tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. However, the microtopography is poorly developed with lawns and flats dominating and only very occasional small pools. Nevertheless there are frequent hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum and occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (15%) is frequent on hummocks and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) in hollows. Erica tetralix, Vaccinium oxycoccus, Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are present at low cover values. The sub-marginal areas surrounding SC15 can probably be considered to have the potential to develop to the sub-central complex described above. This expansion of active ecotope is likely to occur as the blocked drains fill with water and the surrounding areas become wetter and colonised by Sphagnum.
The area to the SE of Lough Roe is a mosaic of sub-central and sub-marginal ecotopes (SC13). There are inactive patches where Narthecium ossifragum dominates with relatively poor to moderate Sphagnum cover and active areas with less Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea and a greater cover of Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. These areas have a general Sphagnum cover of 30-50%. Due to its variability, this section of the high bog was difficult to map as only certain patches could be considered as active ecotope. These are shown as fragmented areas of sub-central ecotope scattered around SC13. Some large hummocks of S. imbricatum occur in this area.
This complex has also developed in several locations in the northern section of Clara East (the wetter parts of SC10 and SC11). The ground is soft to very soft and the surface is rather flat. Sphagnum magellanicum hummocks and lawns characterise the complex with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Narthecium ossifragum is also noted, as well as Sphagnum papillosum. Cladonia portentosa cover is very low (<5%). This complex may have developed as a result of the drains blocked in 1996 as the Sphagnum cover is good 80% and new growth Sphagnum fuscum hummocks are noted.
Complex 7/9 + Pools (7/9 + P) This complex is seen to the north of the linear pools in the northern half of Clara East (SC11: GR: 226025, 230310). The ground is soft to quaking in the pools and although the surface is rather flat it comprise depressions. Tall hummocks, pools and lawns dominate the microtopography. The hummocks mainly consist of Sphagnum capillifolium with Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks. Large in-filled pools contain Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and occasionally S. cuspidatum. The pools also contain Rhynchospora alba, Drosera intermedia and Menyanthes trifoliata. Although pools are dominated by Sphagnum (up to 80%) the overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is lower (40-50%). Cladonia portentosa cover is 30% suggesting that the area has not been burned recently.
Complex 7/9/10 This sub-central complex is found to the north of Lough Roe (the north of SC10), to the north-east of the linear series of infilling pools (parts of SC11) and surrounding the western side of an elevated mound in the east of Clara East (SC12). The ground either soft or very soft and it becomes wetter where the blocked drains cross each other. Tall hummocks and hollows develop. The former comprises Sphagnum magellanicum, Sphagnum capillifolium and Sphagnum tenellum. The latter consist mostly of Sphagnum cuspidatum and lesser Narthecium ossifragum. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) dominate the complex. The total Sphagnum cover is 60%, although it varies in places. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%. Evidences of quality enhancement are noted as new Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks and patches with high presence of Sphagnum cuspidatum hollows are noted.
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Complex 9/7 + Pools (9/7 + P) This complex is seen in the northern section of Clara East to the west (SC11: GR. 225880, 230220) and south (SC11: GR. 226130, 230030) of the linear set of infilling pools. Both areas support a dense drainage system that was blocked in 1996 and both areas have some sub-marginal characteristics, but are dominated by sub-central type vegetation. The blocked drains are currently colonised by Sphagnum cuspidatum with S. cuspidatum and S. papillosum spreading out from the drains in places onto the adjacent high bog. The ground is soft and the surface is relatively flat. Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum compound low hummocks and very occasionally S. imbricatum hummocks are noted. The pools are shallow, devoid of open water and consist of Sphagnum magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. cuspidatum with Rhynchospora alba and Drosera intermedia scattered throughout. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum. The overall Sphagnum cover is highly variable, ranging from 20-50%. Cladonia portentosa is present at 20% cover. Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium (20%) and Erica tetralix (20%) co-dominate and Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m, 5%) is also found. Quadrat Qsc6 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1b and its details in appendix I.
Around the edges of the linear set of pools Juncus effusus, Calluna vulgaris (<0.4m), Salix sp. and Betula pubescens. Molinia caerulea, Hypnum jutlandicum and Cladonia floerkeana in old tussocks are found. The smaller pools are in-filling with Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Juncus effusus and are considered as active flush/soaks
Active Flushes
Flush 6 (Lough Roe) Lough Roe is found close to the centre (extending westwards) of Clara East and can essentially be considered as an active soak. It has been studied in detail in the past (e.g. Kelly, 1993) and has only become completely terrestrialised recently, and is also undergoing a transition from minerotrophic to ombrotrophic conditions. If this process continues, the original characteristics of Lough Roe, which made it a system of international importance will be lost within decades (Crushell, pers. comm.). A study is currently underway (Crushell, pers. comm.) in order to identify the reasons for the increased influence of rainwater on the soak system. Before the study began possible explanations put forward included that the change in conditions may be connected to the drainage activities carried out in 1983 by Bord na Mona or to the closing of the drain in the mid 1980s, which leads from the lough itself to the road. The latter event was carried out as a conservation measure, but may have lead to the lough retaining more rainwater and thus developing more ombrotrophic conditions. One of the aims of the study is to determine what management or restoration measures need to be taken to maintain the hydro- ecological characteristics of the soak.
The inner part of the soak (GR. 225480, 230090) is quaking and is dominated by a Sphagnum lawn with close to 100% cover. The Sphagnum cover in these wettest areas is dominated by Sphagnum recurvum with Menyanthes trifoliata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla palustris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex rostrata and Eriophorum angustifolium all frequent. There are several clumps and scattered individuals of Betula pubescens (up to 7-8m high) and Salix sp. around the margins of the wet area. Some of these have died back and standing dead stems are common. Along the centre of the southern margin there are numerous Betula saplings between 0.5-1m high. A zone of flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5m high, 50%) and tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) also occurs around the margins where Erica tetralix (5-10%) and Cladonia (20%) are also present. This zone varies between 5-10m wide and though it is considered inactive it is not represented as such on Map 1b as it is such a narrow band. The outer zone of the active soak contains scattered Molinia caerulea with large hummocks of Aulacomnium palustre and Sphagnum frequent. Calluna vulgaris is encroaching into part of this area, which is soft to very soft underfoot. Sphagnum palustre is also common in the vicinity of Lough Roe and is found at a high cover value close to the exit drain at the western edge of the main part of Lough Roe along with Salix aurita and Juncus effusus. The exit drain contains Molinia caerulea with several scattered 1-2m tall Salix spp. bushes and connects Lough Roe to another area of similar active soak ca. 150m to the west (F7). A clump of mature Betula (6-7 m high) with scattered
16 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 saplings (1-5m high) occurs along the drain connecting this section of the soak to the main part of Lough Roe.
Another clump of Betula pubescens (<7cm dbh, 4-5m tall) that is 10-15m in diameter occurs in the soak to the west of Lough Roe (F7). The bog surface here is very soft and the ground vegetation is dominated by Molinia caerulea, with patches of flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.7-1m high) around the edges of this part of the soak. Large hummocks of Sphagnum palustre and other Sphagnum sp. are frequent with some patches of Sphagnum sp. lawn. Eriophorum angustifolium is scattered in the lawn areas. Andromeda polifolia, Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks, Carex rostrata, Succisa pratensis, Potentilla erecta, Empetrum nigrum, Pleurozium schreberi, Juncus effusus and Menyanthes trifoliata are all present. There are scattered Betula saplings and trees between 0.5-6m high around the main clump. Dryopteris dilatata occurs around the bases of the Betula and some large hummocks of Polytrichum commune occur at the margins of this part of the soak.
Flush 8 This is an active flush that is found in the mid south-west of Clara East. The area consists essentially of carpets of Sphagnum magellanicum in a small depression that is surrounded by a narrow ridge of robust Calluna vulgaris (more extensive to the south). The centre of this flush is wet and quaking with an excellent Sphagnum cover (70%) composed mainly of S. magellanicum, S. cuspidatum and S. papillosum. Eriophorum vaginatum also dominates large patches of the flush usually accompanied by Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Patches of this flush are also dominated by Molinia caerulea with an understory of Sphagnum papillosum and Polytrichum alpestre. There are also a number of Sphagnum cuspidatum dominated pools that support frequent Menyanthes trifoliata. Calluna vulgaris has a low cover value in this flush and other species recorded include Cladonia portentosa, Aulacomnium palustre, Dicranum bonjeanii, Rhynchospora alba, Andromeda polifolia and Vaccinium oxycoccus. The Calluna vulgaris dominated ridge vegetation surrounding the soak extends ca. 50m to the south with Empetrum nigrum frequently accompanying the Calluna.
Flush 9 This flush/soak occurs in the south-eastern part of the high bog (GR. 225930, 229790). The vegetation is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5-0.7m high) and there are frequent large hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum present. The hummocks are crowned with Empetrum nigrum and Cladonia. There are some patches where a quaking Sphagnum lawn has developed, which contains S. cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium. Rhynchospora alba also occurs in some patches. This soak is active.
Infilling pools (Soaks) Infilling pools can be found scattered around the north-eastern portion of Clara East and can essentially be considered as soaks. These pools are visible on the 1910 6” map and appear to have undergone some direct human interference, possibly having been pools further excavated to encourage ducks to frequent them for shooting purposes (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). The majority of these pools are filled in with open water present in only some of them. There is usually an excellent cover of Sphagnum (>70%) within these pools composed mainly of S. magellanicum and S. papillosum with S. cuspidatum in the wettest areas. Eriophorum angustifolium is usually the most dominant higher plant along with frequent Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%) and a reduced cover of Calluna vulgaris (compared to the surrounding high bog vegetation). Vaccinium oxycoccus, Andromeda polifolia, Aulacomnium palustre and Drosera anglica are all usually present with Carex rostrata and C. limosa present in some of the larger pools. The edges of the pools often have Juncus effusus, Calluna vulgaris (<0.4m), Salix sp. and Betula pubescens. Molinia caerulea, Hypnum jutlandicum and Cladonia floerkeana in old tussocks are also found.
One example of such an infillling pool is found at GR. 225740, 230175 and measures 40 x 20m and is dominated by Sphagnum. The ground is quaking and an in-filling blocked drain crosses this former pool. The microtopography consists of hummocks and Sphagnum lawns. The hummocks are composed of S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium and are found at the margins of the pool grading into
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 lawns of S. magellanicum inwards into the pool. Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus, Empetrum nigrum and Andromeda polifolia are noted on top of the hummocks. The wettest parts of the in-filled pool contain Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium (20%). Menyanthes trifoliata and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) are also found. The Sphagnum cover overall is approximately 90%. Another example is found at GR. 225839, 230210, to the west of the linear pool system and is also located in a depression in the ground. Sphagnum magellanicum and Rhynchospora alba dominate.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
5.2.2.1. Clara West
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/7 This sub-marginal complex covers large areas across Clara West particularly in the north-western quarter of the site. The surface is generally soft underfoot and the topography is usually flat or with a slight slope. Hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 25-30% consisting mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum though S. magellanicum occurs occasionally in lawns where there is an improved Sphagnum cover (grading into the sub-central complex 9/7/10) and there are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (25-30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominate the vegetation along with lower cover values of Erica tetralix (5-10%), Carex panicea (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Hollows sometimes contain dried out Sphagnum cuspidatum, but often are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum where the complex grades into Complex 9/7/6. Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are frequent and Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant occurring usually underneath the Calluna.
A small patch of vegetation within this complex has not been burned for some time and thus has a high cover of Cladonia portentosa and taller Calluna vulgaris. This patch can thus be considered as Complex 9/7 + Cl. This unburned patch occurs in an approximately 300 x 100m patch centred around GR. 223670, 230445.
To the south-east of the Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224175, 229875), this complex appears slightly flushed with Eriophorum vaginatum growing in a tussocky form. The bog surface is firm to soft. E. vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris dominate the vegetation. The general Sphagnum cover is about 20% and increases (30%) towards the north of this area. There is some bare peat cover in places (5%) and there are blocked drains to the east. There are signs this area has been damaged by a fire and is now recovering (low Cladonia cover and some bare peat patches). The Cladonia cover is about 1%
To the west of Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224080, 230340) there is an excellent microtopography with large hummocks (0.4 m high) and hollows indicating it is a degraded former central ecotope area. However, there are no longer any pools present and the hollows contain mostly Rhynchospora alba and Narthecium ossifragum. There are, however, some relic patches of Sphagnum magellanicum lawns along the edges of the flush.
To the north of Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224330, 230440), the Sphagnum cover is 20-30% and occurs mainly in hummocks with occasional small patches of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum in hollows. Some bare peat (5%) is present due to previous fire in this area. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 20% (0.1-0.2m high). There are indications this area was previously active with some small patches of better quality (9/7/10) still present.
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This complex also occurs north of flush 1 in an area with a well-developed micro-topography (GR 223526, 230545). This area has degraded from active bog to sub-marginal ecotope and appears slightly flushed. Osmunda regalis occurs in this area.
In the west of the site, there are some areas where Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) is common in the depressions (GR. 223241, 230509).
A group of Betula pubescens trees (up to 20 specimens, <1.5m in height) and a Pinus sylvestris tree (<0.5m) are found within this complex in the south-eastern corner of Clara West (GR. 224560, 230120), at the west margin of drain D7.
Small sub-central patches (Complex 9/7/10) occur in the north-east section of Clara West (GR. 224581, 230957) amongst sub-marginal vegetation dominated by complex 9/7. These areas have a better general Sphagnum cover (50%) than the surrounding vegetation and are relatively small (10-20m in diameter). They contain occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and hollows containing S. cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and S. papillosum. There are occasional patches where Rhynchospora alba dominates in the hollows (9/4/10).
Complex 9/7 + Myrica (9/7 + My) This complex occurs along the southern margin of the high bog, at the edge of a Shanleys Lough flush. The bog surface is firm to soft and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 20%, dominated by patches of S. capillifolium and S. subnitens. Eriophorum vaginatum (10%), Calluna vulgaris (10-30%) and scattered Myrica gale (10-30%) characterise the vegetation. Other species present include Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Aulacomnium palustre and Erica tetralix (10%). The Cladonia cover is less than 1% and bare peat covers 5%. Occasional small dry algal hollows are present (<5%). There are also patches with a lower cover of Calluna vulgaris where the vegetation is considered as complex 9 + My. There is a gradual to steep slope down towards the cutaway.
This complex is also seen in a number of locations in the south-eastern corner of Clara West. These patches of Myrica follow a linear pattern and occupy old drains completely filled. The ground is soft and the surface rather flat. Low hummocks consisting of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. magellanicum, as well as Sphagnum cuspidatum or dry hollows characterise the complex. Myrica gale dominates the complex (50%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (20%) are also frequent. The Sphagnum cover is 20 to 30% and this area was affected by burning in 2000, as the low presence of Cladonia sp. indicates.
Complex 9/7 + Pools (9/7 + P) This complex is found in several locations within Clara West, particularly towards the west if the site, to the north of C12 (GR. 223215, 229970) and in an area of former sub-central community complexes (GR. 223210, 230210). Low hummocks and shallow pools dominate this complex, which is also noted at Clara East. Sphagnum magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium compound the hummocks and the pools are mostly dried out or with very little S. cuspidatum. S. fuscum and S. imbricatum hummocks are occasionally found, probably as a relic of previous better conditions in the high bog. The overall Sphagnum cover averages at 30% and Cladonia species are either very occasional or absent. Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix co-dominate the complex (40-50%) with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (20%). Algal hollows are noted at up to 10% cover of the complex surface and Rhynchospora alba is occasional within the pools as evidence of drying out. Although there are some sub-central characteristics present in this complex, the sub-marginal characteristics dominate and thus the area is mapped as sub-marginal in Map 1a.
Complex 9/7/6 This is similar in composition to the sub-marginal complex 9/7 described above, but has a lower Sphagnum cover (15-20%) and a higher abundance of Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%). This
19 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 complex is usually found grading into Complex 9/7 and in small pockets within Complex 9/7. It is found in a narrow strip in the north of the site separating two areas of sub-central Complex 9/7/10 (GR. 223630, 230625).
Complex 9/7/3 This complex is seen in the northeastern corner of Clara West and along the southern margins of drain D7, in the southwestern corner and at the northwest of the high bog close to a Myrica gale patch. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris dominate with frequent flats of Carex panicea. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 15-20% and Cladonia portentosa occurs at less than 5% cover. At the northeast corner of Clara West is an area that has undergone intensive drain blocking. There are small patches of good submarginal with small growing hummocks of S. imbricatum, lawns of S. magellanicum and patches of E. angustifolium occasional S. fuscum. In between are drier areas where the ground is firm and dominated by Carex panicea and Calluna vulgaris.
Complex 3/2/7 This complex is seen at the north of Clara West, to the east of the northern section of drain D7. Low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum are noted. The hollows are dominated either by Carex panicea or Sphagnum cuspidatum. The overall Sphagnum cover averages at 30%. The absence of Cladonia species and the high occurrence of Carex panicea (20-30%) show evidence of recent burning. Trichophorum cespitosum cover is 10% and Erica tetralix & Calluna vulgaris 40% (although Calluna is less common).
Complex 2/7 This complex is seen to the north of the central complex C4 and to the east of Clara West along both sides of the long treble double-drains (D7) running SW-NE. The ground is soft and the surface is flat. Low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. magellanicum, S. tenellum and S. papillosum are found. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum or contain Sphagnum cuspidatum. The overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is approximately 40% and this high occurrence of Sphagnum could be the result of the improvement of the local hydrological conditions near the blocked drains. Trichophorum cespitosum (20%), Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30-40%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) characterise the complex. Carex panicea is also found in places. Cladonia portentosa is only present 1%.
Complex 7/6/9 This complex is seen at the NW of Clara West. The ground is soft to firm in places and there is a gentle slope towards the south. The complex supports low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. tenellum and occasionally S. fuscum. The hollows are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum and occasionally support Sphagnum cuspidatum. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10% and the overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is 20-30%. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix co-dominate with Narthecium ossifragum common (30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum & E. angustifolium are also occasional (10%).
Complex 7/9/6 This complex is found north of the large mound in the centre of the high bog (GR. 223685, 230321). The bog surface is firm to soft and the microtopography is relatively well-developed with hummocks and hollows. The hummocks are dominated by Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) (0.2m high) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (10%). The hollows are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and occasional S. papillosum. There are occasional small patches of S. magellanicum. The general Cladonia cover is 5%.
Complex 7/9/3 This complex is found along the northern margin of the high bog (GR. 224441, 230845). The bog surface is firm to soft. Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%) in hummocks
20 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 dominate the vegetation with the hollows and flats dominated by Carex panicea (20%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (15%), E. angustifolium (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%). The Sphagnum cover varies between 10-30% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and some S. papillosum.
Complex 6/7 This complex is found to the east of the mounds in the south of Clara West. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 10-20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Narthecium ossifragum (15%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%) dominate the vegetation along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%), Erica tetralix (10%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). This is a poor quality sub-marginal complex and is on a gradation towards marginal ecotope and is also described under marginal ecotope complexes below.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs scattered throughout the north-west of Clara West and is a poor quality sub- marginal complex on a gradation towards marginal ecotope. Low hummocks dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) usually dominate the vegetation along with flats and hollows of Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%). The microtopography is relatively flat with low hummocks and shallow hollows. The general Sphagnum cover varies between 5-20% (grading into marginal ecotope) and is dominated by low hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. tenellum and S. papillosum.
To the north of Shanleys Lough Flush (GR. 224030, 230430), the bog surface is firm to soft and the microtopography contains low hummocks and hollows. A burn-line occurs in this complex (visible on the 2000 aerial photograph) and west of the burn-line the Calluna vulgaris is 0.2-0.3m high and more dominant than Narthecium ossifragum whereas east of the burn-line the height is 0.1-0.2m. and Narthecium is more prominent (Complex 6/7). Carex panicea is also often prominent in this complex.
There are several Pinus sylvestris saplings (0.5-2 m high) scattered in one area of this complex (GR. 223067, 230558). This area has a very low cover of Carex panicea cover and an increased cover of Sphagnum (20-30%).
Some areas also contain more frequent Rhynchospora alba depressions with S. cuspidatum also found in some of these hollows (GR. 223191, 230354).
Complex 4/6/7 This complex occurs to the north-west of Shanleys Lough Flush. The bog surface of this area is softer than surrounding the sub-marginal 6/7 complex. Rhynchospora alba frequently occurs in the hollows (20%), which were likely to have formerly been Sphagnum-dominated pools and hollows. Narthecium ossifragum (20%) is also frequent in hollows and Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) occurs on small hummocks. Other species present include Eriophorum angustifolium (<5%) and E. vaginatum (<5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20% with small patches or hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum all occurring.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 6/7 This complex occurs to the west of Shanleys Lough Flush on a small mound (GR. 223970, 230180). The bog surface is firm and bare peat covers 10-15%. The vegetation cover is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) on small hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum (40%) in hollows. Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (5%) and Erica tetralix (5%). The Cladonia cover is less than 5% and is colonising bare peat. Small patches of Sphagnum capillifolium are present but in general the Sphagnum cover is low (<10%).
21 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Complex 7/6 This complex is located at the mid-western edge of the bog and was previously classed as sub- marginal. The micro topography is mostly flat with very occasional low hummocks and hollows. The surface is firm and Sphagnum cover is very low (<10%).
Complex 6/3 This complex occurs along the north-west margin of the high bog (GR. 223436, 230820). The bog surface is firm. This complex occurs in areas that are flat or have a gentle slope at the high bog margin. The microtopography is dominated by hollows with occasional low hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum (30%) and frequent Carex panicea (10-20%) dominate the vegetation. Calluna vulgaris occurs on the low hummocks (20%) (0.2m high). Other species present include Erica tetralix (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Occasional hollows containing algae are present in this complex.
Complex 7/3/6 This complex occurs on the western margin of the high bog (GR. 223123, 230697). The bog surface is firm. The vegetation is dominated by large hummocks of Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) (0.3m high). Carex panicea (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) dominate the hollows. Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Erica tetralix (5%) and Eriophorum angustifolium. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium.
Complex 2 + Myrica (2 + My) This complex is found at the bog margin in the south of Clara West, south of Shanleys Lough soak and adjacent to turf plot no. 3. It is a narrow band of vegetation extending into the high bog for 7-8m from the margin where there is a steep slope down towards the cutaway. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is poor at approximately 5%. Tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) and Myrica gale (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) and Erica tetralix (15-20%). Narthecium ossifragum, Hypnum jutlandicum and bare peat are also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is very low (<5%).
Complex 7/2 This complex is found on the mounds west of Shanleys Lough flush. The surface is firm underfoot, the Sphagnum cover is very poor (<5%) and there are some cracks on the bog surface (0.3-0.5m wide orientated N-S). Calluna vulgaris (40%) dominates the vegetation growing to 0.2m in height along with tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). Pteridium aquilinum and Phragmites australis occur on the summit of the mound in scattered patches. Towards the base of the large mound there are more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10-20%) and less cover of Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and the vegetation is termed Complex 2/7. Other species present include Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The general Sphagnum cover varies between 5-20%.
This complex also occurs in a narrow strip south of the large mound. Trichophorum cespitosum is less prominent (5%), the Calluna vulgaris cover is 15% (0.1-0.2m in height) and Erica tetralix is frequent (20%). Other species include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), E. angustifolium (< 5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). The bare peat cover is 5-10% indicating a fire in the recent past. Cladonia (<5%) is colonising the bare peat. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with small patches of S. capillifolium prominent.
This complex is also seen dominating the southern margin of Clara West and in places where an underlying mineral ridges occur and drier conditions are noted, also in the southern section of Clara
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West. This marginal complex is similar to the complex found in Clara East, but a lower Cladonia portentosa occurrence is noted (1%) and bare peat cover is 5%.
At the southwest boundary of Clara West, south of a drain running E-W is an area with old difco ridges running perpendicular to the high bog boundary, Trichophorum cespitosum cover is 15% and Calluna vulgaris (0.2-0.3m) 30%. The ground is hard and the microtopography is flat apart from the difco channels and low hummocks. There is good Sphagnum regeneration with low hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum (10% cover in total). Eriophorum vaginatum is also present (10% cover). There are also scattered patches of Carex panicea.
Complex 6/2 This complex occurs along the northern margin of the high bog. The bog surface is firm and the microtopography contains low hummocks, hollows and tussocks. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30-40%) with frequent Trichophorum cespitosum (10%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Carex panicea (5%) and Calluna vulgaris (<5%) (0.2m high). The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium with S. subnitens and S. tenellum also present. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%. There are occasional algal hollows present. Molinia caerulea is encroaching onto the high bog from the margins in places. Ulex europaeus occurs on the high bog margin at one location (GR. 223813, 230860).
Complex 3/6/2 This complex is found along the road at the eastern boundary of Clara West. There is a steep slope towards the east. Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Trichophorum cespitosum dominate the vegetation and there are some algal hollows present along with small pools in the southern half. The Sphagnum cover is poor (<10%).
Complex 7/3 This complex is found at the western edge of the bog and is dominated by Carex panicea (40%) and Calluna vulgaris (25-30 %). Narthecium ossifragum occurs at approximately 10 % cover and there is little or no Sphagnum present. The ground is flat and firm underfoot with a poor microtopography and there area some dry channels with Rhynchospora alba.. Both Birch and Pine trees are encroaching into the bog, the birch is approximately 1.5 m tall and the pine 3m. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%.
Complex 6/9/3 This complex is found along the southeastern section of bog. Trichophorum cespitosum is replaced by Eriophorum vaginatum towards the flush though there is still small amount of Trichophorum cespitosum present (5%). This area slopes towards the south and the surface is firm. Calluna vulgaris is present at 15-20% cover and is 0.2m tall. Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum (25%) and Carex panicea (20- 25 %) dominate the vegetation. The total Sphagnum cover is <5% mainly S. capillifolium and some S. cuspidatum is dried out in some hollows.
Complex 4/2 This complex occurs along the north-west margin of the high bog (GR. 223465, 230904). This vegetation type occurs in old cutover areas. The vegetation is dominated by depressions of Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) with scattered tussocks of Molinia caerulea (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%). There are ‘islands’ of Narthecium ossifragum and Calluna vulgaris. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by patches of S. capillifolium associated with the Calluna vulgaris. There are also occasional patches of dried Sphagnum. cuspidatum in the depressions.
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Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This complex surrounds much of the high bog perimeter at Clara West, but does not extend far into the bog expanse. Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation cover reaching cover values of up to 100% and the ground is dry and hard underfoot indicating a low water table. Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Carex panicea and Andromeda polifolia are all usually present at low cover values and there is little or no Sphagnum cover. The ground layer is dominated by Hypnum jutlandicum, which is usually abundant under Calluna vulgaris. Cladonia portentosa is abundant in areas that have not been burned for some time.
Flushes
Flush 4 This inactive flush is seen at the south-west corner of Clara West. Tall Calluna vulgaris (0.4m) and Molinia caerulea dominate this flush, which could be underlain by a mineral ridge. Vaccinium myrtillus, Sphagnum capillifolium and Hypnum jutlandicum are also present within the flush. A high occurrence of Cladonia portentosa is also recorded, and some Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris trees are found at the NW of this flush. This flush is mapped as two separate areas (F4a and F4b) in Map 1a. These may be linked.
Flush 5 A small inactive flush occurs to the south-west of the large mound (GR. 223750, 229900). This flush is a narrow strip dominated by Molinia caerulea with patches of Myrica gale and several groups of Betula pubescens saplings and trees (4 m high). Juncus effusus is present in this area and there are a number of swallow holes.
There are a number of other small inactive flushes that are shown on Map 1a. These flushes have not been described in detail.
5.2.2.2. Clara East
Complex 9A + Cladonia (9A + Cl) This complex occurs in small patches scattered across the south of Clara East. The largest patch of it is found immediately south of Lough Roe (GR. 225485, 229960) where there is a relatively flat micro- topography with occasional small hummocks and the bog surface is soft underfoot. The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is dominated by S. capillifolium and S. papillosum in hummocks and S. magellanicum and S. papillosum in some hollows. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum angustifolium (30%), but is otherwise similar to Complex 9/7 + Cl though with a much lower cover of Calluna vulgaris (<5%). Carex panicea (5%), Erica tetralix (10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%) are all present. The Cladonia cover is 70%. Occasional small hummocks of Leucobryum glaucum are present and Aulacomnium palustre is also present in this complex. This complex is likely to be in transition to active sub-central ecotope.
Complex 9/7 + Cladonia (9/7 + Cl) This sub-marginal complex covers large areas across the centre of Clara East south of Lough Roe. The surface is firm to soft underfoot and the microtopography is dominated by hummocks and flats. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 25-30% consisting mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum though S. magellanicum occurs occasionally in lawns where there is an improved Sphagnum cover and there are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (25- 30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominate the vegetation along with lower cover values of Erica tetralix (5-10%), Carex panicea (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are
24 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 frequent and Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant occurring usually underneath the Calluna. The numerous drains within this complex running parallel to each other, approximately every 15m, in a NNE-SSW direction have been blocked and are infilling with Sphagnum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Rhynchospora alba and are lined with thick robust Calluna. There are also areas within this complex (particularly immediately south of Lough Roe) where there is a higher cover value of Eriophorum angustifolium. These areas are usually wetter (with a Sphagnum cover of 30-40%) and can be considered to have the potential to be sub-central ecotope since they would appear to be currently in transition as a result of rewetting from the blocked and infilling drains. There are also patches with a higher cover of Carex panicea (15%) and Erica tetralix (20%) and these generally have a lower Sphagnum cover (20%).
This area of the bog has not been burned for some time as the cover of Cladonia portentosa is >40% in places. However, there is a burn line running ESE-WNW across the bog, south of which the cover of C. portentosa is much reduced. This burn occurred in the mid-1990s according to the local Wildlife Ranger (Colm Malone).
Complex 9/7 This complex is found on Clara East south of the mid-1990s burn line that runs ESE-WNW across the bog. The complex is similar to Complex 9/7 + Cl though with much reduced cover of Cladonia portentosa and a lower growth of Calluna vulgaris. Where the complex grades into the sub-central complex 10/9 or there is an increased cover of Sphagnum with S. cuspidatum pools occasional though they are usually accompanied by algae. In the south-east of the high bog where this complex grades into the sub-central complex 15-, pools cover 5-10% of the complex and the complex is considered as 9/7 + P. Pools/hollows vegetated by Rhynchospora alba are common in this area.
This sub-marginal complex is also seen in a large area surrounding the linear set of pools in the north- east of Clara East. The ground is soft and the surface is flat. Low Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum papillosum and Sphagnum magellanicum hummocks characterise the complex as well as Narthecium ossifragum hollows. The dominant species are Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum & E. angustifolium (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%). Cladonia portentosa cover is low 5%.
Complex 9/7/6 This complex is seen in two locations within Clara East: to the north-east of Lough Roe and to the west of the linear set of pools. This complex covers a small area within the high bog and the presence of Narthecium ossifragum (20%) differentiates this complex from the surrounding complexes 9/7 or 9/7+P. Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum magellanicum and Sphagnum capillifolium compound low hummocks. The hollows consist mostly of Narthecium. Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium co-dominate (30%) and Erica tetralix cover is 20%. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20% and Cladonia portentosa cover is 10-20%
Complex 6/7/9 This complex occurs in the southern lobe of the high bog (GR. 225430, 229450) and borders an area of sub-central vegetation (SC15). The bog surface is firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by hollows with Narthecium ossifragum (20%), hummocks with Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and E. angustifolium (5%). There are occasional hollows with Rhynchospora alba (5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 30-40% with low hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum occasional S. imbricatum and S. subnitens, and patches and hollows containing S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. There are some pools present that contain S. cuspidatum (5%). The Cladonia cover is approximately 10%.
Complex 6/3/7 + Cladonia (6/3/7 + Cl) This complex is found on the slopes of a slightly elevated ridge south of flush 7 on Clara East. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium.
25 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Narthecium ossifragum (30%) dominates the vegetation along with Carex panicea (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (25%). Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) are also frequent. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is >20%.
Complex 7/6/9 + Cladonia (7/6/9 + Cl) This complex is found in a small patch of bog in the very south of Clara East directly north of where the bog tapers off to a narrow point. A burn-line (mid-1990s burn) runs through this complex so that to the south-east there is a high cover of Cladonia portentosa (25%) whereas to the west it is absent. The Sphagnum cover here is 20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium, S. subnitens and S. tenellum. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (15-20%), Narthecium ossifragum (15-20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%). Erica tetralix (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) are all present at low abundance values. Further north in the burned section of this complex (west of turf plot nos. 38-39) there are also some algal tear pools present with Rhynchospora alba and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum as well as occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum.
Complex 3/9 + Cladonia (3/9 + Cl) This complex occurs to the south of Lough Roe (GR. 225350, 230070). The bog surface is firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%). Other species present include Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (< 5%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The Sphagnum cover is 30% and is dominated by S. papillosum, S. capillifolium with small amounts of S. subnitens and S. cuspidatum (<5%) in small hollows. The Cladonia cover approaches 50%.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs in the southern lobe ofthe high bog (GR. 225300, 229300). This complex occurs on flat and sloped margins of the high bog. The bog surface is firm or firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (40%), (0.2m high) with frequent Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), E. angustifolium (<5%) and patches of Carex panicea (5%). The Cladonia cover is 5-10%. The general Sphagnum cover is relatively poor (10-20%) with S. capillifolium, S. subnitens and S. papillosum all present.
Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia (9/7/3 + Cl) This complex occupies a large area in the central section of the northern part of Clara East. Sphagnum papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium low hummocks are found; some topped by Vaccinium oxycoccus, as well as Leucobryum glaucum hummocks. The hollows are devoid of Sphagnum and consist mostly of Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea. Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominates the complex and Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix (20%) and Carex panicea (20%) are also common. The complex becomes wetter towards the centre of the northern section and the total Sphagnum cover is 20-30% in places. Eriophorum vaginatum is replaced by E. angustifolium in these wetter areas and although Sphagnum cuspidatum is more common in the hollows the overall Sphagnum cover is similar at approximately 30%. Cladonia portentosa is very common throughout the complex.
Complex 2/9/3 This complex is seen in the northwestern section of Clara East. The ground is soft and a slight slope is noted towards the western edge. The microtopography consists of low hummocks and hollows. Sphagnum papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium are noted in the hummocks. The hollows are mostly shallow and are colonised by S. cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. Trichophorum cespitosum (30%) dominates the complex and Eriophorum angustifolium & E. vaginatum (20%), Carex panicea (15%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) are common. Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix and Rhynchospora alba are also found throughout the complex. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20- 30%, being higher in the wetter areas close to the blocked drains. Many of these drains are in-filled with Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum, which dominate to form Sphagnum lawns. The drier section of the complex occurs in the inter-drain area and contains a higher presence of Carex panicea, Narthecium and occasionally Huperzia selago. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%.
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Complex 3/2/7 This complex is seen at the west of Clara East immediately at the entrance of the high bog from the road. This community complex is definitely influenced by water running off the high bog surface towards the edge. As a result of the increase in water presence the ground is soft and the Sphagnum cover is good 30%. Carex panicea (40%), Erica tetralix (<0.2m and 20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) dominate the complex. Low Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks are found as well as Carex panicea-Erica tetralix flats. Cladonia portentosa occurrence is low at 5%.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6/2 This complex occupies the northern and north-western margins of Clara East. The ground is firm and a gradual slope is noted towards the edge of the high bog. The entire area occupied by thiscomplex has been subjected to drains blocking and in-filling of the drains with Sphagnum cuspidatum is occurring. In addition, re-wetting of the areas by the blocked drains is occurring and Eriophorum angustifolium is common in these wet patches. Disturbance indicators are also found with Cladonia floerkeana, Campylopus introflexus and bare peat all present. The northwestern section of Clara East was affected by burning in March 2000 (Malone, pers. comm.) and as a result Cladonia portentosa and C. uncialis are absent. However Cladonia portentosa is noted at the east of the complex. Low hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography. Sphagnum tenellum and Sphagnum papillosum are noted in the hummocks. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Sphagnum cuspidatum in shallow hollows as a result to re-wetting. Dominant species within the complex are Carex panicea (40%), Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (10%). The overall Sphagnum cover is low 5 to 10%. Rhynchospora alba is also recorded.
A small wetter version of this complex is found at the west of Clara East, near the access to the high bog. The ground is very soft and gradual slope is noted, thus lost of water runs off the surface towards this margin of the high bog and the Sphagnum cover is higher (30%). Therefore this section of the complex is deemed sub-marginal.
Complex 7/2 This complex is found in the northeastern corner of Clara East. The ground is firm and bare peat is noted. In-filling drains are found within the complex and the Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m) & Erica tetralix cover is 40% and Trichophorum cespitosum is 20%. Narthecium ossifragum is also found in flats. The Sphagnum cover is low (5%) consisting mostly of S. capillifolium. Cladonia portentosa cover is also low at 10% cover.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs along the south-west margin of the high bog (GR. 225000, 229650). The bog surface is firm and the complex occurs on a gentle to steep slope with a west aspect. The micro- topography has low hummocks and hollows. 0.2m tall Calluna vulgaris (60%) and frequent Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) dominate the vegetation. Other species present include Erica tetralix (<5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%) and E. angustifolium (<5%). The Sphagnum cover is 10% with S. subnitens, S. capillifolium and S. papillosum all present in small patches. There are occasional large mounds covered with Calluna vulgaris and several Pinus saplings are also present. The Cladonia cover is 5%.
This marginal complex is also seen at the north-east of Clara East and although some patches are wet in this area and the blocked drains contain a good Sphagnum cover, the overall Sphagnum cover is low and averages at 10%.
Complex 6/7 This complex is found on a small slightly elevated ridge south of Flush 7 on Clara East as well as on parts of the larger ridges towards the SW of Clara East and towards the high bog margins. The surface
27 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is poor (10%) consisting mostly of S. capillifolium. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%), which is usually relatively tall (0.4-0.5m) in the unburned areas of this complex. Accompanying species include Carex panicea (10-15%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5-10%), E. vaginatum (5%) and Erica tetralix (5%). There is usually a high cover of Hypnum jutlandicum and (in unburned areas) of Cladonia portentosa (>40%). However parts of this complex (in the SW of Clara East) were burned in the mid- 1990s and have a much-reduced cover of C. portentosa.
In the south of Clara East there is a small mound with six 0.5-1.5m Betula pubescens within this complex at GR. 225382 229260. Robust Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum accompany the birch.
Complex 7/9 This complex is found on the ridges in the SW of Clara East and in small patches scattered across the south of Clara East. The surface is firm underfoot but is spongy in places due to the high abundance of Hypnum jutlandicum. Calluna vulgaris (40%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (15%) dominate the vegetation and there is a poor Sphagnum cover (10%) consisting mainly of S. capillifolium.
To the SW of Flush 3 (GR. 225100, 229850), this complex occurs on a slope with a NE aspect. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.2-0.3m high). Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), E. angustifolium (5%), Erica tetralix (5), Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%). Bare peat covers 5-10% in places. The Sphagnum cover is less than 5% and small patches of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are present. There are a series of ridges alongside the drains dominated by Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high). There are some patches of 9/7 with greater Sphagnum cover. Occasional Pinus and Picea saplings between 0.5-2 m high are present. The Cladonia cover is approximately 50% on this ridge indicating that it has not suffered a burn for a long time.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1/2 This complex occurs along the margins of the high bog. It generally occurs on a slope and the bog surface is firm underfoot. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 40% and is taller at the edge of the high bog. There are patches of bare peat present (20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (20%) increases in abundance on the high bog side of the taller Calluna vulgaris. There are also patches of Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) with Rhynchospora alba occuring in some erosion channels or hollows. The Sphagnum cover is quite poor (<5%) with generally only small patches of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum present.
Complex 1 This complex surrounds much of the high bog perimeter at Clara East, but does not extend far into the bog expanse. Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation cover reaching cover values of up to 100% and the ground is dry and hard underfoot indicating a low water table. Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Carex panicea and Andromeda polifolia are all usually present at low cover values and there is little or no Sphagnum cover. Hypnum jutlandicum, which is usually abundant under the Calluna dominates the ground layer along with, in the unburned areas, Cladonia portentosa.
Where this complex occurs in the south of Clara East adjacent to turf plot no. 40, there is abundant Betula pubescens and Pteridium aquilinum and the high bog here appears to have been cut in the past, possibly scraw-cut.
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Flushes
Flush 10 This flush is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris with a patch of scattered Molinia caerulea tussocks (GR. 225280, 230100). There are three 5m tall Betula pubescens, as well as three 2m Betula and numerous smaller saplings. There is also a 2m tall Pinus sylvestris, robust Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea and Pleurozium schreberi. This flush is inactive and is surrounded by the sub- marginal complex 9/7 + Cl.
Flush 11 This flush contains scattered Molinia caerulea (5%) in a patch 20m long dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5m high) and Cladonia (GR. 225430, 229920). There are several Betula pubescens 1m high. This flush is inactive and is probably connected to Flush 7.
Flush 12 This is a largely inactive flush found 100m SE of Lough Roe (GR. 225550, 229870). It is dominated intermittently by Molinia caerulea and robust Calluna vulgaris with scattered Betula pubescens (1-4m high) and Salix aurita. The Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 30% consisting mainly of hummocks of S. capillifolium. The Cladonia portentosa cover is 75% and there are frequent hummocks containing Polytrichum commune, P. alpestre and Andromeda polifolia. Hypnum jutlandicum and Pleurozium schreberi occur under the C. vulgaris. A small patch of Molinia caerulea occurs here and dominates towards the north-eastern extent of the flush with flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5-0.7m tall) dominating in the south-west. This flush is dry and thus considered inactive though there are frequent hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium. Eriophorum vaginatum is also abundant and other species recorded include Juncus effusus, Aulacomnium palustre, Luzula multiflora, Potentilla erecta, Dryopteris carthusiana, Vaccinium oxycoccus, V. myrtillus and Empetrum nigrum are all present.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread on Clara (West and East). It is found in both active and degraded raised bog, but tends to be best developed and most stable in the wettest areas of active raised bog.
In Clara West, Rhynchospora alba is abundant within Complex 14 (C3, C4 & C10-C12) along with lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum at the pools margins of pools infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. Towards the centre of Clara West (C9), the central complex 14 is suffering from desiccation and Rhynchospora alba is found in growing abundance in the pools. Here it is found with similar species to above, but with less Sphagnum and an increasing frequency of algae as well as Narthecium ossifragum.
Rhynchospora alba is present in similar conditions in the central Complex 15 (C2 & C8) and Complex 10/15 (C1), but is not as abundant, possibly because the pools are not as frequent.
In the sub-central complex 10/9 (SC6), Rhynchospora alba is frequent around the edges of Sphagnum- filled-pools and in patches on Sphagnum lawns. Complex 10/4 in the west of Clara West is characterised by Rhynchospora alba, which has colonised desiccated pools, which now have a poor cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum. It is also occasional in Complex 10/6 and Complex 9/7/10.
In degraded raised bog, Rhynchospora alba is found in Complex 9/7, sometimes at a high abundance in hollows. In the Complex 9/7 + P it is found in the pools along with dried-out Sphagnum cuspidatum and algae. In Complex 7/6/9 + Cl, Complex 6/7/9 and Complex 2/9/3 it is found in hollows with Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum in areas that are likely to have formerly
29 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 been pools. In Complex 7/6 and Complex 4/6/7 it is found in hollows with Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum in areas that are likely to have formerly been pools. Rhynchospora alba is found dominating dry channels in the marginal complex 7/3. It also characterises the marginal complex 4/2.
In Clara East, Rhynchospora alba is abundant within the Central Complex 10/15 (C14-C17) particularly at the margins of pools, which are infilling with Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and Eriophorum angustifolium. E. vaginatum is also abundant in these areas. Rhynchospora alba is present in similar conditions within the sub-central Complex 10/15- (SC14), but as the pools have suffered from desiccation, there is a much reduced cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum. Rhynchosporion vegetation is present in similar condition also in other sub-central areas such as the largest area of sub- central in the south of the site (SC15).
5.2.4. Bog Woodland Several patches of Betula-dominated woodland occur on Clara West in various flushes and soaks. These are in various stages of woodland development and age, with some areas being classified as scrub. There are five patches of bog woodland (BW1-BW5) marked on Map 1a as well as three areas of dry bog woodland (DBW1-DBW3). There is no bog woodland (though there is some birch-willow scrub: see F6 and F7) present on Clara Bog East.
The best-developed and most extensive bog woodland occurs in the central area of Flush 2 (Shanleys Lough Flush). This woodland (BW2) is the only bog woodland of Clara that was described in detail during the current survey and thus is the only one described here in this section. The other bog woodland patches are described briefly under the descriptions of the flush/soak systems in which they occur.
This woodland occurring at BW2 contains patches of woodland at different stages of development with the main area being the younger and having a canopy of 8-10m that is completely dominated by Betula pubescens. The general canopy cover is about 40% and is quite open. The ground vegetation is characterised by large tussocks of Molinia caerulea and a shrub layer of Myrica gale and Vaccinium myrtillus (1m high). Typical woodland species such as Sphagnum palustre, Thuidium tamariscinum and Dryopteris dilatata and typical bog species such as Erica tetralix are found growing together in this bog woodland (see table 5.2.4.1.). The bog surface is soft and wet and can be classified as active raised bog. Areas of Betula scrub are found surrounding much of this woodland particularly towards the north. Most of the birch are between 8-10m tall with a dbh of 7-15cm (see tables 5.2.4.2. and 5.3.4.3.) and many of then are multi-stemmed (indicating a fire history).
Table 5.2.4.1. Percentage cover of species found within the quadrat. (10 x 10m) Species % cover Molinia caerulea 60 Betula pubescens 40 Myrica gale 20-30 Juncus effusus <5 Vaccinium myrtillus 10 Dryopteris dilatata <5 Erica tetralix <1 Fagus sylvatica <1 Rubus fruticosus <1 Sphagnum palustre 50 Sphagnum recurvum 10 Thuidium tamariscinum 5 Hypnum cupressiforme <5 Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus 1 Polytrichum commune 1
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Pseudoscleropodium purum <1
Other species found in the woodland include Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris carthusiana, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Pleurozium schreberi, Calluna vulgaris and Hedera helix.
Table 5.2.4.2. Sizes of trees >7 cm in diameter within the quadrat. Number Species Dbh (cm) Height (m) 1 Betula 10 8 2 Betula 88 3 Betula 15 9 4 Betula 78 5 Betula 10 9 6 Betula 10 10 7 Betula 15 10 8 Betula 78 9 Betula 12 10 10 Betula 10 8
Table 5.2.4.3. Numbers of stems < 7 cm in diameter within the quadrat. Sizeclass(m) <0.25 0.26-1.00 1.01-2.00 2.01-4.00 >4 Betula 2747 Fagus 1
An older area of woodland occurs in the south of BW2. This area has a canopy of 15-20m high and the trees have an average dbh of 30cm. The stem density is sparser in this area. Some parts of the more mature bog woodland are drier and have a lower bryophyte cover, and are thus considered inactive (GR. 224080, 230050).
5.3. Regenerating cutover The cutover at Clara Bog was not surveyed during the 2004 survey.
5.4. Quadrats
A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Maps 1a and 1b and the grid reference and full details of each quadrat are given in the appendix. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2.
Table 5.4.1.1 Quadrats on Clara West Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 15 Qc2 Central 14 Qc3 Central 14 Qc4 Central 10/15 Qsc1 Sub-central 9/7/10 Qsc2 Sub-central 10/9 Qsc3 Sub-central 9/10 Qsc4 Sub-central 7/9/10 Qsc5 Sub-central 10/4
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Table 5.4.1.2 Quadrats on Clara East Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc5 Central 10/15 Qsc6 Sub-central 9/7 + P
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1 Impacts and activities on the high bog on Clara West and East Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 310 Peat Extraction A (2-) 1.95km(21.69% of HB margin of Clara West) A (2-) 1.43km(14.45% of HB margin of Clara East) 312 Mechanical removal of peat Commercial use A (2-) 0.18km (Clara West) Domestic use A (2-) 1.77km (Clara West) A (2-) 1.43km (Clara East) 810 Drainage B (1-) 1.45km1 (94.6% of HB of Clara West) B (1-) 0km 1Clara East (100% of HB of Clara East) 180 Burning (Yr) B (1-) NA 1 these figures do not include length of blocked drains, some of which may still de reduced functional (see section 6.2.1).
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities in and around the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage A (2-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Clara (West and East) is the largest remaining example of the True Midland Raised Bog sub-type measuring approximately 443.21ha in extent. However, there is still extensive turf cutting along the southern margins of the site on both Clara West and Clara East and this cutting is associated with massive subsidence and slumping of the high bog along parts of this high bog margin. Indeed since the bog was surveyed by Kelly in 1993, two small lakes have developed close to the mineral mound on Clara West due to subsidence of the peat body caused by drainage and turf cutting.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) noted that over half (55.68%) of the original bog area has been cutaway since the 1800s with the most intense cutting having occurred to the south of the present day high bog. Currently 3.38km of the 18.87km perimeter of Clara is being cut (close to 2km of this cut margin relates to Clara West). All the cutting activity described appears to be hopper-cut and is mostly for domestic use (apart from plot no 37, which approaches a commercial nature). 60 active turf plots were identified by MacGowan et al. (in prep.) as well as one plot that is no longer active, but which has cut into NPW owned land. In the Conservation Plan for the site, it was indeed noted (O’ Mahony, draft) that cutting had been carried out on some NPW owned plots and that regional staff had contacted those responsible and inserted painted stakes marking out NPW owned plots in the area to prevent future reoccurrence. 37 of these plots occurred on Clara West and 34 on Clara East and all are shown on Maps 3a and 3b.
There is close to 70ha of active bog on Clara West fragmented over the bog expanse and coming to within 12m of the bog margin at the discharge point of Shanleys Lough flush close to the centre of the
32 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 southern perimeter. The turf cutting in this area is thus a very serious threat to the active ecotope. Cutting elsewhere on Clara West also threatens the active bog in addition to approaching the NPW owned land (delineated by a boundary drain) and has even crossed it in places (plot nos. 34, 35 & 37). MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered it is necessary to stop cutting in turf plot nos. 1-5 and 33-37 immediately and to rapidly phase out cutting in plot nos. 6, 17, 22-28, 31 and 32. It was also considered necessary to phase out cutting in plot nos. 8-16, 18-21, 29 and 30 within five years and to phase out the remaining peat cutting at the site within ten years.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered the most sensitive area to be that along the centre of the southern margin of Clara West, south of the mineral ridge. The turf cutting here (associated with plots 1-5) has caused massive subsidence in recent years and there is almost no dried-out marginal zone so that the potential impact of any cutting activity is high. Turf plot nos. 1-4 appear to have ceased being cut very recently (ca. 2000-01). However, it is imperative that cutting on these plots is not restarted. Turf plot no. 5 also occurs in this area and is still active and it was thus considered necessary to stop cutting on this plot immediately.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) also noted that towards the west there are plots, which are approaching the boundary of NPWS-owned land and thus need to be carefully monitored. Plot nos. 16 is approximately 10m and plot 17 less than 5m from the boundary drain. Turf plot nos. 31 and 32 are also approaching the boundary drain and plot nos. 33-37 are either at (plot 33 & 36) or extending into (plot 34, 35 & 37) NPWS owned land and thus need to be stopped immediately. It was also noted that plot no. 37 is approximately 160m wide and appears to be industrial scale development and thus also needs to be stopped immediately.
The active bog on Clara East is fragmented and is still developing and recovering from the drainage system, that was excavated across the entire bog surface in 1983, and which was not blocked efficiently until 1996. Thus, it is likely that the area of active bog ecotope is still expanding and has not yet reached its full extent. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered it is necessary to stop cutting in turf plot nos. 48-50 immediately and to rapidly phase out cutting in plot nos. 51 and 52. It was also considered necessary to phase out cutting in plot nos. 38, 39, 46, 47 and 53-61 within five years and to phase out the remaining peat cutting at the site within ten years.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage
Although turf cutting is still ongoing, most of the high bog drains (see tables 6.2.1 & 6.2.2) have been blocked by the NPWS. There are, however, a number of short parallel functional drains in the south- west of Clara West (D4: see Map 3a) associated turf plot nos. 15-30. Some of the drains in this series (associated with plots 16 & 17) have water flow in towards the bog expanse as the plots are located on a slightly elevated ridge, and so these are not considered to have a significant drying impact on the high bog. West of this series of drains there is a longer functional drain (D1) with water flow towards the west. This is probably the last remaining unblocked high bog drain on Clara West that may be having a serious drying out impact on the bog.
In 1992, Dúchas (NPWS) excavated a surface drain along parts of the southern boundary of the Nature Reserve, to establish a physical boundary on state ownership where there was a possibility of encroachment by nearby peat-cutting activities (Kelly, 1993). This drain increased run-off in some areas, despite being blocked at regular intervals and was included in the high bog drain-blocking programme (O’ Mahony, draft). The boundary drain (D8) on the high bog at Clara East, which delineates the boundary of NPWS ownership has not been blocked. This drain is almost infilled and close to being non-functional.
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Blocked drains cross much of Clara East as evidence of an intensive drainage scheme excavated by Bord na Mona in 1983. These drains were dug at 20 metre intervals in a NNE-SSW direction with some east-west drains also excavated at various intervals (Kelly, 1993). Some of these drains were blocked to various degrees of success in 1987 (Kelly, 1993). A management plan for the efficient blocking of the drains was prepared by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994), and most were blocked effectively in 1995/96 (van der Schaff, 2002).
However, the most serious drainage problem affecting Clara Bog is that caused by the road which runs through the centre of the bog and the deep drains which have been excavated on either side of it. This road has resulted in massive subsidence of the bog (up to 10m; van der Schaaf, 2002) since it was constructed over 150 years ago (Kelly, 1993)
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains on Clara West and East Drain 1 This functional drain is found in the south-west of Clara West and flows from the blocked double drain (D3) westwards towards the high bog margin. Drain 2 The blocked drain is found towards the south of Clara West and delineates the boundary of ownership with the high bog to the north of the drain owned by the NPWS. Drain 3 These are two parallel N/S blocked drains found in the west of Clara West. Drain 4 These are a series of short functional drains found in the SSW of Clara West and associated with cutting in turf plots 15-30. Generally there is flow to the SSW except at turf plots 16-17 where a mineral mound causes flow in the opposite direction. Drain 5 This drain is found to the south of Shanleys Lough Flush and although it has been blocked there is still water flowing out of this drain and into the cutaway. Drain 6 These are three parallel blocked drains found on Clara West that are infilled with water and Sphagnum. Drain 7 This consists of three parallel double-drains found on Clara West that have been blocked and are infilling. Drain 8 The drain is found towards the south of the Clara East and delineates the boundary of ownership with the high bog to the north of the drain owned by the NPWS. The drain is infilling and can be considered as non-functional in places. Drain 9 The high bog to the north of D8 was intensively drained in the early 1980s with parallel drains every 15-20m and occasional perpendicular drains. These drains were blocked in 1996 and the area is re-wetting with the drains colonised by Sphagnum particularly S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. However, the drains are not yet completely infilled and can be considered to be reduced functional in places.
Table 6.2.2.1 High bog drainage on Clara West Drainage 1992/93 2004/05 Variation 1992-2004 (%) Length of functional NA 1.45 N/A drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 0 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 0 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains NA 11.06 N/A Area affected by NA 232.95ha (94.6%) (+/-) N/A drainage (ha - %)
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Table 6.2.2.2. High bog drainage on Clara East Drainage 1992/93 2004/05 Variation 1992-2004 (%) Length of functional NA 0 N/A drains (m) 1 Length of reduced- NA NA N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3.08 N/A drains (m) Area of blocked drains NA 154.20ha + 154.20ha Area affected by 208.89ha (100%) 196.43ha (100%) 0 drainage (ha - %)
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004. However, van der Schaaf (2002) notes that there is deep drainage excavated in the cutaway in the south of Shanleys Lough with drain levels of about 6m below the bog surface. These drains are causing considerable subsidence in the bog area between Shanleys Lough and the southern margin with measurable effects recorded more than 300m from the bog margin in 1997. Furthermore, Kelly (1993) noted that a drain running along the northern boundary of Clara East was deepened and widened in 1991 as part of a reclamation scheme for agricultural land adjoining the bog and caused considerable damage to some marginal vegetation communities in the area.
Arterial drainage schemes were carried out in the region in the 1850s and again in the 1950s, resulting in the lowering of the regional water table (O’Mahony, Draft). Drains are also found around the margins of the bog, where they have been dug to drain agricultural land or peat cutting banks. The main road and the drains running parallel to that road have also had a major effect on the hydrology of the bog and have split one original dome into two smaller domes. Water flows towards the road from both Clara east and west and it also acts as the major drain for lands on the northern margin of the bog. In the central part of present day Clara West, the subsidence caused by the drainage system that was installed in connection with the Clara-Rahan Road since the time that the road was built has been approximately 2m (van der Scaff, 2002). The subsidence in the area of Shanley’s Lough has been 4- 5m and the effect of peat cutting in the south of the site has increased the subsidence due to the road. The average subsidence of Clara West between 1982-1991 was 2cm/yr. Subsidence on Clara Bog has changed the topography of the bog surface from the original flat/domed shape to a more undulating surface, the undulations corresponding to the topography of features underneath the bog.
6.3. Fire history The bog has suffered from burning in places, particularly in the vicinity of the Clara to Rahan road and adjacent to peat cutting areas in the south west of the site (O’Mahony, draft). However these fires are not as frequent as fires on other raised bog sites, and hence are less of a problem than elsewhere. Burning of scrub is practised onthe esker in attempts to prevent encroachment of grasslands by scrub. While this is successful on a short-term basis, it appears to lead to scrub species becoming more vigorous in the following growing seasons. Burning is not thought to be a serious problem on Clara Bog at the moment (O’Mahony, draft). However any uncontrolled fires are undesirable as they cause changes in vegetation composition and can kill Sphagnum mosses, the main peat-forming element of the bog.
According to the local ranger there was a burn that went across part of Clara West in March 2000 and some smaller burns on Clara East in 1998.
6.4. Invasive Species There are no major problems with invasive species recorded on Clara Bog though there are a number of scattered birch and pine on the high bog.
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6.5. Afforestation There is no forestry on the high bog at either Clara Bog West or East. However, there is a commercial plantation on cutover peat to the north-east of Clara East, part of which is within the SAC. This block of forestry is owned by Coillte and was proposed for exclusion from the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). Species planted include Sitka Spruce, Lodgepole Pine and Scot’s Pine (O’Mahony, draft). Another block of forestry formerly owned by Coillte was present on cutover peat in the central south of the site adjacent to the road. However, this block was transferred to NPWS ownership in the 1990s (O’Mahony, draft) and has since been removed. It was not present on the 2000 aerial photograph.
Afforestation of reclaimed land has also occurred on land adjacent to the site boundary in the north west of the site, near Grouse Lodge. A small area of this afforestation is within the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). Another small (>1 ha) block of commercial forestry was planted in the 1990s beside Brook Bridge in the south of the site. This is a is a Norway Spruce plantation and is likely to be for commercial Christmas tree production (O’Mahony, draft).
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities Other activities such as fertilisation (120), communication networks (502: routes, autoroutes), grazing (140), cultivation (102: mowing/cutting), sand and gravel extraction (300) and cultivation (100) were reported within the site in the Natura Form. However their impacts are not assessed as part of this project.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS
There is no Management Plan produced for Clara Bog SAC 572. However, a Draft Conservation Plan (O’Mahony, draft) was developed by MPSU for the period 1999-2004.
7.1. Conservation Activities There has been much research carried out on Clara over the last 20 years examining the dynamics of the bog system and considering possible conservation management options. A joint Dutch/Irish Raised Bog Research Project ran between 1989-1993. This involved a multidisciplinary study of two Irish Midland Raised Bogs, Clara and Raheenmore. The study identified the fundamental damage and problems caused to raised bogs by drainage, peat extraction and burning and subsequently formulated management objectives, strategies and possible actions to deal with these problems (Ryan and Streefkerk, 1998). The series of management measures developed were then implemented under the European Union Cohesion funded Raised Bog Restoration Project, which ran from 1994-99. At Clara this involved an acquisition programme (to gain management control over parts of the site so as to allow conservation works to begin) and conservation works. The conservation works involved blocking of surface drains, a research project to model the effects of erecting a dam across the southern end of Clara West and hydrological and vegetation monitoring.
