Appropriate Assessment Report for Forest Road Development Project CN 78352, Located at Breaghwyanteean, Co

Appropriate Assessment Report for forest road development project CN 78352, located at Breaghwyanteean, Co. Mayo

Prepared by Saoirse O’Donoghue, Consultant Ecologist, ACIEEM on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine 27 July 2021

1 Section 1: Introduction The proposed forest road development project CN78352 is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of any European Site. Having carried out an Appropriate Assessment screening, it has been determined, on the basis of objective scientific information, that the project, individually or in combination with other plans and projects, is likely to have a significant effect on: • River Moy SAC 002298 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SAC 000458 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SPA 004036

Therefore, an Appropriate Assessment must be carried out in respect of the project by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the European Communities (Birds & Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477/2011), as amended, and the Forestry Regulations 2017 (S.I. No. 191 of 2017), as amended. In relation to key forestry activities, the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) is implemented in Ireland by the European Communities (Birds & Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No.477 of 2011), as amended, and the Forestry Regulations 2017 (S.I. No. 191 of 2017), as amended. The requirement for Appropriate Assessment is set out in Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive. In summary, an Appropriate Assessment is required to be undertaken where a project – either individually or in combination with other plans and projects – is likely to have a significant effect on a European Site (i.e. a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) or a Special Protection Area (SPA)), or where it cannot be ruled out that it will not. The Appropriate Assessment focuses on the implications that the project may have in the context of the reason (i.e. particular habitats and / or species) for the designation of the European Site for protection. Article 6(3) continues by stating that consent can only be granted if the assessment has shown that there will be no adverse effect on the integrity of any European Site in view of its conservation objectives. In cases where the integrity of a European Site would be adversely affected, then the requirements of Article 6(4) apply. The purpose of this Appropriate Assessment Report is to evaluate whether the project, individually or in combination with other plans and projects, would have an adverse effect on the integrity of any European Site, in view of that European Site’s conservation objective(s) and in view of best scientific knowledge.

2 Section 2: Information In undertaking this Appropriate Assessment of the likely significant implications and effects of the activity of European Sites, the following were considered: ➢ the initial application CN78352, including all information submitted by the applicant, information available via iFORIS (including its GIS MapViewer), responses from referral bodies and submissions from 3rd parties; ➢ any subsequent supporting documentation received from the applicant; ➢ any other plan or project that may, in combination with the plan or project under consideration, adversely affect the integrity of a European Site; ➢ any written submission or observation made by a consultation body or the public to the Minister in relation to the application; ➢ any further information sought by the Minister and furnished by the applicant in relation to the application, ➢ any information or advice obtained by the Minister, ➢ any other relevant information.

Response received from IFI 19/07/2019:

Adequate information was available to undertake an appropriate assessment.

Section 3: Consideration of the project individually This section provides an analysis of the potential adverse effects on the integrity of the above screened-in European Site(s) arising as a result of the forest road development project CN78352 itself, i.e. individually. Potential adverse effects on integrity are assessed in view of best scientific knowledge, based on objective information in relation to the project and the conservation objectives of the Natura site(s). Where potential adverse effects on integrity are identified, appropriate measures to avoid, reduce or prevent such effects are identified and / or assessed.

An overview of the project is as follows: This project comprises 385 metres of forest road works. The predominant soil type underlining the project area is predominantly brown earths in nature. The slope is predominantly flat to moderate (<15%). The project area is crossed by / adjoins an aquatic zone(s). The vegetation type(s) within the project area comprise Scrub WL1/ drains FW4/ existing road surface BL3. Gley soils, existing track present with culvert

Spec as follows:

001922 Bellacorick Bog Complex SAC 1261.13m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO001922.pdfthat are Objective(s), including supporting relevant to this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Habitats To maintain and restore the favourable conservation The project area is located entirely no mitigation necessary 3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and condition of habitats and species of Bellacorick Bog outside of the European site. ponds Complex SAC, The project is outside the range for 4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths potential impacts to terrestrial with Erica tetralix habitats/ species listed as QIs 7130 Blanket bogs (* if active bog) 7150 Depressions on peat The project area is however within substrates of the Rhynchosporion the same WFD sub-catchment as 7230 Alkaline fens the European site Species (Cloonaghmore_SC_010) 1528 Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga The project area is located hirculus) downstream of the site with 1013 Geyer's Whorl Snail (Vertigo relevant watercourses flowing geyeri) from the outskirts of the European site past the plantation within which the project area is located. There is no significant hydrological connection to habitats or species listed as Qualifying Interests and no potential for adverse impacts to CO001922

00500 Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC 6558.23m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Conservation Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO000500.pdfthat are relevant to Objective(s), including supporting this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Habitats To maintain and restore the favourable conservation condition of The project area is located entirely No mitigation necessary 1230 Vegetated sea cliffs of the habitats and species of Glenamoy Bog Complex SAC outside of the European site.

