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EPA Export 17-04-2015:23:04:26 Irish Water Report

Natura Impact Statement as part of the Tallanstown Waste Water Discharge Licence Application – D0270-01

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Contents

Introduction 3 Legislative Context 3

Methodology 5 Guidance Followed 5 Stages Involved in the Appropriate Assessment Process 6 Field Walkover Surveys 6 Consultation 6

Stage 1: Screening 7

Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment 8 Description of the Project 8 Description of the Receiving Environment and Monitoring Results 9 Waste Assimilative Capacity 10 Field Walkover Survey 11 Description of the Natura 2000 Site Affected 11 Description of the Conservation Interests of the SAC 12 Annex I Habitats 12 Description of the Conservation Interests of the SPA 14 Annex II Species For inspection purposes only. 14 Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Conservation Objectives of the Natura 2000 sites 21 Stabannan-Braganstown SPA 21 Dundalk Bay SAC 21 Dundalk Bay SPA 21 Impact Prediction 22 Impacts on Water Quality 22 Impacts on Annex I Habitats 23 Impacts on Annex II Species 25 Mitigation Measures 34 Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment Conclusion Statement 35

References 36

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Introduction

This Natura Impact Statement provides an Appropriate Assessment (AA) of the existing wastewater discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration, located in County Louth.

This Report assesses whether the current discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration, alone or in combination with other plans and projects, are likely to have significant effects on a European Site(s) in view of best scientific knowledge and the conservation objectives of the site(s). European Sites are those identified as sites of European Community importance designated as Special Areas of Conservation under the Habitats Directive or as Special Protection Areas under the Birds Directive.

This report follows the guidance for AA published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ‘Note on Appropriate Assessments for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (S.I. No. 684 of 2007)’ (EPA, 2009); and takes account of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government guidelines ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities’ (DoEHLG, 2009) and Circular L8/08 ‘Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes – Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments’ (DoEHLG, 2008).

This Natura Impact Statement was completed by Nicholas O’Dwyer Ltd. on behalf of Irish Water (IW).

Legislative Context

The Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, better known as “The Habitats Directive”, provides legal protection for habitats and species of European importance. Articles 3 to 9 provide the legislative means to protect habitats and For inspection purposes only. species of Community interest throughConsent of copyrightthe establishment owner required for and any otherconservation use. of an EU-wide network of sites known as Natura 2000. These are Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) designated under the Habitats Directive and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under the Conservation of Wild Birds Directive (79/409/ECC) as codified by Directive 2009/147/EC.

Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the Habitats Directive set out the decision-making tests for plans and projects likely to affect Natura 2000 sites (Annex 1.1). Article 6(3) establishes the requirement for Appropriate Assessment (AA):

Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the [Natura 2000] site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subjected to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives. In light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public.

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Article 6(4) states:

If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the [Natura 2000] site and in the absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, Member States shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inform the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted.

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Methodology

Guidance Followed

Both EU and national guidance exists in relation to Member States fulfilling their requirements under the EU Habitats Directive, with particular reference to Article 6(3) and 6(4) of that Directive. The methodology followed in relation to this AA has had regard to the following guidance:

 Note on Appropriate Assessments for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (S.I. No. 684 of 2007). Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA, 2009).  Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland: Guidance for Planning Authorities. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, (DoEHLG, 2010).  Circular L8/08 – Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes – Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, (DoEHLG, 2008).  Communication from the Commission on the Precautionary Principle. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2000a).  Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the ‘Habitats’ Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2000b).  Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Articles 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Brussels (EC, 2001).  Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the ‘Habitats Directive’ 92/43/EEC – Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall For inspection coherence, purposes opinion only. of the Commission. Office for Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg, (EC, 2007).  Nature and biodiversity cases: Ruling of the European Court of Justice. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg (EC, 2006).  European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations, 2011 (S.I. No.477 of 2011).  Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats. Version EUR 28. European Commission (EC, 2013).

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Stages Involved in the Appropriate Assessment Process Stage 1: Screening/Test of Significance

This process identifies whether the Tallanstown discharge at Tallanstown, Co. Louth is directly connected to or necessary for the management of a European Site(s). This stage identifies whether the discharge is likely to have significant impacts on European Site(s) either alone or in combination with other projects or plans.

The output from this stage is a determination for each European Site of not significant, significant, potentially significant, or uncertain effects. The latter three determinations will cause that site to be brought forward to Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment.

Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment This stage considers the impact of the current waste water discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration on the integrity of a European Site(s), either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, with respect to (1) the site’s conservation objectives and (2) the site’s structure and function and its overall integrity. Where adverse impacts are identified, mitigation measures to negate those impacts are determined.

The output from this stage is a Natura Impact Statement (NIS). This document must include sufficient information for the EPA (Competent Authority) to carry out the Appropriate Assessment. If the assessment is negative, i.e. adverse effects on the integrity of a site cannot be excluded then the process must consider alternatives (Stage 3) or proceed to Stage 4.

Stage 3: Assessment of Alternatives This process examines alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the European Site. This assessment may be carried out concurrently with Stage 2 in order to find the most appropriate solution. If no alternatives exist or all alternatives would result in negative impacts to the integrity of the European sites then the process either moves to Stage 4 or the For project inspection is purposes abandoned. only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Stage 4: Assessment Where Adverse Impacts Remain This process is an assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed.

Field Walkover Surveys A field walkover survey was undertaken by Ecologist John Curtin on 24th March 2015 to identify the potential for qualifying species and habitats in the surrounding environs of the Tallanstown discharge location.

Consultation The EPA, as the competent authority, will seek NPWS advice as may be required in reaching their decision and the NPWS can only communicate with Irish Water on request from the competent authority (i.e. the EPA).

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Stage 1: Screening

The EPA Screening Determination Report stated “That the activity is not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site as a European site and that it cannot be excluded, on the basis of objective information, that the activity, individually or in combination with other plans or projects will have a significant effect on a European site and accordingly determined that an Appropriate Assessment of the activity is required, and for this reason determined to require the applicant to submit a Natura Impact Statement.

This determination is based on the moderate ecological status under the Water Framework Directive of the receiving water (River Glyde IE_NB_06_1097) and the potential for cumulative effects with other plans or projects on the listed European sites.”

Based on the above assessment and in accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive, the discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration will be brought forward for a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment.

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Stage 2: Appropriate Assessment

The Stabannan-Braganstown SPA is approximately 8.2 km downstream of the Tallanstown WWTP discharge. The Dundalk Bay SPA and Dundalk Bay SAC are both approximately 20 km downstream of the discharge. Due to the location of the above designated sites, in relation to the WWTP discharge, they have been determined as requiring Appropriate Assessment and are described in the following sections below. All the potential impacts resulting from the Tallanstown WWTP discharge are detailed in relation to the conservation objectives of these designated sites.

Description of the Project Tallanstown WWTP is located to the east of the village centre. A new plant was constructed in 2009 due to the previously unsatisfactory inlet works causing overflowing onto the site. The new WWTP was designed to treat a p.e. of up to 1,000. The current p.e. (2015) of the plant is 754 and the projected p.e. for 2021 is 774. The plant site is located on the bank of the River Glyde. Treated effluent discharges to this river. The plant carries out secondary treatment on the wastewater from the agglomeration.