The drain blocking on Clara East followed mainly a management plan for efficient blocking of drains by hand prepared by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994) and most were blocked effectively in 1995/96 (van der Schaff, 2002). Some of these drains, which were excavated at 15-20m intervals by Bord na Mona in 1983, were blocked to various degrees of success in 1987 (Kelly, 1993). Drain blocking by machine of a series of large drains on both Clara East and West was also completed following the method outlined by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994) and modified for machine blocking by McDonagh (1996).
The acquisition of land and turbary rights within Clara SAC, both on the high bog and the cutover is continuos and further drain blocking will be required (as will the grading of facebanks) in some areas once these areas have been purchased. Pressure has also been applied in order to stop peat cutting at the site, and the cutting on the plots that are considered to be most critical to the site (plots 3-4, see Map 3a) in terms of subsidence and water run-off was halted in the last number of years.
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Currently the hydro-ecology, development and management requirements of the soak systems are being examined as part of a three-year study by Patrick Crushell in conjunction with UCC, the University of Nijmegen and the NPWS. This study is based mainly on Lough Roe. From the study it is apparent that the ecology of Lough Roe has changed considerably in recent years with bog communities replacing the original poor fen type communities (Crushell pers. comm.). Indeed it is likely that in the near future bog communities would (without management) colonise the entire area of Lough Roe as acid conditions begin to prevail. Hence, without active management, the soak system will disappear as a unique ecological feature on the bog. The study being carried out by Crushell is thus investigating the restoration possibilities and management requirements for the soak. One option being investigated involves removing the surface vegetation matt and recreating open water conditions. Initial results indicate that this leads to an increase in alkalinity and may indeed allow the original fen communities to re-colonise the area. Two plant species (Sparaganium erectum and Potamogeton natans) that had not been recorded at the site since 1993 have re-appeared since the restoration experiment began in 2003.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1992/93 survey and 2004/05, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). Thus it can be seen that there was a 3.11ha reduction in the extent of high bog between 1995 and 2000. As turf cutting proceeded at a similar rate between 2000 and 2004 (though cutting has halted in turf plot nos. 1-4), it is likely that approximately another 3ha was cutaway during this time. Thus it is likely that ca. 6ha (1.3%) of high bog have been cutaway in the last ten years.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 19921 1995 2000 2004/05 Variation in High Bog Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area Kelly et al. Digitised (1995-2004/05) ortho-image ClaraWest 247.02 248.77 246.78 246.78 2 1.99ha3 0.80% ClaraEast 208.89 197.55 196.43 196.43 2 1.12ha3 0.57% Total 455.91 446.32 443.21 443.21 3.11ha4 0.70% 1 these figures refer to the areas calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map of Kelly (1993). There was no figure available for high bog area of 1992. However, the sum of the areas of community complexes shown in table 8.1 of Kelly (1993) was 215.5ha for Clara West. This amount does not appear to include all of the complexes recorded. The sum of the areas of community complexes shown in table 8.1 of Kelly (1993) was 199.2ha for Clara East. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.5-3 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3likely to be under-estimated by 0.5-3 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 4 likely to be underestimated by 1-6ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent Active raised bog (including bog woodland) is estimated to currently cover 70.60ha of Clara West (see table 8.2.1). In 1992, active raised bog covered an area of approximately 107.76ha meaning that 37.16ha or 34.48% of active raised bog has been lost in the last 12 years. However, this figure may be slightly over-estimated as parts of the bog that were considered sub-central in 1992 may have been considered as sub-marginal using the criteria of the current survey (see below).
The largest decrease in area of active raised bog has occurred in the north-west of the site. Large parts of this area of high bog supported sub-central ecotope (Complex 10) in 1992, but have since dried-out and degraded further and are now considered as sub-marginal ecotope (mainly Complexes 9/7 and 9/7/6). According to van der Schaff (2002) this is a more elevated part of the high bog and it is thus likely that water is being lost from this area to the south and/or east of the high bog. However, there are other areas across the entire bog (including close to the centre) that have degraded over the last 12 years and are no longer considered as active raised bog.
Consideration should be given, however, to the fact that the figures for loss of sub-central (and thus overall active) ecotope in table 8.2.1. are likely to be exaggerated. This is because Complex 10 was described as a variable complex in 1992 and it is likely that parts of it, would under the current criteria be considered as sub-marginal ecotope and thus as degraded raised bog. Evidence to support this can be is found in Kelly and Schouten (2002 in table 5.14) where it is estimated that more than 70% of the time the acrotelm thickness of this complex is either 0-5cm or 10cm. An acrotelm thickness of 0-5cm suggests that the acrotelm is absent in many places and thus under current criteria, these areas would be considered as inactive (or degraded) raised bog and would likely to have been classified as sub- marginal ecotope. Furthermore, the sub-marginal complexes 9/7 and 9/7 + P recorded in parts of this area during the current survey have some sub-central characteristics. The habitat extent of active raised
38 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 bog on Clara West is assessed as C (Unfavourable Bad) as the decrease in active raised bog area from 1992 to 2004 is greater than 15% (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of active raised bog on Clara West is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
A number of problems arose when comparing the areas obtained for active raised bog on Clara East in 1992 (Kelly, 1993) with those obtained during the survey in 2004. The most problematic case being that fact that a large area (23.23ha + 0.55ha of infilling/infilled pools) of the high bog was classified as soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) during the 1992 survey (see Appendix 3b).
The figures in table 8.2.2. suggest that there has been a 23.17% loss in active raised bog on Clara East. However, considering the difficulty (discussed in appendix 3b) in classifying the soak-associated (with large infilled pools) ecotope as either active or degraded raised bog, it must be realised that this figures may be an over-estimation. Indeed, a comparison of the ecotope maps from the two surveys (Map 1b and 4b) illustrates some positive trends. For example it would appear that the drain blocking carried out across the high bog in 1996 is having a positive affect on the vegetation in the south of the site. For example, a relatively large area (SC16: 5.73ha) in this area of the site has re-wetted. This area surrounding the mound in the south of the site was considered as marginal ecotope in 1992 and has now improved to sub-central ecotope with a small patch of central ecotope also present (C17: 0.11ha) in this area. An additional newly developed sub-central area is now found to the north-west of this area (SC15: 1.44ha). In addition the loss of active ecotope from the northern part of the site must be treated with caution due to the difficulties involved in assessing the soak-associated (with large infilled pools) ecotope that were discussed earlier. Indeed as there is no evidence (on the ground) to suggest that the northern part of the bog has degraded in the last 12 years it is likely that the figures given for loss of active raised bog are over-estimated. However, as the decrease in active raised bog area from 1992 to 2004 is estimated to be greater than 15%, the habitat extent of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as C (Unfavourable Bad) as (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Overall on Clara Bog (West and East combined), there has been a 31.49% (146.47ha in 1992 to 100.34ha in 2004) decrease in area of active raised bog, corresponding to a conservation status of C (Unfavourable bad) as it is greater than a 15% decrease.
! Overall on Clara Bog, the extent of active raised bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Habitat structure and function There has been a considerable decline in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat on Clara West. The area covered by central ecotope has declined by 38.06%. The largest area affected by this change is again in the west and north of the site. In the north an area (1.19ha) of Complex 14 (frequent pools) degraded partly to the sub-central complex 10/9 (SC6) and partly to the sub-marginal complex 9/7. In the west a small area (0.33ha) of Complex 14 degraded to sub-central 10/4 (SC3).
Towards the centre of the site the central ecotope (C8) to the north-west of the large mound is still present, but has decreased in size. Interestingly, it is the area described as frequent pools in 1992 that has degraded to sub-central and sub-marginal ecotope with the area of scattered pools now considered as central ecotope. Furthermore, a small pool has developed at the south of this area of central ecotope. Thus it may be that water is flowing into the south of this area, establishing wetter conditions so that lawns of Sphagnum cuspidatum have spread and an open water pool has been created.
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The areas of central ecotope found within Shanleys Lough Soak have been maintained. Immediately north of the soak the area of Complex 14 has decreased slightly. North of this again the area of Complex 15 has degraded to sub-central complex 9/7/10 and to the sub-marginal complex 9/7/6. To the east, east of the triple drain the area of central ecotope has been maintained and may even have increased. A decline in the area covered by central ecotope greater than to 25% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of unfavourable declining (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara West is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Due to reasons discussed above under habitat extent, it is difficult to assess the habitat structure and functions differences in the last 12 years at Clara East. However, according to table 8.2.2., there has been an 83.71% increase in the area of central ecotope on Clara East. On the other hand, the small area of central ecotope recorded as having frequent pools close to the south-eastern margin of the high bog in 1992 appears to have dried-out as it is now almost devoid of pools and is considered as sub-central ecotope (SC17). An increase of >5% in the area covered by central ecotope in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status category of A (Favourable) (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The microtopography of the remaining active areas on Clara West is still good as hummocks, hollows, lawns and pools are present. However pools are showing signs of desiccation in places such as in the central area, C9. As a consequence of the drying-out of the pools in this area the Sphagnum cover is declining and is being replaced by Rhynchospora alba, Narthecium ossifragum and algae. Thus, although the margins around C9 have an excellent microtopography, the areas have degraded to sub- central ecotope.
Quality hummock indicators such as Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum are still present within the active raised bog habitat. Good quality pool indicators, Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are also found in many of the pools. S. recurvum is recorded in flush areas particularly in Shanleys Lough Soak.
On Clara East, Sphagnum cuspidatum appears to be spreading out from the blocked drains, creating newly developed areas of active ecotope particularly in the south of the site. In addition the restoration experiments at Lough Roe have created suitable conditions for the re-colonisation of the area by Sparaganium erectum and Potamogeton natans, two plants that were recorded on the site in 2003 for the first time in ten years (Crushell, pers. comm.)
Overall on Clara West and East combined, there has been a 35.61% decrease in area of central ecotope (from 15.47ha in 1992 to 9.96ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of C (Unfavourable bad) as it is greater than a 25% decrease.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Future prospects Active raised bog is severely threatened and rapidly declining. There are bad prospects for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
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Table 8.2.1. Variation in active raised bog area on Clara West ACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 15.16 6.09 9.39 3.80 (-)5.77 (-)38.06 Sub-central 73.42 29.51 43.35 17.57 (-)30.07 (-)40.96 Activeflush 17.96 7.22 16.48 6.68 (-)1.48 (-)8.24 BogWoodland 1.22 0.49 1.38 0.56 (+)0.16 (+)13.11 Total 107.76 43.31 70.60 28.61 (-)37.16 (-)34.48 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas.
Table 8.2.2. Variation in active raised bog area on Clara East ACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 0.31 0.16 0.57 0.29 (+)0.26 (+)83.71 Sub-central 34.91 17.67 25.28 12.87 (-)9.63 (-)27.59 Activeflush 3.49 1.77 3.89 1.98 (+)0.40 (+)11.46 Total 38.71 19.60 29.74 15.14 (-)8.97 (-)23.17 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall increase in area of degraded raised bog on Clara West from 141.01ha (56.68% of high bog area) in 1992 to 176.64ha (71.58% of high bog area) in 2004. This variation is due mainly to loss of active raised bog and this is not considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. At least 2ha (ca. 1%) of degraded raised bog was lost to turf cutting in the last 12 years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see section 3, chapter 3 - Summary Report)., both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. Thus when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1992 has not changed the habitat extent is assessed as favourable maintained. The habitat extent is assessed as A (favourable) as the increase in area of degraded raised bog from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is between 0-5% (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog at Clara West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
There has been an overall increase in area of degraded raised bog on Clara East from 158.84ha (80.40% of high bog area) in 1992 to 166.68ha (84.85% of high bog area) in 2004. This variation is due mainly to loss of active raised bog and this is not considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. At least 2ha (ca. 1%) of degraded raised bog was lost to turf cutting in the last 12 years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see section 3, chapter 3 - Summary Report)., both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. Thus when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1992 has not changed the habitat extent is assessed as favourable maintained. The habitat extent is assessed as A (favourable) as there is an increase in area of degraded raised bog (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3- Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog at Clara East is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
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Overall on Clara Bog (West and East combined), there has been a 14.50% increase in area of degraded raised bog (from 299.85ha in 1992 to 343.32ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of A (favourable) (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! Overall on Clara Bog, the extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function There has been a slight decline in quality of the degraded raised bog on Clara West with a 20.86% (see table 8.3.1.) increase in the area covered by marginal ecotope and a 11.58% decrease in facebank ecotope (8.95ha or 16.68% increase in facebank and marginal ecotopes combined). Comparing the vegetation map of 1992 (Kelly 1993) to the ecotope map (Map 1a), it can be seen that most of the expansion in sub-marginal ecotope has occurred at the expense of sub-central ecotope and that the area of marginal ecotope has remained approximately the same. The habitat structure and function is thus assessed as B (unfavourable inadequate) as the increase in area of marginal ecotope from 1992 to 2004/05 is between 5-25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog at Clara West is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
There has been a significant improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog on Clara East with a 36.23% decrease in marginal ecotope. This is due to the blocking of the numerous parallel drains on the bog surface in 1996. Thus much of the marginal ecotope areas of 1992 have improved to sub- marginal and some have even improved to sub-central (e.g. SC15 and SC16). Most of the improvement has taken place towards the south of the site (See Maps 1b and 4b). The habitat structure and function is assessed as A (favourable) as the decrease in area of marginal ecotope from 1992 to 2004/05 is greater than 25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog at Clara East is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The microtopography of this habitat on Clara West has improved due to the presence of hummock/hollow systems as well as very occasional pools in parts of the west and north-west of the site. However, rather than an enhancement in former degraded habitat it is due to a decline in the quality of a former active areas. Thus, it should be noted that the quality of the overall degraded raised bog habitat has improved due to the inclusion of new former active areas, currently degraded, which still feature some of their good quality attributes. The Sphagnum cover is moderate within the sub- marginal complexes (averaging between 10-30% within). This cover is obviously lower in the marginal complexes (< 10%).
Hummock quality indicators (Sphagnum fuscum and S. imbricatum relic hummocks) are noted within sub-marginal ecotope occurring scattered throughout complexes 9/7, 9/7 + P, and 9/7/6 as well as positive pool indicators such as Sphagnum cuspidatum in pools in Complex 9/7 + P. S. magellanicum is present throughout the large area of sub-marginal that was considered as sub-central in 1992. However, it usually occurs at low cover values increasing in abundance where the sub-marginal ecotope grades into the sub-central complex 9/7/10.
Cladonia species are present in most of the degraded community complexes. However, it usually occurs at low cover values especially in the north-east of the site where it was recorded as being absent from Complex 3/2/7. There is also a high occurrence of Carex panicea in this area. This is likely to be due to the light burn, which effected parts of Clara West in 2000. There is a small area close to the centre of the site (Complex 9/7 + Cl) that has escaped burning for a number of years where the cover of Cladonia portentosa is high and Calluna vulgaris growth is robust.
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On Clara East, the drains appear to be filling up with Sphagnum particularly S. cuspidatum and actively growing hummocks of S. imbricatum were recorded in SC 14. However, the blocked drains are not yet completely infilled with a lowered water table observed in them in summer. On the positive side, it is believed that these drains will be completely in approximately ten years (Ryan pers. comm.). In addition the spreadin out from the drains of S. cuspidatum as well as S. magellanicum and S. papillosum was recorded in places with some areas in the south of the high bog believed to be in transition to active ecotope.
Overall on Clara West and East combined, there has been a 15.60% decrease in area of marginal and facebank ecotope (from 157.88ha in 1992 to 133.05ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of A (favourable), (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 -Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog on Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened as long as peat cutting continues at the site. There are poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3.1. Variation in degraded raised bog on Clara West INACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 2 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 84.82 34.10 111.48 45.17 (+)26.66 (+)31.43 Marginal 46.75 18.79 56.50 22.89 (+)9.75 (+)20.86 Face-bank 6.91 2.78 6.11 2.48 (-)0.80 (-)11.58 In-activeflush 2.41 0.97 1.71 0.69 (-)0.58 (-)24.07 Dry bog NA NA 0.21 0.09 NA NA woodland Open water 0.12 0.05 0.19 0.08 (+) 0.07 (+) 58.33 Total 141.01 56.68 176.64 71.58 (+)35.10 (+)24.89 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas. 2 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
Table 8.3.2. Variation in degraded raised bog on Clara East INACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 2 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 54.62 27.65 95.02 48.37 (+)40.40 (+)73.97 Marginal 97.87 49.54 62.41 31.77 (-)35.46 (-)36.23 Face-bank 6.35 3.21 8.03 4.01 (+)1.68 (+)26.46 In-activeflush 0 0 1.13 0.58 (+)1.13 NA Open water 0 0 0.09 0.05 (+) 0.09 NA Total 158.84 80.40 166.68 84.85 (+)7.84 (+)4.94 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas. 2 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
43 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. The extent of vegetation complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp. or characterised by the abundance of Rhynchospora spp. does not appear to have declined in the period 1992 and 2004. Indeed the former central area in the west of Clara West that has since degraded to sub-central ecotope (SC1: Complex 10/4) is now characterised by Rhynchosporion depressions. Furthermore, the new areas of active raised bog on Clara East at C14 and SC16 are found in areas of former marginal ecotope (mainly Complex 3). C14 supports a high cover of Rhynchospora alba around the pool margins while SC16 support R. alba in hollows. However, a large area to the south of Lough Roe was classed as Complex 5 (R. fusca) in 1992 and as very little R. fusca was recorded in this area during the current survey, it is likely that it has declined in abundance in this area of the high bog. This may be due to the improvement in conditions (wetter) brought about by the blocking of the surface drains.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
8.1.4. Bog Woodland
The area of bog woodland on Clara given in the Natura form is 7.5ha, while the area referred to as bog woodland in the draft management plan (O’Mahony, draft) is 4ha. Thus it would appear that there was some confusion as to the actual area of bog woodland present on the site. During this survey, the term bog woodland was only given to areas where there was a canopy present and trees were >4m in height. Furthermore, some areas were classified as dry bog woodland. These areas are not included in the overall figure given for bog woodland, as they are not considered to be active peat-forming systems. Thus, the figure for bog woodland present on Clara is 1.38ha. The area of bog woodland recorded by Kelly (1993) was 1.22ha. (see Appendix III). This amounts to an increase of 0.16ha (13.11%) in the last ten years. As the area is so small (0.16ha) it is likely that some of this may be due to mapping error and mapping differences. It is thus unlikely that area of bog woodland has changed significantly in the last ten years.
! The conservation status of the bog woodland communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects The main area of bog woodland on Clara (BW2 & BW3) is thought to be a relatively new phenomenon (within the last 150 years) related to high bog subsidence and a change in flow patterns due to the building of the Clara-Rahan road (see Connolly et al, 2002). However, peat cutting and related drainage in recent years to the south of the soak system has caused further considerable subsidence and threatens to alter flow patterns again, which may lead to the deterioration of the soak and its bog woodland. The hydro-ecology, development and management requirements of the soak system are currently being examined as part of a three-year study by Patrick Crushell in conjunction with UCC, the University of Nijmegen and the NPWS.
44 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog A minimum of 3.11ha (more likely to be 5-6ha) of high bog has been lost to turf cutting in the last 10 years at Clara with 17.9% (all along the southern margin) of the high bog margin being actively cut. This cutting is associated with massive subsidence and slumping of the high bog in places. Indeed since the bog was surveyed by Kelly (1993) in 1992, two small lakes have developed close to the mineral mound on Clara West due to subsidence of the peat body caused by drainage and turf cutting. Most of the high bog surface drains on the site have been blocked, but may have a reduced functional character for a number of years to come until they become completely infilled. Furthermore, the cutover drains (none of which have been blocked) are also causing drying out of the high bog, particularly the deep cutover drains to the south of Shanleys Lough on Clara West. In addition, the Clara-Rahan road and its associated drains, which separate the site into Clara West and Clara East continues to cause subsidence of the site at an average rate of 2 cm/yr on Clara West and 4 cm/yr on Clara East (van der Schaff, 2002). Finally, it can be considered that as long as peat cutting is still ongoing on Clara, the active raised bog will continue to degrade to some extent.
It appears that the north-west of Clara West is suffering the most from drying-out affects and it may be that water is flowing from this area to the south and/or east of the high bog. On Clara East large areas of the south of the site are re-wetting due to the blocking of the drains. However, the expected increase in the area of active ecotope did not materialise. This is partly due to difficulties in assessing the 1992 ecotopes as either active or degraded. Nevertheless, it would seem that in the north of Clara East there has been no increase in active raised bog and that instead the area has further declined despite the blocking of the drains in 1996.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog A considerable decrease (34.48% - 37.16ha) in active raised bog habitat (7110) has occurred at Clara Bog West since the last survey (1992). This decrease has been encompassed by a decline in the quality of the habitat (central ecotope declined by 38.06% - 5.77ha). On Clara East, the assessment is more difficult for reasons outlined in section 8.1.1. However, there appears to have been a loss in extent of active raised bog of up to 23.17% (8.97ha). Nevertheless there appears to have been a slight improvement in quality in places though the area of central ecotope is still very small (0.57ha). The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C- Unfavourable bad).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent of the habitat has increased on both Clara West and East at the expense of active raised bog. On Clara West, although the current degraded raised bog features better quality than the former (1992), this is due to the allocation of former active raised bog within this habitat. On Clara East there has been a significant improvement in the quality of degraded raised bog with a 36.23% decrease in marginal ecotope. However, the degraded raised bog is still considered to be under moderate threat from peat cutting due to the fact that peat cutting is ongoing. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate), as the habitat is moderately threatened and thus future prospects are poor.
The extent of Rhynchosporion depression communities does not appear to have declined in the period 1992 and 2004. Thus, the conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
The area for bog woodland has not changed significantly since 1992. The conservation status of the bog woodland communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
45 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
46 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bell, J. 1991. A Study of the Hydrological Effects of a Bog Road, Clara Bog, County Offaly. Ireland. M.SC thesis, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Imperial College, London. Connolly, A., Kelly, L., Lamers, L., Mitchell, F. J. G., van der Schaaf, S., Schouten, M. G. C., Streefkerk, J. G. and van Wirdum, G. 2002. Soaks. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.170-185. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, M. L. 1993. Hydrology, Hydrochemistry and Vegetation of Two Raised Bogs in Co. Offaly. Ph. D-thesis, Trinity College Dublin. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government,, Dublin. Kelly, L. and Schouten, M. G. C. 2002. Vegetation. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.110-169. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. McDonagh, E. 1996. Drain Blocking by Machine on Raised Bogs. Internal Report, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin. O’ Mahony, C. draft. Conservation Plan for Natura 2000 site. Clara Bog cSAC 572, Co. Offaly. Draft II Consultation. Period of Plan: 1999-2004. National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. Rodwell, J. S. 1991. British Plant Communities, Volume 2: Mires and Heaths. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Ryan, J. & Streefkerk, J. 1998. Raised Bogs – Conservation Problems and Solutions. In O’Leary, G. and Gormley, F. (eds) Towards a Conservation Strategy for the Bogs of Ireland, pp. 127-136. Irish Peatkand Conservation Council, Dublin. Streefkerk, J. K and Douglas, C. 1994. Management Plan for Clara East: blocking superficial drains on the high bog. Internal Report for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin. van der Schaaf, S. 2002. Bog Hydrology. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.54-77. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/ Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. Van Tatenhove, F. and Van der Meer, J. 1990. The Quaternary Geology of Clara Bog and Raheenmore, Co. Offaly, Ireland. Preliminary mapping of Superficial Deposits. University of Amsterdam.
47 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
11. APPENDIX
Appendix I Quadrats
(a) Clara West COMPLEX NAME 15 14 14 10/15 9/7/10 10/9 9/10 7/9/10 10/4
GPS READING 224380,230320 223171,229865 224325,230283 224119,230643 224298,230182 223915,230730 224524,230494 223119,230077 223127,230382
QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qc2 Qc3 Qc4 Qsc1 Qsc2 Qsc3 Qsc4 Qsc5
FIRMNESS quaking quaking quaking quaking firm-soft very soft very soft very soft very soft
CRACKING no no no no no no no no no
BOG BURST no no no no no no no no no
SLOPE flat flat flat depression flat flat steep slope flat flat
DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains
BURNT 2000 ?
TREND stable stable drier
ALGAL HOLLOWS absent < 5%
ALGAL POOL absent
BARE PEAT absent
POOL COVER >70% 30% 15% 20% 10% 10% < 5% 15%
POOLS reg pools inter-connecting pools reg pools tear pools reg pools inter-connecting pools reg pools reg pools
MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pools,laws,hm,hol lowhums,hols,pool highhum,hol,pool highhum,hol,pool lowhumsandhols lowhums,hols,pool lowhums,hols,pool lowhumsandhols lowhums,hols,pool
COMMUNITY
S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% 5% 10% 5% 5% 10% 10% 10% 5%
S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% 5% < 5% < 5% 5% 5%
LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent absent 10% absent
TRICHOPHORUM FLATS
S. PAP HUMMOCKS 15% 5% 25% 10% 40% 20% 10% 5% 15%
S. PAP HOLLOWS lawnsandpools hollows hummocks hummocks and hollows hummocks and hollows hummocks and hollows lawns hollows and lawns
S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 5% 25% 10% 60% 40% 10% 15% < 5%
S. MAG HABITATS lawns&hollows lawns&hollows lawns&hollows lawns&hollows lawns&hollows lawns&hollows lawns&hollows hollows
48 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS 40% 5% present < 5% < 5%
R. FUSCA HOLLOWS
R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 5% 5% 5% < 5% 5% < 5% 15%
E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 10% 5% 5% 10% 5% 5% 15% 5%
NARTHECIUM < 5% 5% 5 < 5% 5 5% absent present 5
NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollowsandlawns lawns hollows lawns lawns
S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS < 5% 15% < 5%
S. SUBNITENS
S. AURIC POOLS 5% 5% < 5%
S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS
S. CUSP 40% 15% 15% 15% 10% 10% < 5% 5%
SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 60% 40% 30% > 70% 40% 20% 20% 30%
SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 20% 25% 30% 20% 40% 40% 20% 15% 10%
TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 80% 70% 70% 90% 40% 80% 40% 40% 40%
E. ANGUS 25% 5% < 5% < 5% absent < 5% 5% 5% 20%
QUALITY INDICATORS
HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum
POOLS INDICATORS all S. cusp all S. cusp S. cusp
CLADONIA PORTENTOSA absent 5% < 5% present present < 5% < 5% < 5% 5%
CLADONIA COVER absent 5% < 5% present present < 5% < 5% < 5% 5%
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS
NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT
E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS
CAREX PANICEA
S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT
CLADONIA FLOERKEANA
OTHERS % DISTURBANCE
TEAR PATTERN
CALLUNA COVER 5% 15% 20% < 5% 10% 15% 15% 20% 10%
CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3 OTHER DETAILS
49 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
OTHER SPECIES Erica Erica 10 on lawns
COMPLEX VARIATIONS
SIMILAR DESCRIPTION
OTHER DETAILS
(B) Clara East
COMPLEX NAME 10/15 9/7 + P
GPS READING 225875, 230095 226015, 230407
QUADRAT NAME Qc5 Qsc6
FIRMNESS quaking very soft
CRACKING no no
BOG BURST no no
SLOPE depression depression
DRAINS no drains no drains
BURNT
TREND stable
ALGAL HOLLOWS absent
ALGAL POOL absent
BARE PEAT absent
POOL COVER 50% 50%
POOLS reg pools reg pools
MICRO TOPOGRAPHY low hums, hols, pool low hums, hols, pool
COMMUNITY
S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% 10%
S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS
LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK
TRICHOPHORUM FLATS < 5% < 5%
S. PAP HUMMOCKS 5% 5%
50 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
S. PAP HOLLOWS hollows and lawns hollows and lawns
S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 15% 10%
S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hollows lawns & hollows
S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS < 5% 15%
R. FUSCA HOLLOWS
R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 5%
E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 15% 25%
NARTHECIUM 10% 5%
NARTHECIUM LAWNS lawns lawns
S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS 20% < 5%
S. SUBNITENS
S. AURIC POOLS 5% 5%
S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS
S. CUSP 10% 10%
SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 50% 25%
SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 10% 15%
TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 60% 40%
E. ANGUS 5% 10%
QUALITY INDICATORS
HUMMOCK INDICATORS
POOLS INDICATORS all all
CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 5%
CLADONIA COVER 5% 5%
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS
NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT
E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS
CAREX PANICEA 5% 5%
S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT
CLADONIA FLOERKEANA
OTHERS % DISTURBANCE
TEAR PATTERN
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CALLUNA COVER 10% 20%
CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.4
OTHER DETAILS
OTHER SPECIES Menyanthes
COMPLEX VARIATIONS
SIMILAR DESCRIPTION
OTHER DETAILS
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Appendix II Photographical records
Image Number Feature Grid Reference Date 100_1955 Blocked drain (Sphagnum cuspidatum) NA 18/05/2004 100_1956 Polytrichum sp (Possible two species) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1957 Polytrichum sp (Possible two species) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1958 Left (Dicranum bonjeanii) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1756 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1757 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1758 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1759 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1760 High bog used to dry out turf 223313, 229551 09/09/2004 100_1761 Lateral Cutting 223343, 229564 09/09/2004 100_1762 Complex 14 223173, 229867 09/09/2004 100_1763 Complex 14 223172, 229866 09/09/2004 100_1764 Complex 14 223172, 229866 09/09/2004 100_1765 Complex 14. Looking north towards flush with Juncus effusus 223173, 229867 09/09/2004 100_1767 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1768 Water flowing along facebank drain at turf plot no. 3 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1769 Subsidence and slumping at turf plot no.3 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1770 Out of focus 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1771 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1772 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1773 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1774 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995) (a) Clara West
ECOTOPES Kelly, 1993 Original figures Figures calculated from 1993 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 17.3 8.03 15.161 6.09 Sub-central 51.8 24.04 73.422 29.51 Sub-marginal 69.7 32.3 84.823 34.10 Marginal 46.6 21.62 46.754 18.79 Facebank 6.9 3.20 6.91 2.78 Flushes (active 23.2 10.77 Areas given and inactive below as separate including bog categories woodland) Active flush NA NA 17.96 7.22 Inactive flush NA NA 2.41 0.97 Bog Woodland NA NA 1.225 0.49 Pool NA NA 0.12 0.05 Total 215.5 100 248.77 100
1 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. Kelly (1993) described complex 15 (hummock/hollow scattered pool complex) as central in 1992. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would not be termed Complex 15 and would be considered as sub-central ecotope. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 15.96ha. Furthermore, Complex 21 (Enriched Sphagnum magellanicum Complex) and Complex 22 (Enriched Sphagnum magellanicum/Sphagnum cuspidatum Complex) were described by Kelly as Rheotrophic Soak associated Complexes while using the criteria of the current survey they would be deemed as central ecotope. Thus these areas were re-
53 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
mapped in the 1993 map and termed central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 6.94ha. See Map 4a. 2 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of complex 15. In 1992 this was described as central ecotope. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-central. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 15.96ha. Furthermore, the area of high bog to the east and south-east of Shanleys Lough Flush was allocated to sub-central ecotope in 1992. However, this area was described at the time as also having marginal and sub-marginal characteristics with Trichophorum cespitosum characterising the vegetation in places (Complex 10/2). Thus, these areas would under the criteria used during the current survey be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 6.54ha. See Map 4a. 3 The area of high bog to the east and south-east of Shanleys Lough Flush was allocated to sub-central ecotope in 1992. However, this area was described at the time as also having marginal and sub-marginal characteristics with Trichophorum cespitosum characterising the vegetation in places (Complex 10/2). Thus, these areas would under the criteria used during the current survey be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 6.54ha and in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05 this figure is added to the area of sub - marginal ecotope and subtracted from the area of sub-central ecotope. Furthermore, parts of the marginal ecotope of 1992 had sub-marginal characteristics and would be considered as sub-marginal under this survey’s criteria. This is particularly true for the area of marginal that extended northwards from the southern margin in the south -west of the site (Complex 6/3). This area is measured as 8.91ha in extent and thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. See Map 4a. 4 There is a difference of 1.75ha between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 53.91ha. 5 Community Complex 20 (Betula pubescens/Juncus effusus woodland Complex) and Community Complex 28 (Betula pubescens woodland Complex) were mapped as bog woodland.
(b) Clara East
ECOTOPES Kelly, 1993 Original figures Figures calculated from 1993 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 17.6 8.84 0.311 0.16 Sub-central 17.5 8.79 34.912 17.67 Sub-marginal 46.3 23.24 54.623 27.65 Marginal 73.6 36.95 97.874 49.54 Facebank 9.3 4.67 6.354 3.21 Flushes (active 34.9 17.50 Areas given and inactive below as separate including bog categories5 woodland) Active flush NA NA 3.495 1.77 Total 199.2 100 197.55 100 1 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. Kelly (1993) described complex 15 (hummock/ hollow frequent pool complex) as central in 1992. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would not be termed Complex 15 and would be considered as sub-central ecotope. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 13.18ha (See Map 4b). 2 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992 Complex 15 was described as central ecotope. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-central. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 13.18ha. Furthermore, 23.23ha (+ 0.55ha of infilling/infilled pools) of the high bog was classified as soak- associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) during the 1992 survey. A further 17.84ha were subsequently classified as soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) by Kelly and Schouten (2002). This ecotope (derived from Complex 12 Sphagnum magellanicum/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) was not recognised during the current survey and the corresponding area was divided up and classified as central sub-central, sub-marginal, marginal and active flush ecotope. Thus, in order to compare figures from the two surveys, the soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) must be classed as either active or degraded raised bog; meaning that the description given for Complex 12 must be analysed and classed as either active or degraded raised bog. However, problems arise here as there are no descriptions for the different areas now recognised within the complex so that the complex (in 1992) has to be taken as a whole. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the description in 1992 recognises that the
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area is highly variable with “the central section of the complex having a well developed acrotelm and the northern and particularly the southern edges in many instances having no acrotelm”. From this it can be inferred that the complex supported areas of both active and degraded raised bog. However, with no way of drawing boundaries between these active and degraded raised bog areas in the 1993 vegetation map, the complex must remain mapped as a single unit. Kelly and Schouten (2002: see Table 5.15) list the dominant community types present (in order of importance) within Complex 12 as being: 3Bb (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum sociation of Sphagnum magellanicum sub-variant with S. capillifolium), 3Ba (sub-variant with S. cuspidatum), 2A (Community of Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium) and 2C (variant with Molinia caerulea). The latter three are all indicative of very wet conditions typical of central/sub-central ecotope. The former community type and also the most dominant (3Bb) is indicative of drier conditions typical of poor sub-central ecotope (similar to the sub-central complex 9/7/10 of the current survey, but also similar to the sub-marginal complex 9/7). Thus because the dominant community types within the soak -associated complex are largely indicative of active raised bog, this complex is considered to be active and is mapped as sub-central ecotope on the geo-referenced and modified vegetation map of 1992 (See Map 4b). However, it must be remembered that there are areas of degraded raised bog within this complex. Some such areas were created by the numerous N/S running drains that run through the complex, which aided the establishment of the community types 4B (Community of Calluna vulgaris, Sphagnum capillifolium and Cladonia portentosa variant with Campylopus introflexus) and 3D (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum variant with Campylopus paradoxus and Zygnemales). Indeed, considering that 10-20% of the time (see table 5.14 in Kelly and Schouten, 2002) Complex 12 has no acrotelm, it can be inferred that 10 -20% (ca. 15%) of the area covered by the complex can be classified as inactive (or degraded) raised bog. This amounts to an area of degraded bog within this complex of 3.48ha and thus to an area of active raised bog within this complex of 19.75ha. The remaining 0.55ha is considered as infilling/infilled pools (active soaks/flushes). Since a further 17.84ha were classed as soak-associated (with large infilled pools) by Kelly and Schouten (2002), it can be inferred again that 2.68ha (15% of 17.84) of this can be considered as degraded raised bog. Thus overall the 41.62ha of this complex was divided up as follows: 34.91ha of sub-central ecotope, 0.55 of active flush/soak and 6.16ha of sub-marginal (See Map 4b). 3 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992, Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) was considered as soak-associated complex with parallel ridges. It is now re-interpreted as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 9.89ha of sub-marginal ecotope (See Map 4b). 4 Another alteration to the ecotope map of Kelly (1993, and Kelly and Schouten, 2002) is that the area mapped in 1993 as sub-central with drainage is now considered as marginal ecotope. This ecotope was, in 1993, drawn from areas where Complex 7 (Calluna vulgaris Complex) and 7a (Calluna vulgaris/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) were described. These two complexes usually occur (>70% of the time) in areas where there is no acrotelm (see table 5.14 in Kelly and Schouten, 2002) and thus are considered to occur in inactive (or degraded) raised bog (see Map 4b). Furthermore, due to the occurrence of these complexes usually on elevated dry ground, they are considered here as marginal complexes. There is also a difference of 11.34ha between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo- referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal and facebank ecotope. Therefore the areas given for marginal and facebank ecotopes by Kelly are appropriately adjusted with 5.67ha (half of 11.34ha) subtracted from each of Kelly et al.’s figures. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 103.54ha and for facebank ecotope is 12.02ha. 5 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992 Complex 12 (Sphagnum magellanicum/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) was considered as a soak-associated complex with large infilled pools. It is now re-interpreted as mainly sub-central ecotope, with some sub-marginal and active flush patches (see table footnote 2). Furthermore, Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) was considered as soak-associated complex with parallel ridges. It is now re-interpreted as sub-marginal ecotope. This area now accounts for 9.89ha of sub -marginal ecotope. Similar issues arose in considering whether the soak-associated ecotope (with parallel ridges), which amounted to an area of 9.89ha, be considered as active or degraded raised bog. This ecotope was derived from Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) whose dominant community types are listed as 10 (Community of Polytrichum alpestre and Calliergon cuspidatum), 3A (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum) and 3Bb (sociation of Sphagnum magellanicum sub-variant with S. capillifolium). The latter community complex was discussed above and considered to be indicative of sub-central/sub-marginal type conditions while 3A is considered to occur in all ecotopes, but is perhaps more dominant in sub-marginal ecotope. Community type 10 (the dominant community type) is indicative of nutrient enriched conditions and was found mainly on ridges. From table 5.1 (in Kelly and Schouten, 2002), the most abundant Sphagna is S. capillifolium, which is found within this community type at a similar abundance to Hypnum jutlandicum. Thus it would appear that relatively dry conditions prevail within this community type and hence the entire complex is considered to be inactive (or degraded raised bog) and it is mapped as sub-marginal ecotope on the geo-referenced and modified vegetation map of 1992 (See Map 4b).
55 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Clara Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 572 6” Sheet: OF: 7 & 8 Grid Ref.: N 305 245 1:50,000 Sheet: 48 SAC area 2004 (ha): 873.54 High bog area 2004 443.21 (Total) (ha): 246.78 (Clara West) 196.43 (Clara East) Dates of Visit: 07- 09/09/04 Townlands: Doory, Derries, Ballina, Bohernagrisna, Clogher, Bawn, Ballinough and Erry
2. SITE LOCATION
Clara Bog is situated 2km south of Clara village and is split into two by a road running NNW-SSE through the site. Clara is the largest remaining example of the True Midland Raised Bog sub-type (Cross, 1990).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in September 2004, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Clara bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004. Local NPWS management staff collaborated on the survey and substantial information on impacts and activities at the site were obtained.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Clara Bog is bounded in the north by esker ridges running in a NW to SE direction and there are some excellent examples of esker grasslands (some of which are orchid-rich grasslands) included here within the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). To the east there is transition to calcareous woodland and to the south there is a large area of bog that has been cutaway over the last number of centuries. Indeed van Tatenhove and van der Meer (1990) recorded the former southern extent of raised bog peat at this site as being the edge of the Silver River.
In geomorphologic terms Clara can be classed as a Ridge River A type bog (Kelly et al, 1995). The bog is believed to have once had a central dome shape. However, the construction of a road (Clara- Rahan road) running NNE to SSW through the bog has caused subsidence of up to 9-10m at the road and approximately 2m in the present centre part of Clara Bog West (van der Schaff, 2002). Thus the bog now consists of two shallow domes (Clara Bog East and Clara Bog West) which slope towards the road (Bell, 1991). Furthermore, there has been a relatively large subsidence (4-5m) in the area of Clara West around Shanleys Lough. It is believed (van der Schaff, 2002) that this has occurred due to the presence of the large till mound to the west of this area. This mound is thought to have had a former surface position approximately equal to that of the surrounding bog and that after subsidence occurred acted as a barrier to acrotelm flow towards the area around Shanleys Lough. Thus the area dried out (consequently increasing the subsidence) until the surface area was eventually low enough to attract flow from other parts of Clara West along a long flow path around the northern and maybe also the southern end of the western mound. This together with the infilling of the drains in the area caused a rewetting of the area resulting in renewed peat growth. The average subsidence on Clara Bog West between 1982-1991 was recorded as 2cm/yr, indicating that the road is probably still affecting the surface levels on Clara West (van der Schaff, 2002). Furthermore, the deep drainage (with drain levels of about 6m below the bog surface) excavated in the cutaway in the south of Shanleys Lough in the
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
1990s is causing considerable subsidence in the bog area between Shanleys Lough and the southern margin. This drainage combined with the peat extraction appears to have resulted in a change in the hydrology of Shanleys Lough soak area. The average subsidence on Clara Bog East between 1982- 1991 was recorded as 4cm/yr (van der Schaff, 2002). The higher subsidence on Clara East during this period can be attributed to the drainage system that was installed there in 1983.
Today Clara Bog is elongated in an E-W direction and is split into two sections by the Clara-Rahan road. Most of the peat cutting on Clara has taken place in the south of the site. The area around Shanleys Lough is now believed to be the main discharge point for much of Clara West (van der Schaff, 2002). The absence of a clear dome shape on the bog (it is even slightly concave) causes relatively long flow paths without large gradients. In addition the soak system in the area around Shanleys Lough acts as a reservoir and thus outflow from Clara Bog West may continue for a considerable period of time after periods of precipitation (van der Schaff, 2002).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Clara Bog SAC 572 Natura form; Betula bog woodland (EU code 91D0), active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) The current area of active raised bog at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 70.60ha (28.61% of high bog). This is a decline of approximately (see section 8.1.1) 37.16ha (34.48%) since 1992 when it was estimated to have 107.75ha of active raised bog. Clara is recognised as having the finest examples of soak systems remaining in Ireland as well as having well-developed hummock and hollow complexes (Cross, 1990). The active raised bog habitat at Clara West includes central and sub-central ecotope as well as active flush and soak systems, including bog woodland, which is described separately. The central ecotope areas are characterised by wet pool areas, which are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and support Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Eriophorum angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is high (>70%) in these areas and sometimes approaches 100% cover. However, these areas are fragmented and are often found in close association with the flush/soak systems. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also found in these areas. In the sub-central ecotope pools become less frequent as does S. cuspidatum while S. magellanicum is more abundant. Some of the poorer quality sub-central areas have no pools and are dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum and have only a moderate (ca. 40-50%) cover of Sphagnum composed mostly of S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum. There are two main areas of flush/soak habitat on Clara West (F1 & F2 on Map 1a). Parts of these soaks are extremely wet with open water present in places in F2. These soak systems are diverse with areas of wet scrub, wet woodland (see 5.1.4) and central-like-ecotope all present.
The current area of active raised bog at Clara East is estimated to be approximately 29.74ha (15.14% of high bog). This is a decline of up to (see section 8.1.1) 8.97ha since 1993. The active raised bog habitat at Clara East includes central and sub-central ecotope as well as active flush and soak systems. There are four very small areas of central ecotope found in this part of the site. One is located 200m south of Lough Roe (C17 on Map 1b) and is newly developed (since 1993) as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. This area is characterised by wet pools, which are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and support Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Eriophorum angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is high (>50%) with S. magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium also recorded. The other three areas of central ecotope on Clara East appear to be associated with flush/soak systems and are dominated by S. magellanicum with S. cuspidatum also frequent. Flush indicators such as Vaccinium oxycoccus are also present. C16 has formed around a series of infilling pools and the Sphagnum cover in this area approaches 100% in places. Hummocks
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are also found in these areas. In the sub-central ecotope pools become less frequent as does S. cuspidatum while S. magellanicum is more abundant. The central ecotope area of frequent pools described by Kelly in 1993 in the south-east of the site has degraded over the last decade and as many of the pools have dried-out, this area is now considered as sub-central ecotope (SC17). Nevertheless, young and actively growing Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks were recorded in this area. The large sub-central area (SC16) found around much of the mound in the south of the site has developed since 1993, probably as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. Here, there is a good Sphagnum cover and the vegetation is dominated by lawns of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum along with frequent tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. However, the microtopography is poorly developed with lawns and flats dominating and only very occasional small pools. Nevertheless there are frequent hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum and occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum.
Of the flush/soak systems on Clara Bog East, Lough Roe (F6) is the main feature of interest as it is the only known floating raft of alkaline vegetation on a raised bog and is species diverse (O’Mahony, draft). Indeed the existence of Lough Roe was one of the main reasons given for conserving Clara in the mid-1980s. It is a relict feature and is presently in transition from being a habitat influenced by minerotrophic conditions to being a habitat influenced by more ombrotrophic conditions (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). However, currently, there is still a zonation from a wet central area to progressively drier conditions at the edges of the system. The vegetation of the central area contains Nuphar lutea, which indicates that in the recent past this area contained open water. This central area is surrounded by a vegetation indicative of poor fen conditions with species such as Carex rostrata, Menyanthes trifoliata, Sphagnum squarrosum and Lychnis flos-cuculi (Connolly et al, 2002). Towards the margins of the soak feature, typical bog species gain importance in the vegetation cover. Rodwell (1991) suggests that as the balance is tipped towards more ombrotrophic or base-poor conditions Betula- Molinia woodland takes over from the Carex rostrata-Sphagnum squarrosum mire. Kelly and Schouten (2002) indicate that this process appears to already be occurring as Molinia caerulea and Betula pubescens are starting to encroach at the outer edges of the soak system. A smaller soak is seen to the south of Lough Roe (F8). This is thought to have developed in a similar fashion to Lough Roe, but has made the transition from minerotrophic to ombrotrophic vegetation more rapidly, probably due to its smaller size and closer proximity to the road (Kelly and Schouten, 2002).
There are also numerous infilling pools found scattered around the north-eastern portion of Clara East, which can essentially be considered as active soaks. These pools are visible on the 1910 6” map and appear to have undergone some direct human interference, possibly having been pools further excavated to encourage ducks to frequent them for shooting purposes (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). The majority of these pools are infilled with an excellent cover of Sphagnum and with open water present in only some of them.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) The current area of degraded raised bog at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 176.64ha (71.58% of high bog). This is an increase of 35.10ha (24.89%) since 1993 when it had 141.01ha of degraded raised bog. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes as well as inactive flushes including dry bog woodland. Although the areas of degraded raised bog have a relatively well-developed raised bog flora they are affected by water loss to varying degrees, and thus are usually devoid of permanent pools. Large areas of the north-west of the site appear to have degraded since the 1993 survey as most of this area, which was formerly sub-central ecotope is now dry and dominated by Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and Narthecium ossifragum, and is hence classed as sub-marginal ecotope. The Sphagnum cover in this area (as in all the degraded raised bog) is generally low (<30% cover) and is composed mostly of S. capillifolium along with patches of S. magellanicum. A burn affected parts of the degraded raised bog in 2000 and parts of the bog have had a regular fire history, particularly the north-east of Clara West (Malone, pers. comm). These areas have an increased cover of Carex panicea, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum. Close to the centre of Clara West there is an area of high bog that has not been burned for some time and here there is a high cover of Cladonia portentosa and the Calluna vulgaris is tall and robust. In some places the peat depth is naturally very shallow and due to subsidence these areas are now visible as mounds or ridges raised up from the high surrounding high bog expanse. These mounds are generally dominated
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 by dry robust Calluna vulgaris and have little or no Sphagnum cover. Small inactive flushes are also scattered across Clara Bog West. These usually support frequent Myrica gale with swallow holes also present in an area to the south-west of the large mound.
There are also three areas of dry bog woodland on Clara West. These are not included in the figure for the total area of bog woodland as they have a low Sphagnum cover and are not considered to be active peat-forming systems. Thus they are included here as degraded raised bog. DBW1 is found on a low ridge (1-2m) within Flush 1. Betula pubescens trees and saplings (1-6m high) are scattered over the ridge, which is dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (1m high) growing over hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and Aulacomnium palustre. Molinia caerulea scattered Myrica gale and Rubus fruticosus occur on top of the ridge. Two further dry Betula copses (DBW2 & DBW3) are found in the south of flush 2.
The current area of degraded raised bog at Clara East is estimated to be approximately 166.68ha (84.85% of high bog). This is an increase of 7.84ha since 1993. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes as well as inactive flushes. Although the areas of degraded raised bog have a relatively well-developed raised bog flora they are affected by water loss to varying degrees, and thus are usually devoid of permanent pools. Parts of the high bog appear to be re-wetting after the drain blocking of 1996 and may develop to active raised bog in the future. In general, the Sphagnum cover is low (<30%) and is mostly composed of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium as well as frequent patches of Narthecium ossifragum dominate the vegetation. At the north to north-west of the site, the bog is very dry and the surface is firm underfoot. The Sphagnum cover is even lower here (<10%) and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Trichophorum cespitosum. A light fire affected parts of the bog in the mid-1990s and parts of the bog have had a regular fire history, particularly close to the road (Malone, pers. comm). These areas have an increased cover of Carex panicea, Erica tetralix and Trichophorum cespitosum and a low cover of Cladonia portentosa. In some places the peat depth is naturally very shallow and due to subsidence these areas are now visible as mounds or ridges raised up from the high surrounding high bog expanse. These mounds are generally dominated by dry robust Calluna vulgaris and have a much-reduced Sphagnum cover. Small inactive flushes are also scattered across Clara Bog East.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread on Clara (West and East). It is found in both active and degraded raised bog, but tends to be best developed and most stable in the wettest areas of active raised bog. In these areas the Rhynchosporion vegetation occurs along pool edges and on flats underlain by deep, wet and quaking peat. Typical plant species, which have been recorded along with Rhynchospora alba from this habitat, include Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Menyanthes trifoliata and Eriophorum angustifolium. Rhynchospora fusca is also present at Clara, but appears to be usually associated with the species-poor shallow pools and hollows at the marginal areas of the bog (Kelly and Schouten, 2002).
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) Bog woodland at Clara is confined to Clara West though there is some scrub present in the vicinity of Lough Roe on Clara East.
The current area of bog woodland at Clara West is estimated to be approximately 1.38ha (0.56% of high bog). Each patch of bog woodland is found associated with the flush/soak systems on the high bog. The largest area (BW2) is found close to the centre of Shanleys Lough Flush and is probably associated with subsidence related to drainage, which resulted in focused water flow providing oxygen and a high rate of delivery of low ionic water. Thus providing suitable conditions for Betula development (O’ Mahony, draft). This area is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy height of up to 15-20m with many patches with smaller trees also and adjacent areas of Betula scrub. The ground vegetation is characterised by large tussocks of Molinia caerulea (indicating a fluctuating water table or as is more likely water movement) and a shrub layer of Myrica gale and Vaccinium myrtillus
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
(1m high). The bog surface is soft and wet and can be classified as active raised bog as there is a good cover of Sphagnum palustre and S. recurvum.
The northern wooded area is classed as bog woodland (BW1) and contains two main groups of Betula pubescens trees as well as several scattered Pinus sylvestris trees (3-4m high). The ground vegetation contains frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccus growing on large Sphagnum hummocks. The eastern group of trees has a canopy of about 12-14m high while the western group is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy of 8-10m. Another area of wet bog woodland (BW3) is found to the SW of the open water of Shanleys Lough (flush 2). The Betula trees here grow to approximately 6- 8m in height (average dbh of 10cm) and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 40-50% consisting mostly of S. recurvum with hummocks of S. palustre and S. papillosum present also. The canopy cover is 40-50% and tussocks of Molinia caerulea dominate the ground vegetation along with frequent Juncus effusus. The remaining two areas of bog woodland (BW4 & BW5), are found growing along a series of three parallel (NE-SW) infilled drains. These are small areas, which support a Betula pubescens canopy of approximately 30%. The ground vegetation contains Vaccinium myrtillus, Myrica gale, Erica tetralix, tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum, Empetrum nigrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Calluna vulgaris and hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. palustre.
There is no bog woodland present on Clara East though there is scrub found in the vicinity of Lough Roe (F6). Several clumps and scattered individuals of Betula pubescens (up to 7-8m high) and Salix sp. are found around the margins of the wet area of the lough and along the centre of its southern margin there are numerous Betula saplings between 0.5-1m high. There is also an area of 1-2m tall Salix aurita close to the exit drain at the western edge of the main part of Lough Roe that is found along with Sphagnum palustre and Juncus effusus. The exit drain contains Molinia caerulea with several scattered 1-2m tall Salix spp. bushes and connects Lough Roe to another area of similar active soak ca. 150m to the west (F7). A clump of mature Betula (6-7 m high) with scattered saplings (1-5m high) occurs along the drain connecting this section of the soak to the main part of Lough Roe. Another clump of Betula pubescens (<7cm dbh, 4-5m tall) that is 10-15m in diameter occurs in the soak to the west of Lough Roe (F7).
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Clara Bog West is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Maps 1a and 1b). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Maps 2a and 2b).
5.2.1.1. Clara West Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 14 Apart from some of the soak areas, this complex indicates the wettest conditions on the high bog. Pools are frequent within the complex and are usually infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum. 8 separate areas of this complex were described from Clara West.
This complex is found ca. 170m north of Shanleys Lough on Clara West (C3: GR. 224250, 230300). The area is quaking underfoot and there is a well-developed microtopography with large hummocks, hollows, lawns and pools. The pools cover 20% of the complex and are infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium though towards the north many of the pools also support algae. Rhynchospora alba (10%) is abundant at the pools margins as are lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum (15-20%) with the overall Sphagnum cover reaching approximately 60-70%. Vaccinium oxycoccus and Aulacomnium palustre are frequent and are usually found growing on top of the
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Sphagnum carpets. Narthecium ossifragum (10%), Erica tetralix (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) are found in the inter-pool areas as is Calluna vulgaris (20%), which is usually found on hummocks with Hypnum jutlandicum growing underneath. The main hummock-forming Sphagna within this area are S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Polytrichum alpestre is found on some of the larger hummocks. Quadrat Qc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. Moving northwards, the pools become more scattered (10% cover) and are more frequently algal. The hummocks here are no longer as pronounced and the Sphagnum at the tops of the hummocks is drying out in places. The Sphagnum cover also decreases to approximately 40-50% and thus, this complex grades here into sub-central ecotope.
To the east of Clara West, immediately east of the three parallel blocked drains, another relatively large area of this complex is found (C4: GR. 224500, 230390). This is a flat quaking area with low hummocks, large lawns and interconnecting pools. Hummocks are mainly of Sphagnum papillosum (15%) and S. magellanicum (10%) with some S. imbricatum (5%) and S. capillifolium (5%) also. The hummocks are topped with Calluna vulgaris and Ericoids. Lawns are dominated by S. magellanicum (10%) and S. papillosum (10%) with Narthecium ossifragum (5%). The pools are infilled with healthy looking Sphagnum cuspidatum with Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) and Rhynchospora alba frequent (10%) at the pool edges. Menyanthes trifoliata is present in some pools.
This complex is also found in a small area close to the centre of the site centred around GR. 230275, 223630 (C9). This area has a very well developed microtopography, but is suffering from desiccation and there are very few pools remaining. The Sphagnum cover is thus declining and is being replaced by Rhynchospora alba, Narthecium ossifragum and algae in the former pool areas so that towards the margins of the complex this area is classified as sub-central ecotope. The bog surface, in general, is still very soft and the overall Sphagnum cover is 40-60%. The hollows contain lawns and low hummocks of S. magellanicum (15-20%) and Rhynchospora alba (10-15%) with patches of drying out Sphagnum cuspidatum also present in the pools/hollows. The hummocks are colonised by Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) (0.3-0.4 m high) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and contain Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and some S. magellanicum. Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (<5%). Some scattered pools still occur and some have been infilled. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%.
This complex also occurs surrounded by flush vegetation between the mineral mounds and the lake of Shanleys Lough (C5: GR. 224050, 230130). This area is characterised by an area of frequent pools and a wet quaking bog surface though it has a poorly developed microtopography. The general Sphagnum cover is 90% and is dominated by S. cuspidatum, which is usually found along with Eriophorum angustifolium and Menyanthes trifoliata in pools and infilled depressions. Patches of S. magellanicum in lawns or low hummocks are scattered through this area (30%). There are interpool patches (islands) of dense Narthecium ossifragum and some scattered tussocks of Molinia caerulea and Betula pubescens saplings along the edge of the flush. Aulacomnium palustre and Andromeda polifolia are also present. A similar area (C6: GR. 224130, 230020) is found within the same flush, but to the south of the main area of bog woodland. This area contains quaking lawns of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum with scattered Myrica gale.
Another area of this complex was found to the south-west of Clara West (C12: GR. 223170, 229865). This area has a bean shape, and features hummocks, pools and lawns. Its ground is quaking and its Sphagnum cover is up to 90%. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix cover 40% of the complex surface and Eriophorum angustifolium 10%. Rhynchospora alba is occasional (<5%) and Sphagnum magellanicum compounds hummocks and lawns. Tall Polytrichum alpestre, Vaccinium oxycoccus hummocks are noted, as well as Dryopteris dilatata. The pools are large and mostly contain Sphagnum cuspidatum. The sub-central complex 7/9/10 surrounds this central community complex. Quadrat Qc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. Flushed species like: Molinia caerulea, Aulacomnium palustre and Hydrocotyle vulgaris are found at the north of C12. Some Betula pubescens trees (2.5m tall) and a Pinus sylvestris tree (1.5-2m tall) are included within the complex.
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C10 is seen to the west of Flush 1 and the boundary between both is vague. Here, the central complex 14 supports large Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and Sphagnum cuspidatum pools. The north-western section of C10, supports tall Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks as well as hummocks of S. magellanicum and S. papillosum and large interconnected pools co-dominated by Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. The total Sphagnum cover within this part of the complex is very high (90%). Rhynchospora alba is recorded within the pools and Andromeda polifolia is frequently found.
C11 is found to the south-east of C10 and it has an elongated E-W shape. The frequent interconnected pools are also found and the Sphagnum cover is also high 80 to 90%.
Complex 15 This complex is found with a poor to moderately developed microtopography to the west of the mounds in the south of the bog directly north of a recently formed pond (C8: GR. 223790, 230140). This small area is very soft but not quaking and the micro-topography contains scattered pools and lawns with occasional low hummocks. There are scattered pools (10% general cover) containing Sphagnum cuspidatum and the lawns are dominated by S. papillosum, S. magellanicum and occasional S. cuspidatum with scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) and Erica tetralix (10%) growing through them. Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) is low growing (0.2m) and occurs on low hummocks. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%. The pond to the south (GR. 223755, 230085) contains approximately 10m x 5m of open water. Small clumps of Eriophorum angustifolium occur around the edge of the pond with the lawn of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum that characterises this central complex extending northwards from the pond. At the very north of the complex, close to the boundary with sub-central ecotope (GR. 223829, 230194) hummocks of S. imbricatum were recorded.
This complex is also found in a small area to the north-east of Shanleys Lough on Clara West (GR. 224365 230291: the east of C3). The area is broadly circular-shaped (ca. 20m in diameter) and occurs in an area that was dissected by three drains (now completely infilled), which ran in a NNE/SSW direction in the past. The vegetation present in this area may be related to the flush/soak, which runs along the axis of the old drains towards the SSW. The vegetation here is essentially that of an infilling pool with Sphagnum cuspidatum dominating at >80% cover and with abundant Rhynchospora alba (30%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5-10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%) present also. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. To the north of this complex there is a small ridge of robust Calluna vulgaris with 7 Betula pubescens (>2m tall). To the west the complex grades into the central complex 14 and to the south it grades into the sub-central complex 9/7/10 with Narthecium ossifragum also becoming more abundant. This complex is also present in a very small area towards the north-east of Clara West (C2: GR. 224165, 230505).