Atlantic and Baltic coasts The project is outside the range for 21A0 Machairs (* in Ireland) potential impacts to terrestrial 3160 Natural dystrophic lakes and habitats/ species listed as QIs ponds 4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths The project area is located outside with Erica tetralix the WFD sub-catchment of the 5130 Juniperus communis European site formations on heaths or calcareous (Glencullin[NorthMayo]_SC_010) grasslands The project area is not hydrologically 7130 Blanket bogs (* if active bog) connected and there is no source- 7140 Transition mires and quaking pathway-receptor linking the project bogs area to the European site. There is no 7150 Depressions on peat potential for adverse impacts to substrates of the Rhynchosporion CO000500 Species 1106 Salmon (Salmo salar) 1395 Petalwort (Petalophyllum ralfsii) 1528 Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga hirculus) 1393 Slender Green Feather- moss (Drepanocladus vernicosus)

002298 River Moy SAC 7636.83m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO002298.pdfthat are Objective(s), including supporting relevant to this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Habitats To maintain and restore the favourable conservation The project area is located entirely No mitigation necessary 7110 Active raised bogs* condition of habitats and species of River Moy SAC outside of the European site.

7120 Degraded raised bogs still The project is outside the range for capable of natural regeneration potential impacts to terrestrial 7150 Depressions on peat substrates habitats/ species listed as QIs of the Rhynchosporion 7230 Alkaline fens The project area is located outside 91A0 Old sessile oak woods with Ilex the WFD sub-catchment of the and Blechnum in the British Isles European site (Moy_SC_100, 91E0 Alluvial forests with Alnus Moy_SC_90), however there is a glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior source-pathway-receptor in Kilalla (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Bay which is utilised by migrating Salicion albae)* aquatic species listed as QIs such as: Species Species 1092 White-clawed 1106 Salmon (Salmo salar) Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon 1096 Brook Lamprey (Lampetra marinus) planeri 1355 Otter (Lutra lutra)

Species EPA Q value At least Q4 at all sites sampled by EPA for The project area is located outside Water quality measures including 1106 Salmon (Salmo salar) salmon but water quality in general to support the WFD sub-catchment of the silt and sediment control and 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon migrating populations of these Qis within the European site (Moy_SC_100, control of use of chemicals and

7 marinus) catchment Moy_SC_90), however there is a hydrocarbons source-pathway-receptor in Kilalla No works to be undertaken in Bay which is utilised by migrating severe weather conditions aquatic species listed as QIs such as: 50m set-back for any stores of chemicals/ hydrocarbons Species 1106 Salmon (Salmo salar) Follow Guidelines: 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon COFORD Forest Road Manual (Ryan marinus) et al., 2004) 1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines (DAFM, 2000) Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (DAFM, 2020).

1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) water quality in general to support migrating The project area is located outside Water quality measures including populations of these Qis downstream of project area the WFD sub-catchment of the silt and sediment control and within the catchment European site (Moy_SC_100, control of use of chemicals and Moy_SC_90), however there is a hydrocarbons source-pathway-receptor in Kilalla No works to be undertaken in Bay which is utilised by migrating severe weather conditions aquatic species listed as QIs such as: 50m set-back for any stores of chemicals/ hydrocarbons Species 1106 Salmon (Salmo salar) Follow Guidelines: 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon COFORD Forest Road Manual (Ryan marinus) et al., 2004) 1355 Otter (Lutra lutra) Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines (DAFM, 2000)

8 Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (DAFM, 2020). No requirement for specific otter guidelines here as they are unlikely to be present in project area

