Appendix 11B Freshwater Fish

A5 Western Transport Corridor Volume 3 – Appendices

APPENDIX 11B FRESHWATER FISH

Certain freshwater fish are significant nature conservation receptors for the Proposed Scheme for the following reasons:

 Atlantic salmon Salmo salar, allis shad Alosa alosa, twaite shad A. fallax, river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis, brook lamprey L. planeri and sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus are listed on Annex II to the Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (the Habitats Directive). A site that is considered to be of significance to any of these species may be designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC);

 The abundance, composition, and age class of freshwater fish, are biological components of the surface water/ecological status of a watercourse classified under The Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC (WFD);

 The water quality variables of a watercourse enable classification under The Surface Waters (Fishlife) (Classification) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 (as amended), with the classification identifying the species composition most likely to be present or potentially supported; and

 Some fish are Species of Conservation Concern (SoCC) in Northern Ireland (NI) and Priority Species under the UK post-2010 Biodiversity Framework (former UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)). These include European smelt Osmerus eperlanus, Atlantic salmon, brown trout Salmo trutta, European eel Anguilla anguilla; river lamprey, brook lamprey and sea lamprey.

Legislation

Some national and European legislative frameworks give legal protection to certain fish species. The most significant of these is Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (the Habitats Directive), which makes provision for the protection of certain habitats and species, listed in Annex II to the directive, through the designation of SAC for sites that will make a significant contribution in the conservation of the habitats/species. The SAC receive full protection under The Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995 (as amended) (the Habitats Regulations). Significant fish species likely to be present within the extents of the scheme include Atlantic salmon, river lamprey, brook lamprey and sea lamprey.

The Environment (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 makes provision for ASSIs.

Salmonid fish species receive further and specific protection because of the importance of their supporting habitat in NI and the importance of these species as a commercial resource (angling). The Foyle Fisheries Act (Northern Ireland) 1952 (as amended) and the Fisheries Act (Northern Ireland) 1966 (as amended) (the Fisheries Act) provide protection to salmonid spawning habitat and legislate against disturbance of species using this habitat (young and breeding individuals),

obstruction to migration, and the capture, disturbance or obstruction of spawn or fry passage, and capture of salmonid fish by certain methods. The Fisheries Act also provides legislative protection against the taking, disturbing or obstructing the passage of eels.

Directive 2000/60/EC, The Water Framework Directive (WFD), implemented in Northern Ireland by The Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, makes provision for the maintenance and improvement of the ecological status of inland surface waters. The ecological status of a waterbody is determined from three elements (biological, hydromorphological and chemical/physico-chemical). The abundance, composition, and age class of fish are factors that contribute to the assessment of biological quality of the watercourse. Although the Directive does not place specific requirements upon developers, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), acting as the competent authority, is able to object to proposals or insist on the implementation of mitigation measures where schemes are likely to adversely impact the ecological quality of inland surface waters designated under the Directive.

Directive 2006/44/EC on the quality of fresh waters needing protection or improvement in order to support fish life (the Freshwater Fish Directive (consolidated)) (FFD), makes provision for the protection and improvement of the quality of running and standing waters capable of supporting, or would become capable of supporting if pollution was reduced or eliminated, fish species belonging to indigenous species offering natural diversity or species the presence of which is judged to be desirable for water management purposes. The FFD defines a waterbody as either a “Salmonid” or “Cyprinid” waterbody, based upon species assemblages, and prescribes physical and chemical water quality objectives. Although the Directive does not place specific requirements upon developers, the NIEA, acting as the competent authority, is able to object to proposals or insist on the implementation of mitigation measures where schemes are likely to adversely impact the ecological quality of inland surface waters designated under the Directive.

Directive 2004/35/EC, The Environmental Liability Directive is implemented in Northern Ireland by The Environmental Liability (Prevention and Remediation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009. The Directive establishes a framework for environmental liability based on the “polluter pays” principle, with a view to preventing and remedying environmental damage. Under the terms of the regulations, environmental damage to protected species is that which has a significant adverse effect on the species reaching or maintaining favourable conservation status, and where it is caused by an activity where the operator was at fault or was negligent as to whether such damage would be caused. The Directive defines protected species as those listed in Annex I to the Directive 2009/147/EC on the conservation of wild birds (codified version) (the Birds Directive) and in Annexes II and IV to the Habitats Directive.

Finally, and more generally, The Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999 makes provisions to combat and prevent pollution affecting waterways and groundwater, and therefore has implications for all fish species.

Conservation status

Atlantic salmon

The Atlantic salmon is of European importance as it is listed in Annexes II and V of the Habitats Directive and Appendix III of the Bern Convention. The species is listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species and as a Priority Species in the UK, and as a NI SoCC. Atlantic salmon are also considered to be a major commercial species.

Brown/sea trout

Brown trout and sea trout are the same species, distinguished from each other by whether they are predominantly freshwater populations (brown trout) or anadromous (moving between freshwater and sea water - sea trout) This species is important commercially, considered as possibly the most important single sport species over Europe as a whole (Maitland and Linsell, 2006). This species is listed as a Priority Species in the UK and as a NI SoCC.

Lamprey

All three lamprey species are of European importance following listing on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and Appendix III of the Bern Convention. The river lamprey is also listed in Annex V of the Habitats Directive. The sea lamprey and river lamprey are both listed as Priority Species in the UK.

Maitland (2000) considers all three species of lamprey to be of vulnerable conservation status, with the Red Data Book for Ireland listing all three species as indeterminate (Maitland, 2003). None of the lamprey species are listed as NI Priority Species or SoCC.