Complex 10/15 This complex is found in the north of Clara West (C1: GR. 224130, 230630). The area may be in a small depression and the microtopography is dominated by hummocks, hollows and pools. The pool cover is approximately 20% and these are mostly infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum (15%) and Eriophorum angustifolium with Sphagnum magellanicum (40-50%) forming lawns at the pool margins. The total Sphagnum cover is 80% with hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum present also. Rhynchospora alba (5%), Narthecium ossifragum and Eriophorum vaginatum are all present at low cover values as is Calluna vulgaris, which is low-growing (0.2m). Quadrat, Qc4 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
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Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/9 This complex occurs in the northern half of the high bog (SC6: GR. 223915, 230724). This surface is very soft underfoot but not quaking. The microtopography is dominated by low hummocks, hollows and occasional scattered pools. Although Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in many of these pools, S. magellanicum appears to be colonising them and is, in general, the dominant Sphagnum in the area dominating in lawns and hollows. Rhynchospora alba is frequent around the edges of pools and in patches on the lawns. The general Sphagnum cover averages at 60-70% with hummocks of S. papillosum (15%), S. capillifolium (10%) and occasional small hummocks of S. imbricatum also present. There are occasional larger hummocks topped with low-growing (0.2m) Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (10%). Eriophorum vaginatum is common and Narthecium ossifragum occurs in some hollows and lawns (5%). Some of the S. magellanicum lawns are in poor condition. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is low (<5%). Quadrat, Qsc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Complex 9/10 This complex is seen to the north of C4 (SC8: GR. 234505, 230495) and surrounding C11 as well as to the north and west of C12 (the south-west of SC1: GR. 223105, 229860). SC8 features soft to very soft ground and the surface is slightly depressed. Low hummocks and lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum are occasional and the hollows are colonised by Sphagnum cuspidatum. Eriophorum angustifolium dominates (40%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m) are also frequent (10-20%). Cladonia species are absent within this area of complex 9/10 and the total Sphagnum cover is 50-60%. Quadrat Qsc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I. This complex is wetter than the sub-central complex 7/9/10.
Where this complex occurs within SC1 in the south-west of the site, there also are tall Sphagnum capillifolium hummocks dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum. Some Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks are also noted. Low hummocks comprise of S. tenellum and S. papillosum as well as S. magellanicum. The hollows are colonised by either S. magellanicum or S. cuspidatum. A station for measuring Sphagnum growth and water table levels is found within this complex.
Complex 10/4 This complex is found towards the west of Clara West in two small areas (ca. 70m diameters) centred around GR. 223155, 230360 & 223285, 230215). These areas appear to be connected to each other and are labelled SC3 in Map 1a. The complex has a moderately developed microtopography with low hummocks, hollows and pools all present. However, the area is suffering from desiccation and the pools, which cover approximately 15-20% of the complex, are thus being colonised by Rhynchospora alba. The surface is very soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 50%, consisting mostly of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum, which occur, predominantly in and around the drying- out pools. Hummocks of S. capillifolium are frequent and hummocks of S. imbricatum, S. subnitens and S. fuscum are also present. S. cuspidatum occurs at a low cover value in the drying out pools along with Menyanthes trifoliata. Calluna vulgaris (15%) and Erica tetralix (10%) dominate in hummocks along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), while hollows and pools are dominated by Rhynchospora alba (20%), Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Cladonia portentosa is present at <1% cover. Quadrat Qsc5 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Complex 10/6 This complex is found very close to (approximately 20m from) the high bog margin in the south of the bog south of Shanleys Lough flush (the south of SC1: GR. 224000, 229835). The area is very wet and has formed as a result of subsidence, but the Sphagnum is drying out and there is a fast flow of water south-westwards in the drain to its east. There is a large crack in the high bog delineating the southern extent of this complex, south of which sub-marginal and marginal ecotopes are found. The Sphagnum cover within Complex 10/6 is approximately 60-70% consisting of lawns of S. cuspidatum and S.
8 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 magellanicum and lawns and low hummocks of S. papillosum. Narthecium ossifragum occurs at approximately 15% cover and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%), Erica tetralix (10%), Rhynchospora alba (5-10%), Calluna vulgaris (5%) and Myrica gale are all present.
Complex 9/7/10 This complex is found scattered throughout Clara West usually occurring in small pockets and surrounded by the sub-marginal complex 9/7 (occupying much of the area labelled as SC1). Within this complex the surface is generally soft underfoot with a Sphagnum cover of approximately 35-40% consisting of S. magellanicum (15%), S. papillosum (10%), S. capillifolium (10%), S. tenellum and S. fuscum. There are also occasional S. cuspidatum hollows though these are also usually algal. However, the microtopography is usually not very well developed with few or no pools present and hummocks and flats dominating. Eriophorum vaginatum (15%) and Calluna vulgaris (30-35%) dominate the vegetation with an abundant cover of Narthecium ossifragum (15%) present also.
Specific examples of this complex include an area to the north of flush 2 (GR. 224100, 230320). The microtopography contains relatively large hummocks and hollows and occasional pools (and is typical of central hummock/hollow complex though with a poor Sphagnum cover). The bog surface is soft and the vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.1-0.2m) on hummocks and scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (15%). Other species present include Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The general Sphagnum cover is 50% including some patches of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum in hollows and occasional pools. The Cladonia cover is less than 5%. This complex also occurs east of this area ca. 100m north of Shanleys Lough and quadrat Qsc1 was taken here. Its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
This complex also occurs close to the centre of the high bog between two areas of central ecotope (C8 & C9), north of the large mound (GR. 223753, 230277). This area contains a mosaic of active sub- central patches along with lower quality sub-marginal patches. A good quality microtopography of hummocks and hollows is still present in the area though there are no pools. Furthermore, the Sphagnum cover is variable, averaging at 40-50% in sub-central areas, but going as low as 20% cover in some patches, which equate more to a sub-marginal complex 9/7 or 9/7/6. In the better quality areas there are small amounts of S. cuspidatum in hollows, but the main Sphagnum cover is found in the hummocks (including occasional relic hummocks of S. imbricatum) cropped with Calluna vulgaris. In the poorer areas the hollows contain Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Rhynchospora alba.
Another example of this complex is found in the north of Clara West (SC4 & SC5: GR. 223630, 230670), in an area that was formerly described as central ecotope (scattered pools). This area has now been split into two by a sub-marginal strip that runs E-W across the sub-central ecotope.
This complex can be found with the addition of Myrica gale (9/7/10 + My) towards the south-east of Shanleys Lough where it grades into the flush vegetation described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) as Community Complex 24 (Myrica gale/Sphagnum magellanicum Complex).
Complex 7/9/10 This sub-central complex is recorded in several locations at Clara West and covers large patches of the west of Clara West.
It usually features soft ground to very soft in places and consists of low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. magellanicum and S. papillosum. S. magellanicum lawns are also recorded and the hollows are colonised by S. cuspidatum. This sub-central complex differs from the inner central complex by the presence of hollows instead of large pools and the higher occurrence of Trichophorum cespitosum within the sub-central complex. Calluna vulgaris (0.2m) & Erica tetralix (30%) dominate the complex (C12) with Eriophorum vaginatum also frequent (20%). Narthecium ossifragum,
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Andromeda polifolia and Trichophorum cespitosum are also found. The total Sphagnum cover averages at 50-60% and Cladonia species are absent.
In the south-west of the site, to the north-west of C12 (the south-west of SC1) the complex is devoid of Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and Calluna vulgaris increases its occurrence. Hummocks, pools and hollows are found. The hummocks comprise Sphagnum imbricatum, S. capillifolium, S. fuscum, S. tenellum and S. papillosum. S. cuspidatum is noted in pools and hollows along with S. magellanicum. The overall Sphagnum cover is 60-70% and Cladonia portentosa cover is low 5%. The complex is dominated by the same species as in previous description. Towards the north, in the area where large former Complex 15 was noted, the microtopography consists mostly of hummocks and hollows, and pools disappeared as part of the degradation process, as well as the fact that the hollows are either algae or Sphagnum magellanicum. Sphagnum fuscum hummocks and Sphagnum auriculatum in pools are found at the boundary between this complex and C10. Some of the pools show evidence of drying out. Quadrat Qsc4 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1a and its details in appendix I.
Active Flushes
Flush 1 This large flush occurs on the western side of the high bog and contains a variety of vegetation types including wooded areas to the north and south. The central area of the flush is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (70%) (0.5m high) with occasional Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Cladonia (5%). This area had a soft but relatively dry bog surface. Large parts of this area are active with large hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum present. There are occasional patches of Pleurozium schreberi and Polytrichum alpestre with Hypnum jutlandicum found on the Sphagnum hummocks and under the Calluna. Further north, Betula pubescens saplings and trees (0.25-5m high) are scattered through the vegetation. Most of the scattered Betula fall into the 0.25-2m size class. There are also scattered Pteridium aquilinum and Molinia caerulea south of the northern wooded area (GR. 223400, 230400) occurring throughout vegetation dominated by Calluna vulgaris and scattered Betula. There are also numerous standing dead 1m Betula saplings present in this area.
The northern wooded area is classed as bog woodland (BW1) and contains two main groups of Betula pubescens trees as well as several scattered Pinus sylvestris trees (3-4m high). The ground vegetation contains frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccus growing on large Sphagnum hummocks. The eastern group of trees has a canopy of about 12-14m high while the western group (GR. 223450, 230410) is dominated by Betula pubescens with a canopy of 8-10m and a stem dbh of less than 7cm. There is some Betula pubescens-dominated scrub found between the two main groups of trees and the ground vegetation is dominated by Pteridium aquilinum, Molinia caerulea and Calluna vulgaris. The canopy of the western tree area is about 40% cover and shades the ground vegetation, which is dominated by hummocks of S. papillosum, S. palustre and Aulacomnium palustre with tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum. Other species present include Polytrichum commune, Vaccinium myrtillus, Luzula multiflora, Dryopteris dilatata and Salix sp. (bush).
In the southern part of this flush there is a wet patch present (GR. 223477, 230071). This area is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum with frequent scattered Dryopteris dilatata. Calluna vulgaris, Osmunda regalis, Polytrichum commune, Pleurozium schreberi and Aulacomnium palustre are also present with frequent Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium myrtillus. Some hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum also occur in this area. South of this area there is a zone of scattered Betula saplings (0.5-4 m high).
Another part of this flush is also wooded and is classed as dry bog woodland (DBW1). It occurs on a low ridge and is inactive (GR. 223650, 230000). The ridge is between 1-2m high and is dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (1m high) growing over hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and
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Aulacomnium palustre. Betula pubescens trees and saplings (1-6m high) are scattered over the ridge. Molinia caerulea scattered Myrica gale and Rubus fruticosus occur on top of the ridge.
In the south-west of the flush an area of soak is found. The southern section of the soak supports large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks, as well as S. capillifolium, S. recurvum, S. cuspidatum and Aulacomnium palustre hummocks. A high occurrence of Eriophorum vaginatum is also noted, and Dryopteris dilatata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris and tall Calluna vulgaris are found. The central part of the soak is Molinia caerulea dominant and Juncus effusus and Sorbus aucuparia are frequent. The soak is fringed at the W and NW by central complex 15 and the boundary between both is vague. Complex 15 surrounds this soak area and the boundary between both is also vague. Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Sphagnum recurvum and some small trees (<0.5m); Salix aurita and Betula pubescens are found. Another smaller soak is seen to the south of the above soak.
Another smaller soak is seen to the south-west of this soak and is surrounded by the central Complex 15 (C12) and the boundary between the two is also vague. Juncus effusus, J. bulbosus, Sphagnum recurvum and some small trees (<0.5m); Salix aurita and Betula pubescens are found.
Flush 2 (Shanleys Lough Flush) This is a diverse and largely active flush that occurs mostly to the south and west of Shanleys Lough. It is estimated that 95ha of the Clara Bog West discharges through this soak, maintaining its wet conditions through all seasons (Connolly et al, 2002). In the very south of its extent, directly north of a blocked drain (at GR. 224076, 229835), there is a small very wet area (ca. 30m diameter) that is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (30-40%) and Sphagnum (>70%) with Myrica gale and Molinia caerulea scattered throughout. Pools of Sphagnum cuspidatum cover approximately 25% of this area and S. magellanicum and S. papillosum are also abundant. Vaccinium oxycoccus, Aulacomnium palustre and Andromeda polifolia are all present and there is very little cover of Erica tetralix and Calluna vulgaris. However, there is also an inactive area in this region (GR. 224045, 229885) that is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (50%) with scattered Myrica gale (10%). There are also patches of Molinia caerulea and some Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%). The Sphagnum cover is approximately 10% and is dominated by small patches of S. capillifolium.
There are also two small Betula copses in the south of this flush. The first is located near to the southern margin of the high bog (GR. 224070, 229780). The canopy of this copse is 10m high with most stems less than 7cm dbh (diameter at breast height). There are smaller saplings (1-4m high) scattered around the edge of this copse. The canopy cover is about 60% and the ground vegetation is affected by shading. Molinia caerulea, bryophyte cover and litter dominate the ground vegetation. Some Pteridium aquilinum also occurs around the margins of this copse. This second copse is composed of uniform Betula pubescens standing between 8-12m high with a dbh of about 30cm. This group of Betula occurs in an area of the flush marked as a mound on the old 6 inch map (GR. 224120, 229870). The canopy of this area is 30% and the ground vegetation is dominated by tussocks of Molinia caerulea with some scattered Myrica gale bushes (1m high) and several Dryopteris dilatata. These two copses are considered as inactive bog and are mapped as dry bog woodland (DBW2 & DBW3) on Map 1a. To the north-west of the southern Betula copse there is an area of inactive flush that is dominated by Molinia caerulea with scattered Betula saplings (1-3m high) and occasional mature trees (12m high). There are more frequent Betula saplings towards the high bog margin. To the north-east of the southern Betula copse, a Molinia caerulea-dominated area occurs that is considered active (GR. 224130, 229830). Some Myrica gale also occurs here along with Juncus effusus. The bog surface is wet and soft and the Sphagnum cover is 70% with large hummocks of S. papillosum (0.5 m high) and S. capillifolium. A blocked drain crosses this area.
Further north there is an exceptional diversity of community complexes (described by Kelly and Schouten, 2002) within this flush. The lake itself (Shanleys Lough) is found to the north-east of the flush (GR. 224235, 230070) where there is an approximately 30m diameter of broadly circular-shaped open water. Carex rostrata and Eriophorum angustifolium surround the open water as well as Juncus effusus and Menyanthes trifoliata towards the eastern fringe. Carpets of Sphagnum surround this lake
11 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 particularly S. recurvum and S. magellanicum. To the east of the lake Eriophorum vaginatum and Aulacomnium palustre are abundant.
To the south-east of the lake, a flushed complex 9/7 vegetation type occurs along the eastern edge of this flush (GR. 224240, 230030). The general Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium with occasional S. magellanicum. Andromeda polifolia is frequent and clumps of Polytrichum alpestre P. commune, Sphagnum papillosum, Aulacomnium palustre and scattered saplings of Betula (1 m high) also occur. This area is relatively dry and is possibly active. Further north there is a band of inactive flush dominated by Myrica gale (GR. 224255, 230160).
Community Complex 18 (Sphagnum recurvum/Sphagnum cuspidatum lawn complex) and Community Complex 19 (Sphagnum recurvum/Eriophorum vaginatum complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) are similar and indicate flushed rheotrophic soak conditions. These complexes are found close to the open water of the lake itself (particularly immediately west of the lake where Sphagnum cuspidatum is found in extensive pools/lawns with Eriophorum angustifolium), and ca. 100m SW of the lake itself immediately south of the Betula pubescens woodland (BW2: described under section 5.2.4.) in a broadly circular shaped area that has a diameter of ca. 50m (GR. 224130, 230010). This area is similar to central ecotope (and is labelled C6 on Map 1a) with extensive Sphagnum-filled pools covering 70% of the area. Molinia caerulea (10%) indicates some nutrient enrichment and Eriophorum vaginatum is present in distinctive tufts at approximately 10% cover. Vaccinium oxycoccus, Aulacomnium palustre and Menyanthes trifoliata are all present in this area. These complexes (18 & 19) are also found north-west of the woodland centred around GR. 224065, 230135 (C5) and 150m north-east of that again centred around GR. 224145, 230240. Close to the high bog margin in the south-west of the flush these complexes are also found in a broadly rectangular-shaped area measuring 50m x 20m (GR. 223930, 229870). Within this area there is one large (20m x 10m) pool with open water, Sphagnum recurvum and Eriophorum angustifolium surrounded by smaller Sphagnum-filled pools with tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum. Towards the southern edge of this area the Sphagnum is showing signs of desiccation and there is a slope down towards a large crack in the high bog, which delineates the extent of active bog ecotope in this area.
Community Complex 20 (Betula pubescens/Juncus effusus woodland complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is also indicative of flushed rheotrophic soak conditions and is found in a small area to the south-west of the open water of Shanleys Lough at GR. 224200, 230055. The Betula trees here grow to approximately 6-8m in height (average dbh of 10cm) and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 40-50% consisting mostly of S. recurvum with hummocks of S. palustre and S. papillosum present also. The canopy cover is 40-50% and tussocks of Molinia caerulea dominate the ground vegetation along with frequent Juncus effusus. This area is active and considered as bog woodland (BW3).
The central part of Flush 2 contains bog woodland (BW2) dominated by Betula pubescens with smaller isolated patches of Betula surrounding the main part. The bog woodland is described in a separate section (section 5.2.4.). A large area of active bog with frequent scattered Betula saplings (0.5-3 m high) and small dense patches of older trees occurs north of the bog woodland (GR. 224150, 230085). This area is classified as scrub and also has occasional Pinus sylvestris saplings. The Cladonia cover is 50-60% and the vegetation contains scattered Molinia caerulea and Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks. The general Sphagnum cover is 60% with hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, Sphagnum sp. and Aulacomnium palustre. There are also some wet patches with Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi, Polytrichum alpestre, Andromeda polifolia, Vaccinium oxycoccus and V. myrtillus all occur on hummocks in this area.
Another pond has developed (probably due to subsidence) in the past five years (not on 2000 aerial photograph) to the south-west of the flush (GR. 223960, 229985). Tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum and Juncus effusus occur around the new pond and the margin is fringed with Eriophorum angustifolium, Carex rostrata and other Carex sp. The new pond is 20-30m long and 10-15m wide and shaped in a half moon. The pond narrows into several open water pools containing Sphagnum
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 cuspidatum at the southern end. There is significant run-off from the southern end of this pond to the margin of the high bog. During the site visit, water was flowing at a constant rate (but not visible) from the channel and off the high bog.
To the east of the new pond, there is an area of the flush that is similar to the central ecotope complex 10/15 (GR. 223980, 229970). The bog surface is very soft but not quaking and extensive lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum (50-60%) and pools and depressions of S. cuspidatum (10-20%) dominate the area. Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium scattered over the Sphagnum cover. Small occasional hummocks contain Calluna vulgaris (<5%). Myrica gale (<5%) is also scattered over this area.
Community Complex 23 (Myrica gale Complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is found towards the south of the flush (GR. 223905, 229980) on a ridge leading out from the Calluna vulgaris dominated mound. This part of the flush can be considered inactive as there is a low Sphagnum cover (10-20%) and the area is very dry. Community Complex 24 (Myrica gale/Sphagnum magellanicum Complex) is also found in this area of the flush (GR. 229930, 223970), but is considered active bog as there is a much higher Sphagnum cover (40%) composed mostly of S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium. The vegetation in general is somewhat similar in places to the sub-central complex 9/7/10 with the addition of Myrica gale (20-25% cover).
Community Complex 25 (Molinia caerulea Complex) described by Kelly and Schouten (2002) is found scattered in various parts of the flush such as close to GR. 224120, 230190. Here there is an extensive cover of Molinia caerulea (>60%) with hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium frequent as well as S. palustre, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum. Where Molinia is not so dominant there is an increase in the cover of Eriophorum vaginatum and Vaccinium oxycoccus, V. myrtillus, Polytrichum alpestre, Aulacomnium palustre and Empetrum nigrum are all present. There are also frequent scattered trees of Betula pubescens, which grow up to 6-7m tall but average at 2-3m. Kelly and Schouten’s (2002) Community Complex 26 (Molinia caerulea/Myrica gale Complex) and Community Complex 27 (Betula pubescens scrub/Molinia caerulea Complex) are also present in parts of this flush and Community Complex 28 (Betula pubescens woodland), which is found in an approximately 50- 60m diameter (BW2) centred around GR. 224110, 230055 is described using a transect (See section 5.2.4.). A very wet active area occurs to the south of the main section of bog woodland (GR. 224130, 230020). This area (C6) contains quaking lawns of Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum with scattered Myrica gale and is described under the central complex 14.
Flush 3 This linear flush is found to the east of Shanley’s Lough and has developed around and into an old blocked drain. The southern part of the flush is dominated by tall Myrica gale and flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5m high) with some scattered Molinia caerulea tussocks and Betula pubescens saplings and trees along the line of the old drain . Away from the drain, the bog surface is firm and there are some patches dominated by Pteridium aquilinum with the species also scattered throughout the flush. This part of the flush is inactive (GR. 224220, 229850). Further north Molinia caerulea becomes more frequent and dominates in places with Myrica gale occurring along the margins (GR. 224250, 229950). Small wetter patches are also present and these usually contain abundant tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum.
Further north close to the centre of this flush there are some linear clumps of Betula pubescens between 5-7m tall. These areas are classed as bog woodland (BW4 & BW5), but are not described in detail under the bog woodland section (5.2.4) as the largest clump is approximately 20m x 30m in extent. The canopy cover is about 30% and most of the stems have a dbh of < 7cm. The ground vegetation contains Vaccinium myrtillus, Myrica gale, Erica tetralix, tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum, Empetrum nigrum, Dryopteris dilatata, Calluna vulgaris and hummocks of Sphagnum papillosum and S. palustre. Some parts of this wooded flush area have a relatively high bryophyte cover and are active.
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Near the northern end Empetrum nigrum is abundant in hummocks with Vaccinium oxycoccus. The Sphagnum hummocks are mainly S. capillifolium. Calluna vulgaris and Myrica gale are both over 1m tall. Other species present are Potentilla erecta and Hypnum jutlandicum. There is an abundance of Birch saplings in this area and a Myrica patch to the east.
5.2.1.2. Clara East
Complex 10/15 This complex is found ca. 100m to the ESE of flush 3 on Clara East (C17: GR. 225375, 229805). The surface is very soft underfoot and is quaking in places. Scattered Sphagnum cuspidatum filled pools cover 15-20% of the complex and the overall Sphagnum cover is approximately 50-70%. Hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are frequent and there is also occasional S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba (15%) dominates around the pool margins and Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%) occur at low abundance values. Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) dominate on hummocks. This area of central ecotope has developed in recent years (the area was recorded as marginal by Kelly in 1993) as a result of the drain blocking carried out in 1996. Cladonia portentosa is almost completely absent from this area as the area was burned in the mid-1990s (Malone, pers. comm.). Quadrat Qc5 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1b and its details in appendix I.
This complex is also found in two small areas to the north of the site (C14 and C15: GR. 225875, 230095 & 225740, 230175). C14 is found in an area where the blocked drains meet at a junction and is essentially an infilling pool composed mostly of Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum cuspidatum (60% cover). The pool is surrounded by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum topped with Vaccinium oxycoccus and Calluna vulgaris with Narthecium ossifragum is present in islands within the pool. Quadrat Qc5 was taken within this complex. To the south the complex quickly grades into the sub-marginal complex 9/7, and then onto a small low mineral ridge where there are scattered Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris seedlings. C15 is found ca. 150m to the WNW of C14 and is an area of lawns and hollows with some low hummocks. Sphagnum dominates with S. magellanicum lawns (30- 40% cover) and S. fuscum hummocks as well as occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. The area is wet and quaking with a generally flat topography. Rhynchospora alba is frequent at approximately 10- 15% cover at the pool edges with Eriophorum vaginatum at 15% cover. In the inter pool areas Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix amount to 10% cover and are up to 0.3m tall. Narthecium ossifragum is frequent (15%) in flats/lawns and there are occasional hollows with S. cuspidatum. A small band of subcentral complex 10 forms a band around this area of central, particularly in the west.
Another example of this complex is found in the north-east of the site to the east of the linear set of pools (C16: GR. 226205, 230025). This consists of large in-filled pools dominated by Sphagnum magellanicum lawns. Sphagnum covers 100% of the complex’s surface and Eriophorum angustifolium, Erica tetralix, Rhynchospora alba and Menyanthes trifoliata are also found.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/15- This sub-central complex is found in the south-east of Clara East (SC14: GR. 225625, 229495). It has a good microtopography with a moderately developed hummock/hollow complex. There are frequent hummocks of young and actively growing Sphagnum imbricatum and overall the Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 40%. However, algal hollows are frequent and pools are showing signs of desiccation though Sphagnum cuspidatum is present. Lawns of S. magellanicum are also present and there are very occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and frequent S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Erica tetralix is the dominant higher plant with low growing Calluna vulgaris also abundant as well as frequent Rhynchospora alba and tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum. Cladonia portentosa is present at a very low cover value (<5%) as the area was burned in the mid-1990s.
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Complex 10/9 This complex is found scattered throughout parts of Clara East, occurring most notably in a semi- circular arc around the mineral mound in the south of the site (SC15). However, the most Sphagnum- rich area is found to the south-west of Lough Roe at GR. 225275, 230005 (SC16). The surface, in general, is soft to very soft underfoot with occasional quaking areas. There is a good Sphagnum cover (60%) and the vegetation is dominated by lawns of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum along with frequent tufts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. However, the microtopography is poorly developed with lawns and flats dominating and only very occasional small pools. Nevertheless there are frequent hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum and occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (15%) is frequent on hummocks and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) in hollows. Erica tetralix, Vaccinium oxycoccus, Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are present at low cover values. The sub-marginal areas surrounding SC15 can probably be considered to have the potential to develop to the sub-central complex described above. This expansion of active ecotope is likely to occur as the blocked drains fill with water and the surrounding areas become wetter and colonised by Sphagnum.
The area to the SE of Lough Roe is a mosaic of sub-central and sub-marginal ecotopes (SC13). There are inactive patches where Narthecium ossifragum dominates with relatively poor to moderate Sphagnum cover and active areas with less Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea and a greater cover of Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. These areas have a general Sphagnum cover of 30-50%. Due to its variability, this section of the high bog was difficult to map as only certain patches could be considered as active ecotope. These are shown as fragmented areas of sub-central ecotope scattered around SC13. Some large hummocks of S. imbricatum occur in this area.
This complex has also developed in several locations in the northern section of Clara East (the wetter parts of SC10 and SC11). The ground is soft to very soft and the surface is rather flat. Sphagnum magellanicum hummocks and lawns characterise the complex with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix. Narthecium ossifragum is also noted, as well as Sphagnum papillosum. Cladonia portentosa cover is very low (<5%). This complex may have developed as a result of the drains blocked in 1996 as the Sphagnum cover is good 80% and new growth Sphagnum fuscum hummocks are noted.
Complex 7/9 + Pools (7/9 + P) This complex is seen to the north of the linear pools in the northern half of Clara East (SC11: GR: 226025, 230310). The ground is soft to quaking in the pools and although the surface is rather flat it comprise depressions. Tall hummocks, pools and lawns dominate the microtopography. The hummocks mainly consist of Sphagnum capillifolium with Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks. Large in-filled pools contain Sphagnum magellanicum lawns and occasionally S. cuspidatum. The pools also contain Rhynchospora alba, Drosera intermedia and Menyanthes trifoliata. Although pools are dominated by Sphagnum (up to 80%) the overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is lower (40-50%). Cladonia portentosa cover is 30% suggesting that the area has not been burned recently.
Complex 7/9/10 This sub-central complex is found to the north of Lough Roe (the north of SC10), to the north-east of the linear series of infilling pools (parts of SC11) and surrounding the western side of an elevated mound in the east of Clara East (SC12). The ground either soft or very soft and it becomes wetter where the blocked drains cross each other. Tall hummocks and hollows develop. The former comprises Sphagnum magellanicum, Sphagnum capillifolium and Sphagnum tenellum. The latter consist mostly of Sphagnum cuspidatum and lesser Narthecium ossifragum. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10%) dominate the complex. The total Sphagnum cover is 60%, although it varies in places. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%. Evidences of quality enhancement are noted as new Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks and patches with high presence of Sphagnum cuspidatum hollows are noted.
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Complex 9/7 + Pools (9/7 + P) This complex is seen in the northern section of Clara East to the west (SC11: GR. 225880, 230220) and south (SC11: GR. 226130, 230030) of the linear set of infilling pools. Both areas support a dense drainage system that was blocked in 1996 and both areas have some sub-marginal characteristics, but are dominated by sub-central type vegetation. The blocked drains are currently colonised by Sphagnum cuspidatum with S. cuspidatum and S. papillosum spreading out from the drains in places onto the adjacent high bog. The ground is soft and the surface is relatively flat. Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum compound low hummocks and very occasionally S. imbricatum hummocks are noted. The pools are shallow, devoid of open water and consist of Sphagnum magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. cuspidatum with Rhynchospora alba and Drosera intermedia scattered throughout. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum. The overall Sphagnum cover is highly variable, ranging from 20-50%. Cladonia portentosa is present at 20% cover. Eriophorum vaginatum, E. angustifolium (20%) and Erica tetralix (20%) co-dominate and Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m, 5%) is also found. Quadrat Qsc6 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1b and its details in appendix I.
Around the edges of the linear set of pools Juncus effusus, Calluna vulgaris (<0.4m), Salix sp. and Betula pubescens. Molinia caerulea, Hypnum jutlandicum and Cladonia floerkeana in old tussocks are found. The smaller pools are in-filling with Sphagnum cuspidatum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Juncus effusus and are considered as active flush/soaks
Active Flushes
Flush 6 (Lough Roe) Lough Roe is found close to the centre (extending westwards) of Clara East and can essentially be considered as an active soak. It has been studied in detail in the past (e.g. Kelly, 1993) and has only become completely terrestrialised recently, and is also undergoing a transition from minerotrophic to ombrotrophic conditions. If this process continues, the original characteristics of Lough Roe, which made it a system of international importance will be lost within decades (Crushell, pers. comm.). A study is currently underway (Crushell, pers. comm.) in order to identify the reasons for the increased influence of rainwater on the soak system. Before the study began possible explanations put forward included that the change in conditions may be connected to the drainage activities carried out in 1983 by Bord na Mona or to the closing of the drain in the mid 1980s, which leads from the lough itself to the road. The latter event was carried out as a conservation measure, but may have lead to the lough retaining more rainwater and thus developing more ombrotrophic conditions. One of the aims of the study is to determine what management or restoration measures need to be taken to maintain the hydro- ecological characteristics of the soak.
The inner part of the soak (GR. 225480, 230090) is quaking and is dominated by a Sphagnum lawn with close to 100% cover. The Sphagnum cover in these wettest areas is dominated by Sphagnum recurvum with Menyanthes trifoliata, Hydrocotyle vulgaris, Potentilla palustris, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex rostrata and Eriophorum angustifolium all frequent. There are several clumps and scattered individuals of Betula pubescens (up to 7-8m high) and Salix sp. around the margins of the wet area. Some of these have died back and standing dead stems are common. Along the centre of the southern margin there are numerous Betula saplings between 0.5-1m high. A zone of flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5m high, 50%) and tussocks of Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) also occurs around the margins where Erica tetralix (5-10%) and Cladonia (20%) are also present. This zone varies between 5-10m wide and though it is considered inactive it is not represented as such on Map 1b as it is such a narrow band. The outer zone of the active soak contains scattered Molinia caerulea with large hummocks of Aulacomnium palustre and Sphagnum frequent. Calluna vulgaris is encroaching into part of this area, which is soft to very soft underfoot. Sphagnum palustre is also common in the vicinity of Lough Roe and is found at a high cover value close to the exit drain at the western edge of the main part of Lough Roe along with Salix aurita and Juncus effusus. The exit drain contains Molinia caerulea with several scattered 1-2m tall Salix spp. bushes and connects Lough Roe to another area of similar active soak ca. 150m to the west (F7). A clump of mature Betula (6-7 m high) with scattered
16 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 saplings (1-5m high) occurs along the drain connecting this section of the soak to the main part of Lough Roe.
Another clump of Betula pubescens (<7cm dbh, 4-5m tall) that is 10-15m in diameter occurs in the soak to the west of Lough Roe (F7). The bog surface here is very soft and the ground vegetation is dominated by Molinia caerulea, with patches of flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.7-1m high) around the edges of this part of the soak. Large hummocks of Sphagnum palustre and other Sphagnum sp. are frequent with some patches of Sphagnum sp. lawn. Eriophorum angustifolium is scattered in the lawn areas. Andromeda polifolia, Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks, Carex rostrata, Succisa pratensis, Potentilla erecta, Empetrum nigrum, Pleurozium schreberi, Juncus effusus and Menyanthes trifoliata are all present. There are scattered Betula saplings and trees between 0.5-6m high around the main clump. Dryopteris dilatata occurs around the bases of the Betula and some large hummocks of Polytrichum commune occur at the margins of this part of the soak.
Flush 8 This is an active flush that is found in the mid south-west of Clara East. The area consists essentially of carpets of Sphagnum magellanicum in a small depression that is surrounded by a narrow ridge of robust Calluna vulgaris (more extensive to the south). The centre of this flush is wet and quaking with an excellent Sphagnum cover (70%) composed mainly of S. magellanicum, S. cuspidatum and S. papillosum. Eriophorum vaginatum also dominates large patches of the flush usually accompanied by Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix, S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Patches of this flush are also dominated by Molinia caerulea with an understory of Sphagnum papillosum and Polytrichum alpestre. There are also a number of Sphagnum cuspidatum dominated pools that support frequent Menyanthes trifoliata. Calluna vulgaris has a low cover value in this flush and other species recorded include Cladonia portentosa, Aulacomnium palustre, Dicranum bonjeanii, Rhynchospora alba, Andromeda polifolia and Vaccinium oxycoccus. The Calluna vulgaris dominated ridge vegetation surrounding the soak extends ca. 50m to the south with Empetrum nigrum frequently accompanying the Calluna.
Flush 9 This flush/soak occurs in the south-eastern part of the high bog (GR. 225930, 229790). The vegetation is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5-0.7m high) and there are frequent large hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum present. The hummocks are crowned with Empetrum nigrum and Cladonia. There are some patches where a quaking Sphagnum lawn has developed, which contains S. cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium. Rhynchospora alba also occurs in some patches. This soak is active.
Infilling pools (Soaks) Infilling pools can be found scattered around the north-eastern portion of Clara East and can essentially be considered as soaks. These pools are visible on the 1910 6” map and appear to have undergone some direct human interference, possibly having been pools further excavated to encourage ducks to frequent them for shooting purposes (Kelly and Schouten, 2002). The majority of these pools are filled in with open water present in only some of them. There is usually an excellent cover of Sphagnum (>70%) within these pools composed mainly of S. magellanicum and S. papillosum with S. cuspidatum in the wettest areas. Eriophorum angustifolium is usually the most dominant higher plant along with frequent Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%) and a reduced cover of Calluna vulgaris (compared to the surrounding high bog vegetation). Vaccinium oxycoccus, Andromeda polifolia, Aulacomnium palustre and Drosera anglica are all usually present with Carex rostrata and C. limosa present in some of the larger pools. The edges of the pools often have Juncus effusus, Calluna vulgaris (<0.4m), Salix sp. and Betula pubescens. Molinia caerulea, Hypnum jutlandicum and Cladonia floerkeana in old tussocks are also found.
One example of such an infillling pool is found at GR. 225740, 230175 and measures 40 x 20m and is dominated by Sphagnum. The ground is quaking and an in-filling blocked drain crosses this former pool. The microtopography consists of hummocks and Sphagnum lawns. The hummocks are composed of S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium and are found at the margins of the pool grading into
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 lawns of S. magellanicum inwards into the pool. Aulacomnium palustre, Vaccinium oxycoccus, Empetrum nigrum and Andromeda polifolia are noted on top of the hummocks. The wettest parts of the in-filled pool contain Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium (20%). Menyanthes trifoliata and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) are also found. The Sphagnum cover overall is approximately 90%. Another example is found at GR. 225839, 230210, to the west of the linear pool system and is also located in a depression in the ground. Sphagnum magellanicum and Rhynchospora alba dominate.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
5.2.2.1. Clara West
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/7 This sub-marginal complex covers large areas across Clara West particularly in the north-western quarter of the site. The surface is generally soft underfoot and the topography is usually flat or with a slight slope. Hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 25-30% consisting mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum though S. magellanicum occurs occasionally in lawns where there is an improved Sphagnum cover (grading into the sub-central complex 9/7/10) and there are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (25-30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominate the vegetation along with lower cover values of Erica tetralix (5-10%), Carex panicea (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Hollows sometimes contain dried out Sphagnum cuspidatum, but often are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum where the complex grades into Complex 9/7/6. Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are frequent and Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant occurring usually underneath the Calluna.
A small patch of vegetation within this complex has not been burned for some time and thus has a high cover of Cladonia portentosa and taller Calluna vulgaris. This patch can thus be considered as Complex 9/7 + Cl. This unburned patch occurs in an approximately 300 x 100m patch centred around GR. 223670, 230445.
To the south-east of the Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224175, 229875), this complex appears slightly flushed with Eriophorum vaginatum growing in a tussocky form. The bog surface is firm to soft. E. vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris dominate the vegetation. The general Sphagnum cover is about 20% and increases (30%) towards the north of this area. There is some bare peat cover in places (5%) and there are blocked drains to the east. There are signs this area has been damaged by a fire and is now recovering (low Cladonia cover and some bare peat patches). The Cladonia cover is about 1%
To the west of Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224080, 230340) there is an excellent microtopography with large hummocks (0.4 m high) and hollows indicating it is a degraded former central ecotope area. However, there are no longer any pools present and the hollows contain mostly Rhynchospora alba and Narthecium ossifragum. There are, however, some relic patches of Sphagnum magellanicum lawns along the edges of the flush.
To the north of Shanleys Lough flush (GR. 224330, 230440), the Sphagnum cover is 20-30% and occurs mainly in hummocks with occasional small patches of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum in hollows. Some bare peat (5%) is present due to previous fire in this area. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 20% (0.1-0.2m high). There are indications this area was previously active with some small patches of better quality (9/7/10) still present.
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This complex also occurs north of flush 1 in an area with a well-developed micro-topography (GR 223526, 230545). This area has degraded from active bog to sub-marginal ecotope and appears slightly flushed. Osmunda regalis occurs in this area.
In the west of the site, there are some areas where Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) is common in the depressions (GR. 223241, 230509).
A group of Betula pubescens trees (up to 20 specimens, <1.5m in height) and a Pinus sylvestris tree (<0.5m) are found within this complex in the south-eastern corner of Clara West (GR. 224560, 230120), at the west margin of drain D7.
Small sub-central patches (Complex 9/7/10) occur in the north-east section of Clara West (GR. 224581, 230957) amongst sub-marginal vegetation dominated by complex 9/7. These areas have a better general Sphagnum cover (50%) than the surrounding vegetation and are relatively small (10-20m in diameter). They contain occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and hollows containing S. cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and S. papillosum. There are occasional patches where Rhynchospora alba dominates in the hollows (9/4/10).
Complex 9/7 + Myrica (9/7 + My) This complex occurs along the southern margin of the high bog, at the edge of a Shanleys Lough flush. The bog surface is firm to soft and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 20%, dominated by patches of S. capillifolium and S. subnitens. Eriophorum vaginatum (10%), Calluna vulgaris (10-30%) and scattered Myrica gale (10-30%) characterise the vegetation. Other species present include Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Aulacomnium palustre and Erica tetralix (10%). The Cladonia cover is less than 1% and bare peat covers 5%. Occasional small dry algal hollows are present (<5%). There are also patches with a lower cover of Calluna vulgaris where the vegetation is considered as complex 9 + My. There is a gradual to steep slope down towards the cutaway.
This complex is also seen in a number of locations in the south-eastern corner of Clara West. These patches of Myrica follow a linear pattern and occupy old drains completely filled. The ground is soft and the surface rather flat. Low hummocks consisting of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. magellanicum, as well as Sphagnum cuspidatum or dry hollows characterise the complex. Myrica gale dominates the complex (50%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (20%) are also frequent. The Sphagnum cover is 20 to 30% and this area was affected by burning in 2000, as the low presence of Cladonia sp. indicates.
Complex 9/7 + Pools (9/7 + P) This complex is found in several locations within Clara West, particularly towards the west if the site, to the north of C12 (GR. 223215, 229970) and in an area of former sub-central community complexes (GR. 223210, 230210). Low hummocks and shallow pools dominate this complex, which is also noted at Clara East. Sphagnum magellanicum, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium compound the hummocks and the pools are mostly dried out or with very little S. cuspidatum. S. fuscum and S. imbricatum hummocks are occasionally found, probably as a relic of previous better conditions in the high bog. The overall Sphagnum cover averages at 30% and Cladonia species are either very occasional or absent. Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix co-dominate the complex (40-50%) with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (20%). Algal hollows are noted at up to 10% cover of the complex surface and Rhynchospora alba is occasional within the pools as evidence of drying out. Although there are some sub-central characteristics present in this complex, the sub-marginal characteristics dominate and thus the area is mapped as sub-marginal in Map 1a.
Complex 9/7/6 This is similar in composition to the sub-marginal complex 9/7 described above, but has a lower Sphagnum cover (15-20%) and a higher abundance of Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%). This
19 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 complex is usually found grading into Complex 9/7 and in small pockets within Complex 9/7. It is found in a narrow strip in the north of the site separating two areas of sub-central Complex 9/7/10 (GR. 223630, 230625).
Complex 9/7/3 This complex is seen in the northeastern corner of Clara West and along the southern margins of drain D7, in the southwestern corner and at the northwest of the high bog close to a Myrica gale patch. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris dominate with frequent flats of Carex panicea. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 15-20% and Cladonia portentosa occurs at less than 5% cover. At the northeast corner of Clara West is an area that has undergone intensive drain blocking. There are small patches of good submarginal with small growing hummocks of S. imbricatum, lawns of S. magellanicum and patches of E. angustifolium occasional S. fuscum. In between are drier areas where the ground is firm and dominated by Carex panicea and Calluna vulgaris.
Complex 3/2/7 This complex is seen at the north of Clara West, to the east of the northern section of drain D7. Low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum are noted. The hollows are dominated either by Carex panicea or Sphagnum cuspidatum. The overall Sphagnum cover averages at 30%. The absence of Cladonia species and the high occurrence of Carex panicea (20-30%) show evidence of recent burning. Trichophorum cespitosum cover is 10% and Erica tetralix & Calluna vulgaris 40% (although Calluna is less common).
Complex 2/7 This complex is seen to the north of the central complex C4 and to the east of Clara West along both sides of the long treble double-drains (D7) running SW-NE. The ground is soft and the surface is flat. Low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. magellanicum, S. tenellum and S. papillosum are found. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum or contain Sphagnum cuspidatum. The overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is approximately 40% and this high occurrence of Sphagnum could be the result of the improvement of the local hydrological conditions near the blocked drains. Trichophorum cespitosum (20%), Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30-40%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) characterise the complex. Carex panicea is also found in places. Cladonia portentosa is only present 1%.
Complex 7/6/9 This complex is seen at the NW of Clara West. The ground is soft to firm in places and there is a gentle slope towards the south. The complex supports low hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. tenellum and occasionally S. fuscum. The hollows are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum and occasionally support Sphagnum cuspidatum. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10% and the overall Sphagnum cover within the complex is 20-30%. Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix co-dominate with Narthecium ossifragum common (30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum & E. angustifolium are also occasional (10%).
Complex 7/9/6 This complex is found north of the large mound in the centre of the high bog (GR. 223685, 230321). The bog surface is firm to soft and the microtopography is relatively well-developed with hummocks and hollows. The hummocks are dominated by Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) (0.2m high) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (10%). The hollows are dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (5-10%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and occasional S. papillosum. There are occasional small patches of S. magellanicum. The general Cladonia cover is 5%.
Complex 7/9/3 This complex is found along the northern margin of the high bog (GR. 224441, 230845). The bog surface is firm to soft. Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%) in hummocks
20 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 dominate the vegetation with the hollows and flats dominated by Carex panicea (20%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (15%), E. angustifolium (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%). The Sphagnum cover varies between 10-30% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and some S. papillosum.
Complex 6/7 This complex is found to the east of the mounds in the south of Clara West. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is approximately 10-20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Narthecium ossifragum (15%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%) dominate the vegetation along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%), Erica tetralix (10%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). This is a poor quality sub-marginal complex and is on a gradation towards marginal ecotope and is also described under marginal ecotope complexes below.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs scattered throughout the north-west of Clara West and is a poor quality sub- marginal complex on a gradation towards marginal ecotope. Low hummocks dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) usually dominate the vegetation along with flats and hollows of Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%). The microtopography is relatively flat with low hummocks and shallow hollows. The general Sphagnum cover varies between 5-20% (grading into marginal ecotope) and is dominated by low hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. tenellum and S. papillosum.
To the north of Shanleys Lough Flush (GR. 224030, 230430), the bog surface is firm to soft and the microtopography contains low hummocks and hollows. A burn-line occurs in this complex (visible on the 2000 aerial photograph) and west of the burn-line the Calluna vulgaris is 0.2-0.3m high and more dominant than Narthecium ossifragum whereas east of the burn-line the height is 0.1-0.2m. and Narthecium is more prominent (Complex 6/7). Carex panicea is also often prominent in this complex.
There are several Pinus sylvestris saplings (0.5-2 m high) scattered in one area of this complex (GR. 223067, 230558). This area has a very low cover of Carex panicea cover and an increased cover of Sphagnum (20-30%).
Some areas also contain more frequent Rhynchospora alba depressions with S. cuspidatum also found in some of these hollows (GR. 223191, 230354).
Complex 4/6/7 This complex occurs to the north-west of Shanleys Lough Flush. The bog surface of this area is softer than surrounding the sub-marginal 6/7 complex. Rhynchospora alba frequently occurs in the hollows (20%), which were likely to have formerly been Sphagnum-dominated pools and hollows. Narthecium ossifragum (20%) is also frequent in hollows and Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) occurs on small hummocks. Other species present include Eriophorum angustifolium (<5%) and E. vaginatum (<5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20% with small patches or hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum all occurring.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 6/7 This complex occurs to the west of Shanleys Lough Flush on a small mound (GR. 223970, 230180). The bog surface is firm and bare peat covers 10-15%. The vegetation cover is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) on small hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum (40%) in hollows. Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (5%) and Erica tetralix (5%). The Cladonia cover is less than 5% and is colonising bare peat. Small patches of Sphagnum capillifolium are present but in general the Sphagnum cover is low (<10%).
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Complex 7/6 This complex is located at the mid-western edge of the bog and was previously classed as sub- marginal. The micro topography is mostly flat with very occasional low hummocks and hollows. The surface is firm and Sphagnum cover is very low (<10%).
Complex 6/3 This complex occurs along the north-west margin of the high bog (GR. 223436, 230820). The bog surface is firm. This complex occurs in areas that are flat or have a gentle slope at the high bog margin. The microtopography is dominated by hollows with occasional low hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum (30%) and frequent Carex panicea (10-20%) dominate the vegetation. Calluna vulgaris occurs on the low hummocks (20%) (0.2m high). Other species present include Erica tetralix (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Occasional hollows containing algae are present in this complex.
Complex 7/3/6 This complex occurs on the western margin of the high bog (GR. 223123, 230697). The bog surface is firm. The vegetation is dominated by large hummocks of Calluna vulgaris (20-30%) (0.3m high). Carex panicea (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) dominate the hollows. Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Erica tetralix (5%) and Eriophorum angustifolium. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium.
Complex 2 + Myrica (2 + My) This complex is found at the bog margin in the south of Clara West, south of Shanleys Lough soak and adjacent to turf plot no. 3. It is a narrow band of vegetation extending into the high bog for 7-8m from the margin where there is a steep slope down towards the cutaway. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is poor at approximately 5%. Tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) and Myrica gale (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) and Erica tetralix (15-20%). Narthecium ossifragum, Hypnum jutlandicum and bare peat are also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is very low (<5%).
Complex 7/2 This complex is found on the mounds west of Shanleys Lough flush. The surface is firm underfoot, the Sphagnum cover is very poor (<5%) and there are some cracks on the bog surface (0.3-0.5m wide orientated N-S). Calluna vulgaris (40%) dominates the vegetation growing to 0.2m in height along with tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5%). Pteridium aquilinum and Phragmites australis occur on the summit of the mound in scattered patches. Towards the base of the large mound there are more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (10-20%) and less cover of Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and the vegetation is termed Complex 2/7. Other species present include Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The general Sphagnum cover varies between 5-20%.
This complex also occurs in a narrow strip south of the large mound. Trichophorum cespitosum is less prominent (5%), the Calluna vulgaris cover is 15% (0.1-0.2m in height) and Erica tetralix is frequent (20%). Other species include Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), E. angustifolium (< 5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). The bare peat cover is 5-10% indicating a fire in the recent past. Cladonia (<5%) is colonising the bare peat. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with small patches of S. capillifolium prominent.
This complex is also seen dominating the southern margin of Clara West and in places where an underlying mineral ridges occur and drier conditions are noted, also in the southern section of Clara
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West. This marginal complex is similar to the complex found in Clara East, but a lower Cladonia portentosa occurrence is noted (1%) and bare peat cover is 5%.
At the southwest boundary of Clara West, south of a drain running E-W is an area with old difco ridges running perpendicular to the high bog boundary, Trichophorum cespitosum cover is 15% and Calluna vulgaris (0.2-0.3m) 30%. The ground is hard and the microtopography is flat apart from the difco channels and low hummocks. There is good Sphagnum regeneration with low hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum (10% cover in total). Eriophorum vaginatum is also present (10% cover). There are also scattered patches of Carex panicea.
Complex 6/2 This complex occurs along the northern margin of the high bog. The bog surface is firm and the microtopography contains low hummocks, hollows and tussocks. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30-40%) with frequent Trichophorum cespitosum (10%). Other species present include Erica tetralix (10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), Carex panicea (5%) and Calluna vulgaris (<5%) (0.2m high). The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium with S. subnitens and S. tenellum also present. The general Cladonia cover is less than 5%. There are occasional algal hollows present. Molinia caerulea is encroaching onto the high bog from the margins in places. Ulex europaeus occurs on the high bog margin at one location (GR. 223813, 230860).
Complex 3/6/2 This complex is found along the road at the eastern boundary of Clara West. There is a steep slope towards the east. Carex panicea, Narthecium ossifragum and Trichophorum cespitosum dominate the vegetation and there are some algal hollows present along with small pools in the southern half. The Sphagnum cover is poor (<10%).
Complex 7/3 This complex is found at the western edge of the bog and is dominated by Carex panicea (40%) and Calluna vulgaris (25-30 %). Narthecium ossifragum occurs at approximately 10 % cover and there is little or no Sphagnum present. The ground is flat and firm underfoot with a poor microtopography and there area some dry channels with Rhynchospora alba.. Both Birch and Pine trees are encroaching into the bog, the birch is approximately 1.5 m tall and the pine 3m. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%.
Complex 6/9/3 This complex is found along the southeastern section of bog. Trichophorum cespitosum is replaced by Eriophorum vaginatum towards the flush though there is still small amount of Trichophorum cespitosum present (5%). This area slopes towards the south and the surface is firm. Calluna vulgaris is present at 15-20% cover and is 0.2m tall. Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum (25%) and Carex panicea (20- 25 %) dominate the vegetation. The total Sphagnum cover is <5% mainly S. capillifolium and some S. cuspidatum is dried out in some hollows.
Complex 4/2 This complex occurs along the north-west margin of the high bog (GR. 223465, 230904). This vegetation type occurs in old cutover areas. The vegetation is dominated by depressions of Rhynchospora alba (20-30%) with scattered tussocks of Molinia caerulea (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%). There are ‘islands’ of Narthecium ossifragum and Calluna vulgaris. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by patches of S. capillifolium associated with the Calluna vulgaris. There are also occasional patches of dried Sphagnum. cuspidatum in the depressions.
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Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This complex surrounds much of the high bog perimeter at Clara West, but does not extend far into the bog expanse. Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation cover reaching cover values of up to 100% and the ground is dry and hard underfoot indicating a low water table. Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Carex panicea and Andromeda polifolia are all usually present at low cover values and there is little or no Sphagnum cover. The ground layer is dominated by Hypnum jutlandicum, which is usually abundant under Calluna vulgaris. Cladonia portentosa is abundant in areas that have not been burned for some time.
Flushes
Flush 4 This inactive flush is seen at the south-west corner of Clara West. Tall Calluna vulgaris (0.4m) and Molinia caerulea dominate this flush, which could be underlain by a mineral ridge. Vaccinium myrtillus, Sphagnum capillifolium and Hypnum jutlandicum are also present within the flush. A high occurrence of Cladonia portentosa is also recorded, and some Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris trees are found at the NW of this flush. This flush is mapped as two separate areas (F4a and F4b) in Map 1a. These may be linked.
Flush 5 A small inactive flush occurs to the south-west of the large mound (GR. 223750, 229900). This flush is a narrow strip dominated by Molinia caerulea with patches of Myrica gale and several groups of Betula pubescens saplings and trees (4 m high). Juncus effusus is present in this area and there are a number of swallow holes.
There are a number of other small inactive flushes that are shown on Map 1a. These flushes have not been described in detail.
5.2.2.2. Clara East
Complex 9A + Cladonia (9A + Cl) This complex occurs in small patches scattered across the south of Clara East. The largest patch of it is found immediately south of Lough Roe (GR. 225485, 229960) where there is a relatively flat micro- topography with occasional small hummocks and the bog surface is soft underfoot. The Sphagnum cover is 30-40% and is dominated by S. capillifolium and S. papillosum in hummocks and S. magellanicum and S. papillosum in some hollows. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum angustifolium (30%), but is otherwise similar to Complex 9/7 + Cl though with a much lower cover of Calluna vulgaris (<5%). Carex panicea (5%), Erica tetralix (10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%) are all present. The Cladonia cover is 70%. Occasional small hummocks of Leucobryum glaucum are present and Aulacomnium palustre is also present in this complex. This complex is likely to be in transition to active sub-central ecotope.
Complex 9/7 + Cladonia (9/7 + Cl) This sub-marginal complex covers large areas across the centre of Clara East south of Lough Roe. The surface is firm to soft underfoot and the microtopography is dominated by hummocks and flats. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 25-30% consisting mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum though S. magellanicum occurs occasionally in lawns where there is an improved Sphagnum cover and there are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum. Calluna vulgaris (25- 30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominate the vegetation along with lower cover values of Erica tetralix (5-10%), Carex panicea (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Andromeda polifolia and Drosera rotundifolia are
24 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 frequent and Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant occurring usually underneath the Calluna. The numerous drains within this complex running parallel to each other, approximately every 15m, in a NNE-SSW direction have been blocked and are infilling with Sphagnum, Eriophorum angustifolium and Rhynchospora alba and are lined with thick robust Calluna. There are also areas within this complex (particularly immediately south of Lough Roe) where there is a higher cover value of Eriophorum angustifolium. These areas are usually wetter (with a Sphagnum cover of 30-40%) and can be considered to have the potential to be sub-central ecotope since they would appear to be currently in transition as a result of rewetting from the blocked and infilling drains. There are also patches with a higher cover of Carex panicea (15%) and Erica tetralix (20%) and these generally have a lower Sphagnum cover (20%).
This area of the bog has not been burned for some time as the cover of Cladonia portentosa is >40% in places. However, there is a burn line running ESE-WNW across the bog, south of which the cover of C. portentosa is much reduced. This burn occurred in the mid-1990s according to the local Wildlife Ranger (Colm Malone).
Complex 9/7 This complex is found on Clara East south of the mid-1990s burn line that runs ESE-WNW across the bog. The complex is similar to Complex 9/7 + Cl though with much reduced cover of Cladonia portentosa and a lower growth of Calluna vulgaris. Where the complex grades into the sub-central complex 10/9 or there is an increased cover of Sphagnum with S. cuspidatum pools occasional though they are usually accompanied by algae. In the south-east of the high bog where this complex grades into the sub-central complex 15-, pools cover 5-10% of the complex and the complex is considered as 9/7 + P. Pools/hollows vegetated by Rhynchospora alba are common in this area.
This sub-marginal complex is also seen in a large area surrounding the linear set of pools in the north- east of Clara East. The ground is soft and the surface is flat. Low Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum papillosum and Sphagnum magellanicum hummocks characterise the complex as well as Narthecium ossifragum hollows. The dominant species are Calluna vulgaris & Erica tetralix (30%), Eriophorum vaginatum & E. angustifolium (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%). Cladonia portentosa cover is low 5%.
Complex 9/7/6 This complex is seen in two locations within Clara East: to the north-east of Lough Roe and to the west of the linear set of pools. This complex covers a small area within the high bog and the presence of Narthecium ossifragum (20%) differentiates this complex from the surrounding complexes 9/7 or 9/7+P. Sphagnum papillosum, Sphagnum magellanicum and Sphagnum capillifolium compound low hummocks. The hollows consist mostly of Narthecium. Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium co-dominate (30%) and Erica tetralix cover is 20%. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20% and Cladonia portentosa cover is 10-20%
Complex 6/7/9 This complex occurs in the southern lobe of the high bog (GR. 225430, 229450) and borders an area of sub-central vegetation (SC15). The bog surface is firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by hollows with Narthecium ossifragum (20%), hummocks with Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and scattered Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) and E. angustifolium (5%). There are occasional hollows with Rhynchospora alba (5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 30-40% with low hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum occasional S. imbricatum and S. subnitens, and patches and hollows containing S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. There are some pools present that contain S. cuspidatum (5%). The Cladonia cover is approximately 10%.
Complex 6/3/7 + Cladonia (6/3/7 + Cl) This complex is found on the slopes of a slightly elevated ridge south of flush 7 on Clara East. The surface is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium.
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Narthecium ossifragum (30%) dominates the vegetation along with Carex panicea (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (25%). Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Rhynchospora alba (5-10%) are also frequent. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is >20%.
Complex 7/6/9 + Cladonia (7/6/9 + Cl) This complex is found in a small patch of bog in the very south of Clara East directly north of where the bog tapers off to a narrow point. A burn-line (mid-1990s burn) runs through this complex so that to the south-east there is a high cover of Cladonia portentosa (25%) whereas to the west it is absent. The Sphagnum cover here is 20% consisting mostly of S. capillifolium, S. subnitens and S. tenellum. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (15-20%), Narthecium ossifragum (15-20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10%). Erica tetralix (5%), Eriophorum angustifolium (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) are all present at low abundance values. Further north in the burned section of this complex (west of turf plot nos. 38-39) there are also some algal tear pools present with Rhynchospora alba and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum as well as occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum.
Complex 3/9 + Cladonia (3/9 + Cl) This complex occurs to the south of Lough Roe (GR. 225350, 230070). The bog surface is firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%). Other species present include Eriophorum angustifolium (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (< 5%) and Erica tetralix (10%). The Sphagnum cover is 30% and is dominated by S. papillosum, S. capillifolium with small amounts of S. subnitens and S. cuspidatum (<5%) in small hollows. The Cladonia cover approaches 50%.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs in the southern lobe of the high bog (GR. 225300, 229300). This complex occurs on flat and sloped margins of the high bog. The bog surface is firm or firm to soft and the vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (40%), (0.2m high) with frequent Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%), E. angustifolium (<5%) and patches of Carex panicea (5%). The Cladonia cover is 5-10%. The general Sphagnum cover is relatively poor (10-20%) with S. capillifolium, S. subnitens and S. papillosum all present.
Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia (9/7/3 + Cl) This complex occupies a large area in the central section of the northern part of Clara East. Sphagnum papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium low hummocks are found; some topped by Vaccinium oxycoccus, as well as Leucobryum glaucum hummocks. The hollows are devoid of Sphagnum and consist mostly of Narthecium ossifragum and Carex panicea. Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominates the complex and Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix (20%) and Carex panicea (20%) are also common. The complex becomes wetter towards the centre of the northern section and the total Sphagnum cover is 20-30% in places. Eriophorum vaginatum is replaced by E. angustifolium in these wetter areas and although Sphagnum cuspidatum is more common in the hollows the overall Sphagnum cover is similar at approximately 30%. Cladonia portentosa is very common throughout the complex.
Complex 2/9/3 This complex is seen in the northwestern section of Clara East. The ground is soft and a slight slope is noted towards the western edge. The microtopography consists of low hummocks and hollows. Sphagnum papillosum, S. magellanicum and S. capillifolium are noted in the hummocks. The hollows are mostly shallow and are colonised by S. cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. Trichophorum cespitosum (30%) dominates the complex and Eriophorum angustifolium & E. vaginatum (20%), Carex panicea (15%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) are common. Calluna vulgaris, Erica tetralix and Rhynchospora alba are also found throughout the complex. The overall Sphagnum cover is 20- 30%, being higher in the wetter areas close to the blocked drains. Many of these drains are in-filled with Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum, which dominate to form Sphagnum lawns. The drier section of the complex occurs in the inter-drain area and contains a higher presence of Carex panicea, Narthecium and occasionally Huperzia selago. Cladonia portentosa cover is 10%.
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Complex 3/2/7 This complex is seen at the west of Clara East immediately at the entrance of the high bog from the road. This community complex is definitely influenced by water running off the high bog surface towards the edge. As a result of the increase in water presence the ground is soft and the Sphagnum cover is good 30%. Carex panicea (40%), Erica tetralix (<0.2m and 20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (10%) dominate the complex. Low Sphagnum capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks are found as well as Carex panicea-Erica tetralix flats. Cladonia portentosa occurrence is low at 5%.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6/2 This complex occupies the northern and north-western margins of Clara East. The ground is firm and a gradual slope is noted towards the edge of the high bog. The entire area occupied by this complex has been subjected to drains blocking and in-filling of the drains with Sphagnum cuspidatum is occurring. In addition, re-wetting of the areas by the blocked drains is occurring and Eriophorum angustifolium is common in these wet patches. Disturbance indicators are also found with Cladonia floerkeana, Campylopus introflexus and bare peat all present. The northwestern section of Clara East was affected by burning in March 2000 (Malone, pers. comm.) and as a result Cladonia portentosa and C. uncialis are absent. However Cladonia portentosa is noted at the east of the complex. Low hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography. Sphagnum tenellum and Sphagnum papillosum are noted in the hummocks. The hollows are colonised by Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Sphagnum cuspidatum in shallow hollows as a result to re-wetting. Dominant species within the complex are Carex panicea (40%), Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (10%). The overall Sphagnum cover is low 5 to 10%. Rhynchospora alba is also recorded.
A small wetter version of this complex is found at the west of Clara East, near the access to the high bog. The ground is very soft and gradual slope is noted, thus lost of water runs off the surface towards this margin of the high bog and the Sphagnum cover is higher (30%). Therefore this section of the complex is deemed sub-marginal.
Complex 7/2 This complex is found in the northeastern corner of Clara East. The ground is firm and bare peat is noted. In-filling drains are found within the complex and the Calluna vulgaris (<0.3m) & Erica tetralix cover is 40% and Trichophorum cespitosum is 20%. Narthecium ossifragum is also found in flats. The Sphagnum cover is low (5%) consisting mostly of S. capillifolium. Cladonia portentosa cover is also low at 10% cover.
Complex 7/6 This complex occurs along the south-west margin of the high bog (GR. 225000, 229650). The bog surface is firm and the complex occurs on a gentle to steep slope with a west aspect. The micro- topography has low hummocks and hollows. 0.2m tall Calluna vulgaris (60%) and frequent Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) dominate the vegetation. Other species present include Erica tetralix (<5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (<5%) and E. angustifolium (<5%). The Sphagnum cover is 10% with S. subnitens, S. capillifolium and S. papillosum all present in small patches. There are occasional large mounds covered with Calluna vulgaris and several Pinus saplings are also present. The Cladonia cover is 5%.
This marginal complex is also seen at the north-east of Clara East and although some patches are wet in this area and the blocked drains contain a good Sphagnum cover, the overall Sphagnum cover is low and averages at 10%.
Complex 6/7 This complex is found on a small slightly elevated ridge south of Flush 7 on Clara East as well as on parts of the larger ridges towards the SW of Clara East and towards the high bog margins. The surface
27 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 is firm underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is poor (10%) consisting mostly of S. capillifolium. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%), which is usually relatively tall (0.4-0.5m) in the unburned areas of this complex. Accompanying species include Carex panicea (10-15%), Eriophorum angustifolium (5-10%), E. vaginatum (5%) and Erica tetralix (5%). There is usually a high cover of Hypnum jutlandicum and (in unburned areas) of Cladonia portentosa (>40%). However parts of this complex (in the SW of Clara East) were burned in the mid- 1990s and have a much-reduced cover of C. portentosa.
In the south of Clara East there is a small mound with six 0.5-1.5m Betula pubescens within this complex at GR. 225382 229260. Robust Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum accompany the birch.
Complex 7/9 This complex is found on the ridges in the SW of Clara East and in small patches scattered across the south of Clara East. The surface is firm underfoot but is spongy in places due to the high abundance of Hypnum jutlandicum. Calluna vulgaris (40%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (15%) dominate the vegetation and there is a poor Sphagnum cover (10%) consisting mainly of S. capillifolium.
To the SW of Flush 3 (GR. 225100, 229850), this complex occurs on a slope with a NE aspect. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.2-0.3m high). Other species present include Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), E. angustifolium (5%), Erica tetralix (5), Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%). Bare peat covers 5-10% in places. The Sphagnum cover is less than 5% and small patches of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are present. There are a series of ridges alongside the drains dominated by Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high). There are some patches of 9/7 with greater Sphagnum cover. Occasional Pinus and Picea saplings between 0.5-2 m high are present. The Cladonia cover is approximately 50% on this ridge indicating that it has not suffered a burn for a long time.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1/2 This complex occurs along the margins of the high bog. It generally occurs on a slope and the bog surface is firm underfoot. The Calluna vulgaris cover is 40% and is taller at the edge of the high bog. There are patches of bare peat present (20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (20%) increases in abundance on the high bog side of the taller Calluna vulgaris. There are also patches of Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum (10%) with Rhynchospora alba occuring in some erosion channels or hollows. The Sphagnum cover is quite poor (<5%) with generally only small patches of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum present.
Complex 1 This complex surrounds much of the high bog perimeter at Clara East, but does not extend far into the bog expanse. Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation cover reaching cover values of up to 100% and the ground is dry and hard underfoot indicating a low water table. Erica tetralix, Eriophorum angustifolium, Trichophorum cespitosum, Carex panicea and Andromeda polifolia are all usually present at low cover values and there is little or no Sphagnum cover. Hypnum jutlandicum, which is usually abundant under the Calluna dominates the ground layer along with, in the unburned areas, Cladonia portentosa.
Where this complex occurs in the south of Clara East adjacent to turf plot no. 40, there is abundant Betula pubescens and Pteridium aquilinum and the high bog here appears to have been cut in the past, possibly scraw-cut.
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Flushes
Flush 10 This flush is dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris with a patch of scattered Molinia caerulea tussocks (GR. 225280, 230100). There are three 5m tall Betula pubescens, as well as three 2m Betula and numerous smaller saplings. There is also a 2m tall Pinus sylvestris, robust Calluna vulgaris, Molinia caerulea and Pleurozium schreberi. This flush is inactive and is surrounded by the sub- marginal complex 9/7 + Cl.
Flush 11 This flush contains scattered Molinia caerulea (5%) in a patch 20m long dominated by flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5m high) and Cladonia (GR. 225430, 229920). There are several Betula pubescens 1m high. This flush is inactive and is probably connected to Flush 7.
Flush 12 This is a largely inactive flush found 100m SE of Lough Roe (GR. 225550, 229870). It is dominated intermittently by Molinia caerulea and robust Calluna vulgaris with scattered Betula pubescens (1-4m high) and Salix aurita. The Sphagnum cover averages at approximately 30% consisting mainly of hummocks of S. capillifolium. The Cladonia portentosa cover is 75% and there are frequent hummocks containing Polytrichum commune, P. alpestre and Andromeda polifolia. Hypnum jutlandicum and Pleurozium schreberi occur under the C. vulgaris. A small patch of Molinia caerulea occurs here and dominates towards the north-eastern extent of the flush with flushed Calluna vulgaris (0.5-0.7m tall) dominating in the south-west. This flush is dry and thus considered inactive though there are frequent hummocks of Sphagnum capillifolium. Eriophorum vaginatum is also abundant and other species recorded include Juncus effusus, Aulacomnium palustre, Luzula multiflora, Potentilla erecta, Dryopteris carthusiana, Vaccinium oxycoccus, V. myrtillus and Empetrum nigrum are all present.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Rhynchosporion vegetation is widespread on Clara (West and East). It is found in both active and degraded raised bog, but tends to be best developed and most stable in the wettest areas of active raised bog.
In Clara West, Rhynchospora alba is abundant within Complex 14 (C3, C4 & C10-C12) along with lawns of Sphagnum magellanicum at the pools margins of pools infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium. Towards the centre of Clara West (C9), the central complex 14 is suffering from desiccation and Rhynchospora alba is found in growing abundance in the pools. Here it is found with similar species to above, but with less Sphagnum and an increasing frequency of algae as well as Narthecium ossifragum.
Rhynchospora alba is present in similar conditions in the central Complex 15 (C2 & C8) and Complex 10/15 (C1), but is not as abundant, possibly because the pools are not as frequent.
In the sub-central complex 10/9 (SC6), Rhynchospora alba is frequent around the edges of Sphagnum- filled-pools and in patches on Sphagnum lawns. Complex 10/4 in the west of Clara West is characterised by Rhynchospora alba, which has colonised desiccated pools, which now have a poor cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum. It is also occasional in Complex 10/6 and Complex 9/7/10.
In degraded raised bog, Rhynchospora alba is found in Complex 9/7, sometimes at a high abundance in hollows. In the Complex 9/7 + P it is found in the pools along with dried-out Sphagnum cuspidatum and algae. In Complex 7/6/9 + Cl, Complex 6/7/9 and Complex 2/9/3 it is found in hollows with Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum in areas that are likely to have formerly
29 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 been pools. In Complex 7/6 and Complex 4/6/7 it is found in hollows with Narthecium ossifragum and occasional Sphagnum cuspidatum in areas that are likely to have formerly been pools. Rhynchospora alba is found dominating dry channels in the marginal complex 7/3. It also characterises the marginal complex 4/2.
In Clara East, Rhynchospora alba is abundant within the Central Complex 10/15 (C14-C17) particularly at the margins of pools, which are infilling with Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. magellanicum and Eriophorum angustifolium. E. vaginatum is also abundant in these areas. Rhynchospora alba is present in similar conditions within the sub-central Complex 10/15- (SC14), but as the pools have suffered from desiccation, there is a much reduced cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum. Rhynchosporion vegetation is present in similar condition also in other sub-central areas such as the largest area of sub- central in the south of the site (SC15).
5.2.4. Bog Woodland Several patches of Betula-dominated woodland occur on Clara West in various flushes and soaks. These are in various stages of woodland development and age, with some areas being classified as scrub. There are five patches of bog woodland (BW1-BW5) marked on Map 1a as well as three areas of dry bog woodland (DBW1-DBW3). There is no bog woodland (though there is some birch-willow scrub: see F6 and F7) present on Clara Bog East.
The best-developed and most extensive bog woodland occurs in the central area of Flush 2 (Shanleys Lough Flush). This woodland (BW2) is the only bog woodland of Clara that was described in detail during the current survey and thus is the only one described here in this section. The other bog woodland patches are described briefly under the descriptions of the flush/soak systems in which they occur.
This woodland occurring at BW2 contains patches of woodland at different stages of development with the main area being the younger and having a canopy of 8-10m that is completely dominated by Betula pubescens. The general canopy cover is about 40% and is quite open. The ground vegetation is characterised by large tussocks of Molinia caerulea and a shrub layer of Myrica gale and Vaccinium myrtillus (1m high). Typical woodland species such as Sphagnum palustre, Thuidium tamariscinum and Dryopteris dilatata and typical bog species such as Erica tetralix are found growing together in this bog woodland (see table 5.2.4.1.). The bog surface is soft and wet and can be classified as active raised bog. Areas of Betula scrub are found surrounding much of this woodland particularly towards the north. Most of the birch are between 8-10m tall with a dbh of 7-15cm (see tables 5.2.4.2. and 5.3.4.3.) and many of then are multi-stemmed (indicating a fire history).
Table 5.2.4.1. Percentage cover of species found within the quadrat. (10 x 10m) Species % cover Molinia caerulea 60 Betula pubescens 40 Myrica gale 20-30 Juncus effusus < 5 Vaccinium myrtillus 10 Dryopteris dilatata < 5 Erica tetralix < 1 Fagus sylvatica < 1 Rubus fruticosus < 1 Sphagnum palustre 50 Sphagnum recurvum 10 Thuidium tamariscinum 5 Hypnum cupressiforme < 5 Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus 1 Polytrichum commune 1
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Pseudoscleropodium purum < 1
Other species found in the woodland include Lonicera periclymenum, Dryopteris carthusiana, Anthoxanthum odoratum, Pleurozium schreberi, Calluna vulgaris and Hedera helix.
Table 5.2.4.2. Sizes of trees >7 cm in diameter within the quadrat. Number Species Dbh (cm) Height (m) 1 Betula 10 8 2 Betula 88 3 Betula 15 9 4 Betula 78 5 Betula 10 9 6 Betula 10 10 7 Betula 15 10 8 Betula 78 9 Betula 12 10 10 Betula 10 8
Table 5.2.4.3. Numbers of stems < 7 cm in diameter within the quadrat. Size class (m) < 0.25 0.26-1.00 1.01-2.00 2.01-4.00 > 4 Betula 2 7 4 7 Fagus 1
An older area of woodland occurs in the south of BW2. This area has a canopy of 15-20m high and the trees have an average dbh of 30cm. The stem density is sparser in this area. Some parts of the more mature bog woodland are drier and have a lower bryophyte cover, and are thus considered inactive (GR. 224080, 230050).
5.3. Regenerating cutover The cutover at Clara Bog was not surveyed during the 2004 survey.
5.4. Quadrats
A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Maps 1a and 1b and the grid reference and full details of each quadrat are given in the appendix. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2.
Table 5.4.1.1 Quadrats on Clara West Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 15 Qc2 Central 14 Qc3 Central 14 Qc4 Central 10/15 Qsc1 Sub-central 9/7/10 Qsc2 Sub-central 10/9 Qsc3 Sub-central 9/10 Qsc4 Sub-central 7/9/10 Qsc5 Sub-central 10/4
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Table 5.4.1.2 Quadrats on Clara East Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc5 Central 10/15 Qsc6 Sub-central 9/7 + P
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1 Impacts and activities on the high bog on Clara West and East Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 310 Peat Extraction A (2-) 1.95km(21.69% of HB margin of Clara West) A (2-) 1.43km(14.45% of HB margin of Clara East) 312 Mechanical removal of peat Commercial use A (2-) 0.18km (Clara West) Domestic use A (2-) 1.77km (Clara West) A (2-) 1.43km (Clara East) 810 Drainage B (1-) 1.45km1 (94.6% of HB of Clara West) B (1-) 0km 1Clara East (100% of HB of Clara East) 180 Burning (Yr) B (1-) NA 1 these figures do not include length of blocked drains, some of which may still de reduced functional (see section 6.2.1).
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities in and around the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage A (2-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Clara (West and East) is the largest remaining example of the True Midland Raised Bog sub-type measuring approximately 443.21ha in extent. However, there is still extensive turf cutting along the southern margins of the site on both Clara West and Clara East and this cutting is associated with massive subsidence and slumping of the high bog along parts of this high bog margin. Indeed since the bog was surveyed by Kelly in 1993, two small lakes have developed close to the mineral mound on Clara West due to subsidence of the peat body caused by drainage and turf cutting.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) noted that over half (55.68%) of the original bog area has been cutaway since the 1800s with the most intense cutting having occurred to the south of the present day high bog. Currently 3.38km of the 18.87km perimeter of Clara is being cut (close to 2km of this cut margin relates to Clara West). All the cutting activity described appears to be hopper-cut and is mostly for domestic use (apart from plot no 37, which approaches a commercial nature). 60 active turf plots were identified by MacGowan et al. (in prep.) as well as one plot that is no longer active, but which has cut into NPW owned land. In the Conservation Plan for the site, it was indeed noted (O’ Mahony, draft) that cutting had been carried out on some NPW owned plots and that regional staff had contacted those responsible and inserted painted stakes marking out NPW owned plots in the area to prevent future reoccurrence. 37 of these plots occurred on Clara West and 34 on Clara East and all are shown on Maps 3a and 3b.
There is close to 70ha of active bog on Clara West fragmented over the bog expanse and coming to within 12m of the bog margin at the discharge point of Shanleys Lough flush close to the centre of the
32 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 southern perimeter. The turf cutting in this area is thus a very serious threat to the active ecotope. Cutting elsewhere on Clara West also threatens the active bog in addition to approaching the NPW owned land (delineated by a boundary drain) and has even crossed it in places (plot nos. 34, 35 & 37). MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered it is necessary to stop cutting in turf plot nos. 1-5 and 33-37 immediately and to rapidly phase out cutting in plot nos. 6, 17, 22-28, 31 and 32. It was also considered necessary to phase out cutting in plot nos. 8-16, 18-21, 29 and 30 within five years and to phase out the remaining peat cutting at the site within ten years.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered the most sensitive area to be that along the centre of the southern margin of Clara West, south of the mineral ridge. The turf cutting here (associated with plots 1-5) has caused massive subsidence in recent years and there is almost no dried-out marginal zone so that the potential impact of any cutting activity is high. Turf plot nos. 1-4 appear to have ceased being cut very recently (ca. 2000-01). However, it is imperative that cutting on these plots is not restarted. Turf plot no. 5 also occurs in this area and is still active and it was thus considered necessary to stop cutting on this plot immediately.
MacGowan et al. (in prep.) also noted that towards the west there are plots, which are approaching the boundary of NPWS-owned land and thus need to be carefully monitored. Plot nos. 16 is approximately 10m and plot 17 less than 5m from the boundary drain. Turf plot nos. 31 and 32 are also approaching the boundary drain and plot nos. 33-37 are either at (plot 33 & 36) or extending into (plot 34, 35 & 37) NPWS owned land and thus need to be stopped immediately. It was also noted that plot no. 37 is approximately 160m wide and appears to be industrial scale development and thus also needs to be stopped immediately.
The active bog on Clara East is fragmented and is still developing and recovering from the drainage system, that was excavated across the entire bog surface in 1983, and which was not blocked efficiently until 1996. Thus, it is likely that the area of active bog ecotope is still expanding and has not yet reached its full extent. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) considered it is necessary to stop cutting in turf plot nos. 48-50 immediately and to rapidly phase out cutting in plot nos. 51 and 52. It was also considered necessary to phase out cutting in plot nos. 38, 39, 46, 47 and 53-61 within five years and to phase out the remaining peat cutting at the site within ten years.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage
Although turf cutting is still ongoing, most of the high bog drains (see tables 6.2.1 & 6.2.2) have been blocked by the NPWS. There are, however, a number of short parallel functional drains in the south- west of Clara West (D4: see Map 3a) associated turf plot nos. 15-30. Some of the drains in this series (associated with plots 16 & 17) have water flow in towards the bog expanse as the plots are located on a slightly elevated ridge, and so these are not considered to have a significant drying impact on the high bog. West of this series of drains there is a longer functional drain (D1) with water flow towards the west. This is probably the last remaining unblocked high bog drain on Clara West that may be having a serious drying out impact on the bog.
In 1992, Dúchas (NPWS) excavated a surface drain along parts of the southern boundary of the Nature Reserve, to establish a physical boundary on state ownership where there was a possibility of encroachment by nearby peat-cutting activities (Kelly, 1993). This drain increased run-off in some areas, despite being blocked at regular intervals and was included in the high bog drain-blocking programme (O’ Mahony, draft). The boundary drain (D8) on the high bog at Clara East, which delineates the boundary of NPWS ownership has not been blocked. This drain is almost infilled and close to being non-functional.
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Blocked drains cross much of Clara East as evidence of an intensive drainage scheme excavated by Bord na Mona in 1983. These drains were dug at 20 metre intervals in a NNE-SSW direction with some east-west drains also excavated at various intervals (Kelly, 1993). Some of these drains were blocked to various degrees of success in 1987 (Kelly, 1993). A management plan for the efficient blocking of the drains was prepared by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994), and most were blocked effectively in 1995/96 (van der Schaff, 2002).
However, the most serious drainage problem affecting Clara Bog is that caused by the road which runs through the centre of the bog and the deep drains which have been excavated on either side of it. This road has resulted in massive subsidence of the bog (up to 10m; van der Schaaf, 2002) since it was constructed over 150 years ago (Kelly, 1993)
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains on Clara West and East Drain 1 This functional drain is found in the south-west of Clara West and flows from the blocked double drain (D3) westwards towards the high bog margin. Drain 2 The blocked drain is found towards the south of Clara West and delineates the boundary of ownership with the high bog to the north of the drain owned by the NPWS. Drain 3 These are two parallel N/S blocked drains found in the west of Clara West. Drain 4 These are a series of short functional drains found in the SSW of Clara West and associated with cutting in turf plots 15-30. Generally there is flow to the SSW except at turf plots 16-17 where a mineral mound causes flow in the opposite direction. Drain 5 This drain is found to the south of Shanleys Lough Flush and although it has been blocked there is still water flowing out of this drain and into the cutaway. Drain 6 These are three parallel blocked drains found on Clara West that are infilled with water and Sphagnum. Drain 7 This consists of three parallel double-drains found on Clara West that have been blocked and are infilling. Drain 8 The drain is found towards the south of the Clara East and delineates the boundary of ownership with the high bog to the north of the drain owned by the NPWS. The drain is infilling and can be considered as non-functional in places. Drain 9 The high bog to the north of D8 was intensively drained in the early 1980s with parallel drains every 15-20m and occasional perpendicular drains. These drains were blocked in 1996 and the area is re-wetting with the drains colonised by Sphagnum particularly S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. However, the drains are not yet completely infilled and can be considered to be reduced functional in places.
Table 6.2.2.1 High bog drainage on Clara West Drainage 1992/93 2004/05 Variation 1992-2004 (%) Length of functional NA 1.45 N/A drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 0 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 0 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains NA 11.06 N/A Area affected by NA 232.95ha (94.6%) (+/-) N/A drainage (ha - %)
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Table 6.2.2.2. High bog drainage on Clara East Drainage 1992/93 2004/05 Variation 1992-2004 (%) Length of functional NA 0 N/A drains (m) 1 Length of reduced- NA NA N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3.08 N/A drains (m) Area of blocked drains NA 154.20ha + 154.20ha Area affected by 208.89ha (100%) 196.43ha (100%) 0 drainage (ha - %)
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004. However, van der Schaaf (2002) notes that there is deep drainage excavated in the cutaway in the south of Shanleys Lough with drain levels of about 6m below the bog surface. These drains are causing considerable subsidence in the bog area between Shanleys Lough and the southern margin with measurable effects recorded more than 300m from the bog margin in 1997. Furthermore, Kelly (1993) noted that a drain running along the northern boundary of Clara East was deepened and widened in 1991 as part of a reclamation scheme for agricultural land adjoining the bog and caused considerable damage to some marginal vegetation communities in the area.
Arterial drainage schemes were carried out in the region in the 1850s and again in the 1950s, resulting in the lowering of the regional water table (O’Mahony, Draft). Drains are also found around the margins of the bog, where they have been dug to drain agricultural land or peat cutting banks. The main road and the drains running parallel to that road have also had a major effect on the hydrology of the bog and have split one original dome into two smaller domes. Water flows towards the road from both Clara east and west and it also acts as the major drain for lands on the northern margin of the bog. In the central part of present day Clara West, the subsidence caused by the drainage system that was installed in connection with the Clara-Rahan Road since the time that the road was built has been approximately 2m (van der Scaff, 2002). The subsidence in the area of Shanley’s Lough has been 4- 5m and the effect of peat cutting in the south of the site has increased the subsidence due to the road. The average subsidence of Clara West between 1982-1991 was 2cm/yr. Subsidence on Clara Bog has changed the topography of the bog surface from the original flat/domed shape to a more undulating surface, the undulations corresponding to the topography of features underneath the bog.
6.3. Fire history The bog has suffered from burning in places, particularly in the vicinity of the Clara to Rahan road and adjacent to peat cutting areas in the south west of the site (O’Mahony, draft). However these fires are not as frequent as fires on other raised bog sites, and hence are less of a problem than elsewhere. Burning of scrub is practised on the esker in attempts to prevent encroachment of grasslands by scrub. While this is successful on a short-term basis, it appears to lead to scrub species becoming more vigorous in the following growing seasons. Burning is not thought to be a serious problem on Clara Bog at the moment (O’Mahony, draft). However any uncontrolled fires are undesirable as they cause changes in vegetation composition and can kill Sphagnum mosses, the main peat-forming element of the bog.
According to the local ranger there was a burn that went across part of Clara West in March 2000 and some smaller burns on Clara East in 1998.
6.4. Invasive Species There are no major problems with invasive species recorded on Clara Bog though there are a number of scattered birch and pine on the high bog.
35 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
6.5. Afforestation There is no forestry on the high bog at either Clara Bog West or East. However, there is a commercial plantation on cutover peat to the north-east of Clara East, part of which is within the SAC. This block of forestry is owned by Coillte and was proposed for exclusion from the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). Species planted include Sitka Spruce, Lodgepole Pine and Scot’s Pine (O’Mahony, draft). Another block of forestry formerly owned by Coillte was present on cutover peat in the central south of the site adjacent to the road. However, this block was transferred to NPWS ownership in the 1990s (O’Mahony, draft) and has since been removed. It was not present on the 2000 aerial photograph.
Afforestation of reclaimed land has also occurred on land adjacent to the site boundary in the north west of the site, near Grouse Lodge. A small area of this afforestation is within the SAC (O’Mahony, draft). Another small (>1 ha) block of commercial forestry was planted in the 1990s beside Brook Bridge in the south of the site. This is a is a Norway Spruce plantation and is likely to be for commercial Christmas tree production (O’Mahony, draft).
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities Other activities such as fertilisation (120), communication networks (502: routes, autoroutes), grazing (140), cultivation (102: mowing/cutting), sand and gravel extraction (300) and cultivation (100) were reported within the site in the Natura Form. However their impacts are not assessed as part of this project.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS
There is no Management Plan produced for Clara Bog SAC 572. However, a Draft Conservation Plan (O’Mahony, draft) was developed by MPSU for the period 1999-2004.
7.1. Conservation Activities There has been much research carried out on Clara over the last 20 years examining the dynamics of the bog system and considering possible conservation management options. A joint Dutch/Irish Raised Bog Research Project ran between 1989-1993. This involved a multidisciplinary study of two Irish Midland Raised Bogs, Clara and Raheenmore. The study identified the fundamental damage and problems caused to raised bogs by drainage, peat extraction and burning and subsequently formulated management objectives, strategies and possible actions to deal with these problems (Ryan and Streefkerk, 1998). The series of management measures developed were then implemented under the European Union Cohesion funded Raised Bog Restoration Project, which ran from 1994-99. At Clara this involved an acquisition programme (to gain management control over parts of the site so as to allow conservation works to begin) and conservation works. The conservation works involved blocking of surface drains, a research project to model the effects of erecting a dam across the southern end of Clara West and hydrological and vegetation monitoring.
The drain blocking on Clara East followed mainly a management plan for efficient blocking of drains by hand prepared by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994) and most were blocked effectively in 1995/96 (van der Schaff, 2002). Some of these drains, which were excavated at 15-20m intervals by Bord na Mona in 1983, were blocked to various degrees of success in 1987 (Kelly, 1993). Drain blocking by machine of a series of large drains on both Clara East and West was also completed following the method outlined by Streefkerk and Douglas (1994) and modified for machine blocking by McDonagh (1996).
The acquisition of land and turbary rights within Clara SAC, both on the high bog and the cutover is continuos and further drain blocking will be required (as will the grading of facebanks) in some areas once these areas have been purchased. Pressure has also been applied in order to stop peat cutting at the site, and the cutting on the plots that are considered to be most critical to the site (plots 3-4, see Map 3a) in terms of subsidence and water run-off was halted in the last number of years.
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Currently the hydro-ecology, development and management requirements of the soak systems are being examined as part of a three-year study by Patrick Crushell in conjunction with UCC, the University of Nijmegen and the NPWS. This study is based mainly on Lough Roe. From the study it is apparent that the ecology of Lough Roe has changed considerably in recent years with bog communities replacing the original poor fen type communities (Crushell pers. comm.). Indeed it is likely that in the near future bog communities would (without management) colonise the entire area of Lough Roe as acid conditions begin to prevail. Hence, without active management, the soak system will disappear as a unique ecological feature on the bog. The study being carried out by Crushell is thus investigating the restoration possibilities and management requirements for the soak. One option being investigated involves removing the surface vegetation matt and recreating open water conditions. Initial results indicate that this leads to an increase in alkalinity and may indeed allow the original fen communities to re-colonise the area. Two plant species (Sparaganium erectum and Potamogeton natans) that had not been recorded at the site since 1993 have re-appeared since the restoration experiment began in 2003.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1992/93 survey and 2004/05, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). Thus it can be seen that there was a 3.11ha reduction in the extent of high bog between 1995 and 2000. As turf cutting proceeded at a similar rate between 2000 and 2004 (though cutting has halted in turf plot nos. 1-4), it is likely that approximately another 3ha was cutaway during this time. Thus it is likely that ca. 6ha (1.3%) of high bog have been cutaway in the last ten years.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 19921 1995 2000 2004/05 Variation in High Bog Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area Kelly et al. Digitised (1995-2004/05) ortho-image Clara West 247.02 248.77 246.78 246.78 2 1.99ha3 0.80% Clara East 208.89 197.55 196.43 196.43 2 1.12ha3 0.57% Total 455.91 446.32 443.21 443.21 3.11ha4 0.70% 1 these figures refer to the areas calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map of Kelly (1993). There was no figure available for high bog area of 1992. However, the sum of the areas of community complexes shown in table 8.1 of Kelly (1993) was 215.5ha for Clara West. This amount does not appear to include all of the complexes recorded. The sum of the areas of community complexes shown in table 8.1 of Kelly (1993) was 199.2ha for Clara East. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.5-3 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3 likely to be under-estimated by 0.5-3 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 4 likely to be underestimated by 1-6ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent Active raised bog (including bog woodland) is estimated to currently cover 70.60ha of Clara West (see table 8.2.1). In 1992, active raised bog covered an area of approximately 107.76ha meaning that 37.16ha or 34.48% of active raised bog has been lost in the last 12 years. However, this figure may be slightly over-estimated as parts of the bog that were considered sub-central in 1992 may have been considered as sub-marginal using the criteria of the current survey (see below).
The largest decrease in area of active raised bog has occurred in the north-west of the site. Large parts of this area of high bog supported sub-central ecotope (Complex 10) in 1992, but have since dried-out and degraded further and are now considered as sub-marginal ecotope (mainly Complexes 9/7 and 9/7/6). According to van der Schaff (2002) this is a more elevated part of the high bog and it is thus likely that water is being lost from this area to the south and/or east of the high bog. However, there are other areas across the entire bog (including close to the centre) that have degraded over the last 12 years and are no longer considered as active raised bog.
Consideration should be given, however, to the fact that the figures for loss of sub-central (and thus overall active) ecotope in table 8.2.1. are likely to be exaggerated. This is because Complex 10 was described as a variable complex in 1992 and it is likely that parts of it, would under the current criteria be considered as sub-marginal ecotope and thus as degraded raised bog. Evidence to support this can be is found in Kelly and Schouten (2002 in table 5.14) where it is estimated that more than 70% of the time the acrotelm thickness of this complex is either 0-5cm or 10cm. An acrotelm thickness of 0-5cm suggests that the acrotelm is absent in many places and thus under current criteria, these areas would be considered as inactive (or degraded) raised bog and would likely to have been classified as sub- marginal ecotope. Furthermore, the sub-marginal complexes 9/7 and 9/7 + P recorded in parts of this area during the current survey have some sub-central characteristics. The habitat extent of active raised
38 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 bog on Clara West is assessed as C (Unfavourable Bad) as the decrease in active raised bog area from 1992 to 2004 is greater than 15% (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of active raised bog on Clara West is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
A number of problems arose when comparing the areas obtained for active raised bog on Clara East in 1992 (Kelly, 1993) with those obtained during the survey in 2004. The most problematic case being that fact that a large area (23.23ha + 0.55ha of infilling/infilled pools) of the high bog was classified as soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) during the 1992 survey (see Appendix 3b).
The figures in table 8.2.2. suggest that there has been a 23.17% loss in active raised bog on Clara East. However, considering the difficulty (discussed in appendix 3b) in classifying the soak-associated (with large infilled pools) ecotope as either active or degraded raised bog, it must be realised that this figures may be an over-estimation. Indeed, a comparison of the ecotope maps from the two surveys (Map 1b and 4b) illustrates some positive trends. For example it would appear that the drain blocking carried out across the high bog in 1996 is having a positive affect on the vegetation in the south of the site. For example, a relatively large area (SC16: 5.73ha) in this area of the site has re-wetted. This area surrounding the mound in the south of the site was considered as marginal ecotope in 1992 and has now improved to sub-central ecotope with a small patch of central ecotope also present (C17: 0.11ha) in this area. An additional newly developed sub-central area is now found to the north-west of this area (SC15: 1.44ha). In addition the loss of active ecotope from the northern part of the site must be treated with caution due to the difficulties involved in assessing the soak-associated (with large infilled pools) ecotope that were discussed earlier. Indeed as there is no evidence (on the ground) to suggest that the northern part of the bog has degraded in the last 12 years it is likely that the figures given for loss of active raised bog are over-estimated. However, as the decrease in active raised bog area from 1992 to 2004 is estimated to be greater than 15%, the habitat extent of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as C (Unfavourable Bad) as (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Overall on Clara Bog (West and East combined), there has been a 31.49% (146.47ha in 1992 to 100.34ha in 2004) decrease in area of active raised bog, corresponding to a conservation status of C (Unfavourable bad) as it is greater than a 15% decrease.
! Overall on Clara Bog, the extent of active raised bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Habitat structure and function There has been a considerable decline in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat on Clara West. The area covered by central ecotope has declined by 38.06%. The largest area affected by this change is again in the west and north of the site. In the north an area (1.19ha) of Complex 14 (frequent pools) degraded partly to the sub-central complex 10/9 (SC6) and partly to the sub-marginal complex 9/7. In the west a small area (0.33ha) of Complex 14 degraded to sub-central 10/4 (SC3).
Towards the centre of the site the central ecotope (C8) to the north-west of the large mound is still present, but has decreased in size. Interestingly, it is the area described as frequent pools in 1992 that has degraded to sub-central and sub-marginal ecotope with the area of scattered pools now considered as central ecotope. Furthermore, a small pool has developed at the south of this area of central ecotope. Thus it may be that water is flowing into the south of this area, establishing wetter conditions so that lawns of Sphagnum cuspidatum have spread and an open water pool has been created.
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The areas of central ecotope found within Shanleys Lough Soak have been maintained. Immediately north of the soak the area of Complex 14 has decreased slightly. North of this again the area of Complex 15 has degraded to sub-central complex 9/7/10 and to the sub-marginal complex 9/7/6. To the east, east of the triple drain the area of central ecotope has been maintained and may even have increased. A decline in the area covered by central ecotope greater than to 25% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of unfavourable declining (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara West is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Due to reasons discussed above under habitat extent, it is difficult to assess the habitat structure and functions differences in the last 12 years at Clara East. However, according to table 8.2.2., there has been an 83.71% increase in the area of central ecotope on Clara East. On the other hand, the small area of central ecotope recorded as having frequent pools close to the south-eastern margin of the high bog in 1992 appears to have dried-out as it is now almost devoid of pools and is considered as sub-central ecotope (SC17). An increase of >5% in the area covered by central ecotope in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status category of A (Favourable) (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara East is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The microtopography of the remaining active areas on Clara West is still good as hummocks, hollows, lawns and pools are present. However pools are showing signs of desiccation in places such as in the central area, C9. As a consequence of the drying-out of the pools in this area the Sphagnum cover is declining and is being replaced by Rhynchospora alba, Narthecium ossifragum and algae. Thus, although the margins around C9 have an excellent microtopography, the areas have degraded to sub- central ecotope.
Quality hummock indicators such as Sphagnum imbricatum and S. fuscum are still present within the active raised bog habitat. Good quality pool indicators, Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. auriculatum are also found in many of the pools. S. recurvum is recorded in flush areas particularly in Shanleys Lough Soak.
On Clara East, Sphagnum cuspidatum appears to be spreading out from the blocked drains, creating newly developed areas of active ecotope particularly in the south of the site. In addition the restoration experiments at Lough Roe have created suitable conditions for the re-colonisation of the area by Sparaganium erectum and Potamogeton natans, two plants that were recorded on the site in 2003 for the first time in ten years (Crushell, pers. comm.)
Overall on Clara West and East combined, there has been a 35.61% decrease in area of central ecotope (from 15.47ha in 1992 to 9.96ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of C (Unfavourable bad) as it is greater than a 25% decrease.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog on Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
Future prospects Active raised bog is severely threatened and rapidly declining. There are bad prospects for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
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Table 8.2.1. Variation in active raised bog area on Clara West ACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 15.16 6.09 9.39 3.80 (-) 5.77 (-) 38.06 Sub-central 73.42 29.51 43.35 17.57 (-) 30.07 (-) 40.96 Active flush 17.96 7.22 16.48 6.68 (-) 1.48 (-) 8.24 Bog Woodland 1.22 0.49 1.38 0.56 (+) 0.16 (+) 13.11 Total 107.76 43.31 70.60 28.61 (-) 37.16 (-) 34.48 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas.
Table 8.2.2. Variation in active raised bog area on Clara East ACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 0.31 0.16 0.57 0.29 (+) 0.26 (+) 83.71 Sub-central 34.91 17.67 25.28 12.87 (-) 9.63 (-) 27.59 Active flush 3.49 1.77 3.89 1.98 (+) 0.40 (+) 11.46 Total 38.71 19.60 29.74 15.14 (-) 8.97 (-) 23.17 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall increase in area of degraded raised bog on Clara West from 141.01ha (56.68% of high bog area) in 1992 to 176.64ha (71.58% of high bog area) in 2004. This variation is due mainly to loss of active raised bog and this is not considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. At least 2ha (ca. 1%) of degraded raised bog was lost to turf cutting in the last 12 years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see section 3, chapter 3 - Summary Report)., both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. Thus when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1992 has not changed the habitat extent is assessed as favourable maintained. The habitat extent is assessed as A (favourable) as the increase in area of degraded raised bog from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is between 0-5% (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog at Clara West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
There has been an overall increase in area of degraded raised bog on Clara East from 158.84ha (80.40% of high bog area) in 1992 to 166.68ha (84.85% of high bog area) in 2004. This variation is due mainly to loss of active raised bog and this is not considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. At least 2ha (ca. 1%) of degraded raised bog was lost to turf cutting in the last 12 years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see section 3, chapter 3 - Summary Report)., both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. Thus when the original area covered by degraded raised bog habitat in 1992 has not changed the habitat extent is assessed as favourable maintained. The habitat extent is assessed as A (favourable) as there is an increase in area of degraded raised bog (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog at Clara East is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
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Overall on Clara Bog (West and East combined), there has been a 14.50% increase in area of degraded raised bog (from 299.85ha in 1992 to 343.32ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of A (favourable) (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! Overall on Clara Bog, the extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function There has been a slight decline in quality of the degraded raised bog on Clara West with a 20.86% (see table 8.3.1.) increase in the area covered by marginal ecotope and a 11.58% decrease in facebank ecotope (8.95ha or 16.68% increase in facebank and marginal ecotopes combined). Comparing the vegetation map of 1992 (Kelly 1993) to the ecotope map (Map 1a), it can be seen that most of the expansion in sub-marginal ecotope has occurred at the expense of sub-central ecotope and that the area of marginal ecotope has remained approximately the same. The habitat structure and function is thus assessed as B (unfavourable inadequate) as the increase in area of marginal ecotope from 1992 to 2004/05 is between 5-25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog at Clara West is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
There has been a significant improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog on Clara East with a 36.23% decrease in marginal ecotope. This is due to the blocking of the numerous parallel drains on the bog surface in 1996. Thus much of the marginal ecotope areas of 1992 have improved to sub- marginal and some have even improved to sub-central (e.g. SC15 and SC16). Most of the improvement has taken place towards the south of the site (See Maps 1b and 4b). The habitat structure and function is assessed as A (favourable) as the decrease in area of marginal ecotope from 1992 to 2004/05 is greater than 25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog at Clara East is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The microtopography of this habitat on Clara West has improved due to the presence of hummock/hollow systems as well as very occasional pools in parts of the west and north-west of the site. However, rather than an enhancement in former degraded habitat it is due to a decline in the quality of a former active areas. Thus, it should be noted that the quality of the overall degraded raised bog habitat has improved due to the inclusion of new former active areas, currently degraded, which still feature some of their good quality attributes. The Sphagnum cover is moderate within the sub- marginal complexes (averaging between 10-30% within). This cover is obviously lower in the marginal complexes (< 10%).
Hummock quality indicators (Sphagnum fuscum and S. imbricatum relic hummocks) are noted within sub-marginal ecotope occurring scattered throughout complexes 9/7, 9/7 + P, and 9/7/6 as well as positive pool indicators such as Sphagnum cuspidatum in pools in Complex 9/7 + P. S. magellanicum is present throughout the large area of sub-marginal that was considered as sub-central in 1992. However, it usually occurs at low cover values increasing in abundance where the sub-marginal ecotope grades into the sub-central complex 9/7/10.
Cladonia species are present in most of the degraded community complexes. However, it usually occurs at low cover values especially in the north-east of the site where it was recorded as being absent from Complex 3/2/7. There is also a high occurrence of Carex panicea in this area. This is likely to be due to the light burn, which effected parts of Clara West in 2000. There is a small area close to the centre of the site (Complex 9/7 + Cl) that has escaped burning for a number of years where the cover of Cladonia portentosa is high and Calluna vulgaris growth is robust.
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On Clara East, the drains appear to be filling up with Sphagnum particularly S. cuspidatum and actively growing hummocks of S. imbricatum were recorded in SC 14. However, the blocked drains are not yet completely infilled with a lowered water table observed in them in summer. On the positive side, it is believed that these drains will be completely in approximately ten years (Ryan pers. comm.). In addition the spreadin out from the drains of S. cuspidatum as well as S. magellanicum and S. papillosum was recorded in places with some areas in the south of the high bog believed to be in transition to active ecotope.
Overall on Clara West and East combined, there has been a 15.60% decrease in area of marginal and facebank ecotope (from 157.88ha in 1992 to 133.05ha in 2004), corresponding to a conservation status of A (favourable), (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog on Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened as long as peat cutting continues at the site. There are poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3.1. Variation in degraded raised bog on Clara West INACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 2 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 84.82 34.10 111.48 45.17 (+) 26.66 (+) 31.43 Marginal 46.75 18.79 56.50 22.89 (+) 9.75 (+) 20.86 Face-bank 6.91 2.78 6.11 2.48 (-) 0.80 (-) 11.58 In-active flush 2.41 0.97 1.71 0.69 (-) 0.58 (-) 24.07 Dry bog NA NA 0.21 0.09 NA NA woodland Open water 0.12 0.05 0.19 0.08 (+) 0.07 (+) 58.33 Total 141.01 56.68 176.64 71.58 (+) 35.10 (+) 24.89 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas. 2 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
Table 8.3.2. Variation in degraded raised bog on Clara East INACTIVE 1992/93 2004/05 2 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures1) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 54.62 27.65 95.02 48.37 (+) 40.40 (+) 73.97 Marginal 97.87 49.54 62.41 31.77 (-) 35.46 (-) 36.23 Face-bank 6.35 3.21 8.03 4.01 (+) 1.68 (+) 26.46 In-active flush 0 0 1.13 0.58 (+) 1.13 NA Open water 0 0 0.09 0.05 (+) 0.09 NA Total 158.84 80.40 166.68 84.85 (+) 7.84 (+) 4.94 1 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly (1993) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly (1993) ecotope areas. 2 The area for the 2004/05 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004/05 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
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! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. The extent of vegetation complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp. or characterised by the abundance of Rhynchospora spp. does not appear to have declined in the period 1992 and 2004. Indeed the former central area in the west of Clara West that has since degraded to sub-central ecotope (SC1: Complex 10/4) is now characterised by Rhynchosporion depressions. Furthermore, the new areas of active raised bog on Clara East at C14 and SC16 are found in areas of former marginal ecotope (mainly Complex 3). C14 supports a high cover of Rhynchospora alba around the pool margins while SC16 support R. alba in hollows. However, a large area to the south of Lough Roe was classed as Complex 5 (R. fusca) in 1992 and as very little R. fusca was recorded in this area during the current survey, it is likely that it has declined in abundance in this area of the high bog. This may be due to the improvement in conditions (wetter) brought about by the blocking of the surface drains.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Clara Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
8.1.4. Bog Woodland
The area of bog woodland on Clara given in the Natura form is 7.5ha, while the area referred to as bog woodland in the draft management plan (O’Mahony, draft) is 4ha. Thus it would appear that there was some confusion as to the actual area of bog woodland present on the site. During this survey, the term bog woodland was only given to areas where there was a canopy present and trees were >4m in height. Furthermore, some areas were classified as dry bog woodland. These areas are not included in the overall figure given for bog woodland, as they are not considered to be active peat-forming systems. Thus, the figure for bog woodland present on Clara is 1.38ha. The area of bog woodland recorded by Kelly (1993) was 1.22ha. (see Appendix III). This amounts to an increase of 0.16ha (13.11%) in the last ten years. As the area is so small (0.16ha) it is likely that some of this may be due to mapping error and mapping differences. It is thus unlikely that area of bog woodland has changed significantly in the last ten years.
! The conservation status of the bog woodland communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects The main area of bog woodland on Clara (BW2 & BW3) is thought to be a relatively new phenomenon (within the last 150 years) related to high bog subsidence and a change in flow patterns due to the building of the Clara-Rahan road (see Connolly et al, 2002). However, peat cutting and related drainage in recent years to the south of the soak system has caused further considerable subsidence and threatens to alter flow patterns again, which may lead to the deterioration of the soak and its bog woodland. The hydro-ecology, development and management requirements of the soak system are currently being examined as part of a three-year study by Patrick Crushell in conjunction with UCC, the University of Nijmegen and the NPWS.
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9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog A minimum of 3.11ha (more likely to be 5-6ha) of high bog has been lost to turf cutting in the last 10 years at Clara with 17.9% (all along the southern margin) of the high bog margin being actively cut. This cutting is associated with massive subsidence and slumping of the high bog in places. Indeed since the bog was surveyed by Kelly (1993) in 1992, two small lakes have developed close to the mineral mound on Clara West due to subsidence of the peat body caused by drainage and turf cutting. Most of the high bog surface drains on the site have been blocked, but may have a reduced functional character for a number of years to come until they become completely infilled. Furthermore, the cutover drains (none of which have been blocked) are also causing drying out of the high bog, particularly the deep cutover drains to the south of Shanleys Lough on Clara West. In addition, the Clara-Rahan road and its associated drains, which separate the site into Clara West and Clara East continues to cause subsidence of the site at an average rate of 2 cm/yr on Clara West and 4 cm/yr on Clara East (van der Schaff, 2002). Finally, it can be considered that as long as peat cutting is still ongoing on Clara, the active raised bog will continue to degrade to some extent.
It appears that the north-west of Clara West is suffering the most from drying-out affects and it may be that water is flowing from this area to the south and/or east of the high bog. On Clara East large areas of the south of the site are re-wetting due to the blocking of the drains. However, the expected increase in the area of active ecotope did not materialise. This is partly due to difficulties in assessing the 1992 ecotopes as either active or degraded. Nevertheless, it would seem that in the north of Clara East there has been no increase in active raised bog and that instead the area has further declined despite the blocking of the drains in 1996.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog A considerable decrease (34.48% - 37.16ha) in active raised bog habitat (7110) has occurred at Clara Bog West since the last survey (1992). This decrease has been encompassed by a decline in the quality of the habitat (central ecotope declined by 38.06% - 5.77ha). On Clara East, the assessment is more difficult for reasons outlined in section 8.1.1. However, there appears to have been a loss in extent of active raised bog of up to 23.17% (8.97ha). Nevertheless there appears to have been a slight improvement in quality in places though the area of central ecotope is still very small (0.57ha). The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C- Unfavourable bad).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent of the habitat has increased on both Clara West and East at the expense of active raised bog. On Clara West, although the current degraded raised bog features better quality than the former (1992), this is due to the allocation of former active raised bog within this habitat. On Clara East there has been a significant improvement in the quality of degraded raised bog with a 36.23% decrease in marginal ecotope. However, the degraded raised bog is still considered to be under moderate threat from peat cutting due to the fact that peat cutting is ongoing. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate), as the habitat is moderately threatened and thus future prospects are poor.
The extent of Rhynchosporion depression communities does not appear to have declined in the period 1992 and 2004. Thus, the conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
The area for bog woodland has not changed significantly since 1992. The conservation status of the bog woodland communities at Clara Bog West is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
45 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Clara Bog is assessed as being unfavourable declining (EU, C unfavourable bad).
46 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bell, J. 1991. A Study of the Hydrological Effects of a Bog Road, Clara Bog, County Offaly. Ireland. M.SC thesis, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Imperial College, London. Connolly, A., Kelly, L., Lamers, L., Mitchell, F. J. G., van der Schaaf, S., Schouten, M. G. C., Streefkerk, J. G. and van Wirdum, G. 2002. Soaks. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.170-185. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, M. L. 1993. Hydrology, Hydrochemistry and Vegetation of Two Raised Bogs in Co. Offaly. Ph. D-thesis, Trinity College Dublin. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government,, Dublin. Kelly, L. and Schouten, M. G. C. 2002. Vegetation. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.110-169. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. McDonagh, E. 1996. Drain Blocking by Machine on Raised Bogs. Internal Report, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin. O’ Mahony, C. draft. Conservation Plan for Natura 2000 site. Clara Bog cSAC 572, Co. Offaly. Draft II Consultation. Period of Plan: 1999-2004. National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. Rodwell, J. S. 1991. British Plant Communities, Volume 2: Mires and Heaths. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge. Ryan, J. & Streefkerk, J. 1998. Raised Bogs – Conservation Problems and Solutions. In O’Leary, G. and Gormley, F. (eds) Towards a Conservation Strategy for the Bogs of Ireland, pp. 127-136. Irish Peatkand Conservation Council, Dublin. Streefkerk, J. K and Douglas, C. 1994. Management Plan for Clara East: blocking superficial drains on the high bog. Internal Report for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin. van der Schaaf, S. 2002. Bog Hydrology. In: M. G. C. Schouten (Ed.), Conservation and Restoration of Raised Bogs: Geological, Hydrological and Ecological Studies. pp.54-77. Department of Environment and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland/ Staatabosbeheer, The Netherlands. Van Tatenhove, F. and Van der Meer, J. 1990. The Quaternary Geology of Clara Bog and Raheenmore, Co. Offaly, Ireland. Preliminary mapping of Superficial Deposits. University of Amsterdam.
47 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
11. APPENDIX
Appendix I Quadrats
(a) Clara West COMPLEX NAME 15 14 14 10/15 9/7/10 10/9 9/10 7/9/10 10/4
GPS READING 224380, 230320 223171, 229865 224325, 230283 224119, 230643 224298, 230182 223915, 230730 224524, 230494 223119, 230077 223127, 230382
QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qc2 Qc3 Qc4 Qsc1 Qsc2 Qsc3 Qsc4 Qsc5
FIRMNESS quaking quaking quaking quaking firm-soft very soft very soft very soft very soft
CRACKING no no no no no no no no no
BOG BURST no no no no no no no no no
SLOPE flat flat flat depression flat flat steep slope flat flat
DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains no drains
BURNT 2000 ?
TREND stable stable drier
ALGAL HOLLOWS absent < 5%
ALGAL POOL absent
BARE PEAT absent
POOL COVER >70% 30% 15% 20% 10% 10% < 5% 15%
POOLS reg pools inter-connecting pools reg pools tear pools reg pools inter-connecting pools reg pools reg pools
MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pools, laws, hm, hol low hums, hols, pool high hum, hol, pool high hum, hol, pool low hums and hols low hums, hols, pool low hums, hols, pool low hums and hols low hums, hols, pool
COMMUNITY
S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% 5% 10% 5% 5% 10% 10% 10% 5%
S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% 5% < 5% < 5% 5% 5%
LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent absent 10% absent
TRICHOPHORUM FLATS
S. PAP HUMMOCKS 15% 5% 25% 10% 40% 20% 10% 5% 15%
S. PAP HOLLOWS lawns and pools hollows hummocks hummocks and hollows hummocks and hollows hummocks and hollows lawns hollows and lawns
S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 5% 25% 10% 60% 40% 10% 15% < 5%
S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows hollows
48 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS 40% 5% present < 5% < 5%
R. FUSCA HOLLOWS
R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 5% 5% 5% < 5% 5% < 5% 15%
E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 10% 5% 5% 10% 5% 5% 15% 5%
NARTHECIUM < 5% 5% 5 < 5% 5 5% absent present 5
NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollows and lawns lawns hollows lawns lawns
S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS < 5% 15% < 5%
S. SUBNITENS
S. AURIC POOLS 5% 5% < 5%
S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS
S. CUSP 40% 15% 15% 15% 10% 10% < 5% 5%
SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 60% 40% 30% > 70% 40% 20% 20% 30%
SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 20% 25% 30% 20% 40% 40% 20% 15% 10%
TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 80% 70% 70% 90% 40% 80% 40% 40% 40%
E. ANGUS 25% 5% < 5% < 5% absent < 5% 5% 5% 20%
QUALITY INDICATORS
HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum
POOLS INDICATORS all S. cusp all S. cusp S. cusp
CLADONIA PORTENTOSA absent 5% < 5% present present < 5% < 5% < 5% 5%
CLADONIA COVER absent 5% < 5% present present < 5% < 5% < 5% 5%
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS
NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT
E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS
CAREX PANICEA
S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT
CLADONIA FLOERKEANA
OTHERS % DISTURBANCE
TEAR PATTERN
CALLUNA COVER 5% 15% 20% < 5% 10% 15% 15% 20% 10%
CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.3
OTHER DETAILS
49 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
OTHER SPECIES Erica Erica 10 on lawns
COMPLEX VARIATIONS
SIMILAR DESCRIPTION
OTHER DETAILS
(B) Clara East
COMPLEX NAME 10/15 9/7 + P
GPS READING 225875, 230095 226015, 230407
QUADRAT NAME Qc5 Qsc6
FIRMNESS quaking very soft
CRACKING no no
BOG BURST no no
SLOPE depression depression
DRAINS no drains no drains
BURNT
TREND stable
ALGAL HOLLOWS absent
ALGAL POOL absent
BARE PEAT absent
POOL COVER 50% 50%
POOLS reg pools reg pools
MICRO TOPOGRAPHY low hums, hols, pool low hums, hols, pool
COMMUNITY
S. CAP HUMMOCKS 10% 10%
S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS
LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK
TRICHOPHORUM FLATS < 5% < 5%
S. PAP HUMMOCKS 5% 5%
50 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
S. PAP HOLLOWS hollows and lawns hollows and lawns
S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 15% 10%
S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hollows lawns & hollows
S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS < 5% 15%
R. FUSCA HOLLOWS
R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 5%
E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 15% 25%
NARTHECIUM 10% 5%
NARTHECIUM LAWNS lawns lawns
S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS 20% < 5%
S. SUBNITENS
S. AURIC POOLS 5% 5%
S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS
S. CUSP 10% 10%
SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 50% 25%
SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 10% 15%
TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 60% 40%
E. ANGUS 5% 10%
QUALITY INDICATORS
HUMMOCK INDICATORS
POOLS INDICATORS all all
CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 5%
CLADONIA COVER 5% 5%
TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS
NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT
E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS
CAREX PANICEA 5% 5%
S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT
CLADONIA FLOERKEANA
OTHERS % DISTURBANCE
TEAR PATTERN
51 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
CALLUNA COVER 10% 20%
CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.4
OTHER DETAILS
OTHER SPECIES Menyanthes
COMPLEX VARIATIONS
SIMILAR DESCRIPTION
OTHER DETAILS
52 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Appendix II Photographical records
Image Number Feature Grid Reference Date 100_1955 Blocked drain (Sphagnum cuspidatum) NA 18/05/2004 100_1956 Polytrichum sp (Possible two species) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1957 Polytrichum sp (Possible two species) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1958 Left (Dicranum bonjeanii) in flush 3 NA 18/05/2004 100_1756 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1757 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1758 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1759 No information available NA 09/09/2004 100_1760 High bog used to dry out turf 223313, 229551 09/09/2004 100_1761 Lateral Cutting 223343, 229564 09/09/2004 100_1762 Complex 14 223173, 229867 09/09/2004 100_1763 Complex 14 223172, 229866 09/09/2004 100_1764 Complex 14 223172, 229866 09/09/2004 100_1765 Complex 14. Looking north towards flush with Juncus effusus 223173, 229867 09/09/2004 100_1767 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1768 Water flowing along facebank drain at turf plot no. 3 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1769 Subsidence and slumping at turf plot no.3 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1770 Out of focus 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1771 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1772 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1773 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004 100_1774 Water flowing towards cutover at turf plot no. 3 in south of Clara West 224000, 229815 09/09/2004
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995) (a) Clara West
ECOTOPES Kelly, 1993 Original figures Figures calculated from 1993 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 17.3 8.03 15.161 6.09 Sub-central 51.8 24.04 73.422 29.51 Sub-marginal 69.7 32.3 84.823 34.10 Marginal 46.6 21.62 46.754 18.79 Facebank 6.9 3.20 6.91 2.78 Flushes (active 23.2 10.77 Areas given and inactive below as separate including bog categories woodland) Active flush NA NA 17.96 7.22 Inactive flush NA NA 2.41 0.97 Bog Woodland NA NA 1.225 0.49 Pool NA NA 0.12 0.05 Total 215.5 100 248.77 100
1 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. Kelly (1993) described complex 15 (hummock/hollow scattered pool complex) as central in 1992. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would not be termed Complex 15 and would be considered as sub-central ecotope. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 15.96ha. Furthermore, Complex 21 (Enriched Sphagnum magellanicum Complex) and Complex 22 (Enriched Sphagnum magellanicum/Sphagnum cuspidatum Complex) were described by Kelly as Rheotrophic Soak associated Complexes while using the criteria of the current survey they would be deemed as central ecotope. Thus these areas were re-
53 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
mapped in the 1993 map and termed central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 6.94ha. See Map 4a. 2 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of complex 15. In 1992 this was described as central ecotope. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-central. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 15.96ha. Furthermore, the area of high bog to the east and south-east of Shanleys Lough Flush was allocated to sub-central ecotope in 1992. However, this area was described at the time as also having marginal and sub-marginal characteristics with Trichophorum cespitosum characterising the vegetation in places (Complex 10/2). Thus, these areas would under the criteria used during the current survey be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 6.54ha. See Map 4a. 3 The area of high bog to the east and south-east of Shanleys Lough Flush was allocated to sub-central ecotope in 1992. However, this area was described at the time as also having marginal and sub-marginal characteristics with Trichophorum cespitosum characterising the vegetation in places (Complex 10/2). Thus, these areas would under the criteria used during the current survey be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 6.54ha and in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05 this figure is added to the area of sub- marginal ecotope and subtracted from the area of sub-central ecotope. Furthermore, parts of the marginal ecotope of 1992 had sub-marginal characteristics and would be considered as sub-marginal under this survey’s criteria. This is particularly true for the area of marginal that extended northwards from the southern margin in the south-west of the site (Complex 6/3). This area is measured as 8.91ha in extent and thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. See Map 4a. 4 There is a difference of 1.75ha between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 53.91ha. 5 Community Complex 20 (Betula pubescens/Juncus effusus woodland Complex) and Community Complex 28 (Betula pubescens woodland Complex) were mapped as bog woodland.