000516 Lackan Saltmarsh and Kilcummin Head SAC 9564.57m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Considering the nature of the project, Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at this QI & the relevant components of If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- its Conservation Objective(s), sites/conservation_objectives/CO000516.pdfthat including supporting habitats and are relevant to this project. species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Habitats To maintain and restore the favourable The project area is located entirely no mitigation necessary 1310 Salicornia and other annuals conservation condition of habitats and species of outside of the European site. colonising mud and sand Lackan Saltmarsh and Kilcummin Head SAC The project is outside the range for 1330 Atlantic salt meadows potential impacts to terrestrial (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) habitats/ species listed as QIs 1410 Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) The project area is located outside the 2120 Shifting dunes along the WFD sub-catchment of the European shoreline with Ammophila arenaria site (Glencullin[NorthMayo]_SC_010) (white dunes) The project area is not hydrologically 2130 Fixed coastal dunes with connected and there is no source- herbaceous vegetation (grey pathway-receptor linking the project dunes)* area to the European site. There is no potential for adverse impacts to CO000516

000458 Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SAC 9624.38m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Conservation Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. (if SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO000458.pdfthat are relevant to Objective(s), including supporting this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Habitats To maintain and restore the favourable conservation condition of The project area is located No mitigation necessary 1130 Estuaries habitats and species Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SAC entirely outside of the European 1140 Mudflats and sandflats not site. covered by seawater at low tide The project is outside the range 1210 Annual vegetation of drift for potential impacts to terrestrial lines habitats/ species listed as QIs 1230 Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts The project area is however 1310 Salicornia and other annuals within the same WFD sub- colonising mud and sand catchment as the European site 1330 Atlantic salt meadows (Cloonaghmore_SC_010) (Glauco-Puccinellietalia The project area is hydrologically maritimae) connected and there is a source- 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes pathway-receptor linking the 2120 Shifting dunes along the project area to the European site shoreline with Ammophila with potential for adverse impacts arenaria (white dunes) to aquatic species CO000458 such 2130 Fixed coastal dunes with including: herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes)* Species 2190 Humid dune slacks 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon Species marinus) 1014 Narrow-mouthed Whorl 1365 Harbour Seal (Phoca Snail (Vertigo angustior) vitulina) 10

Species water quality in general to support migrating populations of these Water quality measures 1095 Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon Qis downstream of project area within the catchment including silt and sediment marinus) control and control of use of chemicals and hydrocarbons 1365 Harbour Seal (Phoca No works to be undertaken vitulina) in severe weather conditions

50m set-back for any stores of chemicals/ hydrocarbons Follow Guidelines: COFORD Forest Road Manual (Ryan et al., 2004) Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines (DAFM, 2000) Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (DAFM, 2020).

11 000466 Bellacorick Iron Flush SAC 10100.60m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO000466.pdf are Objective(s), including supporting relevant to this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Species To restore the favourable conservation condition The project area is located entirely No mitigation necessary 1528 Marsh Saxifrage (Saxifraga of Marsh Saxifrage in Bellacorick Iron Flush SAC, outside of the European site. hirculus) which is defined by the following list of attributes The project is outside the range for and targets: potential impacts to terrestrial habitats/ species listed as QIs The project area is located outside the WFD sub-catchment of the European site (Owenmore[Mayo]_SC_010) The project area is not hydrologically connected and there is no source- pathway-receptor linking the project area to the European site. There is no potential for adverse impacts to CO000466

12 002177 Lough Dahybaun SAC 13033.77m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Conservation Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. Interest(s) (if SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its sites/conservation_objectives/CO002177.pdfthat are relevant to Conservation Objective(s), this project. including supporting habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Species To maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of The project area is located No mitigation necessary 1833 Slender Naiad (Najas the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the entirely outside of the flexilis) SAC has been selected: European site. The project area is located outside the WFD sub- catchment of the European site (Owenmore[Mayo]_SC_020) The project area is not hydrologically connected and there is no source-pathway- receptor linking the project area to the European site. There is no potential for adverse impacts to CO02177

13 004036 Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SPA 7288.99m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Conservation Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. Interest(s) (if SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO004036.pdfare relevant to this Objective(s), including supporting project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Birds To maintain the favourable conservation condition of the SCIs for The project area is located entirely No mitigation necessary A157 Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa which the SPA has been selected: outside of the European site. lapponica) The project area is outside the A162 Redshank (Tringa core foraging range for potential totanus) to impact upon species listed as A160 Curlew (Numenius SCIs arquata) A149 Dunlin (Calidris alpina) The project area does not contain A144 Sanderling (Calidris alba) suitable habitat for these species A141 Grey Plover (Pluvialis The project area is however within squatarola) the same WFD sub-catchment as A140 Golden Plover (Pluvialis the European site apricaria) (Cloonaghmore_SC_010) A137 Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula) The project area is hydrologically connected and there is a source- pathway-receptor linking the project area to the European site with potential for adverse impacts to aquatic habitat listed as SCI: • wetlands