European smelt

European smelt are considered by Maitland and Lyle (1991) to be one of the ten fish species in the British Isles under greatest threat. However, this has not been recognised through national or European legislation. The European smelt is, however, listed as a Priority Species and as a NI SoCC.

Shad

Both species of shad are of European importance following listing in Annexes II and V of the Habitats Directive and Appendix III of the Bern Convention. The allis and twaite shad are both listed as Priority Species and as a NI Priority Species, and SoCC.

Although there is not Red Data Book for fish in Britain, Maitland (2000) considers allis shad to be Critically Endangered and twaite shad to be endangered. The Red Data Book for Ireland, published before the revision of categories lists the allis shad as endangered and twaite shad as vulnerable (IUCN, 1994; Maitland and Ellis, 2003).

European eel

The European eel has recently been listed as a Priority Species because of population declines across much of Western Europe. Scientific research by the Joint European Inland Fisheries Advisory Commission (EIFAC) and International Council of the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Working Group on Eels in 2006 supported this, identifying a decline in most of its distribution and that it is now outside safe biological limits (IUCN, 2008). The species is not, however, listed as a NI SoCC.

Other species

Species that do not receive specific legal protection but which may be present within the study area are components of the freshwater fish assemblage. These include the following which are known to occur in the study area:

 Flounder Platichthys flesus;

 Stone loach Barbatula barbatula;

 Gudgeon Gobio gobio;

 Roach Rutilis rutilis;

 Perch Perca fluviatilis;

 Pike Esox lucius;

 3-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus; and

 Minnow Phoxinus phoxinus.

Baseline data collection

The ecological baseline for freshwater fish has been derived from field survey data, including surveys undertaken in 2008 and 2009 to inform the A5WTC ES 2010 and extensive consultation with Loughs Agency relating to watercourses with potential for important fish species undertaken in 2012 and 2013. Desk study information has also been sourced to supplement the field survey data. These methods are described in greater detail below.

Desk Study Data

Existing species records of freshwater fish were sourced from the Loughs Agency (LA) and the Agri-fisheries and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) for the A5WTC ES 2010. Additionally, freshwater fish species records and habitat data were obtained from the LA in 2013. This data covered the period 2009 – 2012, and included the results of electrofishing and habitat suitability assessments undertaken by the LA for the study area (see Figure 11.5).

A5WTC ES 2010 Field Surveys

Selection of field survey sites

Forty-seven aquatic survey sites, identified from the River Habitat Survey (RHS) data collected in 2008, were scrutinised for their fisheries habitat quality and fish utilisation potential using a Fisheries Habitat Survey (FHS) method.

The surveys followed standard RHS guidance presented in the Field Survey Guidance Manual: 2003 Version, which describes the method for collecting data associated with the physical structure of watercourses. This includes the extent of artificial modification and presence of natural features within the watercourse which are favoured by wildlife (see Table 11B.1). Data was collected along a 500m stretch of watercourse, which extended to 250m upstream and downstream from the crossing point of the Proposed Scheme.

Table 11B.1 RHS survey criteria recorded during the field visits

Habitat modification score criteria Features recorded in RHS

A Field survey details

B Predominant valley form

C Number of riffles, pools and point bars

D Artificial features

E Physical attributes

F Banktop land-use and vegetation structure

G Channel vegetation types

H Land-use within 50m of banktop

I Bank profiles

J Extent of trees and associated features

K Extent of channel and bank features

L Channel dimensions

M Features of special interest

N Choked channel, >33% vegetation

O Notable nuisance plant species

P Overall characteristics

Q Alders, presence/diseased

The data collected during the RHS was analysed to produce two numerical scores for each river: the Habitat Modification Score (HMS) and Habitat Quality Assessment (HQA). The HMS is a numerical score that provides an indication of the extent of artificial modification on the

watercourse along the survey reach (Table 11B.3). A higher HMS score indicates a greater degree of artificial modification. The inverse is true for the HQA score, which provides an indication of the extent of natural features within the watercourse, which are of value to wildlife. Generally speaking, higher HQA scores indicate a more ‘natural’ watercourse which is likely to be of greater nature conservation interest. The HMS score relates only to modification of the channel, while the HQA score is derived from features in the channel and the river corridor.

Table 11B.2 Habitat modification score (HMS) categories for describing the physical state of the river channel

HMS score Descriptive category of channel

0-2 Pristine / Semi-natural

3-8 Predominately unmodified

9-20 Obviously modified

21-44 Significantly modified

>45 Severely modified

The FHS was informed by the Scottish Fisheries Coordination Centre (SFCC) (SFCC 2007) method and provided a standardised methodology for the recording of environmental variables specific to the sampling locations, providing a greater detail of information on the exact habitat in survey locations to that of the RHS.

Following the FHS appraisal 16 of the 47 RHS survey sites were selected for detailed fish survey and assessment due to their habitat suitability for fish species of importance to the assessment. Table 11B.3 presents these field survey locations and the results of the RHS assessment.

Table 11B.3 Field survey locations and assessment

River Aquatic site Habitat quality Habitat modification class number assessment (HQA) (derived from the Habitat score Modification Score (HMS)) Burn Dennet 6 40 Obviously modified Glenmornan River 7 31 Significantly modified Mourne River 8 16 Severely modified 10 46 Predominantly unmodified River Finn 9 33 Obviously modified River Derg 14 36 Significantly modified River Strule 18 25 Significantly modified 20 46 Obviously modified Fairy Water 28 30 Significantly modified Drumragh River 32 35 Significantly modified

River Aquatic site Habitat quality Habitat modification class number assessment (HQA) (derived from the Habitat score Modification Score (HMS)) Camowen River 34 35 Obviously modified Ranelly Drain 36 18 Significantly modified Routing Burn 38 54 Obviously modified Roughan River 41 55 Obviously modified Ballygawley River 42 44 Significantly modified River Blackwater 47 60 Obviously modified

Fish Survey

Electrofishing Assessment of the composition, abundance, and age class of fish fauna using electrofishing techniques was carried out following techniques developed by the SFCC, the Environment Agency (EA) and the EU LIFE in UK Rivers project. The methodology conformed to British Standard guidance BS EN 14011:2003 (water quality – sampling of fish with electricity), using an Electracatch International ELBP2 back pack unit (battery powered) with a single anode.