Tallanstown WWTP includes the following treatment processes:

1. Preliminary treatment at the inlet work i.e. screening 2. Secondary treatment in the aeration basins and clarifiers 3. Phosphorous removal

The treated effluent is discharged to the Glyde River (NGR E295 751, N297 571). There is a storm tank on site at the WWTP. When the storm tank is full the wastewater overflows the storm tank and flows by gravity to the River via the Primary discharge outfall pipe. There are no secondary discharges in the agglomeration.

For inspection purposes only. Tallanstown effluent quality is sampledConsent of copyrightby IW asowner part required of their for any monitoring other use. programme in line with compliance conditions. Results of this monitoring (2014) are detailed below in Table 1.0.

Table 1.0: Mean Tallanstown WwTP Effluent Monitoring Data (mg/l) (January 2014 – December 2014)

Parameter Mean Effluent Load (mg/l) BOD 3.71 COD 48.06 SS 7.73 Total P 5.78 Total N 21.66

In 2014 the WWTP effluent was compliant with the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive ELVs for BOD, COD and SS on all sampling occasions. The results were well below the ELVs for all relevant parameters.

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Description of the Receiving Environment and Monitoring Results The receiving water of the effluent from the Tallanstown agglomeration is the River Glyde. The discharge is approximately 20 km upstream of the Dundalk Bay SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA and approximately 8.2 km upstream of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA.

The EPA River Water Quality (2004 to present water quality) upstream of the WWTP discharge is classified as “Moderate” status and downstream is also classed as “Moderate”. Based on WFD results (2009-2015) the current overall status of the River Glyde is “Moderate”.

The River Glyde flows into the Glyde Estuary which is classed as “Good” Status based on the 2010-2012 WFD Status. The estuary flows into the Outer Dundalk Bay which is classed a “High”; based on the 2010-2012 WFD Status.

The 2011-2013 EPA monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay indicates that the bay remains “Unpolluted” based on BOD, DIN, DO, MRP and Chlorophyll.

The Tallanstown agglomeration is contained within the Dee Water Management Unit. The Action Plan does not contain recommendations for the Tallanstown WWTP. Furthermore, the EPA 2012 UWWT status for the Tallanstown WWTP was “Pass”.

Results from ambient monitoring undertaken by IW upstream and downstream of the primary discharge location for 2014 are shown in Table 2.0 below.

Table 2.0: Average Monitoring Data Upstream and Downstream of Primary Discharge Location (Source: IW) Parameter EQS* Upstream Downstream BOD ≤2.6 1.73 1.74 Ammonia ≤0.14 0.06 0.05 Orthophosphate ** ≤0.075 For inspection purposes0.19 only. 0.19 Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. *European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009, S.I. No. 272 of 2009 (95%ile standards presented).

** Results for Ortho-P were given as the Limit of Detection (LOD) i.e. <0.18 mg/l on all sampling occasions excluding the 17th Dec 2014. On this sampling occasion an Ortho-P concentration of 0.29 mg/l was recorded upstream and 0.3 mg/l downstream of the discharge location. For the purposes of this assessment the mean Orthophosphate concentrations upstream and downstream were based on a worst case scenario assessment whereby a value of 0.18 mg/l was assumed on all sampling occasions were the LOD was given. The mean concentration for 2014 was therefore calculated as 0.19 mg/l for both upstream and downstream of the discharge

The above monitoring results would indicate that the WWTP discharge is not contributing to concentrations of BOD or Ammonia downstream of the discharge. It was not possible to fully determine the impact in relation to Orthophosphate as both upstream and downstream samples were reported as less than the LOD, excluding one sample.

The monitoring results do however demonstrate that the water quality within the Glyde River is in compliance with Schedule 5 of the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009) for BOD and Ammonia.

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Waste Assimilative Capacity Table 3.0 summarises the assimilative capacity calculations which are based on the current estimated loading of 754 PE (Source: Irish Water), 95%ile river flow (0.446 m3/s) (Source: EPA Hydrometric Data System HydroTool) and water quality standards for River waterbodies in the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations, 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009).

The WAC calculations carried out is based on IW’s 2014 effluent monitoring data (Table 1.0). Assimilative capacity calculations have been completed on both the actual background concentrations and the EPA “notionally clean river” concentrations.

Table 3.0: Glyde River assimilative capacity of Tallanstown wastewater (754 PE), using actual background concentrations and notionally clean river concentrations Background Predicted downstream Parameter EQS* (mg/l) (mg/l) quality (mg/l) 1.73 1.75 Actual Background BOD ≤2.6 Notionally Clean 0.26 0.28 Actual Background 0.055 0.056 Ammonia ≤0.14 Notionally Clean 0.008 0.009 Actual Background 0.19** 0.21 Orthophosphate ≤0.075 Notionally Clean 0.005 0.029 *European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009, S.I. No. 272 of 2009 (95%ile standards presented).

** Results for Ortho-P were given as the Limit of Detection (LOD) i.e. <0.18 mg/l on all sampling occasions excluding the 17th Dec 2014. On this sampling occasion an Ortho-P concentration of 0.29 mg/l was recorded upstream and 0.3 mg/l downstream of the discharge location. For the purposes of this assessment the mean Orthophosphate concentrations upstream and downstream were based on a worst case scenario assessment whereby a value of 0.18 mg/l was assumed For oninspection all sampling purposes only. occasions were the LOD was given. The mean Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. concentration for 2014 was therefore calculated as 0.19 mg/l for both up and downstream of the discharge.

The Waste Assimilative Capacity calculations tabled above indicates that the Glyde River has assimilative capacity for BOD and Ammonia (when the current background concentrations are considered). This is supported by the ambient downstream monitoring result for 2014.

Using the notionally clean river approach, the Waste Assimilative Capacity calculations indicate that there is assimilative capacity in the Glyde River for BOD, Ammonia and Orthophosphate. The Waste Assimilative Capacity calculations for Orthophosphate must be viewed in line with the data limitations detailed above. As limited data was available this assessment should only be considered as an implication of the current situation within the Glyde River.

Although there may be a localised impact on the Glyde River from the discharge, based on the downstream Glyde Estuary “Good” WFD status and the Dundalk Bay coastal waters “High” WFD status based on EPA 2010-2012 data, along with the more recent EPA 2011-2013 data for the Outer Dundalk Bay indicating that the Outer Dundalk Bay is “Unpolluted”, it can be assumed that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the downstream Outer Dundalk Bay coastal water quality.

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Field Walkover Survey The general topography of the area through which the receiving water flows at Tallanstown discharge is flat. Stands of scrub (WS1) border the stream from improved grassland (GA1) either side. The scrub is comprised of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), Alder (Alnus glutinosa), Elder (Sambucus nigra), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and Bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.). Some Crack willow (Salix fragilis) could be seen upstream. Many of the trees were previously coppiced. Water flow in the stream was relatively fast at the time of survey. Bird species recorded included Wood pigeon (Columba palumbus), Robin (Erithacus rubecula), Wren (Troglodyes troglodytes), Blackbird (Turdus merula), Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and Rook (Corvus frugilegus).