Habitat To maintain the favourable conservation condition of the SCIs for Water quality measures which the SPA has been selected: including silt and sediment Wetlands control and control of use of

14 chemicals and hydrocarbons No works to be undertaken in severe weather conditions 50m set-back for any stores of chemicals/ hydrocarbons Follow Guidelines: COFORD Forest Road Manual (Ryan et al., 2004) Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines (DAFM, 2000) Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (DAFM, 2020).

15 004228 Lough Conn and Lough Cullin SPA 11450.13m

Qualifying Interest(s) (if SAC) / Detail the components of the corresponding Considering the nature of the Is mitigation required? Special Conservation Interest(s) (if Conservation Objectives (as set out in full at project, this QI & the relevant If so, describe. SPA) http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected- components of its Conservation sites/conservation_objectives/CO004228.pdfthat are Objective(s), including supporting relevant to this project. habitats and species, is there potential for adverse impact? If so, describe.

Birds To maintain or restore the favourable conservation The project area is located entirely no mitigation necessary A395 Greenland White-fronted condition of the bird species listed as Special outside of the European site. Goose (Anser albifrons flavirostris) Conservation Interests for this SPA: The project area is outside the core A061 Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) foraging range for potential to A065 Common Scoter (Melanitta impact upon species listed as SCIs nigra) A182 Common Gull (Larus canus) The project area is within a Habitats different WFD sub-catchment to Wetlands the European site (Moy_SC_080) The project area does not contain suitable habitat for these species The project area is not hydrologically connected and there is no source-pathway-receptor linking the project area to the European site. There is no potential for adverse impacts to species or aquatic habitat listed as SCIs for European site

Section 4: Mitigation Measures The potential for the forest road development project CN78352 to itself (i.e. individually) having an adverse effect on the integrity of: • River Moy SAC 002298 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SAC 000458 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SPA 004036 was identified on a precautionary basis. Site-specific measures identified to prevent or mitigate against such effects are as follows, and will be inserted as conditions of the licence / approval, if subsequently issued:

In relation to the prevention of silt and sediment run-off from the project area, the following mitigation is required, presented in the form of conditions to be attached to any licence / approval issued:

➢ All existing drains to be provided with silt traps outside of relevant watercourse set-back(10m) to avoid loss of silt and sediment from road construction and operation. These traps should be inspected regularly and maintained

➢ No works to be undertaken in severe weather conditions during construction or operation phase of project No requirement for specific otter guidelines here as they are unlikely to be present in project area

The proposed works shall adhere to the:

➢ COFORD Forest Road Manual (Ryan et al., 2004)

➢ Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines (DAFM, 2000)

➢ Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (DAFM, 2020).

➢ Appendix 21 of the Forestry Standards Manual (DAFM, 2015), which sets out an agreed protocol regarding breeding Hen Harrier and potential disturbance operations, developed by the Forest Service of the DAFM and the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS).

Section 5: Assessment of Potential Residual Impacts The project design, together with adherence to the relevant site-specific mitigation measures set out above, ensure that potential residual impacts do not arise and that the project itself (i.e. individually) will not prevent or obstruct the Qualifying Interests or Special Conservation Interests of the: • River Moy SAC 002298 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SAC 000458 • Killala Bay/Moy Estuary SPA 004036 from reaching or maintaining favourable conservation status, defined as follows:

Favourable conservation status “its natural range, and area it covers within that range, are stable or increasing, of a habitat is achieved when: and the specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long-term maintenance exist and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and the conservation status of its typical species is favourable.”

The favourable conservation “population dynamics data on the species concerned indicate that it is status of a species is achieved maintaining itself on a long-term basis as a viable component of its natural when: habitats, and the natural range of the species is neither being reduced nor is likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future, and there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations on a long- term basis.”

Based on the above, it can be concluded, in view of best scientific knowledge and based on objective information, that the proposed project itself (i.e. individually) will have no adverse effect on the integrity of any European Site(s), in view of its conservation objectives.

