A Preliminary Report on the Areas Of

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The National CONSERVATION AND AMENITY Institute ADVISORY SERVICE for Physical Planning and Construction Research

A PRELIMINARY REPORTON THE AREP SCIENTIFIC INTEREST IN COUNTY WICKLOW

EDWARD FAHY RESEARCH ASSISTANT JULY, 1972 i a4- t, cL (-p 6

O O Teach Mhairtin 8othar Waterloo Ath Cliath 4 Telefon 64211 St. Martin's House Waterloo Road (J LJ I 1 L] LJ LJ L_J L_J LJ LJ LJ c L._.J L._J L_:1 LJ LJ LJ LJ L_J L- Area Map No. i Grid Ref. Rating Priority Interest Kilcoole Marshlands i2 1 0.313,060 International A Zoological:Ornithological,forflora wildfowl. and fauna. an ecotypeBotanical, containing Ecological a varied and Also an overwintering area blanketKippureSlieveroe bogsand Sally Gap 32 '&O .130, 115 0.150,T .211,888 150 International B blanketGeological:Botanical bog andin a rarethe Ecological: Wicklows. fossil locality some of the best . I B Lough Bray Corries j 45 0.130, 160 International B Geological:spectacular good moraine example development. of a corrie with AthdownLough Dan moraine and Luggula No Map 0.155,0.070, 035140 International National B Zoological:Geological:glaciers. the lakessite dates contain the mountaina rare fish Broad lough 6 T .3. 5 , 970 1 National A Ornithological,species. Ecological, Botanical and Upper Lockstown delta it 7 N .980, 020 National A typicalZoological:Geological: flora variedand the fauna. site habitats is a valley supporting moraine. a Buckroney Sand Dunes J¢4- 8 ! T .290, 795 I National B-A Ecological,someexample rare of Botanicalplant a stable species. sandand Zoological:dune system a withgood J C__J U C_I L_J LJ C_J C_JU L _J U LI LJ C_J L 7 L_J LI LJ U L_J U C_ AreaGlen of the Downs Map No. 9 TGrid .260, Ref 110 . NationalRating Priority B Ecological,Interest Botanical, Zoological and j 1 flowGeological: channel. an oak forest in a glacial over-- I 10 j B WicklowGlendalough town Upperglebe landLake S 3 11 T .100,.315,945 960 National B Botanical:Zoological:species. the lake contains a rare fish site of two rare species atShore Glendalough line of lower lake 1312 T T.117, .323 965 , 875 I National B habitatBotanical, containing Ecological rare and plant Zoological: species. wetland Sand dunes at Maherabeg b National B rareexampleEcological, sedge of species Botanicala stable . dune and system;Zoological: having a good a Lough Ouler 6- '14 0.090,022 i National ! occursBotanical at the and site Geological: which has ana goodalpine success- flora Rathdangan end moraine h5// 15 S .970,860 National B sheet.indicationGeological:ion of moraines of a the moraine . limit of of the significance last midland as anice The Motte Stone I ; 16 ! T .200, 830 1 National C Geological: the feature is a spectacular Upper Glenmalur Valley C l- 6 y 17 I T .070, 930 National C Geological:erratic. general glacial features. J L _J L1 U C_ U U L_] C C_ L" _> C C--_i U C J L---j L] C_-j L] U C__J LI E-- ToorArea Channel /1c 7/ .VV Map No. 18 NGrid .950, Ref. 030 NationalRating Priority C Geological:Interest a glacial lake outlet. Templerany end moraine 73 I 19 T .250, 770 Ii National C Geological:from Irish sea. site marks last glacial advance and pingoes j ; GlenmacnassGreat Sugarloaf '7.S I 2021 0.240,1300.110,020 ' National C Geological:importance. the site is a glacial nunatak. site is of stratigraphic .? y 22 National '. C Geological: stratigraphically and geomor- Powerscourt Waterfall I 0 .195,118 i phologically significant. Avondale Forestry school g/ T .195,855 National i C plotsEcological show andtree Botanical:growth of experimentalvarious species. Bray Head (A) 23 0.286, 174 National C I Geological and Ornithological: stratigraphic ? I Thefeatures site areis a important nesting place to the for Cambrian sea birds. era. Askintinny 24 T .255,696 Regional A i ofBotanical a sand duneand Ecological: system, having a good some example rare andShelton Garden Abbey Wood g g 25 T .222,753 Regional A Ecological,exoticswoodlandplant species. . andBotanical garden and containing Zoological: naturalised a good vBallingee Wood 1 No Map ! 