(b) Clara East
ECOTOPES Kelly, 1993 Original figures Figures calculated from 1993 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 17.6 8.84 0.311 0.16 Sub-central 17.5 8.79 34.912 17.67 Sub-marginal 46.3 23.24 54.623 27.65 Marginal 73.6 36.95 97.874 49.54 Facebank 9.3 4.67 6.354 3.21 Flushes (active 34.9 17.50 Areas given and inactive below as separate including bog 5 categories woodland) Active flush NA NA 3.495 1.77 Total 199.2 100 197.55 100 1 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. Kelly (1993) described complex 15 (hummock/ hollow frequent pool complex) as central in 1992. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would not be termed Complex 15 and would be considered as sub-central ecotope. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 13.18ha (See Map 4b). 2 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992 Complex 15 was described as central ecotope. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-central. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1993 map and termed sub-central in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1992/93 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 13.18ha. Furthermore, 23.23ha (+ 0.55ha of infilling/infilled pools) of the high bog was classified as soak- associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) during the 1992 survey. A further 17.84ha were subsequently classified as soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) by Kelly and Schouten (2002). This ecotope (derived from Complex 12 Sphagnum magellanicum/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) was not recognised during the current survey and the corresponding area was divided up and classified as central sub-central, sub-marginal, marginal and active flush ecotope. Thus, in order to compare figures from the two surveys, the soak-associated ecotope (with large infilled pools) must be classed as either active or degraded raised bog; meaning that the description given for Complex 12 must be analysed and classed as either active or degraded raised bog. However, problems arise here as there are no descriptions for the different areas now recognised within the complex so that the complex (in 1992) has to be taken as a whole. The situation is further complicated by the fact that the description in 1992 recognises that the
54 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
area is highly variable with “the central section of the complex having a well developed acrotelm and the northern and particularly the southern edges in many instances having no acrotelm”. From this it can be inferred that the complex supported areas of both active and degraded raised bog. However, with no way of drawing boundaries between these active and degraded raised bog areas in the 1993 vegetation map, the complex must remain mapped as a single unit. Kelly and Schouten (2002: see Table 5.15) list the dominant community types present (in order of importance) within Complex 12 as being: 3Bb (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum sociation of Sphagnum magellanicum sub-variant with S. capillifolium), 3Ba (sub-variant with S. cuspidatum), 2A (Community of Sphagnum cuspidatum and Eriophorum angustifolium) and 2C (variant with Molinia caerulea). The latter three are all indicative of very wet conditions typical of central/sub-central ecotope. The former community type and also the most dominant (3Bb) is indicative of drier conditions typical of poor sub-central ecotope (similar to the sub-central complex 9/7/10 of the current survey, but also similar to the sub-marginal complex 9/7). Thus because the dominant community types within the soak-associated complex are largely indicative of active raised bog, this complex is considered to be active and is mapped as sub-central ecotope on the geo-referenced and modified vegetation map of 1992 (See Map 4b). However, it must be remembered that there are areas of degraded raised bog within this complex. Some such areas were created by the numerous N/S running drains that run through the complex, which aided the establishment of the community types 4B (Community of Calluna vulgaris, Sphagnum capillifolium and Cladonia portentosa variant with Campylopus introflexus) and 3D (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum variant with Campylopus paradoxus and Zygnemales). Indeed, considering that 10-20% of the time (see table 5.14 in Kelly and Schouten, 2002) Complex 12 has no acrotelm, it can be inferred that 10-20% (ca. 15%) of the area covered by the complex can be classified as inactive (or degraded) raised bog. This amounts to an area of degraded bog within this complex of 3.48ha and thus to an area of active raised bog within this complex of 19.75ha. The remaining 0.55ha is considered as infilling/infilled pools (active soaks/flushes). Since a further 17.84ha were classed as soak-associated (with large infilled pools) by Kelly and Schouten (2002), it can be inferred again that 2.68ha (15% of 17.84) of this can be considered as degraded raised bog. Thus overall the 41.62ha of this complex was divided up as follows: 34.91ha of sub-central ecotope, 0.55 of active flush/soak and 6.16ha of sub-marginal (See Map 4b). 3 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992, Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) was considered as soak-associated complex with parallel ridges. It is now re-interpreted as sub-marginal ecotope. This area accounts for 9.89ha of sub-marginal ecotope (See Map 4b). 4 Another alteration to the ecotope map of Kelly (1993, and Kelly and Schouten, 2002) is that the area mapped in 1993 as sub-central with drainage is now considered as marginal ecotope. This ecotope was, in 1993, drawn from areas where Complex 7 (Calluna vulgaris Complex) and 7a (Calluna vulgaris/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) were described. These two complexes usually occur (>70% of the time) in areas where there is no acrotelm (see table 5.14 in Kelly and Schouten, 2002) and thus are considered to occur in inactive (or degraded) raised bog (see Map 4b). Furthermore, due to the occurrence of these complexes usually on elevated dry ground, they are considered here as marginal complexes. There is also a difference of 11.34ha between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo- referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal and facebank ecotope. Therefore the areas given for marginal and facebank ecotopes by Kelly are appropriately adjusted with 5.67ha (half of 11.34ha) subtracted from each of Kelly et al.’s figures. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 103.54ha and for facebank ecotope is 12.02ha. 5 The original Kelly (1993) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of some of the community complexes. In 1992 Complex 12 (Sphagnum magellanicum/Eriophorum angustifolium Complex) was considered as a soak-associated complex with large infilled pools. It is now re-interpreted as mainly sub-central ecotope, with some sub-marginal and active flush patches (see table footnote 2). Furthermore, Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) was considered as soak-associated complex with parallel ridges. It is now re-interpreted as sub-marginal ecotope. This area now accounts for 9.89ha of sub-marginal ecotope. Similar issues arose in considering whether the soak-associated ecotope (with parallel ridges), which amounted to an area of 9.89ha, be considered as active or degraded raised bog. This ecotope was derived from Complex 13 (Calliergon cuspidatum Complex) whose dominant community types are listed as 10 (Community of Polytrichum alpestre and Calliergon cuspidatum), 3A (Community of Narthecium ossifragum, Sphagnum papillosum and S. magellanicum) and 3Bb (sociation of Sphagnum magellanicum sub-variant with S. capillifolium). The latter community complex was discussed above and considered to be indicative of sub-central/sub-marginal type conditions while 3A is considered to occur in all ecotopes, but is perhaps more dominant in sub-marginal ecotope. Community type 10 (the dominant community type) is indicative of nutrient enriched conditions and was found mainly on ridges. From table 5.1 (in Kelly and Schouten, 2002), the most abundant Sphagna is S. capillifolium, which is found within this community type at a similar abundance to Hypnum jutlandicum. Thus it would appear that relatively dry conditions prevail within this community type and hence the entire complex is considered to be inactive (or degraded raised bog) and it is mapped as sub-marginal ecotope on the geo-referenced and modified vegetation map of 1992 (See Map 4b).
55
Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Ferbane Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 575 6” Sheet: OY 14 Grid Ref.: N 11 25 1:50,000, Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha):( ) 153.08 Highg bogg area 2004( (ha):) 199.97 Dates of Visit: 15/03/05 Townlands: Ferbane, Ballyvora, Creggan and Endrim
2. SITE LOCATION This site is located immediately northwest of Ferbane town in north-western Co. Offaly. The main Athlone/Ferbane/Birr road is located to the east and the Ferbane/Belmont road is located to the south. Ferbane Bog is located 3 km east of Moyclare Bog (SAC 581) and south-east of the extensively drained Clonlyon Glebe Bog (NHA 893). Access to the north of the bog is from the Athlone/Ferbane road along an un-surfaced track to the northeast of the site. The north of the bog can be reached with difficulty after passing over cutover bog a wide facebank drain and thick scrub.
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY This survey, carried out on 15th March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Ferbane Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004/05. Local NPWS management staff collaborated on the survey and information on impacts and activities at the site were obtained.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG The bog is shaped like an irregular rectangle with the longest axis orientated north-south. This bog has been classified as a Basin Bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges Kelly et al., (1995). This bog is also classified as a Midlands type raised bog (Cross, 1990).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Ferbane Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2005 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 45.25 ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Ferbane Bog composed of central and sub-central ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 37.7% of the high bog area. The extent of active raised bog has increased since 1995 when there was 41.73 ha of active raised bog (34.6% of high bog area). However, the quality of the active raised bog has declined somewhat with the reduction in area of central ecotope. The active raised bog covers a considerable area of the central part of the high bog with wide zones of degraded raised bog at the north and south of the high bog. The central ecotope occurs in the north-west part of the active raised bog in a small depression. This small area is quaking and has a very high Sphagnum cover dominated by S. cuspidatum and with frequent S. magellanicum in lawns infilled pools/hollows and pools. There are hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. imbricatum. Rhynchospora alba is quite frequent on the lawns and Calluna vulgaris occurs on some of the low hummocks.
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
The sub-central ecotope varies in quality with varying amounts of Sphagnum cover and particularly the cover of S. magellanicum hummocks and lawns, which are quite frequent in the best quality areas. The bog surface is generally quite soft and quaking in the best quality places. The Sphagnum cover is frequently dominated by hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum. Hummocks of S. capillifolium and more occasional S. imbricatum are present. The pool cover is lower compared to other sites and many of the pools are infilled with Sphagnum, with occasional pools containing open water. The Sphagnum cover varies between 40-70%. The cover of Carex panicea also varies within the sub-central ecotope (10-20%) in flats and hollows. Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (sometimes) occur frequently in the flats, Sphagnum lawns and hollows. Calluna vulgaris occurs quite frequently on low hummocks. Narthecium ossifragum is, unusually, not a significant part of the vegetation. The Cladonia spp. cover is generally quite high (20-60%). There are individual Pinus sylvestris trees scattered over the active raised bog with trees being particularly frequent along the northern part. The north-eastern part of the active raised bog is poorer in quality and there is a mosaic of sub-marginal and better quality sub-central patches in this area. The active raised bog was identified here by the appearance of more frequent better quality patches.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 74.7 ha (62.3%) of degraded raised bog within this site. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes (See Map 1). The bog surface is generally firm or firm to soft around the margins. The sub-marginal vegetation is similar to the active raised bog and is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum on well-developed low hummocks and Carex panicea in flats and hollows. The northern and southern zones are particularly characterised by frequent Pinus sylvestris trees, with some dense tree patches along the eastern margin. These trees are generally 2-4 m high with less occasional trees up to 6 m high. The Sphagnum cover varies with some good quality patches (up to 40% cover), particularly where S. magellanicum occurs in low hummocks and hollows. The northern boundary between the degraded raised bog and the active raised bog is indistinct and there is a mosaic of good quality and poorer quality patches. There is extensive Cladonia spp. cover over most of the degraded raised bog with lower cover in the more recently burnt areas in the south-east region where Carex panicea is also more frequent. The marginal ecotope contains patches of quite firm high bog with frequent C. vulgaris and Carex panicea and a low Sphagnum cover. There are small degraded patches around the margins of the high bog that were intensely modified by drainage and by difco cutting in the past. The eastern side of the high bog has been modified by old drains, which are characterised by tall ridges of Calluna vulgaris. Some parts of the margin have a narrow zone with frequent Trichophorum cespitosum and most of the facebank is quite old and has been vegetated by Ulex europaeus, Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris. No flushes were mapped on the high bog at this site, though some flushed areas within the sub-central ecotope were recorded (see complex 9/7/10 + Cl).
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions occur on the high within both the active and degraded raised bog in mosaic with these habitats. The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. Relatively good quality examples of this habitat occur within the central and sub-central ecotope areas. However, this habitat does not occur as extensively as on other sites.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Ferbane Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/15 This central complex is found in a depression in the north-west of the high bog (GR. 210660, 226145). The surface is very soft and sometimes quaking underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 80-90%. Low hummocks,
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 lawns and pools characterise the complex though the pools are more like thick layers of S. cuspidatum in infilled hollows/depressions. These lawns/infilled hollows of S. cuspidatum dominate at 40% cover along with lawns of S. magellanicum (20%). Rhynchospora alba (20%) grows across these lawns while Calluna vulgaris (10%) grows on hummocks, which are usually composed of S. papillosum (15%) and S. capillifolium (5-10%) with occasional S. imbricatum. Erica tetralix (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) are also found on hummocks. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is less than 5%. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/10 This complex occurs in the central and mid-eastern part of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft with softer areas. This complex is characterised by a higher Sphagnum cover compared to sub-marginal 9/7/3. The general vegetation is similar to this complex with the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (20%), Carex panicea (10- 20%) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). Other species present include E. angustifolium (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 40-50%. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium (20%) and S. papillosum (10%). Hummocks, hollows and flats of S. magellanicum (5-10%) and occasional S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are also present. Small amounts of S. cuspidatum occur in hollows and small infilled pools. The Cladonia spp. cover is 20%. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and up to 5 m in diameter) containing Leucobryum glaucum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and crowned with Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Cladonia spp. and Dicranum scoparium occur in the central area of the high bog. This complex contains some poor quality patches around its edge. There are occasional individual Pinus sp. trees are present in the central area of the high bog. Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Complex 9/7/10 + Cladonia (9/7/10 + Cl) This complex occurs in small patches in the central area of the high bog (GR. 211052, 225960). This complex has a relatively high Sphagnum cover and is characterised by the greater dominance of Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) or E. angustifolium (10-20%) and the lower frequency of Carex panicea (< 5%). The bog surface is soft. The microtopography contains low hummocks hollows and infilling pools/hollows/lawns. The Calluna vulgaris cover on low hummocks is 15-25%. The general Sphagnum cover is 40-60%. Sphagnum magellanicum is more frequent in this complex (10-20%) and occurs in larger infilling pools and flats. Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum are frequent in spongy hummocks. Small amounts of S. cuspidatum are present (< 5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is also higher (50-60%). An area of robust Calluna vulgaris, which appears flushed or enriched runs through this complex with Pleurozium schreberi, Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccos recorded (GR. 211090, 226140). Towards the north-east, Pinus sylvestris is frequent and the complex is labelled 9/7/10 + Cl + Pine. An aggregated group of 5-6 m Pinus trees is located at GR. 211091, 226140 with an understorey of Vaccinium oxycoccos, Andromeda polifolia, Empetrum nigrum and robust Calluna vulgaris. Further east another aggregated group of >10 Pinus sylvestris that are >5 m tall is present (GR. 211183, 226214). However, here the vegetation is considered to be mainly sub-marginal Complex 9/7/3 + Cl + Pine. The understorey is composed of Rubus fruticosus, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Empetrum nigrum, robust C. vulgaris, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Pleurozium schreberi.
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in a small patches of the high bog, particularly towards the west of the sub- central ecotope (GR. 210680, 226050). The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 40-60% composed mostly of low hummocks of S. papillosum. Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in small patches as is S. magellanicum. Eriophorum vaginatum (20-25%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20- 25%). The general vegetation is similar to the above complex. A 2.5-3 m Pinus sylvestris is located in this complex (GR. 210607, 226033) and is surrounded by 5-10 Pinus saplings (0.5-1.0 m high) and robust C. vulgaris.
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
There are some patches dominated by Eriophorum angustifolium (9a/10) with a relatively good quality S. magellanicum cover (30-40%) that may be relic soaks, as they are surrounded by low ridges and hummocks dominated by C. vulgaris.
Complex 10/9 This sub-central complex is found in a small patches of the high bog, particularly towards the west of the sub- central ecotope where the sub-central ecotope grades into central ecotope (GR. 210715, 226105). This complex is similar to the previous complex but the Sphagnum cover is higher and the complex is of higher quality. The surface is very soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 60-70% composed mostly of lawns of S. magellanicum. Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in small patches and there are frequent low hummocks of S. papillosum. Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominates the vegetation and Calluna vulgaris is found at 10-20% cover. In some areas the cover of Sphagnum lawns particularly S. magellanicum increases and the complex is labelled as Complex 10.
Complex 4/10 This sub-central complex is found in small patches of the high bog, particularly between the centre of the bog and the central ecotope in the north-west (GR. 211010, 225990). The surface is soft to very soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and lawns characterise the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 60% with infilled depressions/lawns of S. magellanicum (20-30%), lawns/low hummocks of S. papillosum (20%), hummocks of S. capillifolium, (10%) as well as hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. There are also small patches of S. cuspidatum (<5%) in infilled hollows/depressions. Rhynchospora alba (20%) found in depressions and in amongst Sphagnum lawns dominates the vegetation. Calluna vulgaris (15%) is found on hummocks as is Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%). The flush indicator species Aulacomnium palustre and Polytrichum alpestre are also present. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is 10-20%. Quadrat Qsc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Complex 10/3 This complex occurs in the central area of the high bog. This is the best quality complex on the high bog and is characterised by the relatively high Sphagnum cover and the greater frequency of infilling pools. The bog surface is soft or very soft. The microtopography contains low hummocks hollows and infilling pools/hollows/lawns. The general vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Carex panicea (10- 20%) with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and smaller amounts of Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%). Rhynchospora alba (5%) occurs in hollows and lawns. The general Sphagnum cover varies between 60-90%. There are extensive lawns and hollows dominated by S. magellanicum and S. papillosum around the infilling pools. The pools also contain S. cuspidatum (5%). The pools also contain some algae and open water but are mainly infilling. Both S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are also frequent in large hummocks topped with Calluna vulgaris. Pleurozia purpurea is present in this complex. The Cladonia spp cover is 10-30%. Quadrat Qsc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 7/9 + Cladonia + Pines (7/9 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs in the wooded part of the northern section of high bog (GR. 211247, 226350). These trees range in height between 0.3-5 m with tree of 2-3 m most frequent. Occasional Betula pubescens trees are present. The density of trees varies between 5-20/20m2 with some dense groups. Pinus seedlings (< 0.3 m high) are present but are not frequent. There are more frequent areas with less numerous trees between small denser groups of trees. The bog surface is firm to soft or soft in places. The ground cover is characterised by the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.3 m high) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%). Other species present include Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20-30% though there are patches with little or no Sphagnum that are quite firm. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum with less frequent S. magellanicum (in hummocks and hollows) and S. fuscum. The Cladonia spp. cover is 30-40%.
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Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia + Pines (9/7/3 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs in the northern half of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and spongy. The microtopography contains well-developed low hummocks and hollows. The ground cover is characterised by the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (20-25%) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Carex panicea (10-20%). The Cladonia spp. cover is also quite high (30-50%). There are scattered trees present with similar heights to the previous complex although the trees become more scattered and less numerous as the central area of the high bog is approached. The general Sphagnum cover is 20-30%. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum with less frequent S. magellanicum (in hummocks and hollows). Occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are present. This is a very good quality sub-marginal complex and approaches sub-central quality in small patches, particularly where S. magellanicum is present. This complex also occurs in the southern part of the high bog south of drain bM. Pinus sylvestris trees (2-6 m high) are scattered in this area. There are also occasional Betula pubescens trees present (2-4 m high). The Sphagnum cover is 20-40% and occurs as mainly hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and occasional S. magellanicum under Calluna vulgaris. Vaccinium oxycoccos is quite frequent.
Complex 3/7/9 + Cladonia + Pine (3/7/9 + Cl + Pine) This complex is found along the eastern margin of the sub-marginal ecotope. The vegetation is similar to the above complex, however, Carex panicea is more dominant (30-40%). The Sphagnum cover is 20% and the bog surface is firm to soft.
Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia (9/7/3 + Cl) This complex is similar to the above complex but the Pinus sylvestris trees are infrequent (GR. 211235, 226157). (There are still some trees present in this area.). This complex is a mosaic of typical quality sub-marginal vegetation and small better quality patches of sub-central vegetation present. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and up to 5 m in diameter) containing Leucobryum glaucum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and crowned with Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Cladonia spp. and Dicranum scoparium occur in the central area of the high bog.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 2 + Cladonia (2 + Cl) This complex occurs along the margin of the high bog particularly on the south-western boundary (GR. 210383, 225767). A narrow band of vegetation characterised by frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%) occurs along the facebank. The bog surface is firm and quite uneven. A gentle slope with a western aspect is present. The general vegetation also contains Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) (0.3 m high), Carex panicea (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 5% and S. capillifolium and S. tenellum are both present. The general Cladonia spp. cover is 50%. This complex also occurs along the eastern margin of the high bog where there are some cracks present. Occasional Molinia caerulea patches are also present.
Complex 3/6 + Cladonia (3/6 + Cl) This complex occurs close to the high bog margin (GR. 210416, 225734). The bog surface is firm. The microtopography is uneven. The general vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%). Other species present include Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium. Hypnum cupressiforme is also quite frequent. The general Cladonia spp. cover is 20-30%. There are occasional areas of this complex with more frequent Pinus trees (3/6 + Pines)
Complex 3/7 + Cladonia (3/7 + Cl) This complex occurs in the south-western corner of the high bog south of drain bM (GR. 210394, 225540). This area has old difco ridges dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high) (40-50%) with shallow hollows with frequent Carex panicea (10-20%), Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%), E. angustifolium and Trichophorum
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 cespitosum (5-10%). Molinia caerulea is occasionally present. The area has almost completely re-vegetated after the difco cutting although there are some bare peat patches present, which contain Campylopus introflexus. Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. cuspidatum occur in the hollows. Some old blocks have been left on the bog surface. The bog surface is firm and uneven. The Cladonia spp. cover is 20-50%. There are regularly spaced drains in this area. Several Pinus sylvestris trees and saplings are scattered over the south- western side of this complex. The density of trees increases towards the southern and south-western margin of the high bog. Occasional Ulex europaeus bushes are present on the high bog in this area. This marginal complex is also found in a narrow band of high bog along the western and north-western margin. There is a gentle to gradual slope to the high bog margin and the Sphagnum cover is 10% composed of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum.
Complex 3/7 + Cladonia + Pines (3/7 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs along the southern margin of the high bog. There is a gentle to steep slope with a southern aspect and the bog slopes onto the cutover bog and the facebank is not distinct in places. Molinia caerulea is spreading from the cutover bog onto the high bog, particularly along the drains. The bog vegetation is similar to the above complex. There is a greater size range of trees (upto 6 m high) in this area compared to the northern margin. There are mature Pinus sylvestris trees on the cutover bog adjacent to the southern margin of the high bog. The trees mainly range between 0.5-3 m high and have a density of roughly 25 trees per 20 m2. A similar complex with more frequent Narthecium ossifragum occurs in the north-eastern part of the high bog (3/7/6 + Cl + Pines).
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 An old facebank occurs along the margin of the high bog particularly on the south-western boundary. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high) and Cladonia spp. is also frequent (30%). In places, Ulex europaeus bushes and Betula pubescens saplings and trees occur along the margin. The facebank along the southern and eastern margins slopes in places to the adjacent cutover bog. Molinia caerulea occurs in places and extends from the adjacent cutover bog onto the high bog. The southern and eastern boundaries of the high bog are also vegetated by Pinus sylvestris trees with Ulex europaeus. Several mature Rhododendron ponticum bushes occur along the eastern boundary. Facebank vegetation is developing close to the most recent turf cutting area in the north-west of the high bog (GR. 210552, 226251). It is found on patches of high bog in this area where there is a steep slope caused by subsidence. The surface is firm underfoot and robust Calluna vulgaris (0.3-0.5 m) dominates the vegetation (70- 80%). Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant and there is very little Sphagnum cover (5%). Carex panicea (5-10%) is also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is 5-10%. The height of the facebank in this area is 2-2.5 m. Facebank vegetation has also developed in the area within drainage complex bP. Here there are disturbance indicators present such as Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum. At the very edge of the high bog in this area there is Ulex and Molinia caerulea and the height of the old facebank here is ca 4 m.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat is not as extensive on this site compared to other raised bogs. It is generally not very extensive (1- 5% cover where present) and occurs as a mosaic within the other habitats. Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions are most frequent in the sub-central complex 4/10 and this species also grows amongst the Sphagnum-dominated lawns in this complex. The depressions are filled with S. magellanicum, S. papillosum and small amounts of S. cuspidatum. Rhynchospora alba-dominated lawns also occur in the central ecotope growing on lawns dominated by S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. There are some pools present that are infilled with Sphagnum and contain R. alba. The pools of the sub-central area also have margins dominated by R. alba, although these are not extensive and are associated with S. cuspidatum and hummocks of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions occur only infrequently in the sub-marginal and marginal ecotopes and the cover of this species is occasional.
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5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. The margins and facebanks of this bog have not been disturbed for some time and are quite wooded. There is a gradual transition between the wooded high bog and the wooded cutover bog with indistinct facebanks along some of the southern and eastern margins. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring (Table 5.4.1). A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 10/15 QSc1 Sub-central 3/10 + Cl QSc2 Sub-central 4/10 QSc3 Sub-central 10/3
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- 8.84 km 954 Invasive species B 1- 46 ha 38% 312 Peat Extraction Domestic use C 2- 0.22 km (3.6%) 180 Burning (Yr) C 1- 0 (since 1995)
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- NA 151 Removal of hedges and C 0 NA copses
6.1. Cutting MacGowan et al., (in prep) noted that 56.6% (120.69 ha) of the original high bog from the 1800s (217 ha) remains. Cutover bog occurs all around the margins of the high bog but cutting has been most intensive to the north of the high bog and the high bog remains close to its current extent along the west, east and southern sides. Cutting ceased along these sides a long time ago with mature Pinus woodland occurring along the southern and eastern sides. MacGowan et al., (in prep) estimated that 0.22 km (3.6%) of the high bog margin (6.04 km) was being actively cut in 2003 for domestic peat use. One turf cutting plot was surveyed by MacGowan et al., (in prep). This is cut by hopper machine and is quite extensive in that it is almost 220 m long. This plot is shown on Map 3. This plot is only 38 m from central ecotope. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that 3.35 km of the high bog margin was classified as sensitive (within 250 m of active bog (central and sub-central ecotopes) and that 0.22 km of the sensitive bog margin (6.6%) was currently being cut. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that cutting must be stopped immediately in this plot on the north-western margin.
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Several GPS points taken along the western margin of the southern lobe of the high bog indicate that up to5 m of the high bog has been cut along the active plot (plot 1) since the 2000 aerial photo was taken. However, this survey noted that this plot may not have been cut for 2-3 years. The current vegetation assessment (in prep) does significantly change any of the assessment and conclusions made by MacGowan et al., (in prep). Difco cutting has occurred in the past in the south-west corner and part of the north-west margin of the high bog. This difco cutting was noted as abandoned in 1995 (Kelly et al., 1995). Kelly et al., (1995) noted that 0.54 km (11.3%) of the high bog margin was actively being cut in 1994. Peat-cutting has had a significant impact in the past on the conservation status of active raised bog and degraded raised bog at this site. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined since 1995 and is relatively low compared to most other sites. There has been a significant reduction in the length of bog margin being actively cut with 11.3% of the margin cut in 1995 and 3.6% cut in 2003. The current active peat-cutting is located along the north-western margin.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several functional, reduced functional and non-functional drains occur on Ferbane high bog (Table 6.2.1). These drains are marked on Map 3.
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains bB These double drains (bB) occur in the north-east of the high bog and are 2 m wide and 0.5 m deep at the eastern side. These drains may have marked a path onto the high bog. These drains are non-functional. bC & bD These old N-S (bC & bD) drains are very deep at the northern margin (2-3 m) while the central parts have infilled and are non-functional. The northern section is functional. bF-bH These old drains are 0.5 m wide and 1-2 m deep and are reduced functional. They are infilling at the high bog end with some parts being infilled. . bJ-bK These old drains are still functional (0.5 m wide), are infilling at the high bog end, are quite deep at the margin end (1 m) and are characterised by associated spoil mounds. bM This drain crosses the southern part of the high bog and is functional for most of its length. The functional part is 0.5 m wide and 1 m deep and is infilling in parts. A small section along the curved section on the eastern side is reduced functional and is infilling and infilled with Sphagnum in places. bM complex These drains occur on a slope with a southern aspect. The drains in this area are active and are 0.5 m deep and 0.5 m wide. These drains are infilling and contain Sphagnum. They are functional. Drain bN1 This drain is reduced functional and is 0.5 m wide and 0.5 m deep. This drain is infilling and infilled with Sphagnum in parts. Drain bN2 See drain bN1. Drain bO: This drain is found in the west of the high bog and extends in a NNE/SSW direction. There is flow in the south towards the NNE and in the north towards the SSW. In the south, the drain is functional and is 1.0m deep and 1.2m wide at surface and 0.3m wide at the base. It is more or less bare of vegetation with standing water present that appeared to have a very slow flow to the north on the day of survey (despite heavy rainfall). A spoil heap is evident running adjacent to the east of the drain and a 6 m Pinus sylvestris is present. bP These active drains occur in an area that was difco cut in the past. There is slumping and cracking of the raised bog around these drains and near the facebank. bR See drain bP.
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This site has suffered extensive drainage and the S and E of the high bog are criss-crossed by drains most of which correspond to lines marked on the 1910 6" sheet. Parts of some of these drains are now completely infilled and no longer easily visible in the field. No new drains have appeared since 1995. The total figures for the length of drainage has increased between 1995-2004 due to more detailed mapping of the drains in 2004 (Table 6.2.2). The total drainage function affecting the high bog is likely to be similar or to have slightly decreased since 1995 as some drains infill. Several drains mapped by Kelly et al., (1995) as functional have been classified as non-functional by this survey. Most of the older functional drains are infilling at the high bog ends. Some difco cutting has occurred in the past on the high bog in patches along the north-western and the south- western margins. There is significant drainage associated with difco cutting and this has not been mapped. MacGowan et al., (in prep) recommended that drain complexes bP and bR should be blocked as they drained the area adjacent to the active peat-cutting plot and the central ecotope.
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 12041 5509 -3195 1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 3337 NA function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 4988 NA drains (m) Area affected by 100 100 0 drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2005. However there are some old drains in cutover areas all around the high bog. Most of these in the cutover bog have not been maintained for some time. There has been some facebank cutting, clearing of scrub and recent drain maintenance in a small area of cutover bog to the north of the high bog. Drains within improved grassland to the west of the high bog are likely to be maintained. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of drainage on the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history This site has not been burned since the 1995 survey. There are extensive areas with a very high Cladonia spp. cover. Kelly et al., (1995) noted that an area to the SE of the site had been recently burnt (vegetation complex 3/6/4). Sphagnum cover was low and Carex panicea cover was high indicating fire and/or disturbance. This fire damage may dates back to before 1983 when an earlier survey also noted that this area was burnt (O’Connell & Mooney 1983) Kelly et al., (1995) also noted that an area to the very NW of the site also showed signs of fire disturbance but this was not recorded during this survey and may indicate recovery. There are several old burn-lines present on the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos, some of which relate to the fire damage noted by Kelly et al., (1995) in the south-east region of the high bog.
6.4. Invasive Species Pinus sylvestris trees occur quite frequently in some parts of the high bog, particularly the northern, southern and eastern margins of the high bog where they are quite dense (see sub-marginal complexes 7/9 + Cladonia + Pines and 9/7/3 + Cladonia + Pines, and marginal complexes 3/7 + Cladonia + Pines and 6/3 + Pines for further descriptions). These trees range in height between 0.3-5 m with tree of 2-3 m most frequent. Occasional Betula pubescens trees are present. The density of trees varies between 5-20/20m2 with some dense groups. Pinus seedlings (< 0.3 m high) are present but are not frequent. There are more frequent areas with less numerous trees between small denser groups of trees. Individual Pinus trees are also scattered over the central part of the high bog. The areas badly affected by Pinus sylvestris are marked on Map 3.
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Kelly et al., (1995) noted that Pinus trees were spreading on the N, S and E of the high bog. However, they did not name any of the complexes in these areas + Pines. The size range of the trees growing on the high bog indicates that most of these trees have been developing before 1995 with small amounts of requirement between 1995-2005. Pinus seedlings and young saplings are present but are not frequent. Pinus trees are spreading on the bog but the rate of spread has not significantly increased since 1995 and no new areas have been invaded in this period (the wooded areas have a range of size classes and there are no large areas with frequent young saplings present. There are several mature Rhododendron ponticum bushes located on the north-eastern margin of the high bog. Some bushes were recorded by Kelly et al., (1995) and do not appear to be spreading significantly.
6.5. Other impacts and damaging activities There has been some removal of scrub from the cutover area to the north of the high bog, possibly to develop improved grassland. The drains around this area have been cleaned recently.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A draft conservation plan has been produced for Ferbane Bog SAC. No known physical management actions have been carried out to improve the conservation status of the site or any of the habitats at this site. NPWS have bought out some turbary rights and ownership rights of various turf-cutting plots around the bog in the past few years. The majority (75%) of the site is owned by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), having been recently transferred from Bord na Mona ownership (Draft Conservation Plan 2004). The drat Conservation Plan for Ferbane SAC recommends that all the current functional surface drains on the high bog be blocked. Some marginal drains in the cutover areas should be blocked. The draft Conservation Plan also recommended that a survey of the facebank be carried out to investigate if peat dams around the margins of the high bog would be effective in improving the hydrology of the high bog. Rhododendron ponticum should be removed from the high bog. .
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog There has been a small reduction in the high bog area between 1995 and 2005 (2000 photo used to measure area) with a reduction of 0.99 ha (Table 8.1). Differences in mapping and surveying techniques account for the difference in high bog area between the 1995 report (117 ha) and the area measured from the 1995 AP (120.56 ha) in 2004. (The 1995 survey did not have access to GIS software used in this project.) There has been some peat cutting along the high bog margins of active plots since 2000 so the high bog area is likely to be slightly less than the measured area 119.97 ha (measured from 2000 AP) in 2004. A simple calculation (taking the peat-cutting rate at 2 m/year and 0.22 km of the high bog margin being cut between 2000- 2004) gives the loss of high bog as 0.18 ha. So the high bog area in 2004 (119.97 ha) is an over-estimate (by 0.1-0.2 ha), depending on the rate of peat cutting.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 117 120.56 119.97 119.97 2 -0.99ha -0.8% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by ~0.1-0.2 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small increase (8.5%) in the extent of active raised bog from 41.73 ha in 1995 to a total of 45.25 ha in 2004 (Table 8.2). The active raised bog extends further east and south-east compared to 1995. However, there has been a small decline in active raised bog in the south-west region. An increase in active raised bog extent between 0 and 15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable maintained (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The habitat structure and function of the current active raised bog has declined somewhat since the 1995 survey with several negative quality indicators present, although the decline is not as obvious when compared to other sites. The area of the central ecotope has declined by 63% from 3.61 ha in 1995 to 1.33 ha in 2005 and has shrunk around its former extent. The habitat quality of this central ecotope has not changed significantly since 1995 when it was described as complex 14 (frequent pools). Now it is described as complex 10/15 (abundant Sphagnum cover and less frequent pools). The overall Sphagnum cover is still quite high (80-90%) and it is still quaking. There are frequent infilled hollows containing S. cuspidatum, (which could have been described as frequent pools in 1995). Kelly et al., (1995) describe this area as having frequent interconnecting pools of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum and a general Sphagnum cover of almost 100%. (This description of changes in habitat quality should take into account differences between the surveys, which are discussed further in section 9.2). The former central ecotope has declined on the north-east side and has degraded to sub-central ecotope (complexes 10 & 10/9). These complexes around the central ecotope have a lower Sphagnum cover (60-70%) but are close in quality to central ecotope. The habitat quality of the sub-central ecotope in the central section has remained relatively stable with some changes in complex names between the two surveys. Complex 10 formerly dominated the sub-central ecotope and was described as having Sphagnum cover of 70% being dominated by low hummocks of lawns of S. magellanicum and having few permanent pools which are filled with S. cuspidatum. Some individual trees are scattered throughout the sub-central ecotope and the northern wooded area extends into the active raised bog in one section.
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The sub-central ecotope has expanded east and south-east across former marginal ecotope complexes 3, 3/7 + Cladonia 3+ Cladonia and 3/6/4. The sub-central ecotope has expanded south of drain bM in the central area. The Sphagnum cover has increased in these areas with the appearance of hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. The active raised bog has expanded south of drain bM and extends close to the southern wooded zone. There has been some loss of sub-central habitat along the north-eastern region of the former active bog. This area is wooded by Pinus sylvestris trees and is a mosaic of better quality and poorer quality areas. The boundary between the active raised bog and degraded raised bog is not distinct in this area. There has also been some loss in the south-western region of the former sub-central ecotope. There are several small relic patches of sub- central ecotope in this area. A description of the changes in habitat structure and function of the former active raised bog areas that are now classified as degraded raised bog is given in the conservation assessment of degraded raised bog.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Lawns and hummocks of Sphagnum magellanicum are relatively frequent at this site. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum also occur within the active raised bog. Sphagnum cuspidatum occurs in some pools and has infilled other pools and small hollows in the sub-central ecotope, and is especially frequent in the central ecotope. Some of the pools in the sub-central ecotope that contain open water also contain some algae, but it is not frequent. There is a substantial Cladonia spp. cover on parts of the active raised bog. These are positive indicators. The Midlands raised bog indicators S. magellanicum, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia are all present and quite frequent. The Western raised bog indicator Pleurozia purpurea is present in this habitat. The habitat quality could be assessed as C as there has been a major decrease in the extent of central ecotope (a loss of 63% as indicated by the statistics) from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). However, this may be over-estimated and may exaggerate the change in conservation status of the active raised bog. The area of central ecotope appears similar in size both the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos indicating that the decline in extent may not be as significant as indicated by the statistics. Therefore the habitat quality of active raised bog is assessed as B. ! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects The habitat is moderately threatened and is slowly declining. There are poor prospects for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1995 2004 Variation ECOTOPES (adjusted 1) Active Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 3.61 2.99 1.33 1.11 -2.28 -63.1 Sub-central 38.12 31.62 43.92 36.61 +5.80 +15.2 Total 41.73 34.61 45.25 37.72 +3.52 +8.4 1 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The 1995 high bog area measured from the 1995 photos was 10.3.04% of the Kelly et al., (1995) high bog area. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The overall conservation status of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
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8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small decrease in the area of degraded raised bog from 78.83 ha (65.38% of high bog) in 1995 to 74.72 ha (62.3%) in 2004 (Table 8.3). This is due to the expansion of active raised bog and the enhancement in quality of some former degraded raised bog between 1995 and 2005, particularly in the south-east region of the high bog. There has been a very small loss of degraded bog habitat due to marginal peat cutting between 1995-2005 (with a loss between 0.05-0.1%). The habitat extent is assessed as A as there has been a minor decrease in the extent of degraded raised bog area from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The south-west corner of the former active raised bog area has degraded with the former sub-central complexes 10/3 and 10/3 + Cladonia degrading to the current sub-marginal complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia. The general Sphagnum cover has declined from about 60-70% in 1995 to 20-30% in 2005. The general vegetation has not changed significantly with Carex panicea and Eriophorum vaginatum both still quite dominant. However, the Calluna vulgaris cover may have increased since then. Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia is a relatively high quality sub-marginal complex and approaches sub-central quality in small patches, particularly where S. magellanicum is present. There are several small relic sub-central ecotope patches located in this region. The former degraded raised bog has increased in habitat quality somewhat since 1995 as no sub-marginal ecotope was mapped during this survey. Now there are 34.7 ha of sub-marginal ecotope and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 38%. The sub-marginal ecotope is generally relatively good in quality with a Sphagnum cover ranging between 20-40% in places. The general vegetation cover changed somewhat with Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum being quite frequent and Carex panicea not dominating extensive parts of complexes as it did in 1995. However, the descriptions given by Kelly et al., (1995) of the marginal complexes now mapped as sub-marginal ecotope in the south-east region indicate that these areas contained good quality marginal vegetation and could have been mapped as sub-marginal ecotope. This area also has a relatively abundant cover of Cladonia spp. Some of the sub-marginal ecotope in the northern part of the high bog contains frequent Pinus trees. The current marginal ecotope has not changed significantly in quality with some new recruitment in the main wooded zones in the north and south of the site. However there has been no significant spread of trees between 1995-2005. The habitat quality is assessed as A as there has been a major increase in the extent of sub-marginal ecotope and corresponding reduction in marginal ecotope from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Hollows containing Sphagnum magellanicum occur in the sub-marginal ecotope. Occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are present. The Cladonia spp. cover is still quite high over most of the high bog indicating a lack of disturbance of these areas for a relatively long time. These are positive indicators. There is a substantial area of degraded raised bog around the northern southern and eastern margins being invaded by Pinus sylvestris. These are negative quality indicators. The Midlands raised bog indicators Sphagnum magellanicum, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia are all present and quite frequent.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects The habitat is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and long term viability not assured as long as peat cutting continues.
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Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1995 2004 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 0.00 0.00 34.71 28.93 34.71 N/A Marginal 78.83 65.38 31.53 26.28 -38.81 2 -38.5 Facebank 1 NA NA 8.48 7.07 8.48 N/A Total 78.83 65.38 74.72 62.3 -4.10 -5.2 1 The facebank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The was the 1995 high bog area was 100.304% of Kelly et al., (1995) high bog areas measured from the 1995 photos. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The overall conservation status of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining(EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat occurs most frequently in the active raised bog in certain sub-central complexes (complex 4/10) but only occur in small amounts in other active raised bog areas. The extent of this habitat was not quantified as it occurs as a mosaic. Hollows dominated by Rhynchospora alba are not as frequent at this site compared to other sites. However, this habitat is listed as having a percentage cover of 1% on the Ferbane Natura form. There has probably not been a significant decline in the extent and habitat quality of this habitat as the extent of active bog has not declined.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Ferbane Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog While the extent of active raised bog has increased slightly since 1995 the habitat quality has declined since 1995 as the central ecotope decreased in area. There are some negative quality indicators present in the current sub-central ecotope occurring around the central ecotope. The change in area of the central ecotope indicates that peat-cutting and drainage and other activities on and around the high bog have had a significant impact on the conservation status of the raised high bog at Ferbane. The intensity of impacts on the high bog has declined somewhat since 1995 and are not as relatively intense at present compared to other sites (Tables 6.1 & 6.2). However, these impacts were probably more intense and had a greater influence in the past. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined since 1995 with 3.6% of the high bog margin being recently actively cut (previously 11% in 1995). Drainage has also had a significant impact with 8.85 km of drains occurring on a relatively small high bog. Some old drains have infilled and have become non- functional. The drainage function is likely to be similar or to have declined slightly since 1995 and no new drains were dug or maintained during this period. This site has not been burnt extensively recently and there is a good quality Cladonia spp. cover present. The expansion of active raised bog in the south-eastern region may be related to recovery from an old fire that was recorded in this area.
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The northern and southern margins of the high bog are particularly wooded with Pinus sylvestris and there has been some recruitment of new trees during this period. However, seedlings and small saplings are not particularly frequent in these areas so the rate of recruitment of trees has probably not changed significantly. No new previously un-wooded areas are being invaded by trees. Peat-cutting along plot 1 and drainage from drain complex bP on the western side of the high bog is likely to be significantly negative impacting on the central ecotope. The statistics indicate that there has been a 63% decline in the extent of the central ecotope since 1995. However, this may be over-estimated and may exaggerate the change in conservation status of the active raised bog (the habitat quality of active raised bog is rated as B but could have been rated as C). The area of central ecotope appears similar in size both the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos indicating that the decline in extent may not be as significant as indicated by the statistics. The loss of central ecotope as indicated by the statistics is 2.28 ha. The area of central ecotope may have been over- estimated in 1995. The sub-central ecotope complexes that surrounded the central ecotope approach central ecotope quality and may have been classified as central ecotope in 1995. The total area of sub-central ecotope has increased since 1995 and this should also mitigate somewhat for the loss of central ecotope, though this is not taken into consideration during the rating of conservation status. The assessment of the conservation status of the Annex 1 habitats at Ferbane Bog should take into account differences in surveying and mapping techniques between the 2005 survey and the 1994 survey. The change in the extent and quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2004 is not significant enough to preclude any false-positive changes due to differences in surveying and mapping techniques.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog This site was given the rating Bi by Cross (1990) following the National Raised Bog surveys. This second-best rating was given to good quality sites with wet and soft areas still present, where the hydrology was not seriously damaged. This rating if applied today would probably be re-applied again as the habitat extent and quality of active raised bog has not declined significantly. The assessment of the conservation status of the Annex 1 habitats at Ferbane Bog should take into account differences in surveying and mapping techniques between the 2004/5 survey and the 1995 survey. The change in the quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2005 (i.e. reduction in area of the central ecotope) may be partially related to differences between the surveys and may be related to actual impacts from adjacent peat- cutting and drainage. The overall conservation status could have been be assessed as C as the statistics indicate that there has been a major decrease in the extent of central ecotope from 1995 to 2005 and this single low rating overrules the other A rating of habitat extent. However this C rating probably exaggerates the change in conservation status of this site. Therefore this site is given an overall rating of B.
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Ferbane Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Douglas, C. & Mooney, E. 1983. Survey to locate raised bogs of scientific interest. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 10/15 3/10 + Cl 4/10 10/3 GPS READING 210666, 211165, 210996, 210981, 226134 226128 225986 225805 QUADRAT NAME QC1 QSc1 QSc2 QSc3 FIRMNESS very soft very soft soft very soft CRACKING no no no no BOG BURST no no no no SLOPE depression flat depression flat DRAINS nodrains nodrains nodrains nodrains BURNT no TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS absent absent absent absent ALGAL POOL absent absent absent absent BARE PEAT absent absent absent 1% POOL COVER 5% absent absent <5% POOLS reg pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pools, laws, low hums & low hums & flats low hums hm, hol hols hols & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 5% 15% 10% 20% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS <5% <5% <5% 1% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent < 5% absent absent TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 15% 20% 15% 30% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks & hummocks hummocks hummocks hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 20% 10% 25% 20% S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hummocks & hummocks & lawns & hollows lawns lawns hollows S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent absent absent absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS absent absent absent absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS 25% absent 20% 10% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 5% 10% 5% 5% NARTHECIUM < 5% < 5% < 5% < 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS 20% absent absent < 5% S. SUBNITENS absent absent absent S. AURIC POOLS absent absent absent absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS absent < 5% < 5% absent S. CUSP 40% < 5% < 5% < 5% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 60% 10% 25% 40% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 25% 40% 30% 40% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 90% 50% 60% 80% E. ANGUS <5% <5% <5% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricat fuscum & fuscum & S. imbricat imbricat imbricat POOLS INDICATORS S. cusp S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA < 5% 30% 10% 30% CLADONIA COVER 30% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS absent NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 10% 25% 15% 25% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.3 OTHER DETAILS OTHER SPECIES Carex panicea Aulacomnium carex 5-10 (15%) palustre & P. alpestre
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COMPLEX VARIATIONS SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DETAILS
Appendix II Photographical records
Image Feature Grid Reference Date Number HPIM0334 invasive pine along N margin 211298, 226449 15/03/2005 HPIM0335 invasive pine along N margin 211298, 226449 15/03/2005 HPIM0336 S. magellanicum infilled pools and lawns 210969, 225824 15/03/2005 SC 3/10 HPIM0337 S. magellanicum infilled pools and lawns 210969, 225824 15/03/2005 SC 3/10
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES 1995 Adjustment 1995 (Kelly et al., 1995) (Adjusted 1) Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 3.5 3.0 X1.0304 3.61 2.99 Sub-central 37 31.6 X1.0304 38.12 31.62 Sub-marginal 0 0.0 X1.0304 0.00 0.00 Marginal 76.5 65.4 X1.0304 78.83 65.38 Flushes (active 0 0 X1.0304 0 0 and inactive) Total 117 100 120.56 100 1 The total area of the high bog measured from the 1995 aerial photograph in 2004 was 120.56 ha. This area is 96.96% of the total area of the original ecotopes (117 ha.) Therefore each individual ecotope area listed in Kelly et al., (1995) has been modified (increased by 3.04%) so that the total ecotope area is equivalent to 120.56 ha.
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Ferbane Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 575 6” Sheet: OY 14 Grid Ref.: N 11 25 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha): 153.08 High bog area 2004 (ha): 199.97 Dates of Visit: 15/03/05 Townlands: Ferbane, Ballyvora, Creggan and Endrim
2. SITE LOCATION This site is located immediately northwest of Ferbane town in north-western Co. Offaly. The main Athlone/Ferbane/Birr road is located to the east and the Ferbane/Belmont road is located to the south. Ferbane Bog is located 3 km east of Moyclare Bog (SAC 581) and south-east of the extensively drained Clonlyon Glebe Bog (NHA 893). Access to the north of the bog is from the Athlone/Ferbane road along an un-surfaced track to the northeast of the site. The north of the bog can be reached with difficulty after passing over cutover bog a wide facebank drain and thick scrub.
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY This survey, carried out on 15th March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Ferbane Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004/05. Local NPWS management staff collaborated on the survey and information on impacts and activities at the site were obtained.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG The bog is shaped like an irregular rectangle with the longest axis orientated north-south. This bog has been classified as a Basin Bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges Kelly et al., (1995). This bog is also classified as a Midlands type raised bog (Cross, 1990).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Ferbane Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2005 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 45.25 ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Ferbane Bog composed of central and sub-central ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 37.7% of the high bog area. The extent of active raised bog has increased since 1995 when there was 41.73 ha of active raised bog (34.6% of high bog area). However, the quality of the active raised bog has declined somewhat with the reduction in area of central ecotope. The active raised bog covers a considerable area of the central part of the high bog with wide zones of degraded raised bog at the north and south of the high bog. The central ecotope occurs in the north-west part of the active raised bog in a small depression. This small area is quaking and has a very high Sphagnum cover dominated by S. cuspidatum and with frequent S. magellanicum in lawns infilled pools/hollows and pools. There are hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. imbricatum. Rhynchospora alba is quite frequent on the lawns and Calluna vulgaris occurs on some of the low hummocks.
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
The sub-central ecotope varies in quality with varying amounts of Sphagnum cover and particularly the cover of S. magellanicum hummocks and lawns, which are quite frequent in the best quality areas. The bog surface is generally quite soft and quaking in the best quality places. The Sphagnum cover is frequently dominated by hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum. Hummocks of S. capillifolium and more occasional S. imbricatum are present. The pool cover is lower compared to other sites and many of the pools are infilled with Sphagnum, with occasional pools containing open water. The Sphagnum cover varies between 40-70%. The cover of Carex panicea also varies within the sub-central ecotope (10-20%) in flats and hollows. Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (sometimes) occur frequently in the flats, Sphagnum lawns and hollows. Calluna vulgaris occurs quite frequently on low hummocks. Narthecium ossifragum is, unusually, not a significant part of the vegetation. The Cladonia spp. cover is generally quite high (20-60%). There are individual Pinus sylvestris trees scattered over the active raised bog with trees being particularly frequent along the northern part. The north-eastern part of the active raised bog is poorer in quality and there is a mosaic of sub-marginal and better quality sub-central patches in this area. The active raised bog was identified here by the appearance of more frequent better quality patches.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 74.7 ha (62.3%) of degraded raised bog within this site. This habitat includes the facebank, marginal and sub-marginal ecotopes (See Map 1). The bog surface is generally firm or firm to soft around the margins. The sub-marginal vegetation is similar to the active raised bog and is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum on well-developed low hummocks and Carex panicea in flats and hollows. The northern and southern zones are particularly characterised by frequent Pinus sylvestris trees, with some dense tree patches along the eastern margin. These trees are generally 2-4 m high with less occasional trees up to 6 m high. The Sphagnum cover varies with some good quality patches (up to 40% cover), particularly where S. magellanicum occurs in low hummocks and hollows. The northern boundary between the degraded raised bog and the active raised bog is indistinct and there is a mosaic of good quality and poorer quality patches. There is extensive Cladonia spp. cover over most of the degraded raised bog with lower cover in the more recently burnt areas in the south-east region where Carex panicea is also more frequent. The marginal ecotope contains patches of quite firm high bog with frequent C. vulgaris and Carex panicea and a low Sphagnum cover. There are small degraded patches around the margins of the high bog that were intensely modified by drainage and by difco cutting in the past. The eastern side of the high bog has been modified by old drains, which are characterised by tall ridges of Calluna vulgaris. Some parts of the margin have a narrow zone with frequent Trichophorum cespitosum and most of the facebank is quite old and has been vegetated by Ulex europaeus, Betula pubescens and Pinus sylvestris. No flushes were mapped on the high bog at this site, though some flushed areas within the sub-central ecotope were recorded (see complex 9/7/10 + Cl).
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions occur on the high within both the active and degraded raised bog in mosaic with these habitats. The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. Relatively good quality examples of this habitat occur within the central and sub-central ecotope areas. However, this habitat does not occur as extensively as on other sites.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Ferbane Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/15 This central complex is found in a depression in the north-west of the high bog (GR. 210660, 226145). The surface is very soft and sometimes quaking underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 80-90%. Low hummocks,
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 lawns and pools characterise the complex though the pools are more like thick layers of S. cuspidatum in infilled hollows/depressions. These lawns/infilled hollows of S. cuspidatum dominate at 40% cover along with lawns of S. magellanicum (20%). Rhynchospora alba (20%) grows across these lawns while Calluna vulgaris (10%) grows on hummocks, which are usually composed of S. papillosum (15%) and S. capillifolium (5-10%) with occasional S. imbricatum. Erica tetralix (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) are also found on hummocks. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is less than 5%. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/10 This complex occurs in the central and mid-eastern part of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft with softer areas. This complex is characterised by a higher Sphagnum cover compared to sub-marginal 9/7/3. The general vegetation is similar to this complex with the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (20%), Carex panicea (10- 20%) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). Other species present include E. angustifolium (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 40-50%. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium (20%) and S. papillosum (10%). Hummocks, hollows and flats of S. magellanicum (5-10%) and occasional S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are also present. Small amounts of S. cuspidatum occur in hollows and small infilled pools. The Cladonia spp. cover is 20%. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and up to 5 m in diameter) containing Leucobryum glaucum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and crowned with Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Cladonia spp. and Dicranum scoparium occur in the central area of the high bog. This complex contains some poor quality patches around its edge. There are occasional individual Pinus sp. trees are present in the central area of the high bog. Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Complex 9/7/10 + Cladonia (9/7/10 + Cl) This complex occurs in small patches in the central area of the high bog (GR. 211052, 225960). This complex has a relatively high Sphagnum cover and is characterised by the greater dominance of Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) or E. angustifolium (10-20%) and the lower frequency of Carex panicea (< 5%). The bog surface is soft. The microtopography contains low hummocks hollows and infilling pools/hollows/lawns. The Calluna vulgaris cover on low hummocks is 15-25%. The general Sphagnum cover is 40-60%. Sphagnum magellanicum is more frequent in this complex (10-20%) and occurs in larger infilling pools and flats. Sphagnum capillifolium and S. papillosum are frequent in spongy hummocks. Small amounts of S. cuspidatum are present (< 5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is also higher (50-60%). An area of robust Calluna vulgaris, which appears flushed or enriched runs through this complex with Pleurozium schreberi, Empetrum nigrum and Vaccinium oxycoccos recorded (GR. 211090, 226140). Towards the north-east, Pinus sylvestris is frequent and the complex is labelled 9/7/10 + Cl + Pine. An aggregated group of 5-6 m Pinus trees is located at GR. 211091, 226140 with an understorey of Vaccinium oxycoccos, Andromeda polifolia, Empetrum nigrum and robust Calluna vulgaris. Further east another aggregated group of >10 Pinus sylvestris that are >5 m tall is present (GR. 211183, 226214). However, here the vegetation is considered to be mainly sub-marginal Complex 9/7/3 + Cl + Pine. The understorey is composed of Rubus fruticosus, Hedera helix, Dryopteris dilatata, Empetrum nigrum, robust C. vulgaris, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Pleurozium schreberi.
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in a small patches of the high bog, particularly towards the west of the sub- central ecotope (GR. 210680, 226050). The surface is soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 40-60% composed mostly of low hummocks of S. papillosum. Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in small patches as is S. magellanicum. Eriophorum vaginatum (20-25%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20- 25%). The general vegetation is similar to the above complex. A 2.5-3 m Pinus sylvestris is located in this complex (GR. 210607, 226033) and is surrounded by 5-10 Pinus saplings (0.5-1.0 m high) and robust C. vulgaris.
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
There are some patches dominated by Eriophorum angustifolium (9a/10) with a relatively good quality S. magellanicum cover (30-40%) that may be relic soaks, as they are surrounded by low ridges and hummocks dominated by C. vulgaris.
Complex 10/9 This sub-central complex is found in a small patches of the high bog, particularly towards the west of the sub- central ecotope where the sub-central ecotope grades into central ecotope (GR. 210715, 226105). This complex is similar to the previous complex but the Sphagnum cover is higher and the complex is of higher quality. The surface is very soft underfoot and the Sphagnum cover is 60-70% composed mostly of lawns of S. magellanicum. Sphagnum cuspidatum is present in small patches and there are frequent low hummocks of S. papillosum. Eriophorum vaginatum (30%) dominates the vegetation and Calluna vulgaris is found at 10-20% cover. In some areas the cover of Sphagnum lawns particularly S. magellanicum increases and the complex is labelled as Complex 10.
Complex 4/10 This sub-central complex is found in small patches of the high bog, particularly between the centre of the bog and the central ecotope in the north-west (GR. 211010, 225990). The surface is soft to very soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and lawns characterise the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 60% with infilled depressions/lawns of S. magellanicum (20-30%), lawns/low hummocks of S. papillosum (20%), hummocks of S. capillifolium, (10%) as well as hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. There are also small patches of S. cuspidatum (<5%) in infilled hollows/depressions. Rhynchospora alba (20%) found in depressions and in amongst Sphagnum lawns dominates the vegetation. Calluna vulgaris (15%) is found on hummocks as is Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%). The flush indicator species Aulacomnium palustre and Polytrichum alpestre are also present. The cover of Cladonia portentosa is 10-20%. Quadrat Qsc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Complex 10/3 This complex occurs in the central area of the high bog. This is the best quality complex on the high bog and is characterised by the relatively high Sphagnum cover and the greater frequency of infilling pools. The bog surface is soft or very soft. The microtopography contains low hummocks hollows and infilling pools/hollows/lawns. The general vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (20%) and Carex panicea (10- 20%) with frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (5-10%) and smaller amounts of Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%). Rhynchospora alba (5%) occurs in hollows and lawns. The general Sphagnum cover varies between 60-90%. There are extensive lawns and hollows dominated by S. magellanicum and S. papillosum around the infilling pools. The pools also contain S. cuspidatum (5%). The pools also contain some algae and open water but are mainly infilling. Both S. capillifolium and S. papillosum are also frequent in large hummocks topped with Calluna vulgaris. Pleurozia purpurea is present in this complex. The Cladonia spp cover is 10-30%. Quadrat Qsc3 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 7/9 + Cladonia + Pines (7/9 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs in the wooded part of the northern section of high bog (GR. 211247, 226350). These trees range in height between 0.3-5 m with tree of 2-3 m most frequent. Occasional Betula pubescens trees are present. The density of trees varies between 5-20/20m2 with some dense groups. Pinus seedlings (< 0.3 m high) are present but are not frequent. There are more frequent areas with less numerous trees between small denser groups of trees. The bog surface is firm to soft or soft in places. The ground cover is characterised by the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (30%) (0.3 m high) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%). Other species present include Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 20-30% though there are patches with little or no Sphagnum that are quite firm. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum with less frequent S. magellanicum (in hummocks and hollows) and S. fuscum. The Cladonia spp. cover is 30-40%.