No otter signs were observed in the stream 150 m up or downstream of the outfall.

Description of the Natura 2000 Site Affected Stabannan-Braganstown SPA Stabannan-Braganstown SPA, situated approximately 4 km inland from Dundalk Bay in Co. Louth, is a small, very flat alluvial plain adjacent to the River Glyde. It is bounded to the north and south by low, rolling hills. Much of the site was formerly marshland or wet grassland, but is now drained and agriculturally improved. It is farmed intensively for grass, cereals and root crops.

The site is of most importance as the largest Greylag Goose site in the country, but it also regularly supports three species which are listed on Annex I of the E.U. Birds Directive – Greenland White-fronted Goose, Whooper Swan and Golden Plover.

(Refer to http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY004091.pdf for the full site synopsis).

Dundalk Bay SAC For inspection purposes only. Dundalk Bay, Co. Louth, is a veryConsent large of copyright open, ownershallow required sea for bayany other with use. extensive saltmarshes and intertidal sand/mudflats, extending some 16 km from Castletown River on the Cooley Peninsula in the north, to Annagassan/Salterstown in the south. The bay encompasses the mouths and estuaries of the Rivers Dee, Glyde, Fane, Castletown and Flurry.

This is a site of significant conservation value because it supports good examples of a range of coastal habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive, as well as large numbers of bird species, some of which are listed in the Birds Directive.

(Refer to http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY000455.pdf for the full site synopsis).

Dundalk Bay SPA Dundalk Bay is a large open shallow sea bay with extensive saltmarshes and intertidal sand/mudflats, extending some 16 km from Castletown River on the Cooley Peninsula, in the north, to Annagassan/Salterstown in the south. The bay encompasses the mouths and estuaries of the Rivers Dee, Glyde, Fane, Castletown and Flurry. The site contains five habitats listed

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under the EU Habitats Directive, i.e. perennial vegetation of stony banks, tidal mudflats, salt marshes, Salicornia mudflats and estuaries. This site is one of the most important wintering waterfowl sites in the country and one of the few which regularly supports more than 20,000 waterfowl. It supports three species in numbers of International Importance and a further 15 species in numbers of National Importance. The populations of Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Red-throated and Great Northern Divers are of particular note as these species are listed on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. The site is also a designated Ramsar site. The site is monitored annually as part of I-WeBS.

(Refer to http://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/protected-sites/synopsis/SY004026.pdf for the full site synopsis).

Description of the Conservation Interests of the SAC Annex I Habitats The qualifying habitats of the Dundalk Bay SAC are listed below:

 Estuaries [1130]  Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140]  Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220]  Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand [1310]  Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330]  Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) [1410]

Estuaries [1130] Estuaries occur where rivers come under a tidal influence and they generally contain a mixture of freshwater and saltwater known as brackish conditions. The sheltered conditions and slow flowing nature of estuaries usually leads to the deposition of fine sediments that in turn results in the formation of intertidal sand and mudflats.

For inspection purposes only. This habitat type is surface waterConsent and of marine copyright waterowner required dependent for any other and use. is considered to be at risk from Nitrogen and Phosphorous nutrient enrichment (diffuse and point-source) and BOD organic pollution (diffuse and point-source) (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140] These sediment habitats are found between the low water and mean high water tide marks. The finer silt and clay sediments are dominant in mud flats and the larger sand particles are associated with areas exposed to greater wave forces. A range of physical pressures operate including significant changes in salinity, temperature, and exposure to air. The fine sediment of intertidal mudflats is usually deposited in estuaries. Pollution, fisheries/aquaculture and diverse use of the foreshore are likely to affect habitat quality, particularly eelgrass beds. Therefore the Overall Status is assessed as Inadequate but improving. These improvements and the assessment of Future Prospects as Favourable are due to the fact that these pressures are declining and are not considered to be a threat to habitat quality in the future.

This habitat type is marine water dependent and is considered to be at risk from Nitrogen nutrient enrichment (diffuse and point source) (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

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Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220] This habitat occurs along the coast where shingle (cobbles and pebbles) and gravel have accumulated to form elevated ridges or banks above the high tide mark. Most of the rocky material should be less than 250 mm in diameter to be considered in this habitat category. The Overall Status is assessed as Inadequate due to pressures associated with recreation and coastal defences, which can interfere with sediment dynamics. The assessment was largely based on marginal sites associated with sand dune systems, and did not include large shingle banks. A more comprehensive assessment of shingle systems is required in the future to give a more reliable account of the total national resource and the conservation status of the habitat.

This habitat type is a marine water dependent habitat but is not considered to be at risk from water pollution (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

Salicornia Mud [1310] Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand is a pioneer saltmarsh community that may occur on muddy sediment seaward of established saltmarsh, or form patches within other saltmarsh communities where the elevation is suitable and there is regular tidal inundation. As this habitat is dominated by annuals it can be ephemeral or transient in nature and is highly susceptible to erosion. Its distribution can vary considerably from year to year and it can move in response to changing conditions, e.g. in estuaries with shifting river channels. The Overall Status is assessed as Inadequate due to pressures associated with the invasion and on-going spread of common cordgrass (Spartina anglica).

This habitat type is marine water dependent and is considered to be at risk from nutrient enrichment (N diffuse and point-source nutrient pollution) (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

Atlantic Salt Meadows [1330] Atlantic salt meadows generally occupy the widest part of the saltmarsh gradient. They also For inspection purposes only. contain a distinctive topographyConsent with anof copyright intricate owner network required forof any creeks other use. and salt pans occurring on medium to large sized saltmarshes. Atlantic salt meadows are distributed around most of the coastline of Ireland. Minor losses have been reported for this habitat they are considered negligible at a national level. The Overall Status is assessed as Inadequate due mainly to ecologically unsuitable grazing levels impacting the condition of the habitat. There is unlikely to have been any recent decline in condition.

This habitat type is ground water and marine water dependent and is considered to be at risk from nutrient enrichment (N diffuse and point-source nutrient pollution) (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

Mediterranean Salt Meadows [1410] Mediterranean salt meadows occupy the upper zone of saltmarshes and usually occur adjacent to the boundary with terrestrial habitats. They are widespread on the Irish coastline, however they are not as extensive as Atlantic salt meadows. The Overall Status is assessed as inadequate due mainly to ecologically unsuitable grazing levels impacting the condition of the habitat. There is unlikely to have been any recent decline in condition.

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This habitat type is ground water and marine water dependent habitat and is considered to be at risk from nutrient enrichment (N diffuse and point-source nutrient pollution) (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008).

Table 4.0: Qualifying Habitats along Surveyed Stretch of River Glyde Potential to be Present downstream Site Qualifying Habitats Immediate Present of Surveyed Stretch Upstream No No. Located approximately 6.5 km Estuaries north of where there River Glyde flows Downstream No into the Dundalk Bay. Mudflats and Upstream No No. Located approx. 20 km sandflats Downstream No downstream of discharge location.