Section 6: In-Combination Effects In relation to CN78352 the potential for the proposed project to contribute to an in-combination impact on European sites was considered by the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine (DAFM). As detailed below, various online planning systems and datasets (including DAFM’s own internal records) were consulted on the 27/07/2021 in relation to other plans and projects, focusing on the general vicinity of the project area in the River Sub-Basin Breaghwy_010:

County Council

Data from the Department of Housing, Planning and local Government website https://www.housing.gov.ie indicated various applications in the general vicinity of the project, as follows: Planning Application Development Description Application Application Decision Decision Authority Number Status Type Date

Mayo 17511 CONSTRUCT DWELLING APPLICATION PERMISSION CONDITIO 13/10/201 County HOUSE, DOMESTIC GARAGE FINALISED NAL 7 Council AND SEPTIC TANK WITH PERCOLATION AREA, INCLUDING ALL OTHER ANCILLARY SITE WORKS AND SERVICES

Mayo 17520 CONSTRUCT DWELLING APPLICATION PERMISSION CONDITIO 22/08/201 County HOUSE, DOMESTIC GARAGE, FINALISED NAL 7 Council SEPTIC TANK TREATMENT SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED WORKS, ACCESS TO THE PUBLIC ROAD AND CARRY OUT ALL NECESSARY ANCILLARY WORKS

Mayo 18267 A BELL MOUTH ROAD APPLICATION PERMISSION CONDITIO 12/06/201 County ENTRANCE WITH A 24M FINALISED NAL 8 Council OPENING AND A FOREST

HARVESTING ROAD OF 142M LONG WITH A CARRIAGE WAY OF 3.4M AND A STANDARD LOADING BAY WITH INTERNAL AREA

Mayo 18945 CONSTRUCT NEW DOMESTIC APPLICATION PERMISSION CONDITIO 25/01/201 County GARAGE TOGETHER WITH FINALISED NAL 9 Council ANCILLARY SITE DEVELOPMENT WORKS

Mayo 2195 DEMOLISH EXISTING APPLICATION PERMISSION CONDITIO 26/03/202 County DETACHED DWELLING FINALISED NAL 1 Council HOUSE, CONSTRUCT REPLACEMENT DETACHED DWELLING HOUSE, TOGETHER WITH ALL ASSOCIATED SITE WORKS

An Bord Pleanála

An Bord Pleanála website www.pleanala.ie/index.htm indicated various cases in the general vicinity of the project, as follows: No Data Found

Environmental Protection Agency

Data from the EPA website gis.epa.ie/EPAMaps/AAGeoTool indicated the following activities in the general vicinity of the project: No Data Found

County Development Plan Objectives relating to Natura 2000 sites set out within Mayo County Development Plan 2014-2020 were consulted and are as follows: MAYO COUNTY DEVELOPMENT PLAN 2014 – 2020 4. Environment, Heritage and Amenity Strategy PAGE 43 4. Environment, Heritage & Amenity Strategy Mayo has a varied and unique landscape which contains a broad range of natural and cultural resources14. Natural resources include water bodies, agricultural land, forestry, soil, geology, mineral deposits and flora and fauna. Cultural resources include settlements, archaeological monuments and built heritage. Legislation and Conventions have been adopted at EU and national level to assist in the protection and management of our natural and cultural environment. The legislation and conventions require protection to be given, among other things, to: • The Landscape • The Natura 2000 network • Natural Heritage Areas • Water • Protected Structures and Architectural Conservation Areas • Recorded Monuments and Places In this regard a number of documents have been prepared by, or in association with, Mayo County Council to assist in the appropriate management of our natural and cultural resources including: • The Landscape Appraisal of County Mayo • The Record of Protected Structures • The Heritage Plan • Local Biodiversity Action Plan • Heritage Inventories • Western River Basin District Plan Water Matters 19