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Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia + Pines (9/7/3 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs in the northern half of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and spongy. The microtopography contains well-developed low hummocks and hollows. The ground cover is characterised by the dominance of Calluna vulgaris (20-25%) and frequent Eriophorum vaginatum (10%) and Carex panicea (10-20%). The Cladonia spp. cover is also quite high (30-50%). There are scattered trees present with similar heights to the previous complex although the trees become more scattered and less numerous as the central area of the high bog is approached. The general Sphagnum cover is 20-30%. The Sphagnum cover is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum with less frequent S. magellanicum (in hummocks and hollows). Occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are present. This is a very good quality sub-marginal complex and approaches sub-central quality in small patches, particularly where S. magellanicum is present. This complex also occurs in the southern part of the high bog south of drain bM. Pinus sylvestris trees (2-6 m high) are scattered in this area. There are also occasional Betula pubescens trees present (2-4 m high). The Sphagnum cover is 20-40% and occurs as mainly hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and occasional S. magellanicum under Calluna vulgaris. Vaccinium oxycoccos is quite frequent.
Complex 3/7/9 + Cladonia + Pine (3/7/9 + Cl + Pine) This complex is found along the eastern margin of the sub-marginal ecotope. The vegetation is similar to the above complex, however, Carex panicea is more dominant (30-40%). The Sphagnum cover is 20% and the bog surface is firm to soft.
Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia (9/7/3 + Cl) This complex is similar to the above complex but the Pinus sylvestris trees are infrequent (GR. 211235, 226157). (There are still some trees present in this area.). This complex is a mosaic of typical quality sub-marginal vegetation and small better quality patches of sub-central vegetation present. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and up to 5 m in diameter) containing Leucobryum glaucum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and crowned with Calluna vulgaris, Eriophorum vaginatum, Cladonia spp. and Dicranum scoparium occur in the central area of the high bog.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 2 + Cladonia (2 + Cl) This complex occurs along the margin of the high bog particularly on the south-western boundary (GR. 210383, 225767). A narrow band of vegetation characterised by frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%) occurs along the facebank. The bog surface is firm and quite uneven. A gentle slope with a western aspect is present. The general vegetation also contains Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) (0.3 m high), Carex panicea (5%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 5% and S. capillifolium and S. tenellum are both present. The general Cladonia spp. cover is 50%. This complex also occurs along the eastern margin of the high bog where there are some cracks present. Occasional Molinia caerulea patches are also present.
Complex 3/6 + Cladonia (3/6 + Cl) This complex occurs close to the high bog margin (GR. 210416, 225734). The bog surface is firm. The microtopography is uneven. The general vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (20-30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%). Other species present include Calluna vulgaris (10-20%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by S. capillifolium. Hypnum cupressiforme is also quite frequent. The general Cladonia spp. cover is 20-30%. There are occasional areas of this complex with more frequent Pinus trees (3/6 + Pines)
Complex 3/7 + Cladonia (3/7 + Cl) This complex occurs in the south-western corner of the high bog south of drain bM (GR. 210394, 225540). This area has old difco ridges dominated by tall Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high) (40-50%) with shallow hollows with frequent Carex panicea (10-20%), Eriophorum vaginatum (< 5%), E. angustifolium and Trichophorum
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 cespitosum (5-10%). Molinia caerulea is occasionally present. The area has almost completely re-vegetated after the difco cutting although there are some bare peat patches present, which contain Campylopus introflexus. Sphagnum papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. cuspidatum occur in the hollows. Some old blocks have been left on the bog surface. The bog surface is firm and uneven. The Cladonia spp. cover is 20-50%. There are regularly spaced drains in this area. Several Pinus sylvestris trees and saplings are scattered over the south- western side of this complex. The density of trees increases towards the southern and south-western margin of the high bog. Occasional Ulex europaeus bushes are present on the high bog in this area. This marginal complex is also found in a narrow band of high bog along the western and north-western margin. There is a gentle to gradual slope to the high bog margin and the Sphagnum cover is 10% composed of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum.
Complex 3/7 + Cladonia + Pines (3/7 + Cl + Pines) This complex occurs along the southern margin of the high bog. There is a gentle to steep slope with a southern aspect and the bog slopes onto the cutover bog and the facebank is not distinct in places. Molinia caerulea is spreading from the cutover bog onto the high bog, particularly along the drains. The bog vegetation is similar to the above complex. There is a greater size range of trees (upto 6 m high) in this area compared to the northern margin. There are mature Pinus sylvestris trees on the cutover bog adjacent to the southern margin of the high bog. The trees mainly range between 0.5-3 m high and have a density of roughly 25 trees per 20 m2. A similar complex with more frequent Narthecium ossifragum occurs in the north-eastern part of the high bog (3/7/6 + Cl + Pines).
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 An old facebank occurs along the margin of the high bog particularly on the south-western boundary. The vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris (0.4-0.5 m high) and Cladonia spp. is also frequent (30%). In places, Ulex europaeus bushes and Betula pubescens saplings and trees occur along the margin. The facebank along the southern and eastern margins slopes in places to the adjacent cutover bog. Molinia caerulea occurs in places and extends from the adjacent cutover bog onto the high bog. The southern and eastern boundaries of the high bog are also vegetated by Pinus sylvestris trees with Ulex europaeus. Several mature Rhododendron ponticum bushes occur along the eastern boundary. Facebank vegetation is developing close to the most recent turf cutting area in the north-west of the high bog (GR. 210552, 226251). It is found on patches of high bog in this area where there is a steep slope caused by subsidence. The surface is firm underfoot and robust Calluna vulgaris (0.3-0.5 m) dominates the vegetation (70- 80%). Hypnum jutlandicum is abundant and there is very little Sphagnum cover (5%). Carex panicea (5-10%) is also present and the cover of Cladonia portentosa is 5-10%. The height of the facebank in this area is 2-2.5 m. Facebank vegetation has also developed in the area within drainage complex bP. Here there are disturbance indicators present such as Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum. At the very edge of the high bog in this area there is Ulex and Molinia caerulea and the height of the old facebank here is ca 4 m.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat is not as extensive on this site compared to other raised bogs. It is generally not very extensive (1- 5% cover where present) and occurs as a mosaic within the other habitats. Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions are most frequent in the sub-central complex 4/10 and this species also grows amongst the Sphagnum-dominated lawns in this complex. The depressions are filled with S. magellanicum, S. papillosum and small amounts of S. cuspidatum. Rhynchospora alba-dominated lawns also occur in the central ecotope growing on lawns dominated by S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. There are some pools present that are infilled with Sphagnum and contain R. alba. The pools of the sub-central area also have margins dominated by R. alba, although these are not extensive and are associated with S. cuspidatum and hummocks of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions occur only infrequently in the sub-marginal and marginal ecotopes and the cover of this species is occasional.
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5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. The margins and facebanks of this bog have not been disturbed for some time and are quite wooded. There is a gradual transition between the wooded high bog and the wooded cutover bog with indistinct facebanks along some of the southern and eastern margins. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring (Table 5.4.1). A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 10/15 QSc1 Sub-central 3/10 + Cl QSc2 Sub-central 4/10 QSc3 Sub-central 10/3
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- 8.84 km 954 Invasive species B 1- 46 ha 38% 312 Peat Extraction Domestic use C 2- 0.22 km (3.6%) 180 Burning (Yr) C 1- 0 (since 1995)
Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 810 Drainage A 2- NA 151 Removal of hedges and C 0 NA copses
6.1. Cutting MacGowan et al., (in prep) noted that 56.6% (120.69 ha) of the original high bog from the 1800s (217 ha) remains. Cutover bog occurs all around the margins of the high bog but cutting has been most intensive to the north of the high bog and the high bog remains close to its current extent along the west, east and southern sides. Cutting ceased along these sides a long time ago with mature Pinus woodland occurring along the southern and eastern sides. MacGowan et al., (in prep) estimated that 0.22 km (3.6%) of the high bog margin (6.04 km) was being actively cut in 2003 for domestic peat use. One turf cutting plot was surveyed by MacGowan et al., (in prep). This is cut by hopper machine and is quite extensive in that it is almost 220 m long. This plot is shown on Map 3. This plot is only 38 m from central ecotope. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that 3.35 km of the high bog margin was classified as sensitive (within 250 m of active bog (central and sub-central ecotopes) and that 0.22 km of the sensitive bog margin (6.6%) was currently being cut. MacGowan et al., (in prep) stated that cutting must be stopped immediately in this plot on the north-western margin.
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Several GPS points taken along the western margin of the southern lobe of the high bog indicate that up to5 m of the high bog has been cut along the active plot (plot 1) since the 2000 aerial photo was taken. However, this survey noted that this plot may not have been cut for 2-3 years. The current vegetation assessment (in prep) does significantly change any of the assessment and conclusions made by MacGowan et al., (in prep). Difco cutting has occurred in the past in the south-west corner and part of the north-west margin of the high bog. This difco cutting was noted as abandoned in 1995 (Kelly et al., 1995). Kelly et al., (1995) noted that 0.54 km (11.3%) of the high bog margin was actively being cut in 1994. Peat-cutting has had a significant impact in the past on the conservation status of active raised bog and degraded raised bog at this site. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined since 1995 and is relatively low compared to most other sites. There has been a significant reduction in the length of bog margin being actively cut with 11.3% of the margin cut in 1995 and 3.6% cut in 2003. The current active peat-cutting is located along the north-western margin.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several functional, reduced functional and non-functional drains occur on Ferbane high bog (Table 6.2.1). These drains are marked on Map 3.
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains bB These double drains (bB) occur in the north-east of the high bog and are 2 m wide and 0.5 m deep at the eastern side. These drains may have marked a path onto the high bog. These drains are non-functional. bC & bD These old N-S (bC & bD) drains are very deep at the northern margin (2-3 m) while the central parts have infilled and are non-functional. The northern section is functional. bF-bH These old drains are 0.5 m wide and 1-2 m deep and are reduced functional. They are infilling at the high bog end with some parts being infilled. . bJ-bK These old drains are still functional (0.5 m wide), are infilling at the high bog end, are quite deep at the margin end (1 m) and are characterised by associated spoil mounds. bM This drain crosses the southern part of the high bog and is functional for most of its length. The functional part is 0.5 m wide and 1 m deep and is infilling in parts. A small section along the curved section on the eastern side is reduced functional and is infilling and infilled with Sphagnum in places. bM complex These drains occur on a slope with a southern aspect. The drains in this area are active and are 0.5 m deep and 0.5 m wide. These drains are infilling and contain Sphagnum. They are functional. Drain bN1 This drain is reduced functional and is 0.5 m wide and 0.5 m deep. This drain is infilling and infilled with Sphagnum in parts. Drain bN2 See drain bN1. Drain bO: This drain is found in the west of the high bog and extends in a NNE/SSW direction. There is flow in the south towards the NNE and in the north towards the SSW. In the south, the drain is functional and is 1.0m deep and 1.2m wide at surface and 0.3m wide at the base. It is more or less bare of vegetation with standing water present that appeared to have a very slow flow to the north on the day of survey (despite heavy rainfall). A spoil heap is evident running adjacent to the east of the drain and a 6 m Pinus sylvestris is present. bP These active drains occur in an area that was difco cut in the past. There is slumping and cracking of the raised bog around these drains and near the facebank. bR See drain bP.
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This site has suffered extensive drainage and the S and E of the high bog are criss-crossed by drains most of which correspond to lines marked on the 1910 6" sheet. Parts of some of these drains are now completely infilled and no longer easily visible in the field. No new drains have appeared since 1995. The total figures for the length of drainage has increased between 1995-2004 due to more detailed mapping of the drains in 2004 (Table 6.2.2). The total drainage function affecting the high bog is likely to be similar or to have slightly decreased since 1995 as some drains infill. Several drains mapped by Kelly et al., (1995) as functional have been classified as non-functional by this survey. Most of the older functional drains are infilling at the high bog ends. Some difco cutting has occurred in the past on the high bog in patches along the north-western and the south- western margins. There is significant drainage associated with difco cutting and this has not been mapped. MacGowan et al., (in prep) recommended that drain complexes bP and bR should be blocked as they drained the area adjacent to the active peat-cutting plot and the central ecotope.
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 12041 5509 -3195 1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 3337 NA function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 4988 NA drains (m) Area affected by 100 100 0 drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2005. However there are some old drains in cutover areas all around the high bog. Most of these in the cutover bog have not been maintained for some time. There has been some facebank cutting, clearing of scrub and recent drain maintenance in a small area of cutover bog to the north of the high bog. Drains within improved grassland to the west of the high bog are likely to be maintained. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of drainage on the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history This site has not been burned since the 1995 survey. There are extensive areas with a very high Cladonia spp. cover. Kelly et al., (1995) noted that an area to the SE of the site had been recently burnt (vegetation complex 3/6/4). Sphagnum cover was low and Carex panicea cover was high indicating fire and/or disturbance. This fire damage may dates back to before 1983 when an earlier survey also noted that this area was burnt (O’Connell & Mooney 1983) Kelly et al., (1995) also noted that an area to the very NW of the site also showed signs of fire disturbance but this was not recorded during this survey and may indicate recovery. There are several old burn-lines present on the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos, some of which relate to the fire damage noted by Kelly et al., (1995) in the south-east region of the high bog.
6.4. Invasive Species Pinus sylvestris trees occur quite frequently in some parts of the high bog, particularly the northern, southern and eastern margins of the high bog where they are quite dense (see sub-marginal complexes 7/9 + Cladonia + Pines and 9/7/3 + Cladonia + Pines, and marginal complexes 3/7 + Cladonia + Pines and 6/3 + Pines for further descriptions). These trees range in height between 0.3-5 m with tree of 2-3 m most frequent. Occasional Betula pubescens trees are present. The density of trees varies between 5-20/20m2 with some dense groups. Pinus seedlings (< 0.3 m high) are present but are not frequent. There are more frequent areas with less numerous trees between small denser groups of trees. Individual Pinus trees are also scattered over the central part of the high bog. The areas badly affected by Pinus sylvestris are marked on Map 3.
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Kelly et al., (1995) noted that Pinus trees were spreading on the N, S and E of the high bog. However, they did not name any of the complexes in these areas + Pines. The size range of the trees growing on the high bog indicates that most of these trees have been developing before 1995 with small amounts of requirement between 1995-2005. Pinus seedlings and young saplings are present but are not frequent. Pinus trees are spreading on the bog but the rate of spread has not significantly increased since 1995 and no new areas have been invaded in this period (the wooded areas have a range of size classes and there are no large areas with frequent young saplings present. There are several mature Rhododendron ponticum bushes located on the north-eastern margin of the high bog. Some bushes were recorded by Kelly et al., (1995) and do not appear to be spreading significantly.
6.5. Other impacts and damaging activities There has been some removal of scrub from the cutover area to the north of the high bog, possibly to develop improved grassland. The drains around this area have been cleaned recently.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A draft conservation plan has been produced for Ferbane Bog SAC. No known physical management actions have been carried out to improve the conservation status of the site or any of the habitats at this site. NPWS have bought out some turbary rights and ownership rights of various turf-cutting plots around the bog in the past few years. The majority (75%) of the site is owned by National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), having been recently transferred from Bord na Mona ownership (Draft Conservation Plan 2004). The drat Conservation Plan for Ferbane SAC recommends that all the current functional surface drains on the high bog be blocked. Some marginal drains in the cutover areas should be blocked. The draft Conservation Plan also recommended that a survey of the facebank be carried out to investigate if peat dams around the margins of the high bog would be effective in improving the hydrology of the high bog. Rhododendron ponticum should be removed from the high bog. .
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog There has been a small reduction in the high bog area between 1995 and 2005 (2000 photo used to measure area) with a reduction of 0.99 ha (Table 8.1). Differences in mapping and surveying techniques account for the difference in high bog area between the 1995 report (117 ha) and the area measured from the 1995 AP (120.56 ha) in 2004. (The 1995 survey did not have access to GIS software used in this project.) There has been some peat cutting along the high bog margins of active plots since 2000 so the high bog area is likely to be slightly less than the measured area 119.97 ha (measured from 2000 AP) in 2004. A simple calculation (taking the peat-cutting rate at 2 m/year and 0.22 km of the high bog margin being cut between 2000- 2004) gives the loss of high bog as 0.18 ha. So the high bog area in 2004 (119.97 ha) is an over-estimate (by 0.1-0.2 ha), depending on the rate of peat cutting.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 117 120.56 119.97 119.97 2 -0.99 ha -0.8% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by ~0.1-0.2 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small increase (8.5%) in the extent of active raised bog from 41.73 ha in 1995 to a total of 45.25 ha in 2004 (Table 8.2). The active raised bog extends further east and south-east compared to 1995. However, there has been a small decline in active raised bog in the south-west region. An increase in active raised bog extent between 0 and 15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable maintained (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The habitat structure and function of the current active raised bog has declined somewhat since the 1995 survey with several negative quality indicators present, although the decline is not as obvious when compared to other sites. The area of the central ecotope has declined by 63% from 3.61 ha in 1995 to 1.33 ha in 2005 and has shrunk around its former extent. The habitat quality of this central ecotope has not changed significantly since 1995 when it was described as complex 14 (frequent pools). Now it is described as complex 10/15 (abundant Sphagnum cover and less frequent pools). The overall Sphagnum cover is still quite high (80-90%) and it is still quaking. There are frequent infilled hollows containing S. cuspidatum, (which could have been described as frequent pools in 1995). Kelly et al., (1995) describe this area as having frequent interconnecting pools of S. magellanicum and S. cuspidatum and a general Sphagnum cover of almost 100%. (This description of changes in habitat quality should take into account differences between the surveys, which are discussed further in section 9.2). The former central ecotope has declined on the north-east side and has degraded to sub-central ecotope (complexes 10 & 10/9). These complexes around the central ecotope have a lower Sphagnum cover (60-70%) but are close in quality to central ecotope. The habitat quality of the sub-central ecotope in the central section has remained relatively stable with some changes in complex names between the two surveys. Complex 10 formerly dominated the sub-central ecotope and was described as having Sphagnum cover of 70% being dominated by low hummocks of lawns of S. magellanicum and having few permanent pools which are filled with S. cuspidatum. Some individual trees are scattered throughout the sub-central ecotope and the northern wooded area extends into the active raised bog in one section.
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The sub-central ecotope has expanded east and south-east across former marginal ecotope complexes 3, 3/7 + Cladonia 3+ Cladonia and 3/6/4. The sub-central ecotope has expanded south of drain bM in the central area. The Sphagnum cover has increased in these areas with the appearance of hummocks and lawn patches of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. The active raised bog has expanded south of drain bM and extends close to the southern wooded zone. There has been some loss of sub-central habitat along the north-eastern region of the former active bog. This area is wooded by Pinus sylvestris trees and is a mosaic of better quality and poorer quality areas. The boundary between the active raised bog and degraded raised bog is not distinct in this area. There has also been some loss in the south-western region of the former sub-central ecotope. There are several small relic patches of sub- central ecotope in this area. A description of the changes in habitat structure and function of the former active raised bog areas that are now classified as degraded raised bog is given in the conservation assessment of degraded raised bog.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Lawns and hummocks of Sphagnum magellanicum are relatively frequent at this site. Hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum also occur within the active raised bog. Sphagnum cuspidatum occurs in some pools and has infilled other pools and small hollows in the sub-central ecotope, and is especially frequent in the central ecotope. Some of the pools in the sub-central ecotope that contain open water also contain some algae, but it is not frequent. There is a substantial Cladonia spp. cover on parts of the active raised bog. These are positive indicators. The Midlands raised bog indicators S. magellanicum, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia are all present and quite frequent. The Western raised bog indicator Pleurozia purpurea is present in this habitat. The habitat quality could be assessed as C as there has been a major decrease in the extent of central ecotope (a loss of 63% as indicated by the statistics) from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). However, this may be over-estimated and may exaggerate the change in conservation status of the active raised bog. The area of central ecotope appears similar in size both the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos indicating that the decline in extent may not be as significant as indicated by the statistics. Therefore the habitat quality of active raised bog is assessed as B. ! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects The habitat is moderately threatened and is slowly declining. There are poor prospects for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1995 2004 Variation ECOTOPES (adjusted 1) Active Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 3.61 2.99 1.33 1.11 -2.28 -63.1 Sub-central 38.12 31.62 43.92 36.61 +5.80 +15.2 Total 41.73 34.61 45.25 37.72 +3.52 +8.4 1 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The 1995 high bog area measured from the 1995 photos was 10.3.04% of the Kelly et al., (1995) high bog area. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The overall conservation status of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
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8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a small decrease in the area of degraded raised bog from 78.83 ha (65.38% of high bog) in 1995 to 74.72 ha (62.3%) in 2004 (Table 8.3). This is due to the expansion of active raised bog and the enhancement in quality of some former degraded raised bog between 1995 and 2005, particularly in the south-east region of the high bog. There has been a very small loss of degraded bog habitat due to marginal peat cutting between 1995-2005 (with a loss between 0.05-0.1%). The habitat extent is assessed as A as there has been a minor decrease in the extent of degraded raised bog area from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). ! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The south-west corner of the former active raised bog area has degraded with the former sub-central complexes 10/3 and 10/3 + Cladonia degrading to the current sub-marginal complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia. The general Sphagnum cover has declined from about 60-70% in 1995 to 20-30% in 2005. The general vegetation has not changed significantly with Carex panicea and Eriophorum vaginatum both still quite dominant. However, the Calluna vulgaris cover may have increased since then. Complex 9/7/3 + Cladonia is a relatively high quality sub-marginal complex and approaches sub-central quality in small patches, particularly where S. magellanicum is present. There are several small relic sub-central ecotope patches located in this region. The former degraded raised bog has increased in habitat quality somewhat since 1995 as no sub-marginal ecotope was mapped during this survey. Now there are 34.7 ha of sub-marginal ecotope and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 38%. The sub-marginal ecotope is generally relatively good in quality with a Sphagnum cover ranging between 20-40% in places. The general vegetation cover changed somewhat with Calluna vulgaris and Eriophorum vaginatum being quite frequent and Carex panicea not dominating extensive parts of complexes as it did in 1995. However, the descriptions given by Kelly et al., (1995) of the marginal complexes now mapped as sub-marginal ecotope in the south-east region indicate that these areas contained good quality marginal vegetation and could have been mapped as sub-marginal ecotope. This area also has a relatively abundant cover of Cladonia spp. Some of the sub-marginal ecotope in the northern part of the high bog contains frequent Pinus trees. The current marginal ecotope has not changed significantly in quality with some new recruitment in the main wooded zones in the north and south of the site. However there has been no significant spread of trees between 1995-2005. The habitat quality is assessed as A as there has been a major increase in the extent of sub-marginal ecotope and corresponding reduction in marginal ecotope from 1995 to 2005 (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Hollows containing Sphagnum magellanicum occur in the sub-marginal ecotope. Occasional hummocks of S. fuscum and S. imbricatum are present. The Cladonia spp. cover is still quite high over most of the high bog indicating a lack of disturbance of these areas for a relatively long time. These are positive indicators. There is a substantial area of degraded raised bog around the northern southern and eastern margins being invaded by Pinus sylvestris. These are negative quality indicators. The Midlands raised bog indicators Sphagnum magellanicum, Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia are all present and quite frequent.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable enhanced (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects The habitat is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and long term viability not assured as long as peat cutting continues.
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Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1995 2004 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 0.00 0.00 34.71 28.93 34.71 N/A Marginal 78.83 65.38 31.53 26.28 -38.81 2 -38.5 Facebank 1 NA NA 8.48 7.07 8.48 N/A Total 78.83 65.38 74.72 62.3 -4.10 -5.2 1 The facebank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 The Kelly et al., (1995) areas have been proportionally adjusted to take into account the GIS-measured high bog area from the 1995 photos. The was the 1995 high bog area was 100.304% of Kelly et al., (1995) high bog areas measured from the 1995 photos. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The overall conservation status of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining(EU, B unfavourable inadequate) as future prospects are poor.
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities This habitat occurs most frequently in the active raised bog in certain sub-central complexes (complex 4/10) but only occur in small amounts in other active raised bog areas. The extent of this habitat was not quantified as it occurs as a mosaic. Hollows dominated by Rhynchospora alba are not as frequent at this site compared to other sites. However, this habitat is listed as having a percentage cover of 1% on the Ferbane Natura form. There has probably not been a significant decline in the extent and habitat quality of this habitat as the extent of active bog has not declined.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Ferbane Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog While the extent of active raised bog has increased slightly since 1995 the habitat quality has declined since 1995 as the central ecotope decreased in area. There are some negative quality indicators present in the current sub-central ecotope occurring around the central ecotope. The change in area of the central ecotope indicates that peat-cutting and drainage and other activities on and around the high bog have had a significant impact on the conservation status of the raised high bog at Ferbane. The intensity of impacts on the high bog has declined somewhat since 1995 and are not as relatively intense at present compared to other sites (Tables 6.1 & 6.2). However, these impacts were probably more intense and had a greater influence in the past. The intensity of peat-cutting has declined since 1995 with 3.6% of the high bog margin being recently actively cut (previously 11% in 1995). Drainage has also had a significant impact with 8.85 km of drains occurring on a relatively small high bog. Some old drains have infilled and have become non- functional. The drainage function is likely to be similar or to have declined slightly since 1995 and no new drains were dug or maintained during this period. This site has not been burnt extensively recently and there is a good quality Cladonia spp. cover present. The expansion of active raised bog in the south-eastern region may be related to recovery from an old fire that was recorded in this area.
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The northern and southern margins of the high bog are particularly wooded with Pinus sylvestris and there has been some recruitment of new trees during this period. However, seedlings and small saplings are not particularly frequent in these areas so the rate of recruitment of trees has probably not changed significantly. No new previously un-wooded areas are being invaded by trees. Peat-cutting along plot 1 and drainage from drain complex bP on the western side of the high bog is likely to be significantly negative impacting on the central ecotope. The statistics indicate that there has been a 63% decline in the extent of the central ecotope since 1995. However, this may be over-estimated and may exaggerate the change in conservation status of the active raised bog (the habitat quality of active raised bog is rated as B but could have been rated as C). The area of central ecotope appears similar in size both the 1995 and 2000 aerial photos indicating that the decline in extent may not be as significant as indicated by the statistics. The loss of central ecotope as indicated by the statistics is 2.28 ha. The area of central ecotope may have been over- estimated in 1995. The sub-central ecotope complexes that surrounded the central ecotope approach central ecotope quality and may have been classified as central ecotope in 1995. The total area of sub-central ecotope has increased since 1995 and this should also mitigate somewhat for the loss of central ecotope, though this is not taken into consideration during the rating of conservation status. The assessment of the conservation status of the Annex 1 habitats at Ferbane Bog should take into account differences in surveying and mapping techniques between the 2005 survey and the 1994 survey. The change in the extent and quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2004 is not significant enough to preclude any false-positive changes due to differences in surveying and mapping techniques.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog This site was given the rating Bi by Cross (1990) following the National Raised Bog surveys. This second-best rating was given to good quality sites with wet and soft areas still present, where the hydrology was not seriously damaged. This rating if applied today would probably be re-applied again as the habitat extent and quality of active raised bog has not declined significantly. The assessment of the conservation status of the Annex 1 habitats at Ferbane Bog should take into account differences in surveying and mapping techniques between the 2004/5 survey and the 1995 survey. The change in the quality of the active raised bog between 1995-2005 (i.e. reduction in area of the central ecotope) may be partially related to differences between the surveys and may be related to actual impacts from adjacent peat- cutting and drainage. The overall conservation status could have been be assessed as C as the statistics indicate that there has been a major decrease in the extent of central ecotope from 1995 to 2005 and this single low rating overrules the other A rating of habitat extent. However this C rating probably exaggerates the change in conservation status of this site. Therefore this site is given an overall rating of B.
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Ferbane Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Douglas, C. & Mooney, E. 1983. Survey to locate raised bogs of scientific interest. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 10/15 3/10 + Cl 4/10 10/3 GPS READING 210666, 211165, 210996, 210981, 226134 226128 225986 225805 QUADRAT NAME QC1 QSc1 QSc2 QSc3 FIRMNESS very soft very soft soft very soft CRACKING no no no no BOG BURST no no no no SLOPE depression flat depression flat DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains BURNT no TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS absent absent absent absent ALGAL POOL absent absent absent absent BARE PEAT absent absent absent 1% POOL COVER 5% absent absent < 5% POOLS reg pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pools, laws, low hums & low hums & flats low hums hm, hol hols hols & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 5% 15% 10% 20% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% < 5% 1% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent < 5% absent absent TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 15% 20% 15% 30% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks & hummocks hummocks hummocks hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS 20% 10% 25% 20% S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hummocks & hummocks & lawns & hollows lawns lawns hollows S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent absent absent absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS absent absent absent absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS 25% absent 20% 10% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 5% 10% 5% 5% NARTHECIUM < 5% < 5% < 5% < 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS 20% absent absent < 5% S. SUBNITENS absent absent absent S. AURIC POOLS absent absent absent absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS absent < 5% < 5% absent S. CUSP 40% < 5% < 5% < 5% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 60% 10% 25% 40% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 25% 40% 30% 40% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 90% 50% 60% 80% E. ANGUS < 5% < 5% < 5% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricat fuscum & fuscum & S. imbricat imbricat imbricat POOLS INDICATORS S. cusp S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA < 5% 30% 10% 30% CLADONIA COVER 30% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS absent NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 10% 25% 15% 25% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.3 0.2 0.3 OTHER DETAILS OTHER SPECIES Carex panicea Aulacomnium carex 5-10 (15%) palustre & P. alpestre
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COMPLEX VARIATIONS SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DETAILS
Appendix II Photographical records
Image Feature Grid Reference Date Number HPIM0334 invasive pine along N margin 211298, 226449 15/03/2005 HPIM0335 invasive pine along N margin 211298, 226449 15/03/2005 HPIM0336 S. magellanicum infilled pools and lawns 210969, 225824 15/03/2005 SC 3/10 HPIM0337 S. magellanicum infilled pools and lawns 210969, 225824 15/03/2005 SC 3/10
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES 1995 Adjustment 1995 (Kelly et al., 1995) (Adjusted 1) Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 3.5 3.0 X 1.0304 3.61 2.99 Sub-central 37 31.6 X 1.0304 38.12 31.62 Sub-marginal 0 0.0 X 1.0304 0.00 0.00 Marginal 76.5 65.4 X 1.0304 78.83 65.38 Flushes (active 0 0 X 1.0304 0 0 and inactive) Total 117 100 120.56 100 1 The total area of the high bog measured from the 1995 aerial photograph in 2004 was 120.56 ha. This area is 96.96% of the total area of the original ecotopes (117 ha.) Therefore each individual ecotope area listed in Kelly et al., (1995) has been modified (increased by 3.04%) so that the total ecotope area is equivalent to 120.56 ha.
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Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Mongan Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 580 6” Sheet: Offaly 5 & 6 Grid Ref.: 203300, 230800 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha): 207.83 High bog area 2004 (ha): 124.43 Dates of Visit: 17th August 2004 Townlands: Clonfinlough, Clonscra and Tullaghbeg and Clonmacnoise.
2. SITE LOCATION
Mongan Bog is located in the western part of Co. Offaly, 2km east of the Clonmacnoise National Monument and the River Shannon on the central plain of the Irish midlands.. Part of the site is owned by An Taisce. The road between Ballynahown and Clonmacnoise runs by the southern side of the site and The Pilgrim's road runs along the esker to the north. A Bord na Mona railway runs along the east and north-eastern edge. This site is accessed from the Ballynahown to Clonmacnoise or Shannonbridge road. There is room to park along a siding of a BnM railway track to the right of this road. The drain at this edge of the site may be crossed by a number of planks.
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out on in August 2004, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Mongan Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
The site has an approximately elliptical shape. It reaches its maximum length in an ENE-WSW direction while it is thinnest in a north-south direction. Although it is considered to be a midland raised bog it has elements of the more western or transitional raised bogs. This bog has been classified as a Basin bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges. (Kelly et al., 1995)
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC)
The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Mongan Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 53.99ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Mongan Bog composed mainly of central ecotope with a small area of sub-central ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 43.39% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has increased slightly since 1995 when there was 50.9ha of active raised bog (40.8% of high bog area) and 39.8% of this area was central ecotope. The active complex 15 occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. There is a good micro-topography consisting of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks are occasionally found and
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 some supporting Calluna vulgaris (0.5m tall) and Leucobryum glaucum. Interconnected pools and tear pools at the margins of the complex are colonised by S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and also S. magellanicum. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%. The western indicator Pleurozia purpurea is also found very occasionally. Although algae is found in the pools at the margins of the complex it is absent in the centre. Large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and Sphagnum papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Furthermore, algae is absent and there are large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks present. A complex 15 + Cl is similar to the complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This active complex is found in two locations on the bog, the first one to the NE and the second and larger to the west. The former features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. A small area sub-central complex 3/15 is seen at the north of high bog located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%).
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 70.45 ha (56.6%) of degraded raised bog within this site. The degraded bog at Mongan also supports a raised bog flora, but there is a lower cover of Sphagnum (10 - 20%) and pool areas are less frequent, and are generally either dry or algal some have Sphagnum cuspidatum and E. angustifolium found in them. There are signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum. Dominant species Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Trichophorum are more frequent in the degraded areas also. The Cladonia cover is 15% - 90% in isolated places, the main species is C. portentosa with some C. uncialis and C. ciliata
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. It is present in the Active raised bog in complexes 15 in lawns and 3/15 in the pools but in small quantities.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Mongan raised bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Mongan Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 15 This active complex occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. A gentle slope is noted at either north or south sides of the complex. The ground is soft to quaking near the pools. The microtopography consists of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks are occasionally found and some taller are recorded supporting Calluna vulgaris (0.5m tall) and Leucobryum glaucum. Drosera rotundifolia is found on top of the hummocks. Interconnected pools and tear pools at the margins of the complex are colonised by S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and also S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba, Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Utricularia minor are also found in the pools, the latter only very occasionally. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%. Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Carex panicea (10%) and Calluna vulgaris accompanied by Erica tetralix (20%) characterise the complex. The western indicator Pleurozia purpurea is also found very occasionally. Although algae is found in the pools at the margins of the complex it is absent in the centre. Large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and Sphagnum papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Furthermore, algae is absent and large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks. Quadrats Qc1, Qc3 & Qc4 were taken within this complex and the locations are shown on Map 1 and all details in appendix I.
Complex 15+Cladonia (15 + Cl) This complex is similar to the complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This active complex is found in two locations on the bog, the first one to the NE (GR. 203813, 231037) and the second and larger to the west (GR. 202934, 230878). The former features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. The Sphagnum cover accounts for 60% of the complex surface. Quadrat Qc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/15 This small sub-central complex is seen at the north of high bog (GR. 202764, 231133). The ground is soft to quaking and is located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%). The hummocks consist of Sphagnum imbricatum, S. capillifolium and S. subnitens. Leucobryum glaucum hummocks are found, as well as dry Calluna vulgaris hummocks with Pleurozium schreberi. Although pools contain mostly S. cuspidatum, Rhynchospora alba and Eriophorum angustifolium, algae is occasional (5%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 50%. Carex panicea (20%), Narthecium ossifragum (10%), Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (20%) are dominant. Scattered Myrica gale bushes are found encroaching into the high bog.
Active Flushes
There are no active flushes on this bog.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 6/3 + Pools (6 + P) This complex occupies the area where blocked drains bC to bG are found and formerly (1994-95) was deemed marginal (part of the complexes 3- and 3) (GR. 202757, 230785). The ground is firm to soft in places and small depressions are noted in the areas among the drains. Tussocks, low hummocks and regular pools characterise the micro-topography. Trichophorum caespitosum and Eriophorum vaginatum compose the tussocks. Low hummocks consist of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. subnitens. The pools although are generally either dry or algal some S. cuspidatum and E. angustifolium is found in them. This complex shows signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum noted. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. Cladonia portentosa is also found 5%. Dominant species are Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Carex panicea (20%) and Trichophorum (10%). Quadrat QSm1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
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Complex 6/3 + Tear Pools (6/3 + TP) This small sub-marginal complex is found to the SE of the large central complex 15 (GR. 204108, 230964), the ground is soft and the surface is relatively flat. Low Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum papillosum hummocks and very occasionally Sphagnum fuscum and Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks are noted. The hollows are mostly open water and algae, occasionally Sphagnum cuspidatum. Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Carex panicea (10%), E. angustifolium (5%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%), shorter than 0.3m, dominate the complex. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10% and Cladonia portentosa is 5%.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 2 This complex with abundant Trichophorum caespitosum tussocks (15%) interspersed with algal hollows (20%), Narthecium hollows (5%) and typical hummocks (45%) is found at the NW of the site. The Sphagnum cover is low at 10% and an acrotelm layer is mostly absent. Occasionally Carex panicea and R. alba are seen. The occurrence of this complex in this area is probably associated with the gradual drying out of the bog from the western end.
Complex 3 This is the Carex panicea dominated complex (25 - 30%). It occurs in three main areas – along the northern boundary of the site at the north east corner (GR. 203825, 231097),and the north west corner (GR. 202540, 230814),and also at the south west (GR. 203107, 230361),. The lichen cover is very high up to 90% in places suggesting that the site has not been burnt for some time. The main species is Cladonia portentosa with some C. uncialis and C. ciliata. The Carex panicea flats are interspersed with Calluna dominated hummocks (30%). Some of these hummocks reach heights of 40cm and Sphagnum subnitens was noted. There are some Narthecium hollows (10%). The total Sphagnum cover is low at 15% and thus the acrotelm layer is poorly developed. Quadrat Qm1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
Complex 3+Tear pools (3 + TP) This complex is seen in the eastern section of Mongan bog and includes the area where blocked drains bA are found (GR. 203842, 230694). The ground is soft to very soft in patches and a gentle slope is recorded towards the NE of the high bog. Low hummocks, tear pool and in-filled drains characterise the micro-topography. Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium compose the hummocks. Tear pools consists of Eriophorum angustifolium, open water and some S. cuspidatum. The drain complex bA was blocked and S. cuspidatum and E. angustifolium are found. Carex panicea (20%), Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and E. angustifolium (10%) dominate the complex. Calluna vulgaris, which is shorter than 0.3m, (cover is 20%) and Cladonia portentosa (15%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 15%.
Complex 3/6 This marginal complex is found at the NE of the high bog or east of the sub-central complex 3/15 (GR. 203924, 231175). The ground is soft and the surface slopes northwards. Sphagnum subnitens, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum and open water hollows dominate the micro-topography. The total Sphagnum cover ranges between 10 and 20%. Cladonia portentosa (30%), Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Calluna vulgaris (10%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) dominate the complex.
Complex 6/3 This complex is seen at the north of the high bog to the SW of drain bH(GR. 203610, 231123),. The ground is firm to soft in places and a gentle slope towards the north edge is noted. Narthecium ossifragum flats and hollows dominate the micro-topography. The overall Sphagnum cover is low 5% and S. capillifolium, S. tenellum and S. magellanicum are found. Narthecium ossifragum (40%), Carex panicea (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) are predominant and Cladonia portentosa cover is 5%.
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Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This facebank complex is characterised by tall Calluna vulgaris. The bryophyte layer is often dominated by Hypnum jutlandicum with little to no Sphagnum cover. Occasional Narthecium ossifragum hollows occur. This complex is particularly well developed at the western end of the site where peat cutting has not been carried out for some time. The Calluna is approximately 80cm tall in this area. An acrotelm layer is mostly absent where this complex occurs and the ground is typically hard.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities
The Rhynchosporion vegetation at this site is poorly developed in comparison to other raised bog sites. It is present in the Active raised bog in complex 15 along with Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Utricularia minor in pools. Its also found in large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and S. papillosum lawns which contain Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Its found in the subcentral complex 3/15 in the pools in small quantities along with S. cuspidatum, and Eriophorum angustifolium, with occasional algae.
5.3. Regenerating cutover
No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., 1995., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats
A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 15 Qc2 Central 15+Cl Qc3 Central 15 Qc4 Central 15 Qsm1 Sub-marginal 6/3+P Qm1 Marginal 3
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of C -1 0.12 km peat 810 Drainage B (-1) 8.34 km
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Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 310 Peat extraction C (1-) NA 810 Drainage A (2-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al., (1995) stated that peat cutting had been carried out around the entire perimeter of the bog. Small scale recent cutting was noted at a number of localities on the southern side of the bog, at one site on the northern margin and to the NE of the site where some mole drains were noted and the surface of the bog as rotivated. Fresh peat was noted at these sites. Active cutting was carried out on a small scale along the northern margin and difco cutting had been carried out in 1993 in two small areas east of the grassy reclaimed fields at the south of the site. The northern edge has suffered the least peat cutting in the past and the boundary appears to correspond closely to the original bog edge. Commercial peat extraction is carried out by Bord na Mona in the area adjacent to the north-eastern margin of the bog and the site has been cut off from part of its original extent by a Bord na Mona railway. This activity is part of a larger harvesting operation which is based in Blackwater Bog immediately to the south of the southern esker complex. Elsewhere around the bog margins peat cutting is small scale and carried out in isolated pockets. To the west peat cutting has been extensive but is now abandoned. BnM are currently exploiting the area of bog to the east of the railway. To the SE farm land has been reclaimed from cut-away peat. This is highlighted in table 6.2 where the intensity of peat cutting outside of the high bog has been classified as being low. The influence has been given a moderate negative influence. This site was not visited by MacGowan et al., (2004). During the 2004/2005 survey it was noted that in the east of the site there is a face bank currently cut - 1m deep and 30m wide. The cutover slopes down the face bank. There is a drain parallel to the face-bank, 40m away approx., it is full of water but not flowing. The high bog is used for spreading the turf and as a result there is an area of 100m x 30m devoid of vegetation adjacent to the facebank. . This is highlighted in table 6.1 where the intensity of peat cutting within of the high bog has been classified as being low due to <5% of the high bog margin currently cut. The influence has been given a moderate negative influence as the plots are to be phased out in the medium to long tern. (See Map 3).
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage A number of blocked drains (reduced functional) and an active drain occur on Mongan high bog. There has been a significant decrease in the intensity of drainage on the site in the last ten years as the major drains on the site have been blocked. These were blocked prior to the Kelly et al., 1995 survey. The eastern and western drains were dammed by Groundwork volunteers working for An Taisce between 1984 and 1986 and as part of an ECO training course in 1986. These blocked drains (complex bA, bB and bC- bG) crossed the site in an approximately NW – SE direction. Kellys report stated that many of the blocked drains were leaking. The majority of the blocked drains can be classed as reduced functional. The remaining drains through the site are infilled and deemed non functional. There is only one apparent functional drain (bH) located in the north of on the site. Refer to impacts map (Map 3). In table 6.1 the drainage on the site has been assigned an influence of -1 (moderate negative influence) as no functional drains occur in the active areas or adjacent to active areas. The intensity is assigned B – medium influence as although the fraction of functional drains on the high bog is 1 m/ha (C rating), but as a portion of the blocked drains could be deemed reduced functional, its thought that a B rating is more appropriate (5 – 30 m/ha).
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Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain The drains in the drain complex bA are blocked . There are approximately 15 drains complex bA running in a NW – SE direction at the eastern part of the bog 0.5 m deep x 05 m wide Drain bB This in-filling drain is found at the west of the site and was also blocked. It runs in a NW – SE direction Sphagnum auriculatum and Sphagnum cuspidatum colonise the drain. Drain The drains in the drain complex bA are blocked . There are approximately 5 drains complex bC - running in a NW – SE direction at the western part of the bog bG Drain bH This drain is found to the north of the site and is still active. It is 1x 0.75m wide and mostly bare peat at the base and sides. Drain bI This old in-filled drain is found at the south of the site. It runs in a NW – SE direction along one of the townland boundaries. Drain bJ This in-filling drain is found at the south of the site. It runs parallel with the high bog boundary in a SW – NE direction Non There are a further 625m of old short in-filled drain is found around the western, south Functional western and north western edges of the high bog. Drains
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 7737 127 -76102 drains (m) 1 Length of reduced- NA 0 0 function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 1265 -1265 drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 8214 +8214 Area affected by 125ha / 100% 124.6 ha / 100% N/A drainage (ha - %) 1 includes several old drains likely to have pre-dated 1995. 2 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
Despite the variation in the figure shown in the table above there has not been major variations in the high bog drainage except the drainage blocking in the high bog. Thus, no new drains have been dug in the high bog since 1995. The drain blocking although some drains may still be classed as reduced functional have resulted in a localised improvement especially in the west of the bog where areas of marginal have been upgraded to sub- marginal since the 1995 survey.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The 1995 survey reported that the hydrological regime of the bog margins is dominated by a number of drains. Overall, drains on the northern, western and south western sides of the bog flow directly to the Shannon, whereas those on the eastern and south eastern sides flow to the south to Blackwater Bog. The catchment divide between the two areas is shown on the Drains and Hydrochemistry Map. See Kelly et al. (1995) for more details of drainage in the cutover areas. The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004.
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6.3. Fire history
There was no evidence of burning in the 1995 report and there haven been no burning events on the high bog since. The extensive lichen cover over much of the bog suggests that it has not been burnt for some time. In addition the occurrence of Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks in vegetation Complex 3, which is rather dry, indicates that this area has not been burnt (Kelly et al., 1995). The 2004/05 survey noted that in this complex the lichen cover was very high up to 90% in places suggesting that the site has not been burnt for some time.
6.4. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as grazing (140), fertilisation (120), mowing & cutting (102) and improved access (530) were reported within and around the site in the Natura 2000 Form. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage. Kelly et al., 1995 reported that a large scale commercial gravel extraction is carried out close to the south-eastern margin of the bog. A smaller abandoned pit is found on the NE side of the bog although it is suspected that extraction has not been carried out on this site for a long period of time.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS There is no Management Plan produced for Mongan SAC 580. However a Draft Conservation Plan was developed by MPSU for the period 2003 - 2008.
7.1. Conservation Activities Restoration works in the form of drain blocking in 1984 – 1986, the eastern and western drains were dammed by Groundwork volunteers working for An Taisce between 1984 and 1986 and as part of an ECO training course in 1986., with all major drains encompassing 8.21km blocked. Most of these drains are infilled and some are still in-filling with large Sphagnum patches. Some of the drains have open water patches and are likely to have some reduced function with running water noted in the drains (See table 6.2.1 for further description). The drains bB – bG have shown the most dramatic improvements. This area shows signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum noted. In the 1995 survey this area was classified as marginal ecotope, complex 3 and now has upgraded to sub-marginal complex 6/3 + pools. Tussocks, low hummocks and regular pools characterise the micro-topography. This drain blocking has contributed to reduce the water loss and to encourage the development of active raised bog in the areas adjacent to places where actions where taken. Thus they are assessed as being at least locally positive.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2000) Kelly et al., Digitised 1995. ortho-image 125 124.6 124.43 124.43 2 0.17 ha <1% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by <0.5 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog Habitat extent There has been an overall increase in the area of active raised bog from 50.9ha in 1994 to 53.99ha in 2004 (6.07% increase in the original active raised bog area). This is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. The habitat extent is assessed as A as there has been a slight increase (0 – 15% increase) in active raised bog area from 1995 to 2004 (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). The increase shown is more likely to be due to differences in mapping as stated earlier.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The active central complex 15 still occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. There is still a good micro- topography consisting of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. A central complex 15 + Cl is similar to complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This complex features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. A small area sub-central complex 3/15 is seen at the north of high bog located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%) and has not changed much in the 10 years since the 1995 survey. There may have been a slight increase in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat as the area of central community complexes have increased by 3.68ha (7.4% of HB) between 1994 and 2004. Some of this difference may be explained by differences in mapping techniques and vegetation analysis. An increase in the area covered by central ecotope greater than 5% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable enhanced (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). However as stated earlier the increase shown is more likely to be due to differences in mapping, therefore the conservation status is likely to be favourable maintained (A).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The hummock quality indicators, Sphagnum fuscum and S. imbricatum are present throughout the areas of active habitat while the western indicator, Racomitrium lanuginosum is also present in active habitat on the site as well as the midland indictor, S. magellanicum. The positive pool indicator S. cuspidatum is found in large pools and S. papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
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Future prospects Active raised bog is not significantly threatened on Mongan Bog. There are excellent or good prospects for its future and therefore long term viability is assured if the current status remains.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 49.7 39.8 53.38 42.89 +3.68 +7.4% Sub-central 1.2 1 0.61 0.5 -0.59 -49% Total 50.9 40.8 53.99 43.39 +3.09 +6.07% 1 Differences in active flush due to mapping differences between 1995 and 2004.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Mongan bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall decrease in the area of degraded raised bog from 74.1ha in 1994 to 70.45ha in 2004 (4.9% decrease in the original degraded raised bog area). This is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. According to the conservation status assessment criteria both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. An decrease less than 5%, within a period of ten years, falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of unfavourable unchanged B (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
Habitat structure and function There has been an improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog since the sub-marginal ecotope has increased by 11.02ha and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 14.67ha (19.79%). There was no sub-marginal complex noted on the site in the 1994 survey and this increase in su-marginal has not been to the expense of sub- central and more to do with the improvement of the 1994 marginal areas (associated with drain blocking) or differences in survey techniques. This increase in sub-marginal is thus considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report), a reduction of marginal ecotope extent between 5 - 25% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable recovering.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The sub-marginal ecotope very occasionally contains Sphagnum fuscum and Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks. The pools although are generally either dry or algal some contain Sphagnum cuspidatum The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. Sphagnum cuspidatum is found in some tear pools in the marginal ecotope. The total Sphagnum cover ranges between 10 and 20% but decreases to <5% in places. Cladonia portentosa (30%). Disturbance indicators: bare peat, high presence of Trichophorum, drier ground and low Sphagnum cover are found in patches of the high bog (e.g. Complex 2 & 6/3).
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! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is not significantly threatened. There are good prospects for its future and the long-term viability is assured if peat-cutting ceases.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/054 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 0 0 11.02 8.85 +11.02 N/A Marginal 74.1 59.2 54.51 43.8 -14.672 -19.79% Face-bank 1 0 0 4.92 3.95 0 N/A Total 74.1 59.2 70.45 56.6 3.65 -4.9% 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2: This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 ortho-rectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Mongan bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. The extent of vegetation complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp. or characterised by the abundance of Rhynchospora spp. has not changed substantially between 1994 and 2004. The habitat quality Rhynchosporion depression communities are likely to have been maintained.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Mongan Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting: Current peat extraction consists of a face bank cutting in the east of the site. In this area the high bog is used for spreading the turf. However, the intensity of peat cutting within the high bog has been classified as being low due to <5% of the high bog margin currently cut. The influence has been given a moderately negative influence as the plots are to be phased out in the medium to long term. Drainage: No new drains have been inserted in the high bog since the 1994 survey. The most significant changes ongoing on the site currently is the re-wetting of areas of degraded high bog due to the blocking (in the 1990s) of three major drains running approximately E/W across the centre and south of the site. Blocking of drains is likely to improve the quality and probably increase the extent of active raised bog in the high bog in the future.
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9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has increased (6.07% - 3.09ha) (or at the very least remained the same due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004) at Mongan bog since the last survey (1994). There may have been a slight increase in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat as the area of central community complexes have increased by 3.68ha (7.4% of HB) between 1994 and 2004. Some of this difference may be explained by differences in mapping techniques and vegetation analysis. Thus, the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent has slightly decreased by 4.9%, this is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. There has been an improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog since the sub-marginal ecotope has increased by 11.02ha and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 14.67ha (19.79%). Thus, the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable). Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are found scattered throughout the entire surface of the high bog, in either active or degraded raised bog. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Mongan is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y., Fanning, M. & McKee, A. 2004. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. O’Mahoney, C., (in prep.) Conservation Plan for Natura 2000 site. Mongan Bog (cSAC 580) Co. Offaly. 2003 - 2008
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats ECOTOPE Central Central Central Central Sub-marginal COMPLEX NAME 15 15 + cl 15 15 6/3 + p QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qc2 Qc3 Qc4 Qsm1 EASTING 203988 203810 203343 203539 202793 NORTHING 230992 231054 231005 230612 230687 FIRMNESS quaking very soft quaking quaking firm-soft CRACKING no no no no no BOG BURST no no no no no SLOPE flat flat steep slope gentle slope flat DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains infilling drains BURNT TREND stable stable stable wetter ALGAL HOLLOWS absent absent absent 5% ALGAL POOL < 5% absent < 5% < 5% BARE PEAT POOL COVER 40% 15% 50% 60% 20% inter-connecting inter-connecting POOLS tear pools pools pools tear pools low hums, hols, high hum, hol, MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pool low hums, hols, pool pool low hums, hols, pool low hums, hols, pool COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% 5% < 5% < 5% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS 10% 5% 10% 5% < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent absent TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent < 5% S. PAP COVER 5% 5% 15% 5% 5% S. PAP HABITAT lawns hollows lawns and pools hollows hollows S. MAG COVER 15% < 5% 5% 5% 5% S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows hollows S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS 10% < 5% 5% 5% 10% R. FUSCA HOLLOWS R. ALBA HOLLOWS 5% < 5% < 5% 10% 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 10% 5% 5% NARTHECIUM HOLLOWS 10% 15% 10% 5% 10% NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollows lawns hollows and lawns lawns lawns S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS < 5% < 5% < 5% 5% S. SUBNITENS S. AURIC POOLS 5% < 5% 5% 10% 5% S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS 5% S. CUSP 10% < 5% 10% 20% 10% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 40% 10% 60% 40% 15% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 15% 5% 15% 10% 5% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 60% 15% 70% 50% 20% E. ANGUS 5% < 5% < 5% < 5% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS S. fuscum & HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum imbricatum S. imbricatum
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POOLS INDICATORS all all all all all CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 10% < 5% < 5% CLADONIA COVER 5% 50% 10% < 5% < 5% DISTURBANCE INDICATORS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA 25% S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 15% 15% 15% 15% 20% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.3 OTHER DETAILS Racomitrium OTHER SPECIES hummock COMPLEX VARIATIONS less Cladonia SIMILAR DESCRIPTION yes no yes yes
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Mongan Bog, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 580 6” Sheet: Offaly 5 & 6 Grid Ref.: 203300, 230800 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha): 207.83 High bog area 2004 (ha): 124.43 Dates of Visit: 17th August 2004 Townlands: Clonfinlough, Clonscra and Tullaghbeg and Clonmacnoise.
2. SITE LOCATION
Mongan Bog is located in the western part of Co. Offaly, 2km east of the Clonmacnoise National Monument and the River Shannon on the central plain of the Irish midlands.. Part of the site is owned by An Taisce. The road between Ballynahown and Clonmacnoise runs by the southern side of the site and The Pilgrim's road runs along the esker to the north. A Bord na Mona railway runs along the east and north-eastern edge. This site is accessed from the Ballynahown to Clonmacnoise or Shannonbridge road. There is room to park along a siding of a BnM railway track to the right of this road. The drain at this edge of the site may be crossed by a number of planks.
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out on in August 2004, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Mongan Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
The site has an approximately elliptical shape. It reaches its maximum length in an ENE-WSW direction while it is thinnest in a north-south direction. Although it is considered to be a midland raised bog it has elements of the more western or transitional raised bogs. This bog has been classified as a Basin bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges. (Kelly et al., 1995)
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC)
The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Mongan Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 53.99ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Mongan Bog composed mainly of central ecotope with a small area of sub-central ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 43.39% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has increased slightly since 1995 when there was 50.9ha of active raised bog (40.8% of high bog area) and 39.8% of this area was central ecotope. The active complex 15 occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. There is a good micro-topography consisting of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks are occasionally found and
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 some supporting Calluna vulgaris (0.5m tall) and Leucobryum glaucum. Interconnected pools and tear pools at the margins of the complex are colonised by S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and also S. magellanicum. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%. The western indicator Pleurozia purpurea is also found very occasionally. Although algae is found in the pools at the margins of the complex it is absent in the centre. Large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and Sphagnum papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Furthermore, algae is absent and there are large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks present. A complex 15 + Cl is similar to the complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This active complex is found in two locations on the bog, the first one to the NE and the second and larger to the west. The former features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. A small area sub-central complex 3/15 is seen at the north of high bog located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%).
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 70.45 ha (56.6%) of degraded raised bog within this site. The degraded bog at Mongan also supports a raised bog flora, but there is a lower cover of Sphagnum (10 - 20%) and pool areas are less frequent, and are generally either dry or algal some have Sphagnum cuspidatum and E. angustifolium found in them. There are signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum. Dominant species Narthecium ossifragum, Carex panicea and Trichophorum are more frequent in the degraded areas also. The Cladonia cover is 15% - 90% in isolated places, the main species is C. portentosa with some C. uncialis and C. ciliata
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. It is present in the Active raised bog in complexes 15 in lawns and 3/15 in the pools but in small quantities.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Mongan raised bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Mongan Bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the vegetation they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 15 This active complex occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. A gentle slope is noted at either north or south sides of the complex. The ground is soft to quaking near the pools. The microtopography consists of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Racomitrium lanuginosum hummocks are occasionally found and some taller are recorded supporting Calluna vulgaris (0.5m tall) and Leucobryum glaucum. Drosera rotundifolia is found on top of the hummocks. Interconnected pools and tear pools at the margins of the complex are colonised by S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and also S. magellanicum. Rhynchospora alba, Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Utricularia minor are also found in the pools, the latter only very occasionally. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%. Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Carex panicea (10%) and Calluna vulgaris accompanied by Erica tetralix (20%) characterise the complex. The western indicator Pleurozia purpurea is also found very occasionally. Although algae is found in the pools at the margins of the complex it is absent in the centre. Large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and Sphagnum papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Furthermore, algae is absent and large Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks. Quadrats Qc1, Qc3 & Qc4 were taken within this complex and the locations are shown on Map 1 and all details in appendix I.
Complex 15+Cladonia (15 + Cl) This complex is similar to the complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This active complex is found in two locations on the bog, the first one to the NE (GR. 203813, 231037) and the second and larger to the west (GR. 202934, 230878). The former features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. The Sphagnum cover accounts for 60% of the complex surface. Quadrat Qc2 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/15 This small sub-central complex is seen at the north of high bog (GR. 202764, 231133). The ground is soft to quaking and is located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%). The hummocks consist of Sphagnum imbricatum, S. capillifolium and S. subnitens. Leucobryum glaucum hummocks are found, as well as dry Calluna vulgaris hummocks with Pleurozium schreberi. Although pools contain mostly S. cuspidatum, Rhynchospora alba and Eriophorum angustifolium, algae is occasional (5%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 50%. Carex panicea (20%), Narthecium ossifragum (10%), Calluna vulgaris and Erica tetralix (20%) are dominant. Scattered Myrica gale bushes are found encroaching into the high bog.
Active Flushes
There are no active flushes on this bog.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 6/3 + Pools (6 + P) This complex occupies the area where blocked drains bC to bG are found and formerly (1994-95) was deemed marginal (part of the complexes 3- and 3) (GR. 202757, 230785). The ground is firm to soft in places and small depressions are noted in the areas among the drains. Tussocks, low hummocks and regular pools characterise the micro-topography. Trichophorum caespitosum and Eriophorum vaginatum compose the tussocks. Low hummocks consist of Sphagnum capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. subnitens. The pools although are generally either dry or algal some S. cuspidatum and E. angustifolium is found in them. This complex shows signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum noted. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. Cladonia portentosa is also found 5%. Dominant species are Narthecium ossifragum (20%), Carex panicea (20%) and Trichophorum (10%). Quadrat QSm1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
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Complex 6/3 + Tear Pools (6/3 + TP) This small sub-marginal complex is found to the SE of the large central complex 15 (GR. 204108, 230964), the ground is soft and the surface is relatively flat. Low Sphagnum capillifolium, Sphagnum papillosum hummocks and very occasionally Sphagnum fuscum and Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks are noted. The hollows are mostly open water and algae, occasionally Sphagnum cuspidatum. Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Carex panicea (10%), E. angustifolium (5%) and Calluna vulgaris (30%), shorter than 0.3m, dominate the complex. The overall Sphagnum cover is 10% and Cladonia portentosa is 5%.