0.040.010 Regional remnantBotanical and ecological L ] C_ U C _J U L_1 Li L_3 LI C---j LI L __l U L] L_ J L_j L_:7 U L--7 C__..7 L___. ArklowArea dune system fe Map. No. 26 I Grid Ref.T .255,743 I RegionalRating I Priority A Ecological,Interestplantexample species of Botanical a dune. system and Zoological: having a rare good Buckroney Marsh 27 T .293,810 j Regional I A Ecological,site is a good Botanical example and of Zoological: a marsh. the Marshes near Lemonstown 28 i N .923 , 051 Regional i A T exampleEcological, of aBotanical marsh system. and Zoological: a good Arklow Head 47,7 l 29 T .240, 700 v Regional 1 A Geological: a volcanic exposure. Woodlands in the Vale of Clara 30 I T .135,960 Regional B Ecological,deciduous Botanicalwith some and coniferous Zoological: woodland . Braynear LaraHead and(B) Glendalough /9/ 31 0.286,174 Regional ! B early-springBotanical,established. Zoological flora and faunaand Ecological: are an well Holdenstown Bog 32 S .883,850 Regional { B Ecological,site is a raised Botanical bog. and Zoological: the WoodlandsRiver Valley in the Avoca 33 _ j T .215,755 Regional C mixedEcological, woodlands. Botanical and Zoological: L'I LI L_ ] LJ L---j I I Area LJ LI L"I U L--.J Map LJ LI LJ U L-] LJ L.j Rating o LJ LI L No. Grid Ref. .i Dargle River Valley I 34 0.241,169 Regional C stratigraphic exposure. VartryWest Bank Reservoir of 35 062 Regional C x a rare plant species. and Ecological: a wetland having WicklowRathdrum coast Railway site Cutting /1-5y {{ 3736 T .205, 894 .309, 955 Regional Geological:Botanical: thea rare site fossil of a raresite. species. Hollywood Glen q 3938 ;y N.930,015 Regional Geological: a dry valley. SitePoulaphouca along the King's Reservoir River i 'Z ( .Z4 I 40 1 O. 00, 10 N.980,032 Regional Ecological,Botanical: Ornithological, site of a rare plant Botanical species and . s Zoological: a large lake. Walpole'sMount Usher Garden i No Map ; T .270, 972 Regional j C ' growingBotanical as naturalised.and Ecological: exotic plants Powerscourt Demesne No Map 0.215, 165 Regional f C cultivatedEcological: land. an area of woods, park and Lugnaquilla / Z 41 1 T .030,920 Regional C Botanical, Ecological and Zoological: an lnnrrh Mines i27 I 'A/ No Man I T .090. 960 Regional C area of high moorland. Ballinacor Wood /_33 42 T .130, 885 Local A ,`' Geological:Ecological, typical Botanical Wicklow and Zoological: lead mines. an CD oak woodland. __] L__J r 1 L_ Area L3 L7 LJ U LJ LJ LA L7 L-] LJ P4 - /u79 . Map No.' o . U Grid Ref. Rating G Priority LJ LJ L7 Interest L1 LJ LJ L7 The Quill Woodland / 4443 0.240, 135 Local A Ecological,a mixed deciduous Botanical wood. and Zoological: LowtownLough Nahanagan Marsh 136 45 TS .080,.845,923 991 Local B corrieBotanical:andEcological: flora. side. an a marshalpine withflora aoccurs typical on fauna the Annamoe Fens /1-3 46 T .187,997 Local i B i Ecological, Botanical and Zoological. Glencree Woodland 47 0.165,160 Local s B woodland.Botanical, Ecological: a wet, deciduous Ballynamona marsh % 5o 48 T .270, 823 Local i B i Ecological, Botanical and Zoological. Dunlavin Marshes ? _ 49 N .853,025 i Local B containingEcological, typicalBotanical fauna and and Zoological: flora. marsh Oak Woods by Lough Dan 3 50 0.158,048 Local B ij Ecologicalland with andtypical Botanical: flora and a deciduous fauna. wood- l i B Brittas Bay sand dunes 7 5', i 51 T .310, 840 Local B Ecological, Botanical and Zoological. Devil's Glen 52 I T .250,985 Local I woodland.Ornithological:Ecological, Botanical, oceanic Zoological type deciduous and Tinahely0 Wood r( j No Map T.070.740 Local ? Botanical and ecological: natural oakwood L_J L_J C_J L_l C__J C_] L_J C_J L_J L_J L_J E __j C__J C_J LA L__J Li C" I U C_J Area Map No. C Grid Ref. Rating Priority Interest GlenMarsh of the close Downs to the 4t j tiT , I 53 0.253,134 Local B Ecological: typical marsh. Arklow reserve 54 T .255,735 Local C ` Ornithological:waterfowl. an artificial pond for Coniferous woodlands 55 T .100, 910 Local ! C Ecological: well developed coniferous Glenmalur Valley and k f forests. Ballyteigeenvirons including Wood 16 I Rathdrum and C I 56 T .245,990 Local C 1 Ecological, Botanical and Zoological: GlenealyBallycore forests Rath 57 S .815, 942 Local C ; mixedlandBotanical plantforests. andspecies. Ecological: unusual grass- Wicklow Head Z 58 T .345, 924 j Local i C Botanical, Zoological, Ornithological and I typicalEcological: plant and a rocky animal marine communities. headland with Gorge at Poulaphouca 59 ; N .947, 085 Local s C Botanical and Ecological: the site has a Glen Ding 1 /7 60 N.163,155 Loca ; C rich flora. eological: the site is a dry valley. r-1