Deriving from our natural and cultural heritage are a number of amenities such as walkways, cycle ways, bathing areas, boating areas, fishing rivers and lakes etc. and many of our valuable assets including Croagh Patrick, Westport House, Ballycroy National Park, Turlough House, Ballintubber Abbey, Céide Fields, Knock Shrine, Great Western Greenway, The Moy River, Tochar Phadraig, Atlantic Drive, Blue Flag Beaches to name just a few. The sensitive development and conservation of these resources is essential to the economy and quality of life of our citizens in that they provide amenity and recreation; water supplies; food; fuel; flood protection; coastal protection; and nutrient recycling. Central to environmental management is climate change. As stated in the National Climate Change Strategy 2007‐2012, there is now a scientific consensus that global warming is happening, that it is directly related to man‐made greenhouse gas emissions and if unmanaged, climate change will have dramatic adverse effects on peoples’ lives, the environment and the prospects for growth and development. The Strategy also states that there is an economic consensus that the costs of inaction will greatly outweigh the costs of action, and that progressive climate change policies, based on innovation and investment in low‐carbon technology, are consistent with global economic growth. 14 The Strategic Environmental Assessment carried out in conjunction with this Plan include full details of the baseline environment of County Mayo and can be viewed on line at www.mayococo.ie/cdp In this regard, our landscape can assist in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Soils and forests act as a significant carbon sink which prevents the release of carbon into the atmosphere. Therefore it is important to retain these carbon sinks. In addition greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced through other measures already outlined in this Plan such as energy conservation, exploitation of renewable energy resources, innovative building design and materials and integration between land use planning and transport. The Regional Planning Guidelines (RPGs) support a common approach between Local Authorities in the Region in managing and protecting the landscape, with particular reference to the Atlantic Coast and the uplands of Mayo & Galway. The strategic aim of the Environment, Heritage & Ameniy Strategy of this Plan is to ensure the County is developed in a manner that does not compromise the value of our natural and cultural resources through the implementation of the policy and objectives below and the Development Guidance document of this Plan. Policy PY‐03 It is the policy of the Council, in conjunction with all relevant statutory agencies, to recognise the inter‐relationship between the environment (natural and cultural); the economy; and well being of our citizens and thereby ensuring development in the County does not compromise the value of, or cause deterioration to, our natural and cultural resources by implementing the objectives below and the Development Guidance document of this Plan. Coastal Zone Management & Protection CZ‐01 It is an objective of the Council to facilitate an Integrated Coastal Zone Management approach to the coastal zone areas of the County to ensure sustainable development and the protection and enhancement of the man‐made and natural resources of these areas where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. CZ‐02 It is an objective of the Council to support measures to protect the coastal edge and coastal habitats from destruction and degradation to ensure that their roles as ecological corridors, coastal flooding and storm surge buffers are retained and enhanced. CZ‐03 It is an objective of the Council to undertake, or facilitate the provision of, environmentally‐sensitive coastal protection works where appropriate where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. CZ‐04 It is an objective of the Council to strictly control unauthorised removal of beach material and make prohibition orders where necessary. CZ‐05 It is an objective of the Council to protect, enhance and conserve all beaches in the County and to retain Blue Flag status on beaches currently awarded this status whilst seeking to increase the present number of Blue Flag beaches where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. PAGE 48 Natural Heritage NH‐01 It is an objective of the Council to protect, enhance, conserve and, where appropriate restore: a) Candidate Special Areas of Conservation, Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas, Natural Heritage Areas and proposed National Heritage Areas, Statutory Nature Reserves, Ramsar Sites and Biogenetic Reserves, including those listed in the Environmental Report documenting the Strategic Environmental Assessment of this plan and any modifications or additional areas that may be so designated during the lifetime of the plan. b) Natural habitats and plant and animal species identified under the Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, Wildlife Act and the Flora Protection Order, or any other relevant legislation that may be implemented during the lifetime of the plan. 20 c) Features of natural interest and amenity, which provide a unique habitat for wildlife including ecological networks (including ecological corridors and stepping stones), riparian zones, hedgerows, stonewalls and shelterbelts. d) Bogs, fens and turloughs listed in the Environmental Report documenting the Strategic Environmental Assessment of this plan. e) Features of geological interest as listed in the Audit of County Geological Sites (Mayo County Council). f) The conservation value of disused railway lines, waterways, walkways etc. notwithstanding that some of these items (e.g. disused rail lines) may be developed at some future date as part of the County’s infrastructure where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. g) Surface waters, aquatic and wetland habitats and freshwater and water‐ dependent species through the implementation of all appropriate and relevant Directives and transposed legislation. h) Trees or groups of trees protected under Tree Preservation Orders listed in the Environmental Report documenting the Strategic Environmental Assessment of this plan , as well as trees and woodlands of particular amenity and nature conservation value, or which make a valuable contribution to the character of the landscape, a settlement or its setting. i) Sites of local conservation importance including those identified in the Local Biodiversity Action Plan. NH‐02 It is an objective of the Council to ensure that the unique ecological, scenic, recreational and environmental character of Ballycroy National Park is protected and enhanced, and to prohibit any development, which would impair its character. NH‐03 It is an objective of the Council to implement Article 6(3) and 6(4) of the EU Habitats Directive, by screening all plans and projects for appropriate assessment and to ensure those with potential to have significant effects on the integrity of Natura 2000 or European Sites (cSACs, SPAs), whether directly (in situ), indirectly (ex‐situ) or in combination with other plans or projects, are subject to an appropriate assessment and the preparation of an NIR or NIS in order to inform decision making. NH‐04 It is an objective of the Council to fully integrate wildlife and biodiversity considerations into all areas of the Council’s roles and responsibilities and into all its works and operations. NH‐05 It is an objective of the Council to increase awareness of the importance of the natural heritage of the County and to promote education, knowledge and pride in our natural heritage. NH‐06 It is an objective of the Council to support the implementation of the National Biodiversity Plan. NH‐07 It is an objective of the Council to promote best practice in the control of invasive species in the carrying out of both local authority and private development. NH‐08 It is an objective of the Council to assist in the control of native and non native invasive or harmful species which represent a serious threat to our environment, fresh water systems and lakes. NH‐09 It is an objective of the Council to utilise appropriate opportunities to enhance and create wildlife habitats where they arise. Page 52 Natural Recreation, Amenities & Open Space NR‐01 It is an objective of the Council, where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network, to: a. Strictly control development that would materially interfere with existing and potential Blue Flag Beaches meeting the qualifying criteria for Blue Flag designation or the recreational use of those beach areas. b. Co‐operate with Coillte and the Forest Service in the protection of existing and development of additional forest amenity sites and to support appropriate community planting schemes. c. Manage to the highest standard all public parks, open spaces and amenities under the control of the Council and to avoid loss of any open space in the County unless an alternative superior open space can be provided. d. Support the provision of high quality and accessible open space at a convenient distance from homes and places of work. e. Preserve the major natural amenities of the County and provide sustainable ancillary facilities to enhance their recreational, amenity and conservation value and to control inappropriate and non‐compatible uses. Access to Heritage and Amenities AC‐01 It is an objective of the Council, within the lifetime of this plan, to: a. Identify, preserve and enhance existing accesses and public rights of way to recreational areas including the coast, upland areas, lakeshores, river‐bank areas and heritage sites b. Where necessary, establish new accesses and public rights of way to recreational areas including the coast, upland areas, lakeshores, river‐bank areas and heritage sites in co‐operation with landowners and the local community. When