The electrofishing surveys were carried out by a team of three experienced surveyors, all of whom were accredited by the SFCC to Level II (undertaking electrofishing operations). The team was led by a SFCC Level III accredited surveyor (leading electrofishing operations and undertaking fisheries habitat surveys) at all times. Each survey was undertaken with only two surveyors in the watercourse and a banks person for health and safety purposes.

Fully quantitative sampling was undertaken for all sites where this was possible, however where sites exceeded 1m in depth or 15m in width qualitative sampling was utilised as quantitative sampling could not be carried out effectively/safely. Each qualitative and quantitative survey was progressed carefully in an upstream direction, from bank to bank wherever possible, following the SFCC guidelines on undertaking electrofishing operations.

All captured fish were retained in well oxygenated holding facilities prior to processing. All species that are identified as threatened, of conservation concern or where age class determination is possible in-situ were anaesthetised using a dilute solution of benzocaine, 40 mg/l, so that body lengths and weights could be recorded (to determine population structure/age class). All other fish species were inspected without using the anaesthetic solution and abundance only was recorded. After processing, all fish were transferred to well-oxygenated recovery tanks, with battery powered air pumps inserted, and were returned to the area from which they were sampled when all fish had completely recovered (normal activity observed and maintaining their position/orientation constantly in the water column).

Lamprey

Areas of suitable lamprey habitat (nursery), following APEM (2002) guidance, were subject to standard electrofishing techniques to ascertain the presence / likely absence of lamprey ammocoetes (juveniles) using a fully quantitative sampling methodology. The methodology was undertaken following that described in the EU LIFE in UK River project (Harvey and Cowx, 2003), with the timing of the surveys vital to ensure capture of a range of age classes that would include ammocoetes and transformers (juveniles that are changing into adult lamprey).

Netting Netting surveys were undertaken in all watercourses considered to be unsuitable for assessment by electrofishing techniques, largely due to the geomorphological characteristics of the watercourses (e.g. depth/width variation). Two netting methodologies were undertaken in unison, seine netting and fyke netting, with both types of net deployed from a 14ft heavy duty inflatable boat.

For each of these methodologies, catch per unit of effort (CPUE) was the main objective, which was controlled through the total number of nets per site. The set-up of holding facilities and processing of fish fauna species is the same as that described above.

Seine netting

Seine netting was undertaken using a 25m long and 4m deep net (2mm fryma mesh), with a float line at the top and lead line at the bottom, which was deployed from the front end of the boat. The seine netting methodology was repeated a total of three times for each site to increase the precision of the sample from the reach and ensure an effective sample of the area, following the requirements for CPUE. Depletion in the abundance of fish in the catches from the sample runs will identify an effective result.

Fyke netting

Fyke netting was undertaken using four nets (5x100 with 10mm mesh), with two placed in the margins of each side of the channel.

Licensing To legally undertake electrofishing and netting surveys in the watercourses identified within the study area, it was necessary to obtain the following permits from the appropriate authorities:

 Section 69 Permit from the Loughs Agency (LA) for aquatic site numbers 6 to 38 (those which fall within the River Foyle catchment and under the jurisdiction of the Loughs Agency);

 Section 14 Permit from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) for aquatic site numbers 41 to 47 (those which fall within the River Blackwater catchment and under the jurisdiction of DCAL); and

 Section 14 Permit from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Republic of Ireland) for aquatic site number 47 (that which falls within the River Blackwater catchment and is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources).

In addition to these permits, it was necessary to demonstrate to the NIEA that methodologies of ecological assessment would not have adverse impacts upon the River Foyle and its Tributaries ASSI and obtain their permission prior to undertaking surveys. The NIEA had no concerns with regards to impacts to the ASSI from the methodologies proposed.

Population estimation Population estimation was undertaken for all fish populations caught using quantitative survey methodologies (including the lamprey electrofishing methodology) as the statistical model assumes that there is a stationary population during the trapping programme. The method of obtaining an estimate of the population size follows that prescribed by Zippin (1956).

Limitations Due to the nature of river systems, impacts of heavy rainfall can persist for a long period of time, with surface runoff leading to an immediate spike in the quantity of water in the channel and groundwater flows resulting in a more prolonged increase in river levels. In the time following a heavy rainfall event the turbidity of the river can still be elevated due to the high sediment input associated with watercourses which flow through rural farm land. No surveys could be undertaken during elevated flows or high turbidity for health and safety reasons and because reduced sampling efficiency would not be representative of the reach. Weather conditions and associated impacts upon the watercourse were avoided through forward planning, using weather forecasts, and as such were not a limitation to the overall survey.

The biggest limitation to the survey was due to land access difficulties. Due to the heavy and bulky equipment that was required during the fish fauna surveys and the necessity for 4x4 vehicular access to the river where boat based surveys were required, choice of survey locations were limited. In addition to this, refusal of permission to access land in some areas caused problems with access to the watercourse. However, forward planning helped to negate land access problems with the optimal site access being identified and alternatives considered when access was refused.