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 2 This complex with abundant Trichophorum caespitosum tussocks (15%) interspersed with algal hollows (20%), Narthecium hollows (5%) and typical hummocks (45%) is found at the NW of the site. The Sphagnum cover is low at 10% and an acrotelm layer is mostly absent. Occasionally Carex panicea and R. alba are seen. The occurrence of this complex in this area is probably associated with the gradual drying out of the bog from the western end.
Complex 3 This is the Carex panicea dominated complex (25 - 30%). It occurs in three main areas – along the northern boundary of the site at the north east corner (GR. 203825, 231097),and the north west corner (GR. 202540, 230814),and also at the south west (GR. 203107, 230361),. The lichen cover is very high up to 90% in places suggesting that the site has not been burnt for some time. The main species is Cladonia portentosa with some C. uncialis and C. ciliata. The Carex panicea flats are interspersed with Calluna dominated hummocks (30%). Some of these hummocks reach heights of 40cm and Sphagnum subnitens was noted. There are some Narthecium hollows (10%). The total Sphagnum cover is low at 15% and thus the acrotelm layer is poorly developed. Quadrat Qm1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and all its details in appendix I.
Complex 3+Tear pools (3 + TP) This complex is seen in the eastern section of Mongan bog and includes the area where blocked drains bA are found (GR. 203842, 230694). The ground is soft to very soft in patches and a gentle slope is recorded towards the NE of the high bog. Low hummocks, tear pool and in-filled drains characterise the micro-topography. Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum and S. capillifolium compose the hummocks. Tear pools consists of Eriophorum angustifolium, open water and some S. cuspidatum. The drain complex bA was blocked and S. cuspidatum and E. angustifolium are found. Carex panicea (20%), Narthecium ossifragum (20%) and E. angustifolium (10%) dominate the complex. Calluna vulgaris, which is shorter than 0.3m, (cover is 20%) and Cladonia portentosa (15%). The overall Sphagnum cover is 15%.
Complex 3/6 This marginal complex is found at the NE of the high bog or east of the sub-central complex 3/15 (GR. 203924, 231175). The ground is soft and the surface slopes northwards. Sphagnum subnitens, S. capillifolium and S. tenellum hummocks and Narthecium ossifragum and open water hollows dominate the micro-topography. The total Sphagnum cover ranges between 10 and 20%. Cladonia portentosa (30%), Narthecium ossifragum (30%), Calluna vulgaris (10%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) dominate the complex.
Complex 6/3 This complex is seen at the north of the high bog to the SW of drain bH(GR. 203610, 231123),. The ground is firm to soft in places and a gentle slope towards the north edge is noted. Narthecium ossifragum flats and hollows dominate the micro-topography. The overall Sphagnum cover is low 5% and S. capillifolium, S. tenellum and S. magellanicum are found. Narthecium ossifragum (40%), Carex panicea (10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) are predominant and Cladonia portentosa cover is 5%.
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Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 This facebank complex is characterised by tall Calluna vulgaris. The bryophyte layer is often dominated by Hypnum jutlandicum with little to no Sphagnum cover. Occasional Narthecium ossifragum hollows occur. This complex is particularly well developed at the western end of the site where peat cutting has not been carried out for some time. The Calluna is approximately 80cm tall in this area. An acrotelm layer is mostly absent where this complex occurs and the ground is typically hard.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities
The Rhynchosporion vegetation at this site is poorly developed in comparison to other raised bog sites. It is present in the Active raised bog in complex 15 along with Menyanthes trifoliata, Drosera anglica and Utricularia minor in pools. Its also found in large Sphagnum cuspidatum pools and S. papillosum lawns which contain Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. Its found in the subcentral complex 3/15 in the pools in small quantities along with S. cuspidatum, and Eriophorum angustifolium, with occasional algae.
5.3. Regenerating cutover
No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., 1995., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats
A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 15 Qc2 Central 15+Cl Qc3 Central 15 Qc4 Central 15 Qsm1 Sub-marginal 6/3+P Qm1 Marginal 3
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of C -1 0.12 km peat 810 Drainage B (-1) 8.34 km
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Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 310 Peat extraction C (1-) NA 810 Drainage A (2-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al., (1995) stated that peat cutting had been carried out around the entire perimeter of the bog. Small scale recent cutting was noted at a number of localities on the southern side of the bog, at one site on the northern margin and to the NE of the site where some mole drains were noted and the surface of the bog as rotivated. Fresh peat was noted at these sites. Active cutting was carried out on a small scale along the northern margin and difco cutting had been carried out in 1993 in two small areas east of the grassy reclaimed fields at the south of the site. The northern edge has suffered the least peat cutting in the past and the boundary appears to correspond closely to the original bog edge. Commercial peat extraction is carried out by Bord na Mona in the area adjacent to the north-eastern margin of the bog and the site has been cut off from part of its original extent by a Bord na Mona railway. This activity is part of a larger harvesting operation which is based in Blackwater Bog immediately to the south of the southern esker complex. Elsewhere around the bog margins peat cutting is small scale and carried out in isolated pockets. To the west peat cutting has been extensive but is now abandoned. BnM are currently exploiting the area of bog to the east of the railway. To the SE farm land has been reclaimed from cut-away peat. This is highlighted in table 6.2 where the intensity of peat cutting outside of the high bog has been classified as being low. The influence has been given a moderate negative influence. This site was not visited by MacGowan et al., (2004). During the 2004/2005 survey it was noted that in the east of the site there is a face bank currently cut - 1m deep and 30m wide. The cutover slopes down the face bank. There is a drain parallel to the face-bank, 40m away approx., it is full of water but not flowing. The high bog is used for spreading the turf and as a result there is an area of 100m x 30m devoid of vegetation adjacent to the facebank. . This is highlighted in table 6.1 where the intensity of peat cutting within of the high bog has been classified as being low due to <5% of the high bog margin currently cut. The influence has been given a moderate negative influence as the plots are to be phased out in the medium to long tern. (See Map 3).
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage A number of blocked drains (reduced functional) and an active drain occur on Mongan high bog. There has been a significant decrease in the intensity of drainage on the site in the last ten years as the major drains on the site have been blocked. These were blocked prior to the Kelly et al., 1995 survey. The eastern and western drains were dammed by Groundwork volunteers working for An Taisce between 1984 and 1986 and as part of an ECO training course in 1986. These blocked drains (complex bA, bB and bC- bG) crossed the site in an approximately NW – SE direction. Kellys report stated that many of the blocked drains were leaking. The majority of the blocked drains can be classed as reduced functional. The remaining drains through the site are infilled and deemed non functional. There is only one apparent functional drain (bH) located in the north of on the site. Refer to impacts map (Map 3). In table 6.1 the drainage on the site has been assigned an influence of -1 (moderate negative influence) as no functional drains occur in the active areas or adjacent to active areas. The intensity is assigned B – medium influence as although the fraction of functional drains on the high bog is 1 m/ha (C rating), but as a portion of the blocked drains could be deemed reduced functional, its thought that a B rating is more appropriate (5 – 30 m/ha).
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Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain The drains in the drain complex bA are blocked . There are approximately 15 drains complex bA running in a NW – SE direction at the eastern part of the bog 0.5 m deep x 05 m wide Drain bB This in-filling drain is found at the west of the site and was also blocked. It runs in a NW – SE direction Sphagnum auriculatum and Sphagnum cuspidatum colonise the drain. Drain The drains in the drain complex bA are blocked . There are approximately 5 drains complex bC - running in a NW – SE direction at the western part of the bog bG Drain bH This drain is found to the north of the site and is still active. It is 1x 0.75m wide and mostly bare peat at the base and sides. Drain bI This old in-filled drain is found at the south of the site. It runs in a NW – SE direction along one of the townland boundaries. Drain bJ This in-filling drain is found at the south of the site. It runs parallel with the high bog boundary in a SW – NE direction Non There are a further 625m of old short in-filled drain is found around the western, south Functional western and north western edges of the high bog. Drains
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1995 2004 Variation 1995-2004 (%) Length of functional 7737 127 -76102 drains (m) 1 Length of reduced- NA 0 0 function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 1265 -1265 drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 8214 +8214 Area affected by 125ha / 100% 124.6 ha / 100% N/A drainage (ha - %) 1 includes several old drains likely to have pre-dated 1995. 2 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
Despite the variation in the figure shown in the table above there has not been major variations in the high bog drainage except the drainage blocking in the high bog. Thus, no new drains have been dug in the high bog since 1995. The drain blocking although some drains may still be classed as reduced functional have resulted in a localised improvement especially in the west of the bog where areas of marginal have been upgraded to sub- marginal since the 1995 survey.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The 1995 survey reported that the hydrological regime of the bog margins is dominated by a number of drains. Overall, drains on the northern, western and south western sides of the bog flow directly to the Shannon, whereas those on the eastern and south eastern sides flow to the south to Blackwater Bog. The catchment divide between the two areas is shown on the Drains and Hydrochemistry Map. See Kelly et al. (1995) for more details of drainage in the cutover areas. The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during 2004.
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6.3. Fire history
There was no evidence of burning in the 1995 report and there haven been no burning events on the high bog since. The extensive lichen cover over much of the bog suggests that it has not been burnt for some time. In addition the occurrence of Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks in vegetation Complex 3, which is rather dry, indicates that this area has not been burnt (Kelly et al., 1995). The 2004/05 survey noted that in this complex the lichen cover was very high up to 90% in places suggesting that the site has not been burnt for some time.
6.4. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as grazing (140), fertilisation (120), mowing & cutting (102) and improved access (530) were reported within and around the site in the Natura 2000 Form. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage. Kelly et al., 1995 reported that a large scale commercial gravel extraction is carried out close to the south-eastern margin of the bog. A smaller abandoned pit is found on the NE side of the bog although it is suspected that extraction has not been carried out on this site for a long period of time.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS There is no Management Plan produced for Mongan SAC 580. However a Draft Conservation Plan was developed by MPSU for the period 2003 - 2008.
7.1. Conservation Activities Restoration works in the form of drain blocking in 1984 – 1986, the eastern and western drains were dammed by Groundwork volunteers working for An Taisce between 1984 and 1986 and as part of an ECO training course in 1986., with all major drains encompassing 8.21km blocked. Most of these drains are infilled and some are still in-filling with large Sphagnum patches. Some of the drains have open water patches and are likely to have some reduced function with running water noted in the drains (See table 6.2.1 for further description). The drains bB – bG have shown the most dramatic improvements. This area shows signs of recovering after the drain blocking with scattered wet areas and areas rich in Sphagnum noted. In the 1995 survey this area was classified as marginal ecotope, complex 3 and now has upgraded to sub-marginal complex 6/3 + pools. Tussocks, low hummocks and regular pools characterise the micro-topography. This drain blocking has contributed to reduce the water loss and to encourage the development of active raised bog in the areas adjacent to places where actions where taken. Thus they are assessed as being at least locally positive.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2000) Kelly et al., Digitised 1995. ortho-image 125 124.6 124.43 124.43 2 0.17 ha <1% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by <0.5 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog Habitat extent There has been an overall increase in the area of active raised bog from 50.9ha in 1994 to 53.99ha in 2004 (6.07% increase in the original active raised bog area). This is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. The habitat extent is assessed as A as there has been a slight increase (0 – 15% increase) in active raised bog area from 1995 to 2004 (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report). The increase shown is more likely to be due to differences in mapping as stated earlier.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The active central complex 15 still occupies the largest area at the centre of the site. There is still a good micro- topography consisting of hummocks, regular pools and tear pools. The hummocks consist of Sphagnum subnitens, S. papillosum, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. A central complex 15 + Cl is similar to complex 15 but with a higher presence of Cladonia portentosa. This complex features Sphagnum magellanicum lawns with Andromeda polifolia. A small area sub-central complex 3/15 is seen at the north of high bog located in a depression in the ground. This complex features hummocks and interconnected pools (40%) and has not changed much in the 10 years since the 1995 survey. There may have been a slight increase in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat as the area of central community complexes have increased by 3.68ha (7.4% of HB) between 1994 and 2004. Some of this difference may be explained by differences in mapping techniques and vegetation analysis. An increase in the area covered by central ecotope greater than 5% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable enhanced (see table 3.2.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report). However as stated earlier the increase shown is more likely to be due to differences in mapping, therefore the conservation status is likely to be favourable maintained (A).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The hummock quality indicators, Sphagnum fuscum and S. imbricatum are present throughout the areas of active habitat while the western indicator, Racomitrium lanuginosum is also present in active habitat on the site as well as the midland indictor, S. magellanicum. The positive pool indicator S. cuspidatum is found in large pools and S. papillosum lawns which contain Rhynchospora alba and Drosera anglica are found towards the north-west and at centre of the complex. The pools cover 40% of the complex surface and their Sphagnum cover account for 30% of the complex’s Sphagnum. The overall Sphagnum cover is up to 50%.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
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Future prospects Active raised bog is not significantly threatened on Mongan Bog. There are excellent or good prospects for its future and therefore long term viability is assured if the current status remains.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 49.7 39.8 53.38 42.89 +3.68 +7.4% Sub-central 1.2 1 0.61 0.5 -0.59 -49% Total 50.9 40.8 53.99 43.39 +3.09 +6.07% 1 Differences in active flush due to mapping differences between 1995 and 2004.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Mongan bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall decrease in the area of degraded raised bog from 74.1ha in 1994 to 70.45ha in 2004 (4.9% decrease in the original degraded raised bog area). This is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. According to the conservation status assessment criteria both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. An decrease less than 5%, within a period of ten years, falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of unfavourable unchanged B (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary Report).
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
Habitat structure and function There has been an improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog since the sub-marginal ecotope has increased by 11.02ha and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 14.67ha (19.79%). There was no sub-marginal complex noted on the site in the 1994 survey and this increase in su-marginal has not been to the expense of sub- central and more to do with the improvement of the 1994 marginal areas (associated with drain blocking) or differences in survey techniques. This increase in sub-marginal is thus considered a more favourable condition for the degraded raised bog habitat. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary Report), a reduction of marginal ecotope extent between 5 - 25% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable recovering.
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The sub-marginal ecotope very occasionally contains Sphagnum fuscum and Sphagnum imbricatum hummocks. The pools although are generally either dry or algal some contain Sphagnum cuspidatum The overall Sphagnum cover is 10 to 20%. Sphagnum cuspidatum is found in some tear pools in the marginal ecotope. The total Sphagnum cover ranges between 10 and 20% but decreases to <5% in places. Cladonia portentosa (30%). Disturbance indicators: bare peat, high presence of Trichophorum, drier ground and low Sphagnum cover are found in patches of the high bog (e.g. Complex 2 & 6/3).
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! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is not significantly threatened. There are good prospects for its future and the long-term viability is assured if peat-cutting ceases.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/054 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES Ecotopes Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 0 0 11.02 8.85 +11.02 N/A Marginal 74.1 59.2 54.51 43.8 -14.672 -19.79% Face-bank 1 0 0 4.92 3.95 0 N/A Total 74.1 59.2 70.45 56.6 3.65 -4.9% 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2: This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 ortho-rectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Mongan bog is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable).
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. The extent of vegetation complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp. or characterised by the abundance of Rhynchospora spp. has not changed substantially between 1994 and 2004. The habitat quality Rhynchosporion depression communities are likely to have been maintained.
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Mongan Bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting: Current peat extraction consists of a face bank cutting in the east of the site. In this area the high bog is used for spreading the turf. However, the intensity of peat cutting within the high bog has been classified as being low due to <5% of the high bog margin currently cut. The influence has been given a moderately negative influence as the plots are to be phased out in the medium to long term. Drainage: No new drains have been inserted in the high bog since the 1994 survey. The most significant changes ongoing on the site currently is the re-wetting of areas of degraded high bog due to the blocking (in the 1990s) of three major drains running approximately E/W across the centre and south of the site. Blocking of drains is likely to improve the quality and probably increase the extent of active raised bog in the high bog in the future.
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9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has increased (6.07% - 3.09ha) (or at the very least remained the same due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004) at Mongan bog since the last survey (1994). There may have been a slight increase in the quality (structure and functions) of the active raised bog habitat as the area of central community complexes have increased by 3.68ha (7.4% of HB) between 1994 and 2004. Some of this difference may be explained by differences in mapping techniques and vegetation analysis. Thus, the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent has slightly decreased by 4.9%, this is probably due to the differences in mapping techniques between 1995 and 2004. There has been an improvement in the quality of the degraded raised bog since the sub-marginal ecotope has increased by 11.02ha and the marginal ecotope has decreased by 14.67ha (19.79%). Thus, the overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable recovering (EU, A favourable). Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are found scattered throughout the entire surface of the high bog, in either active or degraded raised bog. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Mongan is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y., Fanning, M. & McKee, A. 2004. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. O’Mahoney, C., (in prep.) Conservation Plan for Natura 2000 site. Mongan Bog (cSAC 580) Co. Offaly. 2003 - 2008
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats ECOTOPE Central Central Central Central Sub-marginal COMPLEX NAME 15 15 + cl 15 15 6/3 + p QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qc2 Qc3 Qc4 Qsm1 EASTING 203988 203810 203343 203539 202793 NORTHING 230992 231054 231005 230612 230687 FIRMNESS quaking very soft quaking quaking firm-soft CRACKING no no no no no BOG BURST no no no no no SLOPE flat flat steep slope gentle slope flat DRAINS no drains no drains no drains no drains infilling drains BURNT TREND stable stable stable wetter ALGAL HOLLOWS absent absent absent 5% ALGAL POOL < 5% absent < 5% < 5% BARE PEAT POOL COVER 40% 15% 50% 60% 20% inter-connecting inter-connecting POOLS tear pools pools pools tear pools low hums, hols, high hum, hol, MICRO TOPOGRAPHY pool low hums, hols, pool pool low hums, hols, pool low hums, hols, pool COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% 5% < 5% < 5% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS 10% 5% 10% 5% < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK absent absent TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent < 5% S. PAP COVER 5% 5% 15% 5% 5% S. PAP HABITAT lawns hollows lawns and pools hollows hollows S. MAG COVER 15% < 5% 5% 5% 5% S. MAG HABITATS lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows lawns & hollows hollows S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS 10% < 5% 5% 5% 10% R. FUSCA HOLLOWS R. ALBA HOLLOWS 5% < 5% < 5% 10% 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 10% 5% 5% NARTHECIUM HOLLOWS 10% 15% 10% 5% 10% NARTHECIUM LAWNS hollows lawns hollows and lawns lawns lawns S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS < 5% < 5% < 5% 5% S. SUBNITENS S. AURIC POOLS 5% < 5% 5% 10% 5% S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS 5% S. CUSP 10% < 5% 10% 20% 10% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 40% 10% 60% 40% 15% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 15% 5% 15% 10% 5% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 60% 15% 70% 50% 20% E. ANGUS 5% < 5% < 5% < 5% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS S. fuscum & HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. imbricatum S. imbricatum S. imbricatum imbricatum S. imbricatum
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POOLS INDICATORS all all all all all CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 5% 10% < 5% < 5% CLADONIA COVER 5% 50% 10% < 5% < 5% DISTURBANCE INDICATORS TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA 25% S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 15% 15% 15% 15% 20% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.3 OTHER DETAILS Racomitrium OTHER SPECIES hummock COMPLEX VARIATIONS less Cladonia SIMILAR DESCRIPTION yes no yes yes
14
Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Moyclare, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 581 6” Sheet: Oyy 14 Grid Ref.: N075 240 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha):( ) 129.86 Highg bogg area 2004( (ha):) 76.12 Dates of Visit: 14/03/05 Townlands: Ballinloman, Moyclarey and Clonbonniff.
2. SITE LOCATION
This site is located approximately 4km west of the town of Ferbane. It may be accessed from the Ferbane to Belmont road. Kelly et al. (1995) grouped Moyclare with the raised bogs of North Offaly. It lies approximately 3km to the south-west of Ferbane Bog (SAC 575) and 5km to the south of the extensively drained Clonlyon Glebe Bog (NHA 893).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Moyclare Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Moyclare Bog is a small sized bog and has been classified as a Basin bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges (Kelly et al., 1995). The bog has a simple long narrow rectangular-oval shape, being more elongated in a N/S direction. It has been cut from all sides in the past with most of the cutting having occurred in the north and the south-west. The site was chosen as a cSAC because of its representation of the variation in geomorpological setting and also because of its primary central vegetation (Kelly et al., 1995).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Moyclare Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 21.33 ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Moyclare Bog composed of central, sub-central and active flush ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 28.15% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has significantly declined since 1995 when there was 24.21 ha1 of active raised bog (31.84% of high bog area). This is a 11.90% decrease in the area of active bog in ten years and is compounded by the fact that 5.03ha of the original 9.12ha of central ecotope has been lost.
1 This figure corresponds to an adjusted figure (See Appendix III).
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Kelly et al. (1995) classed the central ecotope as primary vegetation. However, this is questionable as it appears to be located in a depression and an old drain runs through the western part of the ecotope. Sphagnum cuspidatum pools cover 10-15% of the surface area and also support S. auriculatum with the overall Sphagnum cover averaging at 50-60%. However, towards the edges of the central ecotope, the pools become algal with the Sphagnum appearing dried-out in places. Menyanthes trifoliata is found in pools in the wetter areas and Drosera anglica is also present. S. magellanicum forms extensive lawns in places and there are hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%) and there is a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools. In the sub-central areas, the microtopography is not so well developed and the Sphagnum cover is lower (40-50%). Carex panicea becomes more common in these areas.
The wettest and most Sphagnum-rich area of the high bog is found in the mid-west where an active flush with characteristics of a central complex 14 is found. This area has formed due to subsidence with two old drains meeting close to the centre of the flush. Here Sphagnum cuspidatum-filled pools cover 40% of the surface area and the bog surface is quaking underfoot. The overall Sphagnum cover is 80-90% and the acrotelm layer appears to be deep. Eriophorum vaginatum is the most prominent higher plant and flush indicators such as Molinia caerulea, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum alpestre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and V. myrtillus are present. Carex panicea is more or less absent from this area.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 54.44 ha (71.84%) of degraded raised bog within this site composed of sub-marginal and marginal ecotope as well as inactive flush (See Map 1). The extent of degraded raised bog has increased since 1995 when there was 52.83ha of degraded raised bog. This is due to the degradation of active raised bog. It is estimated that close to 1ha of high bog has been lost to peat cutting in the last ten years.
The microtopography is less well-developed in these areas and the Sphagnum cover is lower (averaging at 20%). Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum are more prominent than in active raised bog and characterise the vegetation over large areas. Bare peat also becomes more common particularly in the west of the site where there is poaching by cattle. In some areas, particularly in the north-east of the high bog, there is a slow invasion of Pinus sylvestris.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. Typical plant species within these pool areas include Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Drosera anglica, Menyanthes trifoliata and Eriophorum angustifolium. There are also a number of small lawn areas in both active and degraded raised bog which are dominated by Rhynchospora alba and the rare R. fusca. It must be noted, however, that many of the R. fusca areas have a high cover of algal mat, which indicates habitat degradation.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Moyclare raised bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Moyclare bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 vegetation, they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/9/15 This central complex is found in a slight depression in the mid-south-west of the high bog (GR. 207790, 224045). The surface is very soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and pools characterise the microtopography. The pools cover approximately 10-15% of the complexes surface area and are irregularly shaped. These pools have lawns of Sphagnum associated with them, but towards the edges of the complex some of these pools are algal. Otherwise they support a good cover of S. cuspidatum (10% cover of the complex) with S. auriculatum present also. The total Sphagnum cover is 50-60% and is dominated by S. papillosum (30%), which is found most frequently at the pool edges and in low hummocks. Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools and the Sphagnum cover in the inter-pool areas is better in quality than the surrounding sub-central ecotope containing more extensive flats and hummocks of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. Hummocks of S. capillifolium are also frequent (occasionally large) and there are occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%). There is also a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Cladonia portentosa is present at 5-10% cover. Further west the Sphagnum cover increases up to 80% and the complex is better in quality. Some of the pools are infilled or are infilling and the bog surface is quaking in places. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in a number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare. Firstly, there is a small area close to the northern margin (GR. 208095, 224690). The surface here is soft to very soft underfoot and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 50% and is composed of S. papillosum (20%), S. magellanicum (15-20%), S. capillifolium (10%) and S. cuspidatum (5-10%). Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) dominate the vegetation with Calluna vulgaris (15-20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%).
This complex is also found to the north of flush Z and to the east and west of the area of central ecotope in the south of the high bog. To the east of the central area (GR. 207885, 224000) the complex is similar though the Sphagnum cover is higher in places (50-70%) and the hummock indicators S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are both found. There are also occasional pools and Sphagnum lawns (5-20%). Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I. To the west of the central ecotope close to the poached area (GR 207549, 224059) the vegetation is again characterised by frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is well-developed with frequent S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum in wet hollows and small pools. Occasional Leucobryum glaucum hummocks are present here.
The complex is also found in a small area towards the eastern margin of the site (GR. 208145, 224110) immediately south-west of a Myrica gale patch. Here the complex is again similar, but Eriophorum vaginatum is more abundant (30-40%) and flush indicators such as Polytrichum alpestre are present.
This complex also occurs along the blocked drain bD. The drain has infilled successfully with lawns of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. The borders of the drain also have a good quality Sphagnum cover with patches of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium topped with Calluna vulgaris. This area is wet and soft. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and E. angustifolium (5%) with small amounts of
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Narthecium ossifragum (<5%). This area is a maximum of 10-15 m wide and is very localised along the drain, with a band of marginal vegetation found along both the northern and southern boundaries of the double drain.
Complex 3/9/10 This sub-central complex is found in number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare, but occupies its largest area in the south-east (GR. 207920, 223950). The surface is soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 40-50% and is usually found in a thin layer. S. papillosum and S. magellanicum are the dominant Sphagna, but S. capillifolium is also common and S. cuspidatum is found in infilled hollows and pools (5%). Rhynchospora fusca is found in some of these pools and hollows. Carex panicea (15-20%) dominates flats and Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) are also common (15-20%). Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%) is found in hollows and Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) in hummocks.
Where this complex occurs in the central part of the high bog between drains bD and bF there are occasional medium-sized pools and occasional larger hummocks. The vegetation is similar to the sub-marginal complex 3/9, but there is a higher Sphagnum cover (30-40%) and more frequent small to medium sized pools/hollows (5%) with associated Sphagnum cover. Carex panicea and Eriophorum angustifolium dominate the vegetation along with less frequent Calluna vulgaris (10%), E. vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Some of the pools are medium sized (1m wide and 2-4m long) with good quality S. cuspidatum cover (50-75% of the pools) and also contain E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is dominated in places by S. capillifolium hummocks. Both S. papillosum and S. magellanicum (5% general cover) occur around the edges of these pools. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%.
Active Flushes
Flush Z This flush occurs in the mid-western part of the high bog (GR. 207720, 224190) and is characterised by a well- developed microtopography with large hummocks and an abundant cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum (40%) in inter-connected pools (40-50% cover) that are similar to those found in a central complex 14. The bog surface is quaking underfoot. This flush is active peat-forming and the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The large hummocks (40%) are made up of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. The general Sphagnum cover is 80-90%. There are small amounts of Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) and Rhynchospora alba (5%) in the pools. The hummocks also contain (10- 15%), Cladonia spp. (5%) and small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (10-20%). Other species also present on the hummocks include Andromeda polifolia, Polytrichum alpestre and Vaccinium myrtillus. Molinia caerulea becomes more common on hummocks in the centre of the flush. There are occasional lawns of S. magellanicum and occasional Aulacomnium palustre with Vaccinium oxycoccus present. This flush is essentially an extremely wet area that has formed in a depression, which resulted due to subsidence. An old blocked drain runs N/S through the centre of the flush. A second blocked drain runs WNW from this drain (close to the centre of the flush) towards the western margin of the high bog. Quadrat Qf1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/7 A small area of this sub-marginal complex is found close to drain bF. The surface is soft underfoot. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris characterise the complex and the Sphagnum cover is 30%.
Complex 3/7/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog particularly towards the north-west and south-west. The general topography is quite flat with a gradual slope at the margin. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S.
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 magellanicum also present. The Sphagnum cover is generally very thin and may indicate past fire damage. There are occasional small pools/hollows with S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. There are also several large S. imbricatum hummocks present. The vegetation is similar to the complex 3/9 but with Calluna vulgaris more frequent (10-30%). Carex panicea (25-30%) and Eriophorum sp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium combined: 10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (5-20%) and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 10-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (10- 20%) and there are occasional algal hollows. E. angustifolium (10%) is also prominent and there is occasional Calluna vulgaris (5-10%).
In the northern half of the high bog, south of drain bD, the Sphagnum cover is slightly higher (20-25%) and is dominated by low hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. tenellum. There are occasional small pools/hollows present (< 5%), which contain small amounts of S. cuspidatum with occasional good quality patches of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum around margins. Rhynchospora alba and R. fusca occur in some of the pools/hollows. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and 3-5 m wide) present in this area with Polytrichum alpestre present on some of the larger hummocks. The cover of Cladonia spp. (C. portentosa and C. uncialis) is 10%. In the south-west the Cladonia cover is higher (20-30%) and there are occasional S. imbricatum hummocks.
Complex 6 This complex occurs in the northern part of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and the bog surface is quite flat with a generally poor micro-topography. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30%) and there is frequent Carex panicea (10-30%) in some patches in flats and hollows. Other species present include Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%. The general Sphagnum cover is 20% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Occasional patches of S. magellanicum occur in low hummocks. Occasional algal hollows are present. Dicranum scoparium is present on low hummocks and flats.
Complex 6/3 This complex occurs in the northern section of the high bog. The vegetation is similar to the complex 6 with a greater dominance of Carex panicea. Both S. imbricatum and S. magellanicum occur as relic hummocks, which are in poor condition with Hypnum jutlandicum and Dicranum scoparium occurring on their crown.
Complex 3/6/9 This sub-marginal complex is found in patches of the high bog towards the north of the site. There is usually a gentle slope and the surface is generally soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. papillosum with S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (30-40%), Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/6 + Pine (3/6 + P) This sub-marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is 20-30% composed mostly of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum. Carex panicea (20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6 This marginal complex is found in small patches of the high bog. The surface is firm underfoot and there is usually a slope towards the high bog margin. Flats characterise the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is poor at 5-10%, composed mostly of S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Narthecium ossifragum
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(20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows. Trichophorum cespitosum also occurs and becomes more frequent in places (5-10%).
On the western margin of the high bog, the bog surface is firm and slightly poached and grazed. However, the vegetation layer is still intact compared to the more damaged areas closer to the margin. Carex panicea (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%) with frequent low Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) (0.1-0.2 m high) dominate the vegetation along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) Rhynchospora alba (< 5%) and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and dominated by low patches of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum. The Sphagnum layer is damaged by poaching though there is some regeneration occurring. Poaching and grazing affect the whole of the marginal ecotope and part of the sub-marginal ecotope in this area.
Complex 3 + Pine (3 + P) This marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks, hollows and flats characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 10% composed mostly of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-30%) dominates the vegetation along with and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Complex 3 This complex occurs in a narrow zone E-W across the bog along the sides of the double drains. The high bog has slumped significantly along these drains with steep to gentle slopes on both sides of the drains. The vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (30%) with frequent Calluna vulgaris (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Rhynchospora alba (5%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%). E. vaginatum becomes dominant towards the drains. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and occasional S. tenellum.
Complex 3 badly poached (3 bp) This complex occurs along the western side of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and badly damaged from poaching by encroaching cattle. The bog surface is 90% bare peat along the immediate margin of the high bog. The high bog undergoes an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. The cutover bog here has probably been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50% and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (10%) with small amounts of Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (< 5%), Anthoxanthum odoratum (< 5%) and Cladonia spp. (< 5%). The microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with some regeneration in the poached hollows. Hypnum jutlandicum also occurs quite frequently.
Complex 3/2 This complex occurs in a zone along drain bA. There has been some slumping along the drain as well as some reclamation disturbance (from the drain blocking). The vegetation is similar to complex 3 but this complex is characterised by more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%). The micro-topography is disturbed and poorly developed.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 Facebank vegetation is found in a 10-20m band along the northern perimeter of the site. Robust (0.4-0.5m) Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation along with abundant Hypnum jutlandicum underneath the Calluna. There is much cracking on the bog surface, which is firm underfoot. There is also substantial slumping of the high bog in places. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. Both Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana occur on some bare peat patches (< 5%) indicating damage from an old fire.
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Flushes
Flush Y This small flush occurs in the southern half of the high bog. This flush has developed around a single mature Pinus sp. tree (4-5 m high). There are several Pinus sp. 2-3 m high and numerous Pinus sp. trees between 0.3- 1m high covering an area of 20m in diameter. The ground vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and contains frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and Aulacomnium palustre. There are frequent Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia present. Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Hypnum jutlandicum, S. capillifolium, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Thuidium tamariscinum are all present. A softer, wetter area with a greater Sphagnum cover occurs adjacent to the south-west of the flush.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site with Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions best developed in the active flush (Z) and not very common on the rest of the high bog. R. alba occurs in Sphagnum cuspidatum filled-pools and pool margins in the flush usually accompanied by Eriophorum angustifolium, Menyanthes trifoliata and Drosera anglica. R. alba-dominated depressions occur in similar situations in the central ecotope (Complex 10/9/15), but in smaller patches and again in sub-central ecotope (Complex 9/10 and 3/9/10). R. fusca is also found on this site usually in pools/hollows in the sub-central (Complex 3/9/10) and sub-marginal ecotope areas (Complex 3/9) accompanied by an algal mat and a patchy cover of dried out Sphagnum cuspidatum. R. alba is also found in small quantities in the marginal ecotope.
5.2.4. Bog Woodland There is no bog woodland recorded on Moyclare Bog.
5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 10/9/15 Qf1 Flush (central-like) Flushed 14 Qsc1 Sub-central 9/10
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of B (2-) 0.60km(12.8%ofHB peat margin) 954 Invasive species B (1-) NA 810 Drainage C (1-) 0.78km 180 Burning (Yr) C 0 0 (since 1995) 140 Grazing B (1-) 5.8ha(7.65%ofHB)
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Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage B (1-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al. (1995) considered 31% of the high bog margin actively cut in 1994. Currently, this figure has been reduced to 12.8%, which equates to a reduction of over 18% in the length of margin actively cut since 1994. All of the cutting is now taking place along the northern margin meaning that the area in the SSE of the site that was cut in 1995 has been abandoned. All the cutting activity appears to be related to domestic use and is carried out using the hopper method. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) recorded 25 active plots in 2003 and these are shown on Map 3. A comparison between 1995 and 2000 aerial images shows that 0.26ha of high were cut and between those years (see table 8.1). The current location of some of the facebanks was recorded during the current survey and these are also shown on Map 3. From the location of these facebanks it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha have been cut since 2000.
According to MacGowan et al. (in prep.) turf plots 1-12 are to be phased out immediately as they are having a serious impact on the active bog. In addition cutting at plots 13-18 is to be stopped within 5 years and turf plots 19-25 are to be phased out at the latest, within 10 years. Most of the facebanks are 2-3m in height and the cutaway is gently sloping down to the facebank. The high bog is severely slumped in places and at turf plot no. 7 the peat cutting has cut into what was considered active bog in 1995.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several active and reduced function as well as blocked drains occur on Moyclare high bog (See tables 6.2.1. and 6.2.2.)
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain bA The blocked drain is 1.0m wide and 0.5m deep. It is found running N/S at the NW of the site along a townland boundary. It is filled with standing water with Sphagnum colonising in places. Drain bB This is a short non-functional drain found running E/W from drain bA to the western margin. Drain bC This is short blocked drain running E/W from the junction of drains bD and bA to the western margin. Drain bD This is a blocked double drain, which runs E/W along both sides of an old trackway and separates the northern quarter of the high bog from the remainder. The vegetation along the double drains bD is quite varied. These drains are blocked with peat dams, but there is some flow of water around some of the peat dams. Typha latifolia, Juncus effusus and Molinia caerulea occur along the drains. Betula pubescens saplings and Ulex europaeus bushes occur on some of the peat dams. Both the drains are infilled with Sphagnum cover and open water. Towards the western side the area between the drains (10-15 m wide) is quite wet and flooded with a high quality Sphagnum cover. There are abundant lawns of S. cuspidatum. Molinia caerulea dominates a 10m wide zone of vegetation along the southern side of the double drains and between the double drains on the eastern side. Drain bE This is a blocked drain that appears to be an extension to the south of drain bA.
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Drain bF This drain runs E/W across the mid-section of the high bog. It is 0.5m wide and 0.2- 0.3m deep and infilled mainly with Sphagnum cuspidatum. It appears to be non- functional. The high bog to the north appears to be slightly more elevated than that to the south. Drain bG These are two parallel old (they are on the 6” sheet) drains that run along the east of the site to the south of drain bF. They are completely infilled in places and difficult to see on the ground. Where they are more obvious they are infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum, while scattered individuals of Betula, Salix and Pinus seedlings are found in places along the edges of the drain along with robust Calluna vulgaris. Drain bH This is a short non-functional drain, which runs N/S close to drain bG at the east of the site. Drain bK-bN These are a series of blocked drains in the NE of the site. They are old and infilled and are seen on the 6” sheet. Drain bO This is an old reduced functional drain that runs ENE/WSW close to the northern margin of the high bog. The bog has slumped significantly and there is severe cracking along the axis of this drain. Drain bP These are a series of mostly short blocked/non-functional drains along the west side of the high bog. Some of these drains appear to have been blocked for quite a long time and have infilled successfully while other peat dams appear more recent in construction. .
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1994/95 2004/05 Variation 1994/95- 2004/05 (%) Length of functional 1180 0 (-) 776m1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 404 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3000 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 3374 (+) 3374m Area affected by 86.3 93.4 (+) 7.1% drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during this survey. See Kelly et al. (1995) for a description of the drainage in the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history
There is no evidence of any burning events on the high bog since the last survey in 1994/95. However, at that time recent burning was seen along the western edge into drain bA and in a large area to the south (See Kelly et al., 1995).
6.4. Invasive Species
Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens are invading the bog to the east of the site, from nearby woodland. This suggests drying-out of the bog surface. They are particularly abundant in the north-east of the site where the vegetation is characterised by the pines and the complexes are termed 3/6 + Pine and 3 + Pine (See Map 2). This area extends for approximately 4-5ha, north of drain bD (See Map 3).
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6.5. Afforestation
A small coniferous plantation is found to the NW of the site.
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as grazing (140), fertilisation (120), removal of hedges and copses (151) and improved access to site (530) were also reported from within the site in the Natura 2000 Form. Additionally mowing/cutting (102), restructuring agricultural land holding (150) and energy transport-electricity lines (511) were reported from around the site. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage.
However, it is worth noting that the poaching being caused, as a result of cattle accessing the high bog is evident over 5-6ha of the high bog close to the western margin. As a result of the poaching, parts of the bog surface in this area are 90% bare peat, particularly along the immediate margin of the high bog. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50%, but the microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. Cattle also appear to be using the peat dams (that have been put in place to block drains) to cross the drains in this area. At the high bog margin, there is an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. This is because the cutover bog here has been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A Conservation Plan has been produced for Moyclare Bog SAC. Much of the site has been purchased by the NPWS and most of the high bog surface drains have been blocked. The drain blocking appears to be have been somewhat successful with high water levels recorded in most of the blocked drains particularly the double drain bD, which is infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1994/95 survey and the 2004/05 survey, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). Thus it is estimated that 0.26ha (see table 8.1) of high bog were cut between 1995-2000. From the points taken (using GPS) at the facebanks on the ground during the current survey, it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha of high bog have been cut since 2000.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 79 76.04 75.78 75.78 2 0.263 0.34% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3 likely to be under-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall reduction in area of active raised bog (see table 8.2) from 24.21ha in 1995 to 21.33ha in 2005 (11.90% reduction in the original active raised bog area). A reduction of between 5-15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable declining (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report). It should also be noted that 4.74ha of high bog in the south of the site was classed as active raised bog in 1995 and that under the criteria used during the current survey, much of this complex (Complex 10RB) would be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This is because Kelly et al. (1995) describe the Sphagnum cover at the edges of the complex as decreasing to 15%. Thus, there may in fact be no difference in the extent of active raised bog at Moyclare in the last ten years.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Habitat structure and function The active raised bog at Moyclare is composed of 4.09ha of central ecotope, 16.36ha of sub-central ecotope and 0.88ha of active flush. Comparing these figures to those of 1994/95 (Table 8.2), there has been a 55.15% (5.03ha) decrease in central ecotope and an 18.04% (2.50ha) increase in sub-central ecotope. The change in extent of active flush is of 0.35ha is considered to be due to mapping differences between the two surveys since it was recognised during the current survey that the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The figures given in table 8.2, however, exaggerate the loss of central ecotope since some of the area considered as central complex 10/15 in 1994/95 would, under the criteria used during the current survey, be considered as sub-central ecotope. This is in reference to the area in the NE of the complex that Kelly et al. (1995) described as being ‘a large patch of Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum magellanicum with algal hollows, some of which support Rhynchospora fusca’. Thus although the figures below (table 8.2) suggest that there has been a 55% loss of central ecotope, the actual loss has been much less. This loss is estimated to have been between 5-25% and thus the quality of the active bog is considered to be favourable declining (see section 3.2.1, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
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Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The Sphagnum cover is high within the central ecotope (50-60%) and is comparable to that which it was estimated to be in 1994/95 (60-70%). Sphagnum cuspidatum filled pools cover 10% of the area with S. auriculatum present also. There are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. The wettest area is the active flush, which covers a small section (<1ha) of the high bog. The Sphagnum cover within the flush is 80-90% with S. cuspidatum pools covering 40% of the surface area. Midland conditions indicators such as Andromeda polifolia and Sphagnum magellanicum are commonly noted within the habitat. The abundance of the latter and the presence of Rhynchospora fusca in pools and hollows within the sub-central complex 3/9/10 indicates the lowering of water table levels as was noted previously. Algae is also present in the pools towards the edges of the central ecotope and in the sub-central ecotope.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Active raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures2) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 9.12 11.99 4.09 5.40 (-)5.03 (-)55.15 Sub-central 13.86 18.23 16.36 21.58 (+)2.50 (+)18.04 Active flush 1 1.23 1.62 0.88 1.16 (-)0.35 (-)28.46 Total 24.21 31.84 21.33 28.15 (-)2.88 (-)11.90 1 Differences in active flush due to mapping differences between 1995 and 2004. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a slight overall increase in the area of degraded raised bog (see table 8.2) from 51.83ha (68.16% of high bog area) in 1994 to 54.44ha (71.84% of high bog area) in 2004. This amounts to an increase of 2.61ha (5.04%). This slight increase can be attributed to the degradation of active raised bog with 0.5-1.0ha (ca. 1%) of high bog lost to turf cutting in the last ten years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report), both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. In addition an increase in the extent of degraded raised bog as a result of loss of active raised bog is not assessed as a more favourable condition for the habitat. Thus, the conservation assessment of the extent of degraded raised bog is given as A (Favourable).
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The figures in table 8.3 below suggest that there has been a decline in the habitat quality of the degraded raised bog as the area of sub-marginal ecotope present has decreased by 3.32ha, while the area of marginal has increased by 5.73ha (49.44%). However, the actual increase in marginal ecotope is not believed to be so large. In geo-referencing the vegetation map of Kelly et al. (1995), there was a high bog difference of 1.36ha. This
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 was considered to be due to differences at the edge of the high bog and was thus assigned to marginal ecotope. However, if this difference had been ignored, the increase in marginal ecotope would have been estimated at 33.75% (from 12.95ha to 17.32ha). Furthermore there was an increase in marginal ecotope of ca. 1.5ha around the old track associated with drains bD. This difference is due to mapping differences and can be disregarded so that in fact the increase in marginal ecotope is likely to be approximately 22.16% (from 12.95ha to 15.82ha). Thus, the habitat structure and function is assessed as B (unfavourable inadequate) as the increase in area of marginal ecotope from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is between 5-25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Close to the western margin bare peat covers much of the bog surface due to poaching and grazing by cattle. The microtopography has been destroyed in this area and there is very little Sphagnum.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 40.24 52.92 36.92 48.72 (-)3.32 (-)8.25 Marginal 11.59 15.24 12.42 16.39 (+)5.732 (+) 49.44 Face-bank 1 NA NA 4.90 6.47 NA NA Inactiveflush 0 0 0.20 0.26 (+)0.20 NA Total 51.83 68.16 54.44 71.84 (+)2.61 (+)5.04 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. There are no complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp., nor was there any in 1994/95. Rhynchospora alba is still recorded mostly from the wet central ecotope pools and R. fusca is present in the pools in the same area of high bog (now termed sub-central complex 3/9/10, then termed central complex 10/15) as it was during the last survey.
13 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting though reduced in extent since the last survey is still ongoing along the northern margin of the site and is proceeding at a relatively fast rate of 3-4m/yr. It is thus causing a significant impact on the isolated area of sub-central ecotope that was found towards the north of the site in 1994/95. This area is now mapped as being reduced and fragmented in extent. Furthermore, the cutting at one plot has now reached as far south as the sub- central ecotope extended north in the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al. (1995). The high bog along the northern margin is also subsiding and is slumping in places with a large crack in the surface of high bog found along the axis of an old drain. Restoration work has been carried out at the site, resulting in the damming of much of the high bog surface drains and there doesn’t appear to have been any burning events in the last ten years. However, pines appear to be invading the high bog from the east and this suggests that the surface is continuing to dry out.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has decreased (11.90%-2.88ha) at Moyclare Bog since the last survey (1994/95). This decrease has been encompassed also by a decline in the quality of the habitat (i.e. decrease in central ecotope). The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent of the habitat has slightly increased (5.04%) at the expense of active raised bog. The current degraded raised bog features slightly inferior quality than the former (1994), particularly at the east of the high bog. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are limited in their extent and abundance on Moyclare and are mainly found within active raised bog. However, their extent has not changed significantly in the last ten years. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
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10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 10/9/15 14 flush 9/10 GPS READING 207826, 224073 207777, 224207 207884, 223927 QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qf1 Qsc1 FIRMNESS very soft very soft soft CRACKING no no no BOG BURST no no no SLOPE depression depression flat DRAINS no drains infilled drains no drains BURNT TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% absent 5% ALGAL POOL 5% absent < 5% BARE PEAT < 5% < 5% POOL COVER 15% 40% < 5% POOLS reg pools inter-cnncting pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY low hums, hols, pool high hum, hol, pool flats low hums & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 5% 10% 5% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK 5% absent < 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 25% 20% 30% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks and hollows hummocks hummocks and hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS < 5% 5% < 5% S. MAG HABITATS hummocks & lawns S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent 10% absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS < 5% absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 10% < 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 20% 10% 20% NARTHECIUM < 5% absent 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent absent absent S. SUBNITENS absent absent S. AURIC POOLS < 5% absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% S. CUSP 15% 40% 5% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 20% 40% 10% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 30% 40% 40% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 50% 70% 50% E. ANGUS 5% 20% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. fuscum & imbricatum S. fuscum & imbricatum POOLS INDICATORS all S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 10% < 5% < 5% CLADONIA COVER < 5% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS 5% NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 10% 10% 10% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.3 0.2 OTHER SPECIES mol 5 COMPLEX VARIATIONS Similar to a central ecotope of the complex 14 variety. SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DATA
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Appendix II Photographical records
There were no photographs taken at this site.
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES Kelly et al., 1995 Original figures Figures calculated from 1995 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 9.4 11.8 9.12 11.99 Sub-central 20.81 26.2 13.862 18.23 Sub-marginal 35.21 44.3 40.24 52.92 Marginal 12.6 15.8 11.593 15.24 Flushes (active) 1.5 1.9 1.23 1.62 Total 79.0 100 76.04 100
1 It would appear that the figures given by Kelly et al. (1995) for sub-marginal and sub-central ecotope were somehow mixed up. They gave the area of sub-central ecotope as 35.2ha and the area of sub-marginal ecotope as 20.8ha. However, the measurements calculated from their geo-referenced vegetation map shows that these should have read as sub-central area 20.8ha and sub- marginal area as 35.2ha. 2 The original Kelly et al. (1995) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of one of the community complexes. Complex 6/10 was described as sub-central in the 1994/95 survey. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-marginal. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1995 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 7.30ha. 3 There is a difference between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly et al. is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 12.95 ha.
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Moyclare, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 581 6” Sheet: Oy 14 Grid Ref.: N075 240 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha): 129.86 High bog area 2004 (ha): 76.12 Dates of Visit: 14/03/05 Townlands: Ballinloman, Moyclare and Clonbonniff.
2. SITE LOCATION
This site is located approximately 4km west of the town of Ferbane. It may be accessed from the Ferbane to Belmont road. Kelly et al. (1995) grouped Moyclare with the raised bogs of North Offaly. It lies approximately 3km to the south-west of Ferbane Bog (SAC 575) and 5km to the south of the extensively drained Clonlyon Glebe Bog (NHA 893).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Moyclare Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Moyclare Bog is a small sized bog and has been classified as a Basin bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges (Kelly et al., 1995). The bog has a simple long narrow rectangular-oval shape, being more elongated in a N/S direction. It has been cut from all sides in the past with most of the cutting having occurred in the north and the south-west. The site was chosen as a cSAC because of its representation of the variation in geomorpological setting and also because of its primary central vegetation (Kelly et al., 1995).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Moyclare Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 21.33 ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Moyclare Bog composed of central, sub-central and active flush ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 28.15% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has significantly declined since 1995 when there was 24.21 ha1 of active raised bog (31.84% of high bog area). This is a 11.90% decrease in the area of active bog in ten years and is compounded by the fact that 5.03ha of the original 9.12ha of central ecotope has been lost.
1 This figure corresponds to an adjusted figure (See Appendix III).
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Kelly et al. (1995) classed the central ecotope as primary vegetation. However, this is questionable as it appears to be located in a depression and an old drain runs through the western part of the ecotope. Sphagnum cuspidatum pools cover 10-15% of the surface area and also support S. auriculatum with the overall Sphagnum cover averaging at 50-60%. However, towards the edges of the central ecotope, the pools become algal with the Sphagnum appearing dried-out in places. Menyanthes trifoliata is found in pools in the wetter areas and Drosera anglica is also present. S. magellanicum forms extensive lawns in places and there are hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%) and there is a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools. In the sub-central areas, the microtopography is not so well developed and the Sphagnum cover is lower (40-50%). Carex panicea becomes more common in these areas.
The wettest and most Sphagnum-rich area of the high bog is found in the mid-west where an active flush with characteristics of a central complex 14 is found. This area has formed due to subsidence with two old drains meeting close to the centre of the flush. Here Sphagnum cuspidatum-filled pools cover 40% of the surface area and the bog surface is quaking underfoot. The overall Sphagnum cover is 80-90% and the acrotelm layer appears to be deep. Eriophorum vaginatum is the most prominent higher plant and flush indicators such as Molinia caerulea, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum alpestre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and V. myrtillus are present. Carex panicea is more or less absent from this area.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 54.44 ha (71.84%) of degraded raised bog within this site composed of sub-marginal and marginal ecotope as well as inactive flush (See Map 1). The extent of degraded raised bog has increased since 1995 when there was 52.83ha of degraded raised bog. This is due to the degradation of active raised bog. It is estimated that close to 1ha of high bog has been lost to peat cutting in the last ten years.
The microtopography is less well-developed in these areas and the Sphagnum cover is lower (averaging at 20%). Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum are more prominent than in active raised bog and characterise the vegetation over large areas. Bare peat also becomes more common particularly in the west of the site where there is poaching by cattle. In some areas, particularly in the north-east of the high bog, there is a slow invasion of Pinus sylvestris.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. Typical plant species within these pool areas include Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Drosera anglica, Menyanthes trifoliata and Eriophorum angustifolium. There are also a number of small lawn areas in both active and degraded raised bog which are dominated by Rhynchospora alba and the rare R. fusca. It must be noted, however, that many of the R. fusca areas have a high cover of algal mat, which indicates habitat degradation.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Moyclare raised bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Moyclare bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 vegetation, they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/9/15 This central complex is found in a slight depression in the mid-south-west of the high bog (GR. 207790, 224045). The surface is very soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and pools characterise the microtopography. The pools cover approximately 10-15% of the complexes surface area and are irregularly shaped. These pools have lawns of Sphagnum associated with them, but towards the edges of the complex some of these pools are algal. Otherwise they support a good cover of S. cuspidatum (10% cover of the complex) with S. auriculatum present also. The total Sphagnum cover is 50-60% and is dominated by S. papillosum (30%), which is found most frequently at the pool edges and in low hummocks. Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools and the Sphagnum cover in the inter-pool areas is better in quality than the surrounding sub-central ecotope containing more extensive flats and hummocks of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. Hummocks of S. capillifolium are also frequent (occasionally large) and there are occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%). There is also a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Cladonia portentosa is present at 5-10% cover. Further west the Sphagnum cover increases up to 80% and the complex is better in quality. Some of the pools are infilled or are infilling and the bog surface is quaking in places. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in a number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare. Firstly, there is a small area close to the northern margin (GR. 208095, 224690). The surface here is soft to very soft underfoot and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 50% and is composed of S. papillosum (20%), S. magellanicum (15-20%), S. capillifolium (10%) and S. cuspidatum (5-10%). Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) dominate the vegetation with Calluna vulgaris (15-20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%).
This complex is also found to the north of flush Z and to the east and west of the area of central ecotope in the south of the high bog. To the east of the central area (GR. 207885, 224000) the complex is similar though the Sphagnum cover is higher in places (50-70%) and the hummock indicators S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are both found. There are also occasional pools and Sphagnum lawns (5-20%). Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I. To the west of the central ecotope close to the poached area (GR 207549, 224059) the vegetation is again characterised by frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is well-developed with frequent S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum in wet hollows and small pools. Occasional Leucobryum glaucum hummocks are present here.
The complex is also found in a small area towards the eastern margin of the site (GR. 208145, 224110) immediately south-west of a Myrica gale patch. Here the complex is again similar, but Eriophorum vaginatum is more abundant (30-40%) and flush indicators such as Polytrichum alpestre are present.
This complex also occurs along the blocked drain bD. The drain has infilled successfully with lawns of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. The borders of the drain also have a good quality Sphagnum cover with patches of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium topped with Calluna vulgaris. This area is wet and soft. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and E. angustifolium (5%) with small amounts of
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Narthecium ossifragum (<5%). This area is a maximum of 10-15 m wide and is very localised along the drain, with a band of marginal vegetation found along both the northern and southern boundaries of the double drain.
Complex 3/9/10 This sub-central complex is found in number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare, but occupies its largest area in the south-east (GR. 207920, 223950). The surface is soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 40-50% and is usually found in a thin layer. S. papillosum and S. magellanicum are the dominant Sphagna, but S. capillifolium is also common and S. cuspidatum is found in infilled hollows and pools (5%). Rhynchospora fusca is found in some of these pools and hollows. Carex panicea (15-20%) dominates flats and Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) are also common (15-20%). Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%) is found in hollows and Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) in hummocks.
Where this complex occurs in the central part of the high bog between drains bD and bF there are occasional medium-sized pools and occasional larger hummocks. The vegetation is similar to the sub-marginal complex 3/9, but there is a higher Sphagnum cover (30-40%) and more frequent small to medium sized pools/hollows (5%) with associated Sphagnum cover. Carex panicea and Eriophorum angustifolium dominate the vegetation along with less frequent Calluna vulgaris (10%), E. vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Some of the pools are medium sized (1m wide and 2-4m long) with good quality S. cuspidatum cover (50-75% of the pools) and also contain E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is dominated in places by S. capillifolium hummocks. Both S. papillosum and S. magellanicum (5% general cover) occur around the edges of these pools. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%.
Active Flushes
Flush Z This flush occurs in the mid-western part of the high bog (GR. 207720, 224190) and is characterised by a well- developed microtopography with large hummocks and an abundant cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum (40%) in inter-connected pools (40-50% cover) that are similar to those found in a central complex 14. The bog surface is quaking underfoot. This flush is active peat-forming and the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The large hummocks (40%) are made up of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. The general Sphagnum cover is 80-90%. There are small amounts of Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) and Rhynchospora alba (5%) in the pools. The hummocks also contain (10- 15%), Cladonia spp. (5%) and small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (10-20%). Other species also present on the hummocks include Andromeda polifolia, Polytrichum alpestre and Vaccinium myrtillus. Molinia caerulea becomes more common on hummocks in the centre of the flush. There are occasional lawns of S. magellanicum and occasional Aulacomnium palustre with Vaccinium oxycoccus present. This flush is essentially an extremely wet area that has formed in a depression, which resulted due to subsidence. An old blocked drain runs N/S through the centre of the flush. A second blocked drain runs WNW from this drain (close to the centre of the flush) towards the western margin of the high bog. Quadrat Qf1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/7 A small area of this sub-marginal complex is found close to drain bF. The surface is soft underfoot. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris characterise the complex and the Sphagnum cover is 30%.
Complex 3/7/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog particularly towards the north-west and south-west. The general topography is quite flat with a gradual slope at the margin. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S.
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 magellanicum also present. The Sphagnum cover is generally very thin and may indicate past fire damage. There are occasional small pools/hollows with S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. There are also several large S. imbricatum hummocks present. The vegetation is similar to the complex 3/9 but with Calluna vulgaris more frequent (10-30%). Carex panicea (25-30%) and Eriophorum sp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium combined: 10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (5-20%) and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 10-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (10- 20%) and there are occasional algal hollows. E. angustifolium (10%) is also prominent and there is occasional Calluna vulgaris (5-10%).
In the northern half of the high bog, south of drain bD, the Sphagnum cover is slightly higher (20-25%) and is dominated by low hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. tenellum. There are occasional small pools/hollows present (< 5%), which contain small amounts of S. cuspidatum with occasional good quality patches of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum around margins. Rhynchospora alba and R. fusca occur in some of the pools/hollows. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and 3-5 m wide) present in this area with Polytrichum alpestre present on some of the larger hummocks. The cover of Cladonia spp. (C. portentosa and C. uncialis) is 10%. In the south-west the Cladonia cover is higher (20-30%) and there are occasional S. imbricatum hummocks.
Complex 6 This complex occurs in the northern part of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and the bog surface is quite flat with a generally poor micro-topography. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30%) and there is frequent Carex panicea (10-30%) in some patches in flats and hollows. Other species present include Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%. The general Sphagnum cover is 20% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Occasional patches of S. magellanicum occur in low hummocks. Occasional algal hollows are present. Dicranum scoparium is present on low hummocks and flats.
Complex 6/3 This complex occurs in the northern section of the high bog. The vegetation is similar to the complex 6 with a greater dominance of Carex panicea. Both S. imbricatum and S. magellanicum occur as relic hummocks, which are in poor condition with Hypnum jutlandicum and Dicranum scoparium occurring on their crown.
Complex 3/6/9 This sub-marginal complex is found in patches of the high bog towards the north of the site. There is usually a gentle slope and the surface is generally soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. papillosum with S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (30-40%), Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/6 + Pine (3/6 + P) This sub-marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is 20-30% composed mostly of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum. Carex panicea (20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6 This marginal complex is found in small patches of the high bog. The surface is firm underfoot and there is usually a slope towards the high bog margin. Flats characterise the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is poor at 5-10%, composed mostly of S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Narthecium ossifragum
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(20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows. Trichophorum cespitosum also occurs and becomes more frequent in places (5-10%).
On the western margin of the high bog, the bog surface is firm and slightly poached and grazed. However, the vegetation layer is still intact compared to the more damaged areas closer to the margin. Carex panicea (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%) with frequent low Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) (0.1-0.2 m high) dominate the vegetation along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) Rhynchospora alba (< 5%) and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and dominated by low patches of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum. The Sphagnum layer is damaged by poaching though there is some regeneration occurring. Poaching and grazing affect the whole of the marginal ecotope and part of the sub-marginal ecotope in this area.