Perennial vegetation Upstream No No. Located approx. 20 km of stony banks Downstream No downstream of discharge location. Dundalk Bay SAC Salicornia and other Upstream No No. Located approximately 3.88 km annuals colonising north of where there River Glyde flows mud and sand Downstream No into the Dundalk Bay. Atlantic salt Upstream No No. Located approximately 3.88 km north of where there River Glyde flows meadows Downstream No into the Dundalk Bay. Mediterranean salt Upstream No No. Found in southern section of SAC. meadows Downstream No

Description of the Conservation Interests of the SPA

Annex II Species The qualifying interests of the Stabannan-braganstown SPA is the following Annex II bird species:

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.  Greylag Goose (Anser anser) [A043]

The qualifying interests of the Dundalk Bay SPA are the following Annex II bird species:

 Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) [A005]  Greylag Goose (Anser anser) [A043]  Light-bellied Brent Goose (Branta bernicla hrota) [A046]  Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) [A048]  Teal (Anas crecca) [A052]  Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) [A053]  Pintail (Anas acuta) [A054]  Common Scoter (Melanitta nigra) [A065]  Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) [A069]  Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130]  Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula) [A137]  Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria) [A140]  Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) [A141]  Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) [A142]

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 Knot (Calidris canutus) [A143]  Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149]  Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) [A156]  Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) [A157]  Curlew (Numenius arquata) [A160]  Redshank (Tringa totanus) [A162]  Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) [A179]  Common Gull (Larus canus) [A182]  Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) [A184]  Wetland and Waterbirds [A999]

Greylag Goose (Anser anser) [A043] This species is a winter migrant to Ireland but feral birds are also present year round. This species breeds by lakes and reservoirs, with the nest site often close to water and hidden in reeds or other waterside vegetation. They nest in pairs, but locally in colonies. The species is Amber-listed in Ireland as the majority of the population winters at less than ten sites in Ireland. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) [A005] A resident species in Ireland, widespread throughout the country. Great Crested Grebes breed on large, shallow eutrophic loughs, and along canals and slow flowing rivers. wetlands with emergent vegetation bordered by open water are also generally selected. Winter distribution is widespread with greatest concentration in the north midlands and northeast and birds from the continent join the resident population. Outside the breeding season Great Crested Grebes are often solitary with some birds moving to the coast through the winter. Occasionally, large congregations form for short periods. Birds start returning to breeding areas from mid-February. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland due to the localised wintering population (<10 sites). The European population is regarded as Secure.

For inspection purposes only. Light-bellied Brent Goose (BrantaConsent bernicla of copyright hrota) owner [A046] required for any other use.

This species is mostly found on coastal estuaries around the country. This population winters almost entirely in Ireland, with small numbers in parts of Britain and France. Amber-listed as the majority winter at less than ten sites. The Irish population is also internationally significant, another amber listing criterion. The European population has been evaluated as Vulnerable as several important populations declined.

Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) [A048] Shelduck are found in Ireland all year long. This species breeds in open areas along seashores, larger lakes and rivers. Nest in holes in banks, trees, occasionally strawstacks or buildings. There has been a recent expansion in the range of the northwest European population, and birds in Ireland and Britain have been displaced from coastal breeding sites and are increasingly using inland sites. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland, as the majority of the wintering population occurs at less than ten sites. The European population is regarded as Secure.

Teal (Anas crecca) [A052] The Teal is a wintering and resident species in Ireland and can be found throughout the country. They usually nest near small freshwater lakes or pools and small upland streams away from the

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coast, and also in thick cover. During the winter periods they are widespread on wetlands with good cover, such as reedbeds. This species is happy to use a wide variety of habitats, both coastal and inland, usually below an altitude of 200 m, including coastal lagoons and estuaries and inland marshes, lakes, ponds and turloughs. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland due to a decline in the breeding population. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) [A053] This is a widespread resident species in Ireland present all year. Winter migrants also occur here. Mallard are Green-listed in Ireland. They are present in almost all wetland habitats in Ireland. Breeding sites can vary but are in ground hidden by vegetation. The European population is regarded as Secure by BirdLife International.

Pintail (Anas acuta) [A054] This is a winter visitor to Ireland. They form large flocks on brackish coastal lagoons, in estuaries and on large inland lakes. Red-listed in Ireland, due to a significant decrease in the numbers wintering in Ireland. The European population has been assessed as Declining, due to a moderate ongoing decline.

Common Scoter (Melanitta nigra) [A065] In Ireland this species can be found on inland waters. There has been a decline in breeding numbers since the 1970s - 96 pairs were estimated in 1995 and 80 in 1999. Eutrophication of the waters has reduced the species’ food supply which has resulted in poor productivity and juvenile survival. Mink predation has also had a considerable impact during the breeding season, and incubating females have been most vulnerable. However, in recent decades, it has been suggested that birds may be redistributing to other large lakes in western and central Ireland. Red-listed due to its declining breeding population. The European population has been evaluated as Secure.

Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) [A069] For inspection purposes only. This species can be found in IrelandConsent allof copyright year and owner is required a winter for any migrant other use. from the Continent. This species nests on sheltered lakes and large rivers throughout the west and north of the country. They use a variety of nesting habitats, usually located beside fast-flowing rivers, large and small lakes, also along the coast, on islands and sea-loughs. During the wintering months this species exclusively utilises brackish and marine waters, particularly in shallow protected estuaries and bays and lagoons. This species is Green-listed in Ireland. The European population is regarded as Secure.

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130] This is a resident and wintering species found around the Irish coast. This species breed and nest on shingle beaches, dunes, salt marshes and rocky shores around the coast. During the winter period this species utilises all coastal habitats, and particularly favour open sandy coasts. Amber-listed as Ireland hosts internationally important numbers of Oystercatchers in winter. The European population is considered to be Secure.

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Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula) [A137] This species can be found around the coast of Ireland all year. Traditionally prefers sandy and shingle beaches. Amber-listed as internationally important numbers winter in Ireland. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria) [A140] The species likes to breed on short vegetation or bare areas on upland heaths, blanket bogs or other similar areas. Throughout the winter, Golden Plovers are regularly found in large, densely- packed flocks, and in a variety of habitats, both coastal and inland. Their distribution is widespread in Ireland. This species is Red-listed in Ireland due to a large decline in the breeding population. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) [A141] This species is a wintering visitor from Siberia which can be found at a number of coastal sites around the country. Its distribution is widespread, but exclusively coastal. They occur mostly along eastern and southern coasts, most often on large muddy estuaries. They regularly roost among dense flocks during high tide, while their distribution is more scattered while feeding. This species is Amber-listed as the majority of Grey Plovers winter at less than ten sites in Ireland. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) [A142] This species breeds mainly on farmland, amongst crops cultivated in spring (bare soil and short grass). The Lapwing is a resident, summer (from the Continent (France & Iberia)) and winter visitor (from western & central Europe). Greatest numbers occur in Ireland between September and April. This species is Red-listed (National, BoCCI) and has a SPEC 2 vulnerable (Europe).

Knot (Calidris canutus) [A143] This species is mainly confined to the shoreline, in particular estuaries and mudflats. The Knot is a winter visitor from northern Greenland and from the Queen Elizabeth Islands of high Arctic For inspection purposes only. Canada west to Prince Patrick Island.Consent of Most copyright occur owner between required for anyOctober other use. and February. This species is Red-listed in Ireland due to concerns over declines in the global population, which is undergoing a moderate decline.

Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149] During the winter this species is common on all coastal areas, in particular, tidal mudflats and estuaries. Amber-listed in Ireland as the majority of Dunlins winter at less than ten sites. The European population has been evaluated as Depleted, due to a large historical decline.

Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) [A156] This species breeds in marshes, damp meadows and bogs near lakes. Outside of the breeding season this species occupies muddy estuaries and coastal grasslands. Wetland drainage, overgrazing and ground nest destruction are risks for this species. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland as the majority of Black-tailed Godwits winter at less than ten sites. The European population is considered to be Vulnerable, due to past and present declines in key populations, such as the Netherlands and Russia.

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Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) [A157] This is a coastal species which spends most of its time feeding in the intertidal zone or the high- tide roost close to the coast. This species is a long distance migrator heavily dependent on a few coastal wetlands. These sites are at risk of land-claim, construction of marinas and barges and commercial exploitation. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland as the majority of the population winter at less than ten sites. The European population is considered to be Secure.

Curlew (Numenius arquata) [A160] This species breeds in the uplands on boggy, grassy and heather moorland, hill pastures and also coastal marshes. This species feeds on areas of soft mud. This species is a winter visitor to wetlands throughout Ireland, as well as breeding in small numbers in floodplains and boglands. This species is Red-listed in Ireland due to its small and declining breeding population. The European population is experiencing similar problems and has been evaluated as Declining.

Redshank (Tringa totanus) [A162] This is a resident, winter visitor from Iceland and a passage migrant (birds on passage from Scandinavia/the Baltic breeding areas to West African wintering areas). Highest numbers occur during the early autumn, when there is an overlap of the populations. Nests on the ground in grassy tussock, in wet, marshy areas and occasionally heather. Winters all around the coasts of Ireland, Britain and many European countries. Favours mudflats, large estuaries and inlets. Smaller numbers at inland lakes and large rivers. This species is Red-listed in Ireland, due to its small and declining breeding population. The European population has been evaluated as Declining, due to a moderate continuing decline.

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) [A179] This gull breeds both inland and near the sea. Breeding sites can vary from coastal marshes and sand dunes to freshwater marshes, lakes, flooded gravel pits, reservoirs and moorland pools. This species is Red-listed in Ireland due to its rapidly declining and localised breeding population. The European population is regarded as Secure, despite declines in several For inspection purposes only. countries. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Common Gull (Larus canus) [A182] Breeding colonies of this species can occur near the coast or miles inland in marshes, islands in lakes and occasionally roofs of buildings. This species is Amber-listed in Ireland due to a decline in the localised breeding population. The European population is regarded as Depleted, due to a moderate historical decline.

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) [A184] The Herring Gull is a large gull which nests in noisy colonies and uses communal roosts. They generally nest on vegetated sea cliffs but can also nest on roofs of buildings. They utilise a wide range of feeding sources including: fish, crustaceans, trawler waste, human refuse, invertebrates and carrion. The Herring Gull is Red-listed in Ireland due to a large decline in the breeding population. This decline has occurred as a result of Herring Gulls feeding at refuse sites and contracting botulism. Subsequent closure of most landfill sites has largely removed the threat of botulism but has also led to the loss of an important food source for many Herring Gull populations. This species is Red-listed in Ireland due to a large decline in the breeding population. The European population has been assessed as Secure.

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Table 5.0: Qualifying Species along Surveyed Stretch of Glyde River Observed or Signs of Suitable Habitat Present Qualifying Natura 2000 Site Species Presence along along Surveyed Stretch Species Surveyed Stretch of River of River Dundalk Bay SPA Upstream No Upstream No

Greylag Goose Stabannan- Braganstown Downstream No Downstream No SPA Upstream No Upstream No Great Crested Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Grebe Downstream No Downstream No

Light-bellied Upstream No Upstream No Brent Goose Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Shelduck Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Teal Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream Yes Mallard Downstream Yes Downstream Yes Upstream No Upstream No Pintail Downstream No Downstream No

Upstream No Upstream No Common Scoter Dundalk Bay Downstream No Downstream No SPA For inspection purposes only. Red-breastedConsent ofUpstream copyright owner required Nofor any other use. Upstream No

Merganser Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Oystercatcher Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Ringed Plover Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Golden Plover Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Grey Plover Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Lapwing Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Knot Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Dunlin Downstream No Downstream No

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Observed or Signs of Suitable Habitat Present Qualifying Natura 2000 Site Species Presence along along Surveyed Stretch Species Surveyed Stretch of River of River Upstream No Upstream No Black-tailed Godwit Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Bar-tailed Godwit Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Curlew Downstream No Downstream No Upstream No Upstream No Redshank Downstream No Downstream No Black-headed Upstream No Upstream Yes Gull Downstream No Downstream Yes Upstream No Upstream Yes Common Gull Downstream No Downstream Yes Upstream No Upstream Yes Herring Gull Downstream No Downstream Yes Upstream Yes Upstream Yes Wetland and Waterbirds Downstream Yes Downstream Yes

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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Conservation Objectives of the Natura 2000 sites

Article 6 of the Habitats Directive states that:

Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives.

The importance of a site designated under the Habitats Directive is defined by its qualifying features or interests. Qualifying interests for any Natura 2000 site are listed on a pro forma, called the Natura 2000 standard data form, which forms the basis of the rationale behind designation, and informs the Conservation Management Plan for targeted management and monitoring of key species and habitats.

Stabannan-Braganstown SPA Objective: To maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SPA has been selected.

Dundalk Bay SAC Objective: To maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SAC has been selected.

Dundalk Bay SPA Objective: To maintain or restore the favourable conservation condition of the Annex I habitat(s) and/or the Annex II species for which the SPA has been selected.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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Impact Prediction

Impacts on Water Quality The aquatic conservation interests of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA and the Dundalk Bay SAC and SPA are directly dependent on the aquatic environment. As the Tallanstown WWTP discharges treated effluent into the Glyde River, there is a connection between this discharge and the ecological receptors in the downstream Natura 2000 sites.

The EPA River Water Quality (2004 to present) upstream of the WWTP discharge is classified as “Moderate” status and downstream is also classed as “Moderate”. Based on WFD results (2009- 2015) the current overall status of the River Glyde is “Moderate”.

The WFD status (EPA 2010-2012 data) of the Glyde River is “Moderate” upstream and downstream of the WWTP discharge. However the downstream Glyde Estuary is classed as “Good” status and the Dundalk Bay coastal waters into which the Glyde flows is classed as “High” status.

The latest EPA monitoring data for the Dundalk Outer Bay, 2011-2013 data (Source: Robert Wilkes EPA) indicates that the bay remains “Unpolluted”.

IW’s 2014 ambient monitoring results demonstrates that the water quality within the Glyde River is in compliance with Schedule 5 of the European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Water) Regulations 2009 (S.I. No. 272 of 2009) for BOD and Ammonia. The above is supported by the WAC calculations. It remains uncertain whether the water quality is in compliance in terms of Orthophosphate.