A single site visit combining the collection of information and sampling of a small proportion of the habitat could potentially not be representative of the reach. However, this limitation does not influence the ability to achieve the objectives of the report as consideration of species composition, abundance and age class and fisheries habitat within the study area can enable the identification of ecological value. Similarly, due to a petrochemical pollution incident upstream of the Ballygawley River survey site, it was not possible to quantitatively sample the fish population present. However, the qualitative results are considered appropriate to determine the value of the population and habitat present.

Designated sites

Three sites of European importance are present within the study area, the River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC, River Finn SAC and Owenkillew River SAC. The Proposed Scheme crosses the

River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC twice, on the River Mourne and the River Derg. There are also four drainage outfalls in to the River Finn, and the boundary of the works is at the top of the river bank and within approximately 4m of the normally wetted channel.

The River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC is noted for the physical diversity and naturalness of the banks and channels, especially in the upper reaches, and the richness and naturalness of its plant and animal communities. The SAC is primarily designated for the presence of watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation. Atlantic salmon are a primary reason for designation as the river supports the largest population in NI with approximately 15% of the estimated spawning numbers. Otter Lutra lutra are also a qualifying feature. The site is also designated as an ASSI.

The River Finn SAC is an ROI designated site and comprises almost the entire freshwater element of the River Finn and its tributaries. The site is designated because of the presence of Atlantic salmon, otter, active blanket bog, lowland oligotrophic lakes, wet heath and transition mires. The Finn catchment is one of Ireland’s premier salmon waters and is considered to be important in an international context because of the stability of its spring salmon population.

The Owenkillew River SAC lies to the east of the preferred route and is entirely upstream of the scheme. The Owenkillew River SAC is primarily designated for the presence of freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera, watercourses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation and old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles. Atlantic salmon, otter and bog woodland are additional qualifying features of the SAC. The Owenkillew River is also designated as an ASSI for the same reasons, but also notes the presence of brook lamprey which has a population category of D from the Natura 2000 data form.

River classifications/designations

Water Framework Directive designation

A total of 13 watercourses within the study area are classified under the WFD, with surface water status determination undertaken for each classified watercourse by the NIEA. The determination of surface water status under the WFD considers the status of biological (benthic invertebrate fauna, fish, macrophytes, phytobenthos), hydromorphological (hydrological regime, river continuity morphologial conditions) and chemical and physico-chemical (thermal conditions, oxygenation conditions, nutrient conditions, priority substances and other substances) elements. Table 11B.4 identifies the surface water status of each of the 16 surveyed watercourses, with the fish status (abundance, composition and age class) identified where this has been determined.

Table 11B.4 Surface water status of classified rivers under the WFD

River Aquatic Waterbody ID Surface water Fish fauna site ID status status Burn Dennet 6 UKGBNI1NW010101070 Moderate Good Glenmornan River 7 UKGBNI1NW01001075 Good Good

River Aquatic Waterbody ID Surface water Fish fauna site ID status status Mourne River 8 UKGBNI1NW010102074 Moderate - River Finn 9 UKGBNI1NW010103063 Poor Moderate River Derg 14 UKGBNI1NW010102095 Moderate Good River Strule 18 UKGBNI1NW010102074 Poor - Fairy Water 28 UKGBNI1NW010102041 Moderate Good Drumragh River 32 UKGBNI1NW010102006 Moderate Good Camowen River 34 UKGBNI1NW010102033 Moderate Good Routing Burn 38 UKGBNI1NW010102090 Moderate - Roughan River 41 UKGBNI1NB030307180 Poor - Ballygawley River 42 UKGBNI1NB030307175 Moderate - River Blackwater 47 UKGBNI1NB030308201 Moderate -

A5WTC ES 2010 field survey results

Field surveys for the A5WTC ES 2010 recorded a diverse composition, abundance, and age class of fish fauna was recorded. Twelve species were identified across the study area, including Atlantic salmon, brown trout, European eel, lamprey sp., flounder, 3-spined stickleback, minnow, stone loach, gudgeon, roach, pike and perch.

Of the key species listed as being of conservation concern (NI SoCC), Atlantic salmon were recorded in 10 of the aquatic survey locations, brown trout were recorded in 13, lamprey sp. in 9 and European eel in 4. All of the aquatic sites subject to fish fauna surveys contained at least one species listed as being of conservation concern.

Of the more common species, minnow and 3-spined stickleback were the most frequently caught species, with large numbers of each species recorded in the Mourne River, River Finn, River Strule and Fairy Water. Flounder only occurred in the rivers subject to tidal influence. A very large number of cyprinid species were both observed and caught during the surveys in the Fairy Water, with huge numbers of gudgeon, minnow and roach caught along with perch and a pike.

Table 11B.5 presents the results of the electrofishing and netting surveys undertaken at each aquatic site during the A5WTC ES 2010 assessment.

Table 11B 5 Electrofishing and netting survey results as presented in the A5WTC ES 2010

River Aquatic site Species recorded (composition and number abundance) Burn Dennet 6 Atlantic salmon: 2 Brown trout: 2 European eel: 4 Lamprey sp.: 34 Flounder: 1 3-spined stickleback: 2 Minnow: 63 Glenmornan River 7 Atlantic salmon: 21 Brown trout: 3 European eel: 4 Flounder: 30 3-spined stickleback: 1 Mourne River 8 Atlantic salmon: 4 Brown trout: 5 Flounder: 60 Stone loach: 1 Minnow: 183 3-spined stickleback: 498 River Finn 9 Atlantic salmon: 2 Lamprey: 1 Flounder: 1 Stone loach: 1 Minnow: 103 3-spined stickleback: 414 Mourne River 10 Brown trout: 2 European eel: 2 Lamprey: 32 Flounder: 10 Stone loach: 10 Gudgeon: 1 Minnow: 65 3-spined stickleback: 3