1J SECTION D 7 LJ rlI RATING OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE iJ 'his is a measure of the relative importance of areasof scientific importance.

I The importance of each area is indicated in terms ofthe following categories: 7 J International Importance

1. Only area of its type in Europe. 2. One of a few such localities in Europe. 3. One of a natural series in Europe. 4. Recognised international importance. 5 . Specialised educational importance. rl

LJ National Importance

1. Only area of its type in Ireland. 2. One of a few such localities in Ireland. 7 J 3. One of a natural series in Ireland. 4. Recognised national importance. 5. General or specialised educational importance.

Regional Importance n u I. Only area of its type in province. 2. One of a few localities in Ireland. 7 3. One of a natural series in region. 4. Fine example of its kind.

Li 5. General or specialised educational importance.

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Local Import nce

1. Only area of its type in county. One of a few localities in province. 3. Fine example of its kind. Ll 4. General educational importance.

rl PRIORITY OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST u This is a measure of the relative urgency necessary forprotection of the areas of scientific importance. 7 Lj O Each site is given a priority rating of A, Bor C.

r'1 The rating of any area is based on a combinationof the following criteria:- U a) the importance of the area b) the vulnerability of the area c) the nature and imminence of any threats to the area. rl J n

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23. J SECTION E u Name of Area KILCOOLE MARSHES Acreage 1J360 n Grid Reference 0. 313, 060 U Scientific Interest Ornithological, Botanical, Ecological and Zoological Rating II International Importance J Priority A n n Description of Area See Map 1. u The vegetation of the area is similar to that atBroad tough, further south. The site consists of mud flats, salt marsh areas andreed marsh and is

tidal.There are some trees and pasture bordering the mud flats. The 7 beach adjoining the marsh is included in the area ofscientific importance. LJ

7I Evaluation U Ecologically, botanically and zoologically the area is of importance because it contains a number of habitats, terrestrial and aquatic. At the northern end of the site there is a freshwater marsh and to the south this gradually becomes marine.