Complex 3 + Pine (3 + P) This marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks, hollows and flats characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 10% composed mostly of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-30%) dominates the vegetation along with and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Complex 3 This complex occurs in a narrow zone E-W across the bog along the sides of the double drains. The high bog has slumped significantly along these drains with steep to gentle slopes on both sides of the drains. The vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (30%) with frequent Calluna vulgaris (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Rhynchospora alba (5%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%). E. vaginatum becomes dominant towards the drains. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and occasional S. tenellum.
Complex 3 badly poached (3 bp) This complex occurs along the western side of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and badly damaged from poaching by encroaching cattle. The bog surface is 90% bare peat along the immediate margin of the high bog. The high bog undergoes an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. The cutover bog here has probably been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50% and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (10%) with small amounts of Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (< 5%), Anthoxanthum odoratum (< 5%) and Cladonia spp. (< 5%). The microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with some regeneration in the poached hollows. Hypnum jutlandicum also occurs quite frequently.
Complex 3/2 This complex occurs in a zone along drain bA. There has been some slumping along the drain as well as some reclamation disturbance (from the drain blocking). The vegetation is similar to complex 3 but this complex is characterised by more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%). The micro-topography is disturbed and poorly developed.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 Facebank vegetation is found in a 10-20m band along the northern perimeter of the site. Robust (0.4-0.5m) Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation along with abundant Hypnum jutlandicum underneath the Calluna. There is much cracking on the bog surface, which is firm underfoot. There is also substantial slumping of the high bog in places. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. Both Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana occur on some bare peat patches (< 5%) indicating damage from an old fire.
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Flushes
Flush Y This small flush occurs in the southern half of the high bog. This flush has developed around a single mature Pinus sp. tree (4-5 m high). There are several Pinus sp. 2-3 m high and numerous Pinus sp. trees between 0.3- 1m high covering an area of 20m in diameter. The ground vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and contains frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and Aulacomnium palustre. There are frequent Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia present. Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Hypnum jutlandicum, S. capillifolium, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Thuidium tamariscinum are all present. A softer, wetter area with a greater Sphagnum cover occurs adjacent to the south-west of the flush.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site with Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions best developed in the active flush (Z) and not very common on the rest of the high bog. R. alba occurs in Sphagnum cuspidatum filled-pools and pool margins in the flush usually accompanied by Eriophorum angustifolium, Menyanthes trifoliata and Drosera anglica. R. alba-dominated depressions occur in similar situations in the central ecotope (Complex 10/9/15), but in smaller patches and again in sub-central ecotope (Complex 9/10 and 3/9/10). R. fusca is also found on this site usually in pools/hollows in the sub-central (Complex 3/9/10) and sub-marginal ecotope areas (Complex 3/9) accompanied by an algal mat and a patchy cover of dried out Sphagnum cuspidatum. R. alba is also found in small quantities in the marginal ecotope.
5.2.4. Bog Woodland There is no bog woodland recorded on Moyclare Bog.
5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 10/9/15 Qf1 Flush (central-like) Flushed 14 Qsc1 Sub-central 9/10
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of B (2-) 0.60km (12.8% of HB peat margin) 954 Invasive species B (1-) NA 810 Drainage C (1-) 0.78km 180 Burning (Yr) C 0 0 (since 1995) 140 Grazing B (1-) 5.8ha (7.65% of HB)
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Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage B (1-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al. (1995) considered 31% of the high bog margin actively cut in 1994. Currently, this figure has been reduced to 12.8%, which equates to a reduction of over 18% in the length of margin actively cut since 1994. All of the cutting is now taking place along the northern margin meaning that the area in the SSE of the site that was cut in 1995 has been abandoned. All the cutting activity appears to be related to domestic use and is carried out using the hopper method. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) recorded 25 active plots in 2003 and these are shown on Map 3. A comparison between 1995 and 2000 aerial images shows that 0.26ha of high were cut and between those years (see table 8.1). The current location of some of the facebanks was recorded during the current survey and these are also shown on Map 3. From the location of these facebanks it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha have been cut since 2000.
According to MacGowan et al. (in prep.) turf plots 1-12 are to be phased out immediately as they are having a serious impact on the active bog. In addition cutting at plots 13-18 is to be stopped within 5 years and turf plots 19-25 are to be phased out at the latest, within 10 years. Most of the facebanks are 2-3m in height and the cutaway is gently sloping down to the facebank. The high bog is severely slumped in places and at turf plot no. 7 the peat cutting has cut into what was considered active bog in 1995.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several active and reduced function as well as blocked drains occur on Moyclare high bog (See tables 6.2.1. and 6.2.2.)
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain bA The blocked drain is 1.0m wide and 0.5m deep. It is found running N/S at the NW of the site along a townland boundary. It is filled with standing water with Sphagnum colonising in places. Drain bB This is a short non-functional drain found running E/W from drain bA to the western margin. Drain bC This is short blocked drain running E/W from the junction of drains bD and bA to the western margin. Drain bD This is a blocked double drain, which runs E/W along both sides of an old trackway and separates the northern quarter of the high bog from the remainder. The vegetation along the double drains bD is quite varied. These drains are blocked with peat dams, but there is some flow of water around some of the peat dams. Typha latifolia, Juncus effusus and Molinia caerulea occur along the drains. Betula pubescens saplings and Ulex europaeus bushes occur on some of the peat dams. Both the drains are infilled with Sphagnum cover and open water. Towards the western side the area between the drains (10-15 m wide) is quite wet and flooded with a high quality Sphagnum cover. There are abundant lawns of S. cuspidatum. Molinia caerulea dominates a 10m wide zone of vegetation along the southern side of the double drains and between the double drains on the eastern side. Drain bE This is a blocked drain that appears to be an extension to the south of drain bA.
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Drain bF This drain runs E/W across the mid-section of the high bog. It is 0.5m wide and 0.2- 0.3m deep and infilled mainly with Sphagnum cuspidatum. It appears to be non- functional. The high bog to the north appears to be slightly more elevated than that to the south. Drain bG These are two parallel old (they are on the 6” sheet) drains that run along the east of the site to the south of drain bF. They are completely infilled in places and difficult to see on the ground. Where they are more obvious they are infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum, while scattered individuals of Betula, Salix and Pinus seedlings are found in places along the edges of the drain along with robust Calluna vulgaris. Drain bH This is a short non-functional drain, which runs N/S close to drain bG at the east of the site. Drain bK-bN These are a series of blocked drains in the NE of the site. They are old and infilled and are seen on the 6” sheet. Drain bO This is an old reduced functional drain that runs ENE/WSW close to the northern margin of the high bog. The bog has slumped significantly and there is severe cracking along the axis of this drain. Drain bP These are a series of mostly short blocked/non-functional drains along the west side of the high bog. Some of these drains appear to have been blocked for quite a long time and have infilled successfully while other peat dams appear more recent in construction. .
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1994/95 2004/05 Variation 1994/95- 2004/05 (%) Length of functional 1180 0 (-) 776m1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 404 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3000 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 3374 (+) 3374m Area affected by 86.3 93.4 (+) 7.1% drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during this survey. See Kelly et al. (1995) for a description of the drainage in the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history
There is no evidence of any burning events on the high bog since the last survey in 1994/95. However, at that time recent burning was seen along the western edge into drain bA and in a large area to the south (See Kelly et al., 1995).
6.4. Invasive Species
Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens are invading the bog to the east of the site, from nearby woodland. This suggests drying-out of the bog surface. They are particularly abundant in the north-east of the site where the vegetation is characterised by the pines and the complexes are termed 3/6 + Pine and 3 + Pine (See Map 2). This area extends for approximately 4-5ha, north of drain bD (See Map 3).
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6.5. Afforestation
A small coniferous plantation is found to the NW of the site.
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as grazing (140), fertilisation (120), removal of hedges and copses (151) and improved access to site (530) were also reported from within the site in the Natura 2000 Form. Additionally mowing/cutting (102), restructuring agricultural land holding (150) and energy transport-electricity lines (511) were reported from around the site. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage.
However, it is worth noting that the poaching being caused, as a result of cattle accessing the high bog is evident over 5-6ha of the high bog close to the western margin. As a result of the poaching, parts of the bog surface in this area are 90% bare peat, particularly along the immediate margin of the high bog. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50%, but the microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. Cattle also appear to be using the peat dams (that have been put in place to block drains) to cross the drains in this area. At the high bog margin, there is an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. This is because the cutover bog here has been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A Conservation Plan has been produced for Moyclare Bog SAC. Much of the site has been purchased by the NPWS and most of the high bog surface drains have been blocked. The drain blocking appears to be have been somewhat successful with high water levels recorded in most of the blocked drains particularly the double drain bD, which is infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1994/95 survey and the 2004/05 survey, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). Thus it is estimated that 0.26ha (see table 8.1) of high bog were cut between 1995-2000. From the points taken (using GPS) at the facebanks on the ground during the current survey, it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha of high bog have been cut since 2000.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 79 76.04 75.78 75.78 2 0.263 0.34% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3 likely to be under-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall reduction in area of active raised bog (see table 8.2) from 24.21ha in 1995 to 21.33ha in 2005 (11.90% reduction in the original active raised bog area). A reduction of between 5-15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable declining (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report). It should also be noted that 4.74ha of high bog in the south of the site was classed as active raised bog in 1995 and that under the criteria used during the current survey, much of this complex (Complex 10RB) would be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This is because Kelly et al. (1995) describe the Sphagnum cover at the edges of the complex as decreasing to 15%. Thus, there may in fact be no difference in the extent of active raised bog at Moyclare in the last ten years.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Habitat structure and function The active raised bog at Moyclare is composed of 4.09ha of central ecotope, 16.36ha of sub-central ecotope and 0.88ha of active flush. Comparing these figures to those of 1994/95 (Table 8.2), there has been a 55.15% (5.03ha) decrease in central ecotope and an 18.04% (2.50ha) increase in sub-central ecotope. The change in extent of active flush is of 0.35ha is considered to be due to mapping differences between the two surveys since it was recognised during the current survey that the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The figures given in table 8.2, however, exaggerate the loss of central ecotope since some of the area considered as central complex 10/15 in 1994/95 would, under the criteria used during the current survey, be considered as sub-central ecotope. This is in reference to the area in the NE of the complex that Kelly et al. (1995) described as being ‘a large patch of Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum magellanicum with algal hollows, some of which support Rhynchospora fusca’. Thus although the figures below (table 8.2) suggest that there has been a 55% loss of central ecotope, the actual loss has been much less. This loss is estimated to have been between 5-25% and thus the quality of the active bog is considered to be favourable declining (see section 3.2.1, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
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Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The Sphagnum cover is high within the central ecotope (50-60%) and is comparable to that which it was estimated to be in 1994/95 (60-70%). Sphagnum cuspidatum filled pools cover 10% of the area with S. auriculatum present also. There are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. The wettest area is the active flush, which covers a small section (<1ha) of the high bog. The Sphagnum cover within the flush is 80-90% with S. cuspidatum pools covering 40% of the surface area. Midland conditions indicators such as Andromeda polifolia and Sphagnum magellanicum are commonly noted within the habitat. The abundance of the latter and the presence of Rhynchospora fusca in pools and hollows within the sub-central complex 3/9/10 indicates the lowering of water table levels as was noted previously. Algae is also present in the pools towards the edges of the central ecotope and in the sub-central ecotope.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Active raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures2) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 9.12 11.99 4.09 5.40 (-) 5.03 (-) 55.15 Sub-central 13.86 18.23 16.36 21.58 (+) 2.50 (+) 18.04 Active flush 1 1.23 1.62 0.88 1.16 (-) 0.35 (-) 28.46 Total 24.21 31.84 21.33 28.15 (-) 2.88 (-) 11.90 1 Differences in active flush due to mapping differences between 1995 and 2004. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a slight overall increase in the area of degraded raised bog (see table 8.2) from 51.83ha (68.16% of high bog area) in 1994 to 54.44ha (71.84% of high bog area) in 2004. This amounts to an increase of 2.61ha (5.04%). This slight increase can be attributed to the degradation of active raised bog with 0.5-1.0ha (ca. 1%) of high bog lost to turf cutting in the last ten years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report), both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. In addition an increase in the extent of degraded raised bog as a result of loss of active raised bog is not assessed as a more favourable condition for the habitat. Thus, the conservation assessment of the extent of degraded raised bog is given as A (Favourable).
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The figures in table 8.3 below suggest that there has been a decline in the habitat quality of the degraded raised bog as the area of sub-marginal ecotope present has decreased by 3.32ha, while the area of marginal has increased by 5.73ha (49.44%). However, the actual increase in marginal ecotope is not believed to be so large. In geo-referencing the vegetation map of Kelly et al. (1995), there was a high bog difference of 1.36ha. This
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 was considered to be due to differences at the edge of the high bog and was thus assigned to marginal ecotope. However, if this difference had been ignored, the increase in marginal ecotope would have been estimated at 33.75% (from 12.95ha to 17.32ha). Furthermore there was an increase in marginal ecotope of ca. 1.5ha around the old track associated with drains bD. This difference is due to mapping differences and can be disregarded so that in fact the increase in marginal ecotope is likely to be approximately 22.16% (from 12.95ha to 15.82ha). Thus, the habitat structure and function is assessed as B (unfavourable inadequate) as the increase in area of marginal ecotope from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is between 5-25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Close to the western margin bare peat covers much of the bog surface due to poaching and grazing by cattle. The microtopography has been destroyed in this area and there is very little Sphagnum.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 40.24 52.92 36.92 48.72 (-) 3.32 (-) 8.25 Marginal 11.59 15.24 12.42 16.39 (+) 5.732 (+) 49.44 Face-bank 1 NA NA 4.90 6.47 NA NA Inactive flush 0 0 0.20 0.26 (+) 0.20 NA Total 51.83 68.16 54.44 71.84 (+) 2.61 (+) 5.04 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. There are no complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp., nor was there any in 1994/95. Rhynchospora alba is still recorded mostly from the wet central ecotope pools and R. fusca is present in the pools in the same area of high bog (now termed sub-central complex 3/9/10, then termed central complex 10/15) as it was during the last survey.
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! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting though reduced in extent since the last survey is still ongoing along the northern margin of the site and is proceeding at a relatively fast rate of 3-4m/yr. It is thus causing a significant impact on the isolated area of sub-central ecotope that was found towards the north of the site in 1994/95. This area is now mapped as being reduced and fragmented in extent. Furthermore, the cutting at one plot has now reached as far south as the sub- central ecotope extended north in the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al. (1995). The high bog along the northern margin is also subsiding and is slumping in places with a large crack in the surface of high bog found along the axis of an old drain. Restoration work has been carried out at the site, resulting in the damming of much of the high bog surface drains and there doesn’t appear to have been any burning events in the last ten years. However, pines appear to be invading the high bog from the east and this suggests that the surface is continuing to dry out.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has decreased (11.90%-2.88ha) at Moyclare Bog since the last survey (1994/95). This decrease has been encompassed also by a decline in the quality of the habitat (i.e. decrease in central ecotope). The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent of the habitat has slightly increased (5.04%) at the expense of active raised bog. The current degraded raised bog features slightly inferior quality than the former (1994), particularly at the east of the high bog. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are limited in their extent and abundance on Moyclare and are mainly found within active raised bog. However, their extent has not changed significantly in the last ten years. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
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10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 10/9/15 14 flush 9/10 GPS READING 207826, 224073 207777, 224207 207884, 223927 QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qf1 Qsc1 FIRMNESS very soft very soft soft CRACKING no no no BOG BURST no no no SLOPE depression depression flat DRAINS no drains infilled drains no drains BURNT TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% absent 5% ALGAL POOL 5% absent < 5% BARE PEAT < 5% < 5% POOL COVER 15% 40% < 5% POOLS reg pools inter-cnncting pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY low hums, hols, pool high hum, hol, pool flats low hums & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 5% 10% 5% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK 5% absent < 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 25% 20% 30% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks and hollows hummocks hummocks and hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS < 5% 5% < 5% S. MAG HABITATS hummocks & lawns S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent 10% absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS < 5% absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 10% < 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 20% 10% 20% NARTHECIUM < 5% absent 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent absent absent S. SUBNITENS absent absent S. AURIC POOLS < 5% absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% S. CUSP 15% 40% 5% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 20% 40% 10% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 30% 40% 40% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 50% 70% 50% E. ANGUS 5% 20% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. fuscum & imbricatum S. fuscum & imbricatum POOLS INDICATORS all S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 10% < 5% < 5% CLADONIA COVER < 5% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS 5% NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 10% 10% 10% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.3 0.2 OTHER SPECIES mol 5 COMPLEX VARIATIONS Similar to a central ecotope of the complex 14 variety. SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DATA
16 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Appendix II Photographical records
There were no photographs taken at this site.
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES Kelly et al., 1995 Original figures Figures calculated from 1995 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 9.4 11.8 9.12 11.99 Sub-central 20.81 26.2 13.862 18.23 Sub-marginal 35.21 44.3 40.24 52.92 Marginal 12.6 15.8 11.593 15.24 Flushes (active) 1.5 1.9 1.23 1.62 Total 79.0 100 76.04 100
1 It would appear that the figures given by Kelly et al. (1995) for sub-marginal and sub-central ecotope were somehow mixed up. They gave the area of sub-central ecotope as 35.2ha and the area of sub-marginal ecotope as 20.8ha. However, the measurements calculated from their geo-referenced vegetation map shows that these should have read as sub-central area 20.8ha and sub- marginal area as 35.2ha. 2 The original Kelly et al. (1995) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of one of the community complexes. Complex 6/10 was described as sub-central in the 1994/95 survey. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-marginal. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1995 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 7.30ha. 3 There is a difference between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly et al. is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 12.95 ha.
17 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Moyclare, Co. Offaly
1. SITE IDENTIFICATION
SAC no.: 581 6” Sheet: Oy 14 Grid Ref.: N075 240 1:50,000 Sheet: 47 SAC area 2004 (ha): 129.86 High bog area 2004 (ha): 76.12 Dates of Visit: 14/03/05 Townlands: Ballinloman, Moyclare and Clonbonniff.
2. SITE LOCATION
This site is located approximately 4km west of the town of Ferbane. It may be accessed from the Ferbane to Belmont road. Kelly et al. (1995) grouped Moyclare with the raised bogs of North Offaly. It lies approximately 3km to the south-west of Ferbane Bog (SAC 575) and 5km to the south of the extensively drained Clonlyon Glebe Bog (NHA 893).
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE SURVEY
This survey, carried out in March 2005, surveyed the vegetation on the high bog and other notable features including drainage, cutting and other impacts at Moyclare Bog. This data was used to identify and assess the intensity and influence of any impact activity on the site as part of the project to assess the Conservation Status of a Selection of Raised Bog Habitats 2004.
4. DESCRIPTION OF HIGH BOG
Moyclare Bog is a small sized bog and has been classified as a Basin bog type since it is surrounded on all sides by low relief bedrock ridges (Kelly et al., 1995). The bog has a simple long narrow rectangular-oval shape, being more elongated in a N/S direction. It has been cut from all sides in the past with most of the cutting having occurred in the north and the south-west. The site was chosen as a cSAC because of its representation of the variation in geomorpological setting and also because of its primary central vegetation (Kelly et al., 1995).
5. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
5.1. Raised bog habitats present included in Annex I of Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) The following EU Annex I habitats are listed in the Moyclare Bog SAC Natura form; active raised bog (EU code 7110), degraded bog (EU code 7120) and depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (EU code 7150). The following summary description relates to the 2004 survey.
5.1.1. Active raised bog (7110) There are 21.33 ha of active raised bog on the high bog at Moyclare Bog composed of central, sub-central and active flush ecotope (See Map 1). This accounts for 28.15% of the high bog area. The extent and quality of active raised bog has significantly declined since 1995 when there was 24.21 ha1 of active raised bog (31.84% of high bog area). This is a 11.90% decrease in the area of active bog in ten years and is compounded by the fact that 5.03ha of the original 9.12ha of central ecotope has been lost.
1 This figure corresponds to an adjusted figure (See Appendix III).
1 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Kelly et al. (1995) classed the central ecotope as primary vegetation. However, this is questionable as it appears to be located in a depression and an old drain runs through the western part of the ecotope. Sphagnum cuspidatum pools cover 10-15% of the surface area and also support S. auriculatum with the overall Sphagnum cover averaging at 50-60%. However, towards the edges of the central ecotope, the pools become algal with the Sphagnum appearing dried-out in places. Menyanthes trifoliata is found in pools in the wetter areas and Drosera anglica is also present. S. magellanicum forms extensive lawns in places and there are hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium, S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%) and there is a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools. In the sub-central areas, the microtopography is not so well developed and the Sphagnum cover is lower (40-50%). Carex panicea becomes more common in these areas.
The wettest and most Sphagnum-rich area of the high bog is found in the mid-west where an active flush with characteristics of a central complex 14 is found. This area has formed due to subsidence with two old drains meeting close to the centre of the flush. Here Sphagnum cuspidatum-filled pools cover 40% of the surface area and the bog surface is quaking underfoot. The overall Sphagnum cover is 80-90% and the acrotelm layer appears to be deep. Eriophorum vaginatum is the most prominent higher plant and flush indicators such as Molinia caerulea, Aulacomnium palustre, Polytrichum alpestre, Vaccinium oxycoccus and V. myrtillus are present. Carex panicea is more or less absent from this area.
5.1.2. Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration (7120) There are 54.44 ha (71.84%) of degraded raised bog within this site composed of sub-marginal and marginal ecotope as well as inactive flush (See Map 1). The extent of degraded raised bog has increased since 1995 when there was 52.83ha of degraded raised bog. This is due to the degradation of active raised bog. It is estimated that close to 1ha of high bog has been lost to peat cutting in the last ten years.
The microtopography is less well-developed in these areas and the Sphagnum cover is lower (averaging at 20%). Carex panicea and Narthecium ossifragum are more prominent than in active raised bog and characterise the vegetation over large areas. Bare peat also becomes more common particularly in the west of the site where there is poaching by cattle. In some areas, particularly in the north-east of the high bog, there is a slow invasion of Pinus sylvestris.
5.1.3. Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion (7150) The area of Rhynchosporion depression communities is not mapped separately and there are no areas calculated for its extent. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. Typical plant species within these pool areas include Sphagnum cuspidatum, S. auriculatum, Drosera anglica, Menyanthes trifoliata and Eriophorum angustifolium. There are also a number of small lawn areas in both active and degraded raised bog which are dominated by Rhynchospora alba and the rare R. fusca. It must be noted, however, that many of the R. fusca areas have a high cover of algal mat, which indicates habitat degradation.
5.1.4. Bog Woodland (91D0) There is no bog woodland present on Moyclare raised bog.
5.2. Detailed Vegetation of the High Bog
5.2.1. Active Raised Bog The following vegetation description was taken during the 2004/05 survey. The present vegetation cover of Moyclare bog is divided into a number of community complexes, which are described according to the
2 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 vegetation, they contain. These community complexes are pooled into ecotope types. The distribution of the ecotopes is shown on the ecotope map (Map 1). The community complexes are displayed on the complex map (Map 2).
Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 10/9/15 This central complex is found in a slight depression in the mid-south-west of the high bog (GR. 207790, 224045). The surface is very soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and pools characterise the microtopography. The pools cover approximately 10-15% of the complexes surface area and are irregularly shaped. These pools have lawns of Sphagnum associated with them, but towards the edges of the complex some of these pools are algal. Otherwise they support a good cover of S. cuspidatum (10% cover of the complex) with S. auriculatum present also. The total Sphagnum cover is 50-60% and is dominated by S. papillosum (30%), which is found most frequently at the pool edges and in low hummocks. Patches of Rhynchospora alba occur in and around the pools and the Sphagnum cover in the inter-pool areas is better in quality than the surrounding sub-central ecotope containing more extensive flats and hummocks of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. Hummocks of S. capillifolium are also frequent (occasionally large) and there are occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. Dicranum scoparium, Hylocomium splendens and Hypnum jutlandicum occur on the larger hummocks. Eriophorum vaginatum (15-20%) dominates the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (10%). There is also a low cover of E. angustifolium (5%), Carex panicea (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (<5%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (<5%). Cladonia portentosa is present at 5-10% cover. Further west the Sphagnum cover increases up to 80% and the complex is better in quality. Some of the pools are infilled or are infilling and the bog surface is quaking in places. Quadrat Qc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
Sub-Central Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/10 This sub-central complex is found in a number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare. Firstly, there is a small area close to the northern margin (GR. 208095, 224690). The surface here is soft to very soft underfoot and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 50% and is composed of S. papillosum (20%), S. magellanicum (15-20%), S. capillifolium (10%) and S. cuspidatum (5-10%). Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) dominate the vegetation with Calluna vulgaris (15-20%) and Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%).
This complex is also found to the north of flush Z and to the east and west of the area of central ecotope in the south of the high bog. To the east of the central area (GR. 207885, 224000) the complex is similar though the Sphagnum cover is higher in places (50-70%) and the hummock indicators S. imbricatum and S. fuscum are both found. There are also occasional pools and Sphagnum lawns (5-20%). Quadrat Qsc1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I. To the west of the central ecotope close to the poached area (GR 207549, 224059) the vegetation is again characterised by frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is well-developed with frequent S. cuspidatum, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum in wet hollows and small pools. Occasional Leucobryum glaucum hummocks are present here.
The complex is also found in a small area towards the eastern margin of the site (GR. 208145, 224110) immediately south-west of a Myrica gale patch. Here the complex is again similar, but Eriophorum vaginatum is more abundant (30-40%) and flush indicators such as Polytrichum alpestre are present.
This complex also occurs along the blocked drain bD. The drain has infilled successfully with lawns of S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. The borders of the drain also have a good quality Sphagnum cover with patches of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium topped with Calluna vulgaris. This area is wet and soft. The vegetation is dominated by Eriophorum vaginatum (20%) and E. angustifolium (5%) with small amounts of
3 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Narthecium ossifragum (<5%). This area is a maximum of 10-15 m wide and is very localised along the drain, with a band of marginal vegetation found along both the northern and southern boundaries of the double drain.
Complex 3/9/10 This sub-central complex is found in number of areas of the high bog at Moyclare, but occupies its largest area in the south-east (GR. 207920, 223950). The surface is soft underfoot and low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography. The Sphagnum cover is 40-50% and is usually found in a thin layer. S. papillosum and S. magellanicum are the dominant Sphagna, but S. capillifolium is also common and S. cuspidatum is found in infilled hollows and pools (5%). Rhynchospora fusca is found in some of these pools and hollows. Carex panicea (15-20%) dominates flats and Eriophorum spp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium) are also common (15-20%). Narthecium ossifragum (10-15%) is found in hollows and Calluna vulgaris (10-15%) in hummocks.
Where this complex occurs in the central part of the high bog between drains bD and bF there are occasional medium-sized pools and occasional larger hummocks. The vegetation is similar to the sub-marginal complex 3/9, but there is a higher Sphagnum cover (30-40%) and more frequent small to medium sized pools/hollows (5%) with associated Sphagnum cover. Carex panicea and Eriophorum angustifolium dominate the vegetation along with less frequent Calluna vulgaris (10%), E. vaginatum (5%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5%). Some of the pools are medium sized (1m wide and 2-4m long) with good quality S. cuspidatum cover (50-75% of the pools) and also contain E. angustifolium. The Sphagnum cover is dominated in places by S. capillifolium hummocks. Both S. papillosum and S. magellanicum (5% general cover) occur around the edges of these pools. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%.
Active Flushes
Flush Z This flush occurs in the mid-western part of the high bog (GR. 207720, 224190) and is characterised by a well- developed microtopography with large hummocks and an abundant cover of Sphagnum cuspidatum (40%) in inter-connected pools (40-50% cover) that are similar to those found in a central complex 14. The bog surface is quaking underfoot. This flush is active peat-forming and the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The large hummocks (40%) are made up of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. magellanicum. The general Sphagnum cover is 80-90%. There are small amounts of Eriophorum angustifolium (5%) and Rhynchospora alba (5%) in the pools. The hummocks also contain (10- 15%), Cladonia spp. (5%) and small amounts of Eriophorum vaginatum and E. angustifolium (10-20%). Other species also present on the hummocks include Andromeda polifolia, Polytrichum alpestre and Vaccinium myrtillus. Molinia caerulea becomes more common on hummocks in the centre of the flush. There are occasional lawns of S. magellanicum and occasional Aulacomnium palustre with Vaccinium oxycoccus present. This flush is essentially an extremely wet area that has formed in a depression, which resulted due to subsidence. An old blocked drain runs N/S through the centre of the flush. A second blocked drain runs WNW from this drain (close to the centre of the flush) towards the western margin of the high bog. Quadrat Qf1 was taken within this complex and its location is shown on Map 1 and its details in appendix I.
5.2.2. Degraded Raised Bog
Sub-Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 9/7 A small area of this sub-marginal complex is found close to drain bF. The surface is soft underfoot. Eriophorum vaginatum and Calluna vulgaris characterise the complex and the Sphagnum cover is 30%.
Complex 3/7/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog particularly towards the north-west and south-west. The general topography is quite flat with a gradual slope at the margin. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Low hummocks, hollows and flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S.
4 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 magellanicum also present. The Sphagnum cover is generally very thin and may indicate past fire damage. There are occasional small pools/hollows with S. cuspidatum and S. magellanicum. There are also several large S. imbricatum hummocks present. The vegetation is similar to the complex 3/9 but with Calluna vulgaris more frequent (10-30%). Carex panicea (25-30%) and Eriophorum sp. (E. vaginatum and E. angustifolium combined: 10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (5-20%) and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/9 This sub-marginal complex is found scattered throughout the high bog. The surface is usually soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 10-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. capillifolium with S. papillosum and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation along with Narthecium ossifragum (10- 20%) and there are occasional algal hollows. E. angustifolium (10%) is also prominent and there is occasional Calluna vulgaris (5-10%).
In the northern half of the high bog, south of drain bD, the Sphagnum cover is slightly higher (20-25%) and is dominated by low hummocks of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and occasional S. tenellum. There are occasional small pools/hollows present (< 5%), which contain small amounts of S. cuspidatum with occasional good quality patches of S. papillosum and S. magellanicum around margins. Rhynchospora alba and R. fusca occur in some of the pools/hollows. There are occasional larger hummocks (0.5-1 m high and 3-5 m wide) present in this area with Polytrichum alpestre present on some of the larger hummocks. The cover of Cladonia spp. (C. portentosa and C. uncialis) is 10%. In the south-west the Cladonia cover is higher (20-30%) and there are occasional S. imbricatum hummocks.
Complex 6 This complex occurs in the northern part of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and the bog surface is quite flat with a generally poor micro-topography. The vegetation is dominated by Narthecium ossifragum (30%) and there is frequent Carex panicea (10-30%) in some patches in flats and hollows. Other species present include Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (5%). The Cladonia spp. cover is 5-10%. The general Sphagnum cover is 20% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium and S. papillosum. Occasional patches of S. magellanicum occur in low hummocks. Occasional algal hollows are present. Dicranum scoparium is present on low hummocks and flats.
Complex 6/3 This complex occurs in the northern section of the high bog. The vegetation is similar to the complex 6 with a greater dominance of Carex panicea. Both S. imbricatum and S. magellanicum occur as relic hummocks, which are in poor condition with Hypnum jutlandicum and Dicranum scoparium occurring on their crown.
Complex 3/6/9 This sub-marginal complex is found in patches of the high bog towards the north of the site. There is usually a gentle slope and the surface is generally soft underfoot though it is firm in places. Flats dominate the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is 15-20% composed mostly of hummocks of S. papillosum with S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum also present. Carex panicea (30-40%), Narthecium ossifragum (20-30%) and Eriophorum vaginatum (10-20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows.
Complex 3/6 + Pine (3/6 + P) This sub-marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks and hollows characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is 20-30% composed mostly of S. papillosum, S. capillifolium and S. magellanicum. Carex panicea (20%) and Narthecium ossifragum (20%) dominate the vegetation along with Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Marginal Ecotope Complexes
Complex 3/6 This marginal complex is found in small patches of the high bog. The surface is firm underfoot and there is usually a slope towards the high bog margin. Flats characterise the microtopography and the Sphagnum cover is poor at 5-10%, composed mostly of S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-40%) and Narthecium ossifragum
5 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
(20%) dominate the vegetation and there are occasional algal hollows. Trichophorum cespitosum also occurs and becomes more frequent in places (5-10%).
On the western margin of the high bog, the bog surface is firm and slightly poached and grazed. However, the vegetation layer is still intact compared to the more damaged areas closer to the margin. Carex panicea (30%) and Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%) with frequent low Calluna vulgaris (5-10%) (0.1-0.2 m high) dominate the vegetation along with Eriophorum vaginatum (5%) Rhynchospora alba (< 5%) and tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (< 5%). The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and dominated by low patches of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and S. tenellum. The Sphagnum layer is damaged by poaching though there is some regeneration occurring. Poaching and grazing affect the whole of the marginal ecotope and part of the sub-marginal ecotope in this area.
Complex 3 + Pine (3 + P) This marginal complex is found in the north-east of the high bog. The surface is soft underfoot and hummocks, hollows and flats characterise the microtopography along with scattered, but frequent Pinus sylvestris. The Sphagnum cover is approximately 10% composed mostly of S. papillosum and S. capillifolium. Carex panicea (20-30%) dominates the vegetation along with and Narthecium ossifragum (10-20%) and Calluna vulgaris (20%). There are also algal hollows (5%) and patches of Rhynchospora alba (5%).
Complex 3 This complex occurs in a narrow zone E-W across the bog along the sides of the double drains. The high bog has slumped significantly along these drains with steep to gentle slopes on both sides of the drains. The vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (30%) with frequent Calluna vulgaris (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (5-10%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Rhynchospora alba (5%) and Eriophorum angustifolium (10-20%). E. vaginatum becomes dominant towards the drains. The Cladonia spp. cover is 5%. The general Sphagnum cover is 10% and is dominated by hummocks of S. capillifolium, S. papillosum and occasional S. tenellum.
Complex 3 badly poached (3 bp) This complex occurs along the western side of the high bog. The bog surface is firm to soft and badly damaged from poaching by encroaching cattle. The bog surface is 90% bare peat along the immediate margin of the high bog. The high bog undergoes an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. The cutover bog here has probably been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50% and the vegetation is dominated by Carex panicea (10%) with small amounts of Trichophorum cespitosum (5%), Eriophorum vaginatum (5%), Narthecium ossifragum (< 5%), Calluna vulgaris (< 5%), Anthoxanthum odoratum (< 5%) and Cladonia spp. (< 5%). The microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. The general Sphagnum cover is 5-10% with some regeneration in the poached hollows. Hypnum jutlandicum also occurs quite frequently.
Complex 3/2 This complex occurs in a zone along drain bA. There has been some slumping along the drain as well as some reclamation disturbance (from the drain blocking). The vegetation is similar to complex 3 but this complex is characterised by more frequent tussocks of Trichophorum cespitosum (5-10%). The micro-topography is disturbed and poorly developed.
Facebank Complexes
Complex 1 Facebank vegetation is found in a 10-20m band along the northern perimeter of the site. Robust (0.4-0.5m) Calluna vulgaris dominates the vegetation along with abundant Hypnum jutlandicum underneath the Calluna. There is much cracking on the bog surface, which is firm underfoot. There is also substantial slumping of the high bog in places. The Cladonia spp. cover is less than 5%. Both Campylopus introflexus and Cladonia floerkeana occur on some bare peat patches (< 5%) indicating damage from an old fire.
6 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05
Flushes
Flush Y This small flush occurs in the southern half of the high bog. This flush has developed around a single mature Pinus sp. tree (4-5 m high). There are several Pinus sp. 2-3 m high and numerous Pinus sp. trees between 0.3- 1m high covering an area of 20m in diameter. The ground vegetation is dominated by Calluna vulgaris and contains frequent Eriophorum vaginatum and Aulacomnium palustre. There are frequent Vaccinium oxycoccos and Andromeda polifolia present. Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Hypnum jutlandicum, S. capillifolium, Pseudoscleropodium purum and Thuidium tamariscinum are all present. A softer, wetter area with a greater Sphagnum cover occurs adjacent to the south-west of the flush.
5.2.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site with Rhynchospora alba-dominated depressions best developed in the active flush (Z) and not very common on the rest of the high bog. R. alba occurs in Sphagnum cuspidatum filled-pools and pool margins in the flush usually accompanied by Eriophorum angustifolium, Menyanthes trifoliata and Drosera anglica. R. alba-dominated depressions occur in similar situations in the central ecotope (Complex 10/9/15), but in smaller patches and again in sub-central ecotope (Complex 9/10 and 3/9/10). R. fusca is also found on this site usually in pools/hollows in the sub-central (Complex 3/9/10) and sub-marginal ecotope areas (Complex 3/9) accompanied by an algal mat and a patchy cover of dried out Sphagnum cuspidatum. R. alba is also found in small quantities in the marginal ecotope.
5.2.4. Bog Woodland There is no bog woodland recorded on Moyclare Bog.
5.3. Regenerating cutover No regenerating cutover was noted around the high bog. However, surveying the cutover was not a priority of this survey and not all cutover was surveyed. See Kelly et al., (1995) for more details of the vegetation on the cutover around the high bog.
5.4. Quadrats A quadrat displays aspects of the vegetation and habitat around a specific geo-referenced point (recorded using GPS) to allow future monitoring. A more comprehensive description for each complex is provided within section 5.2. See appendix I for a more detailed description of the quadrats. The locations of each quadrat are shown on Map 1.
Table 5.4.1. Quadrats Quadrat Name Ecotope type Complex Name Qc1 Central 10/9/15 Qf1 Flush (central-like) Flushed 14 Qsc1 Sub-central 9/10
6. IMPACTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND THE SITE
Table 6.1. Impacts and activities on the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 312 Mechanical removal of B (2-) 0.60km (12.8% of HB peat margin) 954 Invasive species B (1-) NA 810 Drainage C (1-) 0.78km 180 Burning (Yr) C 0 0 (since 1995) 140 Grazing B (1-) 5.8ha (7.65% of HB)
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Table 6.2 Impacts and activities adjacent to the high bog Code Activity Intensity Influence Area (ha) or Length (km) 162 Forestry Planting C (1-) NA 810 Drainage B (1-) NA
6.1. Cutting
Kelly et al. (1995) considered 31% of the high bog margin actively cut in 1994. Currently, this figure has been reduced to 12.8%, which equates to a reduction of over 18% in the length of margin actively cut since 1994. All of the cutting is now taking place along the northern margin meaning that the area in the SSE of the site that was cut in 1995 has been abandoned. All the cutting activity appears to be related to domestic use and is carried out using the hopper method. MacGowan et al. (in prep.) recorded 25 active plots in 2003 and these are shown on Map 3. A comparison between 1995 and 2000 aerial images shows that 0.26ha of high were cut and between those years (see table 8.1). The current location of some of the facebanks was recorded during the current survey and these are also shown on Map 3. From the location of these facebanks it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha have been cut since 2000.
According to MacGowan et al. (in prep.) turf plots 1-12 are to be phased out immediately as they are having a serious impact on the active bog. In addition cutting at plots 13-18 is to be stopped within 5 years and turf plots 19-25 are to be phased out at the latest, within 10 years. Most of the facebanks are 2-3m in height and the cutaway is gently sloping down to the facebank. The high bog is severely slumped in places and at turf plot no. 7 the peat cutting has cut into what was considered active bog in 1995.
6.2. Drainage
6.2.1. High Bog Drainage Several active and reduced function as well as blocked drains occur on Moyclare high bog (See tables 6.2.1. and 6.2.2.)
Table 6.2.1. Description of drains
Drain bA The blocked drain is 1.0m wide and 0.5m deep. It is found running N/S at the NW of the site along a townland boundary. It is filled with standing water with Sphagnum colonising in places. Drain bB This is a short non-functional drain found running E/W from drain bA to the western margin. Drain bC This is short blocked drain running E/W from the junction of drains bD and bA to the western margin. Drain bD This is a blocked double drain, which runs E/W along both sides of an old trackway and separates the northern quarter of the high bog from the remainder. The vegetation along the double drains bD is quite varied. These drains are blocked with peat dams, but there is some flow of water around some of the peat dams. Typha latifolia, Juncus effusus and Molinia caerulea occur along the drains. Betula pubescens saplings and Ulex europaeus bushes occur on some of the peat dams. Both the drains are infilled with Sphagnum cover and open water. Towards the western side the area between the drains (10-15 m wide) is quite wet and flooded with a high quality Sphagnum cover. There are abundant lawns of S. cuspidatum. Molinia caerulea dominates a 10m wide zone of vegetation along the southern side of the double drains and between the double drains on the eastern side. Drain bE This is a blocked drain that appears to be an extension to the south of drain bA.
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Drain bF This drain runs E/W across the mid-section of the high bog. It is 0.5m wide and 0.2- 0.3m deep and infilled mainly with Sphagnum cuspidatum. It appears to be non- functional. The high bog to the north appears to be slightly more elevated than that to the south. Drain bG These are two parallel old (they are on the 6” sheet) drains that run along the east of the site to the south of drain bF. They are completely infilled in places and difficult to see on the ground. Where they are more obvious they are infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum and S. magellanicum, while scattered individuals of Betula, Salix and Pinus seedlings are found in places along the edges of the drain along with robust Calluna vulgaris. Drain bH This is a short non-functional drain, which runs N/S close to drain bG at the east of the site. Drain bK-bN These are a series of blocked drains in the NE of the site. They are old and infilled and are seen on the 6” sheet. Drain bO This is an old reduced functional drain that runs ENE/WSW close to the northern margin of the high bog. The bog has slumped significantly and there is severe cracking along the axis of this drain. Drain bP These are a series of mostly short blocked/non-functional drains along the west side of the high bog. Some of these drains appear to have been blocked for quite a long time and have infilled successfully while other peat dams appear more recent in construction. .
Table 6.2.2. High bog drainage Drainage 1994/95 2004/05 Variation 1994/95- 2004/05 (%) Length of functional 1180 0 (-) 776m1 drains (m) Length of reduced- NA 404 N/A function drains (m) Length of non-functional NA 3000 N/A drains (m) Length of blocked drains 0 3374 (+) 3374m Area affected by 86.3 93.4 (+) 7.1% drainage (ha - %) 1 includes reduced function drains of 2004-05.
6.2.2. Bog Margin Drainage The cutover areas were not surveyed for drains during this survey. See Kelly et al. (1995) for a description of the drainage in the cutover areas.
6.3. Fire history
There is no evidence of any burning events on the high bog since the last survey in 1994/95. However, at that time recent burning was seen along the western edge into drain bA and in a large area to the south (See Kelly et al., 1995).
6.4. Invasive Species
Pinus sylvestris and Betula pubescens are invading the bog to the east of the site, from nearby woodland. This suggests drying-out of the bog surface. They are particularly abundant in the north-east of the site where the vegetation is characterised by the pines and the complexes are termed 3/6 + Pine and 3 + Pine (See Map 2). This area extends for approximately 4-5ha, north of drain bD (See Map 3).
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6.5. Afforestation
A small coniferous plantation is found to the NW of the site.
6.6. Other impacts and damaging activities
Other activities such as grazing (140), fertilisation (120), removal of hedges and copses (151) and improved access to site (530) were also reported from within the site in the Natura 2000 Form. Additionally mowing/cutting (102), restructuring agricultural land holding (150) and energy transport-electricity lines (511) were reported from around the site. However their impact is not assessed as part of this project, and they are considered to have a minor influence compared to peat cutting and drainage.
However, it is worth noting that the poaching being caused, as a result of cattle accessing the high bog is evident over 5-6ha of the high bog close to the western margin. As a result of the poaching, parts of the bog surface in this area are 90% bare peat, particularly along the immediate margin of the high bog. Further into the high bog the bare peat cover is reduced to 40-50%, but the microtopography has been destroyed and the bog surface is quite flat with signs of moderate grazing. Cattle also appear to be using the peat dams (that have been put in place to block drains) to cross the drains in this area. At the high bog margin, there is an immediate transition into grassland with only a very thin band of cutover bog present. This is because the cutover bog here has been re-seeded and improved. The margin of the bog is severely eroded by cattle encroaching onto the bog. No fence is present here.
7. SITE MANAGEMENT AND PLANS A Conservation Plan has been produced for Moyclare Bog SAC. Much of the site has been purchased by the NPWS and most of the high bog surface drains have been blocked. The drain blocking appears to be have been somewhat successful with high water levels recorded in most of the blocked drains particularly the double drain bD, which is infilled with Sphagnum cuspidatum.
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8. CONSERVATION STATUS ASSESSMENT
8.1. High Bog
Due to differences in mapping techniques, between 1994/95 survey and the 2004/05 survey, two different figures for the 1995 high bog area have been obtained. The second figure, obtained by applying GIS techniques to the 1995 orthorectified images, is considered more accurate and valid to compare with a recent figure for high bog area (2004). Thus it is estimated that 0.26ha (see table 8.1) of high bog were cut between 1995-2000. From the points taken (using GPS) at the facebanks on the ground during the current survey, it can be estimated that peat cutting is proceeding at a rate of 3-4m/yr and that a further 0.3-0.5ha of high bog have been cut since 2000.
Table 8.1. High bog area variation High Bog Area (ha) 1994/95 1995 2000 2004/05 1 Variation in High Bog Area Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) Area (ha) (1995-2004/05) Kelly et al. Digitised ortho-image 79 76.04 75.78 75.78 2 0.263 0.34% 1 based on 2000 photo with 2004 site visit corrections and other amendments. 2 likely to be over-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000. 3 likely to be under-estimated by 0.3-1.0 ha due to peat cutting since 2000.
8.1.1. Active raised bog
Habitat extent There has been an overall reduction in area of active raised bog (see table 8.2) from 24.21ha in 1995 to 21.33ha in 2005 (11.90% reduction in the original active raised bog area). A reduction of between 5-15% in a period of ten years falls into the Conservation Status Irish category of favourable declining (see table 3.2.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report). It should also be noted that 4.74ha of high bog in the south of the site was classed as active raised bog in 1995 and that under the criteria used during the current survey, much of this complex (Complex 10RB) would be considered as sub-marginal ecotope. This is because Kelly et al. (1995) describe the Sphagnum cover at the edges of the complex as decreasing to 15%. Thus, there may in fact be no difference in the extent of active raised bog at Moyclare in the last ten years.
! The extent of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Habitat structure and function The active raised bog at Moyclare is composed of 4.09ha of central ecotope, 16.36ha of sub-central ecotope and 0.88ha of active flush. Comparing these figures to those of 1994/95 (Table 8.2), there has been a 55.15% (5.03ha) decrease in central ecotope and an 18.04% (2.50ha) increase in sub-central ecotope. The change in extent of active flush is of 0.35ha is considered to be due to mapping differences between the two surveys since it was recognised during the current survey that the boundary between the flush and the surrounding central and sub-central ecotopes is not obvious. The figures given in table 8.2, however, exaggerate the loss of central ecotope since some of the area considered as central complex 10/15 in 1994/95 would, under the criteria used during the current survey, be considered as sub-central ecotope. This is in reference to the area in the NE of the complex that Kelly et al. (1995) described as being ‘a large patch of Eriophorum angustifolium and Sphagnum magellanicum with algal hollows, some of which support Rhynchospora fusca’. Thus although the figures below (table 8.2) suggest that there has been a 55% loss of central ecotope, the actual loss has been much less. This loss is estimated to have been between 5-25% and thus the quality of the active bog is considered to be favourable declining (see section 3.2.1, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
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Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators The Sphagnum cover is high within the central ecotope (50-60%) and is comparable to that which it was estimated to be in 1994/95 (60-70%). Sphagnum cuspidatum filled pools cover 10% of the area with S. auriculatum present also. There are also occasional hummocks of S. imbricatum and S. fuscum. The wettest area is the active flush, which covers a small section (<1ha) of the high bog. The Sphagnum cover within the flush is 80-90% with S. cuspidatum pools covering 40% of the surface area. Midland conditions indicators such as Andromeda polifolia and Sphagnum magellanicum are commonly noted within the habitat. The abundance of the latter and the presence of Rhynchospora fusca in pools and hollows within the sub-central complex 3/9/10 indicates the lowering of water table levels as was noted previously. Algae is also present in the pools towards the edges of the central ecotope and in the sub-central ecotope.
! The habitat structure and function of active raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Active raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.2. Variation in active raised bog area ACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 Variation Active Ecotopes ECOTOPES (geo-referenced figures2) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Central 9.12 11.99 4.09 5.40 (-) 5.03 (-) 55.15 Sub-central 13.86 18.23 16.36 21.58 (+) 2.50 (+) 18.04 Active flush 1 1.23 1.62 0.88 1.16 (-) 0.35 (-) 28.46 Total 24.21 31.84 21.33 28.15 (-) 2.88 (-) 11.90 1 Differences in active flush due to mapping differences between 1995 and 2004. 2 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas.
! The conservation status of active raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.2. Degraded raised bog
Habitat extent There has been a slight overall increase in the area of degraded raised bog (see table 8.2) from 51.83ha (68.16% of high bog area) in 1994 to 54.44ha (71.84% of high bog area) in 2004. This amounts to an increase of 2.61ha (5.04%). This slight increase can be attributed to the degradation of active raised bog with 0.5-1.0ha (ca. 1%) of high bog lost to turf cutting in the last ten years. According to the conservation status assessment criteria (see table 3.3.4, chapter 3 - Summary# Report), both degraded and active raised bog habitats are assessed independently. In addition an increase in the extent of degraded raised bog as a result of loss of active raised bog is not assessed as a more favourable condition for the habitat. Thus, the conservation assessment of the extent of degraded raised bog is given as A (Favourable).
! The extent of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
Habitat structure and function The figures in table 8.3 below suggest that there has been a decline in the habitat quality of the degraded raised bog as the area of sub-marginal ecotope present has decreased by 3.32ha, while the area of marginal has increased by 5.73ha (49.44%). However, the actual increase in marginal ecotope is not believed to be so large. In geo-referencing the vegetation map of Kelly et al. (1995), there was a high bog difference of 1.36ha. This
12 Raised Bog Monitoring Project 2004/05 was considered to be due to differences at the edge of the high bog and was thus assigned to marginal ecotope. However, if this difference had been ignored, the increase in marginal ecotope would have been estimated at 33.75% (from 12.95ha to 17.32ha). Furthermore there was an increase in marginal ecotope of ca. 1.5ha around the old track associated with drains bD. This difference is due to mapping differences and can be disregarded so that in fact the increase in marginal ecotope is likely to be approximately 22.16% (from 12.95ha to 15.82ha). Thus, the habitat structure and function is assessed as B (unfavourable inadequate) as the increase in area of marginal ecotope from 1994/95 to 2004/05 is between 5-25% (see table 3.3.5, chapter 3 - Summary# Report).
Vegetation composition: Positive and negative indicators Close to the western margin bare peat covers much of the bog surface due to poaching and grazing by cattle. The microtopography has been destroyed in this area and there is very little Sphagnum.
! The habitat structure and function of degraded raised bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Future prospects Degraded raised bog is moderately threatened and slowly declining. There is poor prospect for its future and the long term viability is not assured.
Table 8.3. Variation in degraded raised bog INACTIVE 1994/95 2004/05 4 Variation Inactive ECOTOPES (geo-referenced Ecotopes figures3) Area % of HB Area % of HB Area (ha) %(+/-) (ha) (ha) (+/-) Sub-marginal 40.24 52.92 36.92 48.72 (-) 3.32 (-) 8.25 Marginal 11.59 15.24 12.42 16.39 (+) 5.732 (+) 49.44 Face-bank 1 NA NA 4.90 6.47 NA NA Inactive flush 0 0 0.20 0.26 (+) 0.20 NA Total 51.83 68.16 54.44 71.84 (+) 2.61 (+) 5.04 1 The face-bank ecotope was deemed as part of marginal ecotope in 1995 survey. However, it is deemed as an independent ecotope in the current survey and thus, its area is measured and included on the above table. 2 This figure is the difference in area between the marginal ecotope extent of 1995 and the marginal plus facebank ecotope extent of 2004. 3 These are the figures calculated from the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al., (1995) that was geo-referenced and digitised as part of the current project. See Appendix III for original Kelly et al., (1995) ecotope areas. 4 The area for the 2004 ecotopes is obtained by ground mapping and GIS techniques, using the 2000 orthorectified images. Thus, the total area for the ecotopes is equal to the 2000 high bog area and therefore the real marginal ecotope area for 2004 is likely to be smaller to the one shown in the above table.
! The conservation status of degraded raised bog habitat at Moyclare Bog is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
8.1.3. Rhynchosporion depression communities Due to the difficulty in accurately quantifying the cover of the Rhynchosporion depression communities it is not possible to accurately assess whether they have increased or decreased in abundance. In comparison to other raised bogs, Rhynchosporion vegetation is not very abundant on this site and is best developed in the wettest central areas of the high bog where pools occur. There are no complexes dominated by Rhynchospora spp., nor was there any in 1994/95. Rhynchospora alba is still recorded mostly from the wet central ecotope pools and R. fusca is present in the pools in the same area of high bog (now termed sub-central complex 3/9/10, then termed central complex 10/15) as it was during the last survey.
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! The conservation status of the Rhynchosporion depression communities at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A favourable).
9. OVERALL CONSERVATION STATUS OF HIGH BOG
9.1. Interactions between the changes since the last survey and activities affecting the high bog Peat cutting though reduced in extent since the last survey is still ongoing along the northern margin of the site and is proceeding at a relatively fast rate of 3-4m/yr. It is thus causing a significant impact on the isolated area of sub-central ecotope that was found towards the north of the site in 1994/95. This area is now mapped as being reduced and fragmented in extent. Furthermore, the cutting at one plot has now reached as far south as the sub- central ecotope extended north in the vegetation map drawn by Kelly et al. (1995). The high bog along the northern margin is also subsiding and is slumping in places with a large crack in the surface of high bog found along the axis of an old drain. Restoration work has been carried out at the site, resulting in the damming of much of the high bog surface drains and there doesn’t appear to have been any burning events in the last ten years. However, pines appear to be invading the high bog from the east and this suggests that the surface is continuing to dry out.
9.2. Overall conservation status of the high bog The area occupied by active raised bog habitat (7110) has decreased (11.90%-2.88ha) at Moyclare Bog since the last survey (1994/95). This decrease has been encompassed also by a decline in the quality of the habitat (i.e. decrease in central ecotope). The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
In terms of the degraded raised bog habitat (7120), the extent of the habitat has slightly increased (5.04%) at the expense of active raised bog. The current degraded raised bog features slightly inferior quality than the former (1994), particularly at the east of the high bog. The overall conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
Rhynchosporion depression communities (7150) are limited in their extent and abundance on Moyclare and are mainly found within active raised bog. However, their extent has not changed significantly in the last ten years. The conservation status of this habitat is assessed as being favourable maintained (EU, A Favourable).
! The conservation status of the overall raised bog at Moyclare is assessed as being favourable declining (EU, B unfavourable inadequate).
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10. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cross, J. R. 1990. The Raised Bogs of Ireland: their Ecology, Status and Conservation. Report to the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Kelly, L., Doak, M. & Dromey, M. 1995. Raised Bog Restoration Project: An Investigation into the Conservation and Restoration of Selected Raised Bog Sites in Ireland. Unpublished report, National Parks & Wildlife, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin. MacGowan F., Fernandez Valverde, F., Crowley, W., Farrell, M., Croal, Y. Fanning, M. & McKee, A. in prep. Impact assessment of turf cutting on raised bogs. A report to NPWS, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.
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11. APPENDICES
Appendix I Quadrats
COMPLEX NAME 10/9/15 14 flush 9/10 GPS READING 207826, 224073 207777, 224207 207884, 223927 QUADRAT NAME Qc1 Qf1 Qsc1 FIRMNESS very soft very soft soft CRACKING no no no BOG BURST no no no SLOPE depression depression flat DRAINS no drains infilled drains no drains BURNT TREND ALGAL HOLLOWS < 5% absent 5% ALGAL POOL 5% absent < 5% BARE PEAT < 5% < 5% POOL COVER 15% 40% < 5% POOLS reg pools inter-cnncting pools MICRO TOPOGRAPHY low hums, hols, pool high hum, hol, pool flats low hums & hol COMMUNITY S. CAP HUMMOCKS 5% 10% 5% S. IMBRIC HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% LEUCOBRYUM HUMMOCKS absent absent TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCK 5% absent < 5% TRICHOPHORUM FLATS absent absent S. PAP HUMMOCKS 25% 20% 30% S. PAP HOLLOWS hummocks and hollows hummocks hummocks and hollows S. MAG HUMMOCKS/LAWNS/HOLLOWS < 5% 5% < 5% S. MAG HABITATS hummocks & lawns S. CUSPIDATUM/E. ANG POOLS absent 10% absent R. FUSCA HOLLOWS < 5% absent R. ALBA HOLLOWS < 5% 10% < 5% E. VAGINATUM HOLLOWS 20% 10% 20% NARTHECIUM < 5% absent 5% NARTHECIUM LAWNS S. MAG / S. CUSP POOLS absent absent absent S. SUBNITENS absent absent S. AURIC POOLS < 5% absent S. FUSCUM HUMMOCKS < 5% < 5% S. CUSP 15% 40% 5% SPHAGNUM POOLS/LAWNS 20% 40% 10% SPHAGNUM HUMMOCKS 30% 40% 40% TOTAL SPHAGNUM COVER 50% 70% 50% E. ANGUS 5% 20% 5% QUALITY INDICATORS HUMMOCK INDICATORS S. fuscum & imbricatum S. fuscum & imbricatum POOLS INDICATORS all S. cusp CLADONIA PORTENTOSA 10% < 5% < 5% CLADONIA COVER < 5% TRICHOPHORUM TUSSOCKS 5% NARTHECIUM ABUNDANT absent E. VAGINATUM TUSSOCKS CAREX PANICEA S. MAGELLANICUM ABUNDANT CLADONIA FLOERKEANA OTHERS % DISTURBANCE TEAR PATTERN CALLUNA COVER 10% 10% 10% CALLUNA HEIGHT 0.2 0.3 0.2 OTHER SPECIES mol 5 COMPLEX VARIATIONS Similar to a central ecotope of the complex 14 variety. SIMILAR DESCRIPTION OTHER DATA
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Appendix II Photographical records
There were no photographs taken at this site.
Appendix III Ecotope areas given by Kelly et al. (1995)
ECOTOPES Kelly et al., 1995 Original figures Figures calculated from 1995 geo- referenced vegetation map Area % of HB Area % of HB (ha) (ha) Central 9.4 11.8 9.12 11.99 Sub-central 20.81 26.2 13.862 18.23 Sub-marginal 35.21 44.3 40.24 52.92 Marginal 12.6 15.8 11.593 15.24 Flushes (active) 1.5 1.9 1.23 1.62 Total 79.0 100 76.04 100
1 It would appear that the figures given by Kelly et al. (1995) for sub-marginal and sub-central ecotope were somehow mixed up. They gave the area of sub-central ecotope as 35.2ha and the area of sub-marginal ecotope as 20.8ha. However, the measurements calculated from their geo-referenced vegetation map shows that these should have read as sub-central area 20.8ha and sub- marginal area as 35.2ha. 2 The original Kelly et al. (1995) ecotope figure has been adjusted due to a re-interpretation of one of the community complexes. Complex 6/10 was described as sub-central in the 1994/95 survey. However under the criteria used during the current survey, this complex would be considered as sub-marginal. Thus this area was re-mapped in the 1995 map and termed sub-marginal in order to enable a valid comparison of figures between 1994/95 and 2004/05. This area accounts for 7.30ha. 3 There is a difference between the high bog area obtained by means of the geo-referenced vegetation map and the 1995 orthorectified image. By overlapping the 1995 image and the vegetation map it is observed that this difference is due to mapping discrepancies at the edge of the high bog that corresponds to marginal ecotope. Therefore the area given for marginal ecotope by Kelly et al. is appropriately adjusted. The marginal ecotope area calculated from the geo-referenced vegetation map is 12.95 ha.
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