River Aquatic site Species recorded (composition and number abundance) River Derg 14 Atlantic salmon: 31 Brown trout: 3 European eel: 4 Stone loach: 15 Roach: 1 Minnow: 51 River Strule 18 Atlantic salmon: 25 Brown trout: 15 Lamprey: 2 Minnow: 61 3-spined stickleback: 28 River Strule 20 Atlantic salmon: 1 Stone loach: 6 Roach: 3 Minnow: 416 3-spined stickleback: 22 Fairy Water 28 Brown trout: 1 Pike: 1 Roach: 39 Gudgeon: 90 Perch: 3 Drumragh River 32 Atlantic salmon: 3 Lamprey: 1 Stone loach: 12 Minnow: 61 3-spined stickleback: 1 Camowen River 34 Atlantic salmon: 31 Brown trout: 3 Lamprey: 6 Stone loach: 33 innow: 6 Ranelly Drain 36 Atlantic salmon: 11 Brown trout: 1 Stone loach: 83

River Aquatic site Species recorded (composition and number abundance) Routing Burn 38 Brown trout: 13 Lamprey: 7 Stone loach: 9 Minnow: 3 3-spined stickleback: 1 Roughan River 41 Brown trout: 7 Lamprey: 18 3-spined stickleback: 2 Ballygawley River 42 Brown trout: 3 Stone loach: 3 3-spined stickleback: 1 River Blackwater 47 Minnow: 5

The following paragraphs discuss the results of these electrofishing and netting surveys. Additionally, the results of the RHS and FHS surveys undertaken at each aquatic site for the A5WTC ES 2010 are presented, with particular reference to habitat features within each survey site that were of importance to freshwater fish at the various stages in their lifecycle. This included identification of habitat used for spawning, shelter, or as a juvenile nursery, as well as determining whether the watercourse was accessible during migration.

Burn Dennet - 6 Four species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the survey reach, which were Atlantic salmon, brown trout, European eel and lamprey sp. Atlantic salmon, brown trout and European eel were caught in low abundances during the qualitative electrofishing survey with a high abundance of juvenile lamprey sp. (ammocoetes) caught during the targeted electrofishing surveys. As there was no depletion in the lamprey surveys, a population estimate could not be made using Zippin (1956). More common fish species caught from the reach were flounder, 3-spined stickleback and minnow.

The habitat of the Burn Dennet within the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area was relatively diverse, with a variety in the flow structure, substrate and depths. The presence of instream vegetation was fairly restricted with siltation evident. The riparian vegetation provided suitable fish cover predominantly on the right bank, with some overhanging boughs, despite a relatively simple vegetation structure which was dominated by Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica on the right bank. The river site was noted as accessible to salmon and trout, with stocking unlikely, and suitable spawning habitat for salmonids present. The age class, identified from measurements taken, of Atlantic salmon and brown trout caught suggested they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site. It was noted that the spawning habitat present could be used for salmonid spawning, however more significant spawning habitat upstream is more likely to be utilised.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat existed in the marginal areas of the Burn Dennet, with the sediments composed of silt and sand with suitable depths (>15cm) to classify as optimal habitat. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub- optimal habitat. The spawning habitat present in the reach was thought to be of importance to lamprey, particularly as juvenile (0+) lamprey were recorded during the survey.

Glenmornan River - 7 Three species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the survey reach, which were Atlantic salmon, brown trout and European eel. As the fully quantitative survey methodology was utilised, higher species numbers were caught from the reach. Atlantic salmon were caught in high abundance, with 21 individuals caught, however the brown trout and European eel were caught in low abundances. More common fish species caught from the reach were flounder and 3-spined stickleback. The population estimate for all fish fauna in the Glenmornan River, using Zippin (1956), identified that a maximum of 79 individuals could have been present in the surveyed habitat.

The habitat of the Glenmornan River within the survey area was relatively diverse, with a variety in the substrate and depths. However, the flow structure and river widths were uniform along the length of the site. The structure of the river banks were relatively diverse, although dominated by vegetation rooted in the stream/bed or banks, however the vegetation structure was simple and provided little fish cover. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon and brown trout caught suggested they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site.

Mourne River - 8 Two species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey reach, which were Atlantic salmon and brown trout. Atlantic salmon and brown trout were caught in low abundance, however the reach is known to support substantial populations of anadromous salmonids during migratory periods, which would be of high importance. More common fish species caught from the reach were flounder, stone loach, minnow and 3-spined stickleback.

The habitat of the Mourne River within the survey area was relatively uniform, with little variation in the flow structure, substrate or depths. The riparian vegetation was of a simple structure, dominated on the left bank by Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed Heracleum mantegazzianum and Himalayan balsam Impatiens glandifera. Approximately a quarter of the right bank provided overhanging boughs, although the canopy cover was very low. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon and brown trout caught suggested they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site. Further to this, the site was noted as being included under the River Foyle and its tributaries SAC designation, which lists Atlantic salmon as a primary qualifying feature, with the habitat known to be of great importance to salmonids for migration.

River Finn - 9 Two species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the survey area, which were Atlantic salmon and lamprey. Atlantic salmon were caught in low abundance, however the reach was known to support substantial populations of anadromous salmonids during migratory periods,

which would be of high importance. The presence of lamprey sp. in the juvenile stage was a by- catch during netting surveys. More common fish species caught from the reach were flounder, stone loach, minnow and 3-spined stickleback.