21 public rights of way are identified, the owners of the public rights of way shall be notified in accordance with the Planning & Development Acts 2000‐2010 c. Map public rights of way in accordance with the Planning & Development Acts 2000‐2010 a. and b. shall be carried out in accordance with best sustainable management practices, any guidance from the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government and where it can be demonstrated that the development will not have significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of the Natura 2000 network. AC‐02 It is an objective of the Council to work in partnership with Fáilte Ireland to facilitate the development of the Wild Atlantic Way including appropriate road upgrading, picnic sites and on‐road interpretation, as well as increasing awareness of other key flagship projects in the County subject to no significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of any Natura 2000 site. AC‐03 It is an objective of the Council to support and promote the development of an inter‐ county coastal path linking Mayo, Galway and Sligo subject to no significant adverse effects on the environment including the integrity of any Natura 2000 site.

Other Forestry Plans and Projects Data from DAFM’s internal records identified various forestry-related projects (either submitted and still under evaluation, with valid licences / approval in place or completed and approved) in the general vicinity of the project:

Afforestation Projects*

Reference Status Year Completed / Year Year Pending / Year Tech Area Approved Approved (Ha)

CN77401 Pre-Approval Tech App Letter Sent No Data 2017 6.86

Forest Road Projects*

Reference Status Year Year Max Grant Total Forest Upgrade Completed/Ap Pending/Tech Aided (m) Road Length (m) Length (m) proved approved

CN82663 First Instalment 2020 2018 300 300 0 Approval Letter Sent

CN88271 Pre-Approval No Data 2021 308 320 0 Referred to Archaeologist

Private Felling Licence Projects*

Reference Status Year Approved / Year Area Pending (Ha)