Cumulative water quality impacts, which may impact the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA and the Dundalk Bay SAC and SPA and their water dependent qualifying habitats and species, may result from the following:

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.  Chemical fertiliser application to agricultural lands (the main fertilisers in use supply nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur)  Agricultural practices such as ploughing leads to greater mineralisation and nitrification, and in the case of old grassland, it can result in an increase in the release of nitrogen over a number of years (OECD, 1986)  Artificial drainage increases nitrate leaching and reduce the morphological qualities of watercourses, thereby reducing the quality of habitat for flora and fauna  Forestry may alter water quality indirectly through increased evaporation losses and hence an increase in solute concentrations  On-site wastewater treatment systems, poorly performing septic tank units and other small effluent systems can be significant sources of nutrients to rivers.  Point pressures including Section 4 licenced facilities and IPPC licenced facilities  Peat siltation due to peat harvesting, over-grazing by sheep leading to erosion and forestry practices in the hills during planting and harvesting operations

The discharge may be having a localised impact on the Glyde River in terms of Orthophosphate and may be contributing, alone or in combination with other projects, to the Glyde River’s “Moderate” status.

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In terms of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA there is the potential for impacts on this species due to the SPA’s downstream location in relation to the effluent discharge (i.e. approx. 8.2 km) and due to the “Moderate” status of the Glyde River.

However, based on the 2011-2013 EPA monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD status of both the Glyde Estuary and the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, “Good” and “High” respectively, it can be determined that the effluent discharge is not impacting, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, on the downstream Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore the water dependent qualifying interests of the Dundalk Bay SAC and SPA.

Impacts on Annex I Habitats

Estuaries [1130] This habitat is currently regarded as stable in Dundalk Bay (NPWS, 2011). The main threats to estuaries in Ireland are related to water quality issues expressed through nutrient enrichment (N and P), accelerated growth of macroalgae/phytoplankton or reduced concentrations of dissolved oxygen and fishing/aquaculture related activities (NPWS, 2013). Elevated levels of nutrients (e.g. nitrogen) over an extended period could have an effect on the ecology of the intertidal areas which provide food sources for many of the birds listed for the overlapping SPA. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat.

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide [1140] Muddy sands have low resistance to de-oxygenation and inorganic nutrient enrichment (Crowe et al. 2011). The existing wastewater treatment regime at Tallanstown may be posing a threat to the favourable conservation condition of this habitat in Dundalk Bay especially taking on board the current TN concentrations of the effluent. Elevated levels of nutrients over an extended period For inspection purposes only. could have an effect on the ecologyConsent of of thecopyright intertidal owner required areas for which any other provide use. food sources for many of the birds listed for the overlapping SPA. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat.

Perennial vegetation of stony banks [1220] The main threats to this habitat in Ireland are related to extraction of sand and gravel (NPWS, 2013). This is a marine water dependent habitats but is not considered to be at risk from nutrient pollution (Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes, 2008). Therefore it can be determined that the effluent discharge is not impacting on this habitat.

Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand [1310] The main threat to this habitat in Ireland is the spread of Common Cordgrass (Spartina anglica) an invasive species of saltmarsh and mudflats. Eutrophication from sewage discharges has been recorded as having negative impacts on this habitat at two locations in Ireland (NPWS, 2013) and the favourable conservation condition of this habitat may be threatened by the effluent

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discharge which is likely to be contributing to nutrient levels in the receiving Glyde River. Sewage effluent is known to cause dieback of saltmarsh vegetation and it can promote the growth and spread of Common Cordgrass and Common Reed (McCorry & Ryle 2009). However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat.

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae) [1330] Grazing and infilling are seen as the major threats to this habitat along with climate change resulting in increasing sea-levels and an increase in the severity of coastal storms. Sewage effluent is known to cause dieback of saltmarsh vegetation and it can promote the growth and spread of Common Cordgrass and Common Reed (McCorry & Ryle 2009). However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat.

Mediterranean salt meadows (Juncetalia maritimi) [1410] Grazing, infilling and the effects of climate change are recognised to be the greatest threats to this habitat in Ireland. Sewage effluent is known to cause dieback of saltmarsh vegetation and it can promote the growth and spread of Common Cordgrass and Common Reed (McCorry & Ryle 2009). Due to this habitats location within the southern section of the SAC it is not considered that the effluent discharge is impacting upon this habitat.

Table 6.0: Qualifying Habitats Potentially Impacted by the Tallanstown Discharge Qualifying Habitats Potential Brief Explanation Mitigation For inspection purposes only. Impacts Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. required

Estuaries [1130] No Elevated levels of nutrients over an extended period No could have an effect on the ecology of the intertidal areas which provide food sources for many of the birds listed for the overlapping SPA. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat. Mudflats and No Elevated levels of nutrients over an extended period No sandflats not could have an effect on the ecology of the intertidal covered by seawater areas which provide food sources for many of the at low tide [1140] birds listed for the overlapping SPA. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat.

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Qualifying Habitats Potential Brief Explanation Mitigation Impacts required Perennial vegetation No This habitat type is a marine water dependent habitat No of stony banks but is not considered to be at risk from water [1220] pollution. Therefore this habitat is not likely to be impacted by the WwTP discharge at Tallanstown. Salicornia and other No Eutrophication from sewage discharges has been No annuals colonising recorded as having negative impacts on this habitat at mud and sand two locations in Ireland (NPWS, 2013) and the [1310] favourable conservation condition of this habitat may be threatened by the effluent discharge which is likely to be contributing to nutrient levels in the receiving Glyde River. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat. Atlantic salt No The favourable conservation condition of this habitat No meadows (Glauco- may be threatened by the effluent discharge which is Puccinellietalia likely to be contributing to nutrient levels in the maritimae) [1330] receiving Glyde River. However due to the distance of this habitat from the discharge location along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current WFD “Good” status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” status of the Dundalk Bay coastal waters, it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on this water dependent habitat. Mediterranean salt No Due to this habitats location within the southern No meadows [1410] section of the SAC it is not considered that the effluent discharge is impacting upon this habitat.

Impacts on Annex II Species

Greylag Goose (Anser anser) [A043] For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. Greylag Geese feed on the roots of rushes and sedges in estuaries and wetlands. Water quality impacts have the potential to adversely affect the food sources of this species.

In terms of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA there is the potential for impacts on this species due to the SPA’s downstream location in relation to the effluent discharge (i.e. approx. 8.2 km) and due to the “Moderate” status of the Glyde River.

In relation to the Dundalk Bay SPA eutrophication from the sewage discharge could have knock- on effects on the intertidal habitats of Dundalk Bay and affect the food sources of this species. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and the “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) [A005] Great Crested Grebes are predominantly piscivorous and breeding productivity and abundance are largely dependent on the quantity of available fish prey (Crowe. 2005). Reduced water

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quality could affect the quantity of fish availability in Dundalk Bay. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Light-bellied Brent Goose (Branta bernicla hrota) [A046] Light-bellied Brent Geese are grazers with a particular preference for Zostera spp. and Enteromorpha and Ulva species. Eutrophication from the sewage discharge could have knock- on effects on the intertidal habitats of Dundalk Bay and affect the food sources of this species. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Shelduck (Tadorna tadorna) [A048] Shelduck favour sheltered estuaries with tidal mudflats. Their chief prey source is the mollusc Hydrobia ulvae. Eutrophication from the sewage discharge could have knock-on effects on the intertidal habitats of Dundalk Bay and affect the food sources of this species. Shelduck are sensitive to sewage effluent possibly due to declines in prey densities in areas blanketed by Enteromorpha algal mats (Burton et al. 2001). However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

For inspection purposes only. Teal (Anas crecca) [A052] Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Teal feed on seeds, plants and invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Macoma balthica and Mytilus edulis that tend to favour increases in nutrient levels (Burton et al. 2001). It is considered that the effluent discharge is not impacting on this species.

Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) [A053] Mallard also feed on seeds and invertebrates and any reduction in nutrient levels is likely to reduce the abundance of these invertebrates resulting in less food availability for Mallard and this may lead to local declines. There is the potential for mallard to be present immediately downstream of the discharge point. The discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration may be contributing negatively to the water quality of the Glyde River in terms of Orthophosphate which may have a local negative impact on these water dependent bird species.

In terms of the SPA itself, due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

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Pintail (Anas acuta) [A054] Pintail feed extensively on the marine snail Hydrobia ulvae and increased nutrient levels benefit this species (Lewis & Kelly 2001). This species is unlikely to be affected by the discharge of treated wastewater at Tallanstown.

Common Scoter (Melanitta nigra) [A065] During the winter Common Scoter forage in water less than 20 m deep and with coarse sandy substrates where they feed predominantly in benthic bivalve molluscs. Eutrophication from the sewage discharge could have knock-on effects on the intertidal habitats of Dundalk Bay and affect the food sources of this species. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator) [A069] Fish comprise a major component of the diet of Red-breasted Merganser including cod, hake and plaice. This species is unlikely to be affected by the discharge of treated wastewater at Tallanstown.

Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) [A130] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders such as Oystercatcher. Increased nutrient levels in the SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Oystercatcher. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and For inspection purposes only. “High” WFD status of the Outer ConsentDundalk of copyright Bay coastal owner required waters for any it othercan use. be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula) [A137] Ringed Plover feed on a wide variety of food items, mainly those found in the surface centimetre of the sand due to their relatively short bill size. Ringed Plover may be benefitting from increased nutrient levels from the River Glyde but species numbers could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria) [A140] Golden Plover are not a typical estuarine species and they tend to feed on permanent pastures and ploughed fields but they do use coastal areas for roosting, in hard weather and on passage. This species is unlikely to be affected by the discharge of treated wastewater at Tallanstown.

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Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola) [A141] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. Increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Grey Plover. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus) [A142] Increased nutrient levels in the SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Lapwing. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Knot (Calidris canutus) [A143] Knot feed predominantly on bivalve molluscs and crustaceans with Macoma balthica, the preferred prey and Hydrobia uvale and Mytilus edulis and Cerastoderma edulae are selected when M. balthica is not available. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of For the inspection SPA, purposesparticularly only. in sheltered areas and this situation Consent of copyright owner required for any other use. could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Knot. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Dunlin (Calidris alpina) [A149] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Dunlin. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not

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impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) [A156] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Black-tailed Godwit. However due the 2011- 2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) [A157] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Bar-tailed Godwit. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

For inspection purposes only. Curlew (Numenius arquata) [A160]Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Curlew. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Redshank (Tringa totanus) [A162] Invertebrates such as Capitella capitata, Corophium, Eteone longa, Macoma balthica, Scolelepsis fuliginosa and Mytilus edulis (Burton et al. 2001) are important food sources for waders in an otherwise relatively low nutrient environment. However, increased nutrient levels in SPA have the potential to alter the invertebrate composition of the SPA, particularly in sheltered

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areas and this situation could eventually lead to a deterioration of certain parts of the SPA with consequent negative impacts for species such as Redshank. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) [A179] Gulls are opportunistic feeders and Black-headed Gulls frequently forage at WwTP outfalls. They undoubtedly benefit from artificial food sources (Burton et al. 2001) supplied by WWTPs. Therefore, the WWTP discharge is unlikely to be negatively impacting this species.

Common Gull (Larus canus) [A182] Common Gulls frequently forage at WwTP outfalls. They undoubtedly benefit from artificial food sources (Burton et al. 2001) supplied by WWTPs. This species is unlikely to be affected by the discharge of treated wastewater at Tallanstown.

Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) [A184] Gulls are opportunistic feeders and frequently forage at WwTP outfalls. They undoubtedly benefit from artificial food sources (Burton et al. 2001) supplied by WWTPs. This species is unlikely to be affected by the discharge of treated wastewater at Tallanstown.

Wetland and Waterbirds [A999] No waterbirds were seen in or near the river during the walkover survey. Excessive discharge of nutrients may lead to increased algal growth and possibly eutrophication which is detrimental to wetland habitats and the waterbirds that depend on these habitats. There is the potential for wetland birds to be present immediately downstream of the discharge point. The discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration may be contributing negatively to the water quality of the Glyde For inspection purposes only. River especially in terms of OrthophConsent osphateof copyright ownerwhich required may for have any other a use.local negative impact on these water dependent bird species.

However, due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species within the SPA boundary has been determined.

Table 7.0: Qualifying Species Potentially Impacted by the Tallanstown Discharge Qualifying Potential Mitigation Brief Explanation Species Impact Required Stabannan-Braganstown SPA There is the potential for impacts on this species due to the SPA’s downstream location in relation to the effluent discharge (i.e. approx. 8.2 km) and due to the “Moderate” Greylag Goose Yes status of the Glyde River. Yes

Dundalk Bay SAC The feeding habitat of this species is over 20 km

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Qualifying Potential Mitigation Brief Explanation Species Impact Required downstream of the discharge location. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species within the SPA has been determined. The feeding habitat of this species is over 20 km downstream of the discharge location. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of Great Crested the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk No No Grebe Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. The feeding habitat of this species is over 20 km downstream of the discharge location. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of Light-bellied Brent the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk No No Goose Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. The feeding habitat of this species is over 20 km downstream of the discharge location. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk No No Shelduck Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. For inspection purposes only. ConsentTeal feed of copyright on seeds, owner plants required and for any invertebrates other use. such as

Capitella capitata, Corophium, Macoma balthica and Teal No Mytilus edulis that tend to favour increases in nutrient No levels (Burton et al. 2001). It is considered that the effluent discharge is not impacting on this species. There is the potential for mallard to be present immediately downstream of the discharge point. The discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration may be contributing negatively to the water quality of the Glyde River in terms of Orthophosphate which may have a local negative impact on these water dependent species. It is Mallard Yes not envisaged however that the Mallard utilising Outer Yes Dundalk Bay itself are being impacted by the effluent discharge due to the distance of the Bay from the effluent discharge along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters. The feeding habitat of this species is over 20 km downstream of the discharge location. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of No No Pintail the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer

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Qualifying Potential Mitigation Brief Explanation Species Impact Required Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Eutrophication from the sewage discharge could have knock-on effects on the intertidal habitats of Outer Dundalk Bay and affect the food sources of this species. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the Common Scoter No current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and No “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. Red-breasted Mergansers feed largely on fish (Crowe, 2005) and as such they are sensitive to prey availability. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the Red-breasted current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and No No Merganser “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. This along with the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD Oystercatcher No status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer No Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. This along with the For 2011 inspection-2013 purposes EPA water only. quality monitoring data for Consentthe Outer of copyright Dundalk owner Bay required and forthe any current other use. “Good” WFD

Ringed Plover No status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” status of the Outer No Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

Golden Plover No This species feeds mainly on pasture. No

This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of No No Grey Plover the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However No No Lapwing due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be

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Qualifying Potential Mitigation Brief Explanation Species Impact Required determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of No No Knot the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of No No Dunlin the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of Black-tailed Godwit No the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be No determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the For 2011 inspection-2013 purposes EPA water only. quality monitoring data for Consentthe Outer of copyright Dundalk owner Bay required and forthe any current other use. “High” status of

Bar-tailed Godwit No the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be No determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of No No Curlew the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and therefore no impact on this species has been determined. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels but could decline if parts of the SPA become eutrophic. However due the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for Redshank No the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “High” status of No the Outer Dundalk Bay coastal waters it can be determined that the effluent discharge, alone or in combination with other plans or projects, is not impacting on the water quality of the Outer Dundalk Bay and

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Qualifying Potential Mitigation Brief Explanation Species Impact Required therefore no impact on this species has been determined.

This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels. It is considered No No Black-headed Gull that the effluent discharge is not impacting this species alone or in combination with other plants or projects. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels. It is considered No No Common Gull that the effluent discharge is not impacting this species alone or in combination with other plants or projects. This species benefits from increased invertebrate numbers due to increased nutrient levels. It is considered No No Herring Gull that the effluent discharge is not impacting this species alone or in combination with other plants or projects. It is not envisaged that the wetlands habitat and associated bird species of the Outer Dundalk Bay itself are being impacted by the effluent discharge due to the distance of the effluent discharge from the outer Bay and the 2011-2013 EPA water quality monitoring data for the Outer Dundalk Bay and the current “Good” WFD status of the Glyde Estuary and “High” WFD status of the Outer Wetland and Dundalk Bay coastal waters. Yes Yes Waterbirds However there is the potential for wetland birds to be present immediately downstream of the discharge point. The discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration may be contributing negatively to the water quality of the Glyde River in terms of Orthophosphate which may have a local negative impact on these water dependent bird species.

Mitigation Measures

Based on the available data, it can be concluded that the discharge from the Tallanstown agglomeration may be contributing negatively to the water quality of the Glyde River in terms of For inspection purposes only. Orthophosphate. However it is notConsent considered of copyright owner that requiredthe discharge, for any other use.alone or in combination with other plants or projects, is impacting upon the downstream Glyde Estuary and Outer Dundalk Bay.

Based on the potential for impacts resulting from downstream localised impacts on the water quality in the Glyde River (as identified in Table 7 above), the following Mitigation Measures are recommended for the ongoing operation of the existing discharge are as follows:

 Continued monitoring of the effluent discharge and both upstream and downstream of the discharge point on a regular basis. Analysis of Orthophosphate should be undertaken using a lower detection limit.  The effluent quality must meet the requirements as set out in Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations, 2001. This will serve to protect this SAC and SPAs.  With regard to the cumulative impacts of the Tallanstown discharge as a whole and the operational impacts, the waste water discharge effluent standards must be in line with the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations, 2001 and the functioning of the plant must be in compliance with any future EPA Waste Water Discharge Licence conditions to ensure the environmental quality standards for the receiving waters are met.

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Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment Conclusion Statement

The current assessment for the Waste Water Discharge Licence Application investigates the potential adverse effects on the aquatic qualifying interests of the Natura 2000 network, specifically the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA, Dundalk Bay SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA, arising from the Tallanstown discharge, in combination with other plans/projects affecting the aquatic environment.

The assessment considers whether the discharge, alone or in combination with other projects or plans, will have adverse effects on the integrity of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA, Dundalk Bay SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA, and includes any mitigation measures necessary to avoid, reduce or offset negative effects.

When the above mitigation measures are implemented in full, it is envisaged that there will be no significant adverse effects on the integrity of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA, Dundalk Bay SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA, in view of the conservation objectives of the sites and that the conservation status of the Annex II species will not be compromised by the Tallanstown discharge either directly, indirectly or cumulatively.

It is concluded that the Tallanstown discharge, alone or in-combination with other plans and/or projects will not give rise to significant effects on the integrity of the Stabannan-Braganstown SPA, Dundalk Bay SAC and Dundalk Bay SPA, as long as the mitigation measures as listed above are implemented in full. This Stage 2 assessment concludes the Appropriate Assessment process and further assessment is not considered necessary.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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References

Burton, N.H.K., Maskell, J.M., Armitage, M.J.S, Hutchings, C.J., Rehfisch, M.M. (2001). Effects of Reductions in Organic and Nutrient Loading on Bird Populations in Estuaries and Coastal Waters of England and Wales. Interim Report. British Trust for Ornithology, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk.

Crowe, O. (2005) Ireland’s Wetlands and their Waterbirds; Status and Distribution. BirdWatch Ireland.

DoEHLG (2008). Circular L8/08 Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes – Protection of Natural Heritage and National Monuments. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

DoEHLG (2009). ‘Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland. Guidance for Planning Authorities’. Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

EPA (2009). Waste Water Discharge Licensing Appropriate Assessment Guidance Notes. Notes on Appropriate Assessments for the purposes of the Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007 (S.I. No. 684 of 2007) Environmental Protection Agency, Co. Wexford.

EPA (2014). EPA Maps: http://gis.epa.ie/Envision

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European Commission (2001). Assessment of plans and projects significantly affecting Natura 2000 sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Articles 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Brussels.

European Commission (2007). Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC – Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the commission.

European Commission, (2007. Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats [Online] Available at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/habitatsdirective/docs/2007_07_im.pdf

European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011. S.I. 477 of 2011.

European Communities Environmental Objectives (Surface Waters) Regulations 2009. S.I. 272 of 2009.

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Heritage Council. (2011). Best Practice Guidance for Habitat Survey and Mapping.

Holden, P., & Cleeves, T. (2006).RSPB handbook of British Birds. 2nd Edn. Christopher Helm Publishers, Incorporated.

McGarrigle, M., Lucey, J., & O Cinneide, M. (2010). Water Quality in Ireland 2007-2009. EPA, Wexford.

NPWS (2007). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland Vol. 1. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.

NPWS (2007a). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland Vol. 2. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin.

NPWS (2013). The Status of EU Protected Habitats and Species in Ireland. Species Assessments Volume 3, Version 1.0. Unpublished Report, National Parks & Wildlife Services. Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Dublin, Ireland.

Ordnance Survey Ireland (2015). Mapviewer. Available at: http://maps.osi.ie/publicviewer/#V1,588882,739883,0,10

Western RBD / ESBI / Eleanor Mayes (2008) Report Protected Areas: Water Dependent Habitats and Species.

For inspection purposes only. Consent of copyright owner required for any other use.

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