The habitat of the River Finn within the Mouchel (2009) survey area was relatively uniform, with little variation in the flow structure, substrate or depths. The riparian vegetation was predominantly of simple structure, although the bank top vegetation of the right bank was complex, with about a quarter of the right bank providing overhanging boughs. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon caught suggested they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site. Further to this, the site was noted as being included within the River Finn SAC designation, which lists Atlantic salmon as a qualifying feature, with the habitat known to be of great importance to salmonids for migration.

Mourne River - 10 Three species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were Atlantic salmon, European eel and lamprey. Brown trout and European eel were caught in low abundance during the qualitative electrofishing surveys, however a high abundance of juvenile lamprey sp. (ammocoetes) were caught during the targeted electrofishing surveys. Although two of the lamprey surveys could not produce a population estimate as there was not a clear depletion in numbers caught, one of the sites did produce a population estimate of 27 individuals in the 1m2 survey area. More common fish species caught from the reach were flounder, stone loach, gudgeon, minnow and stickleback.

The habitat of the Mourne River within the survey area had some diversity in the substrate, which was stable and partly compacted, and depth, however the flow structure was entirely dominated by rippled flow. There was an absence of instream vegetation with some areas showing evidence of siltation. The riparian vegetation structure was largely complex, with the exception of the left bankface vegetation, with the right bank providing approximately 40% cover with approximately 50% containing overhanging boughs. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of brown trout caught suggested they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site. Further to this, the site is included within the River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC designation, which lists Atlantic salmon as a primary qualifying feature, with the habitat known to be of great importance to salmonids for migration.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat was noted in the marginal areas of the Mourne River at this location, with the sediments composed of silt and sand with suitable depths to classify as optimal habitat. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub-optimal habitat.

River Derg - 14 Three species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were Atlantic salmon, brown trout and European eel. Atlantic salmon were caught in high abundance, despite using a timed qualitative electrofishing methodology which is a sampling methodology that is used to determine presence/likely absence as opposed to determining the

overall population. The abundance of brown trout and European eel caught were both low. More common fish species caught from the reach were stone loach, roach and minnow.

The habitat of the River Derg within the survey area was largely uniform, with the depths, substrate and flow structure each dominated by one category. The substrate of the channel was largely stable and not compacted, dominated by cobbles, with almost a third of the survey area containing aquatic vegetation. The structure of the riparian vegetation of the right bank was uniform, with a simple bankface vegetation structure and complex banktop vegetation structure on the left bank. Only a small proportion of the left bank provided fish cover, despite a high proportion containing overhanging boughs. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon and brown trout caught suggested both fry and parr were present, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery site. The presence of salmonid fry suggests that spawning habitat is in close proximity to this site, as their dispersal from redds at this stage in the life cycle is often limited in extent (Crisp, 1996). Further to this, the site was noted as being included within the River Foyle and it’s Tributaries SAC designation, which lists Atlantic salmon as a primary qualifying feature, with the habitat known to also be of great importance to salmonids for migration.

River Strule - 18 Three species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were Atlantic salmon, brown trout and lamprey sp. Atlantic salmon were caught in high abundance, with brown trout caught in a moderate abundance. The presence of lamprey sp. in the juvenile stage was a by-catch during netting surveys, with targeted surveys for the species not undertaken due to the absence of optimal habitat. More common fish species caught from the reach were minnow and stickleback.

The habitat of the River Strule within the survey area was fairly diverse, with variation in the flow structure, substrates and depths within the survey area. The structure of the riparian vegetation on the banks was largely simple, with little overhanging boughs or cover present. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of the Atlantic salmon caught suggest they were parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery habitat. A significant riffle habitat was present upstream from the survey area at the confluence of the Owenkillew River and River Strule, and the absence of salmonid fry (0+) from the sample should not be considered conclusive in determination of no spawning habitat (due to catch efficiency and timing). The site falls at the upstream end of the River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC designation, which lists Atlantic salmon as a primary qualifying feature, and at the downstream end of the Owenkillew River SAC, which lists Atlantic salmon as a qualifying feature but not a primary reason for site selection.

River Strule - 20 Only one species of conservation concern in NI was identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which was Atlantic salmon. Only one individual Atlantic salmon was caught during the netting survey of the reach. More common fish species caught from the reach were stone loach, minnow, 3-spined stickleback and roach.

The habitat of the River Strule within the survey area was very diverse, with variation evident in the flow structure, substrate and depths. The structure of the riparian vegetation on the right bank was

complex, with a quarter of the bank containing overhanging boughs, and the left bank was simple on the bankface and uniform on the banktop. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of the Atlantic salmon caught suggested it was a parr, identifying the habitat as being of importance as a nursery habitat. The site was noted as falling outside of the River Foyle and its Tributaries SAC designation, but Atlantic salmon are known to be present upstream of this location.

Fairy Water - 28 Only one species of conservation concern in NI was identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which was brown trout. Only one individual brown trout was caught during the netting survey of the reach. More common fish species caught from the reach were pike, minnow, 3-spined stickleback, roach, gudgeon and perch. Both roach and gudgeon were caught in huge numbers, and shoaling of roach was observed prior to the survey.

The habitat of the Fairy Water within the survey area was relatively diverse, with variation evident in the flow structure, substrate and depths. The vegetation structure of the left bank was complex, providing cover for fish fauna and about half of the bank containing overhanging boughs. The vegetation structure of the left bank was simple on the bankface and uniform on the banktop. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of the brown trout caught suggested it was an adult, identifying the habitat as containing suitable flow, abundant cover (instream and bankside) and sufficient depth for this age class. A total of seven species of fish were caught from the habitat identifying it as being of importance to support a number of both salmonid and cyprinid species.