TFL00060417 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2017 21.48

TFL00082617 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2017 4.67

TFL00163818 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2018 0.01

TFL00579020 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2020 0.11

TFL00163818 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2018 0.17

TFL00163818 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2018 0.01

TFL00579020 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2020 0.01

TFL00163818 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2018 6.75

TFL00579020 Felling Approval Letter Sent 2020 6.75

Coillte Felling Licence Projects*

File No. Status Date Submitted Date Approved/Refused Area Operation

MO05-FL0047 Decision Pending 15/03/2021 No Data 7.14 Clearfell

*Multiple entries for the same reference indicate more than one land parcel make up that particular property and or multiple sub-basin intersections

Forestry Programme 2014-2020 The project is in line with the Forestry Programme 2014-2020, as set out in the 2015 DAFM document Forestry Programme 2014 – 2020: IRELAND Submitted in accordance with European Union Guidelines on State aid for agriculture and forestry and in rural areas 2014 to 2020.

In-Combination Statement This project lies in a rural landscape in Breaghwyanteean, Mayo in the River Sub-Basin Breaghwy_010. The River Sub- Basin Breaghwy_010 has approximately 18% forest cover, which is higher than the national average of 11%. At 385 metres the project is considered medium in scale. Forestry activity (including afforestation, forest roading and felling) within the sub-basin which have either been submitted and still under evaluation, licenced / approved or completed in the last 5 years, are listed above. These are subject to environmental protection measures. In the River Sub-Basin Breaghwy_010 over the last 5 years a number of developments have been or were in the process of being granted planning permission and these are listed above and are also subject to appropriate environmental protection measures. It is concluded that the proposed forest road, with mitigation measures set out in Section 4, will itself (i.e. individually) not result in any adverse effect or residual adverse effects on the integrity of any European Site, and associated Qualifying Interests and Conservation Objectives. There is therefore no potential for the proposed works to contribute to any cumulative adverse effects on these European sites, when considered in-combination with other plans and projects, because the mitigations stated are sufficient to ensure impacts, either alone or in-combination, are negligible to the features of the designated sites. Furthermore, it is considered that the regulatory systems in place for the approval, operations (including any permitted emissions) and monitoring of the effects of these other plans and projects are such that they will ensure they too do not give rise to adverse effects on the integrity of any European Sites. Therefore, it is deemed that this project, when considered in combination with other plans and projects, will not give rise to any adverse effect on the integrity of any European Site.

This relates to the proposed activities under CN78352 only. Any subsequent forestry-related activity shall be subject to the DAFM Appropriate Assessment Procedure, including an in-combination assessment with the current proposal, prior to any future consent being granted.

In-Combination Statement completed on the: 27/07/2021

Section 7: AA Determination Based on the information set out in this AA Report, an Appropriate Assessment Determination for CN78352 has been arrived at – see file.

Appropriate Assessment Report completed by Saoirse O’Donoghue, ACIEEM on behalf of Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine 27/07/2021

References

DAFM. 2000. Forest Harvesting & the Environment Guidelines. Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford. DAFM. 2015. Forestry Standards Manual, November 2015. Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford. DAFM. 2016. Environmental Requirements for Afforestation, December 2016. Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford. DAFM. 2017. Felling & Reforestation Policy. Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford. DAFM. 2019. Appropriate Assessment Procedure: Guidance Note & iFORIS SOP for DAFM Forestry Inspectors (v.05Nov19) (DAFM, 2019). DAFM. 2019. Standards for Felling & Reforestation (v.Oct2019). Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine. See Forest Service Circular 14 / 2019, www.agriculture.gov.ie/forestservice/grantsandpremiumschemes2014- 2020/schemecirculars/2019circulars/ DAFM. 2020. Forest Entrances – Requirements for Mandatory Consultation (Feb. 2020). Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine. See Forest Service Circular 03 / 2020. https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/media/migration/forestry/grantandpremiumschemes/schemecirculars/2020/Circular0 32020SingleConsentSystem20022020.pdf Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government (DoEHLG). 2010. Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government. Available at: www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/NPWS_2009_AA_Guidance.pdf European Commission. 2018. Commission notice: Managing Natura 2000 sites. The provisions of Article 6 of the 'Habitats' Directive 92/43/EEC. Available at: www.ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/guidance_en.htm European Communities. 2002. Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg. Ryan, T., Phillips, H., Ramsay, J. and Dempsey, J. 2004. Forest Road Manual. Guidelines for the design, construction and management of forest roads. COFORD, Dublin.

Appendix

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