Drumragh River - 32 Two species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were Atlantic salmon and lamprey sp. Atlantic salmon were caught in a low abundance, with only three individuals caught during the qualitative electrofishing survey. The targeted lamprey survey also found a low abundance of lamprey sp. present, with only one individual caught. More common fish species caught from the reach were stone loach, minnow and stickleback.

The habitat of the Drumragh River within the survey area shows a low level of diversity, with a variation in the substrate. The depth and flow structure show some variation, however they are dominated by one depth bracket/flow type. A large proportion of the channel contained instream vegetation, providing in-channel cover for fish species, with the channel showing some signs of siltation. The complex vegetation structure on the right bank provided fish cover for the whole reach with the majority of the site containing overhanging boughs. In contrast, the left bank had a simple bankface vegetation structure with a uniform banktop structure which provided only a small amount of fish cover and overhanging boughs. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon caught suggested they were parr, although one was at the lower end of the age class scale for parr. This suggests that nursery habitat for fry and suitable spawning habitats are not far off this location, but identify the habitat as being of importance for salmonid nursery at the very least.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat existed in the marginal areas of the Drumragh River at the Mouchel (2009) survey location, with the sediments composed of silt and sand with suitable depths

to classify as optimal habitat. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub-optimal habitat.

Camowen River - 34 Three species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were Atlantic salmon, brown trout and lamprey sp. Atlantic salmon were caught in high abundance, despite using a timed qualitative electrofishing methodology which is a sampling methodology that is used to determine presence/likely absence instead of determining the overall population. The abundance of brown trout caught during the qualitative electrofishing survey methodology was low, with a low abundance of lamprey caught during the species targeted electrofishing survey. A population estimate for lamprey species could not be completed as there was not a clear depletion in numbers caught. More common fish species caught from the reach were stone loach and minnow.

The habitat of the Camowen River within the survey area showed a high diversity in the range of habitats, with variation in the depths, substrate and flow structure. The complex vegetation structure of each bankface provided fish cover across almost half of the reach surveyed. There was a limited presence of instream vegetation, with the channel substrate unstable and partly compacted and showing evidence of siltation. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon and brown trout caught suggested that both salmonid fry and parr were present, identifying the habitat as being of importance for nursery. The presence of salmonid fry also suggests the presence of spawning habitat in close proximity of the site.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat was found to exist in the marginal areas of the Camowen River at this location, with the sediments composed of silt and sand with suitable depths to classify as optimal habitat. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub-optimal habitat.

Ranelly Drain - 36 Two species of conservation concern in NI were identified in the survey area, which were Atlantic salmon and brown trout. Both species were caught in low to moderate abundance, with 11 Atlantic salmon and 1 brown trout. Only one more common species was caught during the quantitative survey methodology, although stone loach were caught in very high abundance (83 individuals). The population estimate for the reach identified that a maximum of 115 individuals could have been present in the surveyed habitat.

The habitat of the Ranelly Drain within the survey area was relatively uniform geomorphologically, with little diversity in the flow structure and depth variation. The substrates present showed a little variation, which was stable and uncompacted, however cobbles dominated. The vegetation structure on each bankface was simple, with a complex vegetation structure on the right bank top and uniform on the left banktop. Consequently, about a third of the channel on the right bank had suitable fish cover, with that on the left bank being very limited in extent. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of Atlantic salmon caught suggested that both salmonid fry and parr were present, identifying the habitat as being of importance for nursery. The presence of salmonid fry also suggests the presence of spawning habitat in close proximity of the site.

Routing Burn - 38 Two species of conservation concern in NI were recorded in the A5WTC ES 2010 survey area, which were brown trout and lamprey sp. Despite using a quantitative survey methodology, a low abundance of brown trout was caught. More common fish species caught from the reach were stone loach, minnow and 3-spined stickleback. A population estimate for fish fauna species caught, excluding lamprey sp., identified that a maximum of 30 individuals could have been present in the habitat. The targeted lamprey survey found a low abundance of lamprey ammocoetes present, with the population estimate for these identifying that it is likely all individuals were caught.

The habitat of the Routing Burn showed little diversity, with a dominant depth category and flow structure. The substrate does, however show some variation within the survey area. Instream vegetation is only present in limited extent, with the substrate being stable and compacted with evidence of siltation. The vegetation structure of the left bank is simple with a simple vegetation structure on the right banktop and complex on the right bank. Consequently, the riparian vegetation provided extensive fish cover on both banks, although the presence of overhanging boughs was more significant on the right bank. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of brown trout caught suggested they were parr, with the habitat being of importance for nursery.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat exists in the marginal areas of the Routing Burn at this location, with the sediments composed of silt with suitable depths (>15cm) to classify as optimal habitat. The depths in some locations were up to 100cm. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub-optimal habitat.

Roughan River - 41 Two species of conservation concern in NI were in the survey area, which were brown trout and lamprey. Despite using a quantitative survey methodology, a low number of brown trout were caught. Only one more common fish species was caught, which was a low abundance of 3-spined stickleback. A population estimate for fish fauna, excluding lamprey sp., identified a maximum of 19 individuals in the surveyed reach. The targeted lamprey survey found a moderate abundance of ammocoetes present, with the population estimate for the species indicating that the population from the surveyed area is not dissimilar to that caught.

The habitat of the Roughan River within the survey area exhibited a high diversity, with variations evident in the flow structure, substrate and depths, although the channel width was relatively constant. The riparian vegetation structure was a mixture of simple and complex on both banks, providing extensive fish cover on both banks throughout the survey area. The site was considered to be accessible for brown trout, however accessibility for Atlantic salmon is unknown given that low numbers of individuals were known from historic records and that it has not been classified under the FFD as a salmonid river. The age class of brown trout caught suggested they were parr, with the habitat being of importance for nursery.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat existed in the marginal areas of the Roughan River at Mouchel (2009) location, with the sediments composed of silt and sand with suitable depths to classify as optimal habitat. Two of the three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the third in sub-optimal habitat.

Ballygawley River - 42 Only one species of conservation concern in NI was caught during the survey, which was brown trout, with two common species caught in addition, which was stone loach and 3-spined stickleback. All of the species were caught in low abundance, however a couple of large adult brown trout were observed during the survey which evaded capture.

The habitat of the Ballygawley River within the survey area exhibited limited diversity, with the depth, substrate and flow structure largely dominated by one depth category/flow type/substrate. The extent of instream vegetation was also very limited. However, the structure present in the river, most notably deep water downstream of a small weir and marginal vegetation, did prove to provide significant habitat and cover for fish fauna. The substrate, which was stable yet uncompacted and showed signs of siltation. The riparian vegetation structure was complex, with 20% fish cover provided on each bank and 30% canopy cover over the reach. The site was considered to be accessible for both Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of brown trout caught suggested they were adults.

River Blackwater - 47 Two species of conservation concern in NI were in the survey area, which were brown trout and lamprey. A low abundance of brown trout was caught by the qualitative survey methodology, with more common species caught consisting of stone loach and minnow. The targeted lamprey survey found low numbers of ammocoetes present, with the population estimate for the species showing a low population.

The habitat of the River Blackwater within the survey area exhibited a high diversity, with large variation in the depth, substrate and flow structure. Instream vegetation was clearly evident, occupying almost a third of the survey area. The substrate was stable and partly compacted, however there was no evidence of siltation. The riparian vegetation structure on each bankface was complex, with a simple vegetation structure on the banktop, providing fish cover over a fifth of the site on both banks. The site was considered to be accessible for Atlantic salmon and brown trout, and unlikely to be stocked with either. The age class of brown trout caught suggested they were parr and adults, identifying the habitat as being of importance for nursery.

Suitable juvenile lamprey habitat existed in the marginal areas of the River Blackwater at this location, with the sediments composed of silt and sand, although silt dominated, with suitable depths to classify as optimal habitat. All three targeted lamprey surveys were undertaken in optimal habitat, with the depths of the sediment being at least 30cm. The presence of gravel-bed riffles also suggest possible spawning habitat for lamprey within the survey area.

Other existing records Historical records of fish species obtained from the LA and Agri-fisheries and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), within the A5WTC ES 2010 study area are identified in Table 11B.6 below.

Table 11B.6 Records of freshwater fish as presented in the A5WTC ES 2010

River Fish fauna species present Burn Dennet Atlantic salmon Minnow Brown trout European Smelt European eel Flounder Stone loach Glenmornan Atlantic salmon European eel Brown trout Flounder River Mourne Atlantic salmon Brown trout River Finn Atlantic salmon River Derg Atlantic salmon Minnow Brown trout Perch European eel 3-spined stickleback Stone loach River Strule Atlantic salmon European eel Brown trout Stone loach Fairy Water Atlantic salmon Roach Brown trout Stone loach Gudgeon 3-spined stickleback Drumragh River Atlantic salmon Stone loach Brown trout Minnow Routing Burn Atlantic salmon European eel Brown trout Minnow Stone loach Roughan River Brown trout Minnow Stone loach Ballygawley River Atlantic salmon European eel Brown trout Minnow Stone loach River Blackwater Atlantic salmon European eel Brown trout Gudgeon Stone loach Minnow

Data on salmonid catches returned by the LA for the period 2009 – 2012 are presented within Table 11B.7 below. This data is represented as presence / absence data only.

Table 11B.7 Electrofishing survey data provided by the LA for the period 2009 - 2012

River Year Species recorded: Yes (Y), No (N) Brown trout Atlantic salmon Burn Dennet 2009 Y Y 2010 Y Y 2011 Y Y Fairy Water 2009 Y Y 2010 Y Y 2011 Y Y 2012 Y Y Glenmoran River 2009 Y N 2010 Y Y 2011 Y Y Routing Burn 2009 Y N 2010 Y N 2011 Y Y 2012 Y Y River Strule 2009 Y Y 2010 Y Y 2011 Y N 2012 Y Y River Derg 2009 Y Y 2010 Y Y 2011 Y Y Drumragh River 2009 Y Y 2010 Y Y 2011 Y Y 2012 Y Y

Results of salmonid habitat surveys undertaken by the LA are presented in Table 11B.8 and presented as ‘Important Salmonid Habitat’ on Figure 11.5. The LA identified the following important habitats for salmonids:

 Nursery – habitat suitable for sustaining juvenile salmonids;

 Holding – deep pools which are important resting sites for adult salmonids; and,

 Spawning – habitat used by salmonids for breeding.

The LA survey reaches of the Burn Dennet, River Mourne, River Derg, Fairy Water, Drumragh, and Routing Burn, are crossed or in close proximity to the Proposed Scheme. The reach of the Strule surveyed by the LA is over 100m away from the Proposed Scheme, although it is connected to the Derg, which is crossed by the Proposed Scheme. The Camowan River is located over 100m away and is not crossed by the Proposed Scheme.

Table 11B.8 Salmonid habitat assessment data provided by the LA in 2013

River Salmonid habitat Burn Dennet Nursery Holding Spawning Fairy Water Nursery River Mourne Nursery Holding Spawning Routing Burn Nursery Holding Spawning Strule Nursery Holding Spawning The Derg Holding Nursery Spawning The Drumragh Nursery Holding Spawning