The site is, however, of greatest importance ornithologically. The following is a list of birds breeding there:

Confirmed Possible and Probable Lapwing Water-rail Redshank Teal Sedge warbler Kestrel Moorhen Sparrowhawk Shellduck Merlin Black-headed gull Snipe Mallard Common sandpiper Mute Swan Collared dove Heron Kingfisher Pheasant Grass warbler 7 Li 24. r1. A six-inch map of the area will be retained byAn F ora s and will be available on request. J

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Coot Blackcap Ringed plover Whitethroat 7j Curlew Chiffchaff n Common tern Yellowhammer u Little tern n Stock dove u Wood pigeon Cuckoo Skylark r1 Swallow u House martin Hooded crow u Rook r-r jackdaw LJ Magpie J Great tit Coal tit n u Blue tit Long tailed tit Wren Mistle thrush u Song thrush Blackbird J Stonechat Robin J Sedge warbler Willow warbler Goldcrest n Spotted flycatcher u Dunnock Meadow pipit U Red wagtail Yellow wagtail Starling

26. 77 J Confirmed J Greenfinch Linnet Bullfinch Chaffinch Reed bunting House sparrow 7 L Tree sparrow Grey wagtail 7 J The area is of greater importance as anoverwintering and feeding place. J Maximum numbers from spotchecks during 1968 are givenbelow: 7 Mallard 16 L1 Teal 7 r-r Wigeon 1,225 u Pintail 390 Shelduck 23

Mute Swan 6 J Whooper Swan 30 Greylag goose 5

Threats to the Area The area could be basicallyaltered by any one of the followingfactors: Fresh water or marine pollution,drainage, over-grazingthe marsh area, disturbance to the beach byremoval of material or tourist orrecreational being overshot at present. developments.The wildfowl populations are

n Recommendations u A great deal of interest isshown in this area byNaturalists' clubs, etc. r'1 wildfowl reserve and shootingcontrolled or u It should be managed as a of a con- prohibited.Urgent considerationshould be given to the use u servation order on this site.

27. Name of Area SLIEVEROE Acreage less than 1 Grid Reference T. 211, 988 ui Scientific Interest Geological Rating' International importance

Priority B

n Description of Area See Map 2. u The facies are a shelly faunal deposit in Caradocian (Ordovician) volcanic ash. The site consists of an outcrop across alaneway.

Publications McCoy, F.1846. A synopsis of the Silurian fossils of Ireland. Univ. Press Dublin. Palaeozoic Rocks of the J Jukes, J. B. & J. H. Haughton 1859. The lower S E. of Ireland and their associated igneous rocks. Trans. Roy. Ir. Acad. , 23: 564 - 621. Dean, W. T. 1963 The Ordovician Trilobite fauna of S. Shropshire III Bull. Brit. Museum (Nat. Hist.)Geology, Vol. 7, No. 8 London. v o 7 Evaluation LA The site is the only shelly locality in the northernbelt of volcanics on survey sheet 130.

The site is of historic importance, having been treated inpublications u from 1846 to 1963. The site is a type localityfor Calymene forcipata J and Platylichas laxatus (Trilobite) , two important fossils.

Threats to the Area J is 7 One site could be permanently enclosed by road metalling. Building J a possibility

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Recommendations L This area is small and should be kept free ofbuildings.If road metalling is to take place, at least three months' notice shouldbe given to the Geological Survey office or An Foras so that research onthe fossils may J be completed. 7 J

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30. Name of area KIPPURE AND SALLY GAP BOGS Acreage 4,000 Grid reference 0. 150, 150 & 0.130,115 J Scientific interest Botanical, ecological and zoological Rating International importance t__t Priority B

Description of the area See Map 3 The flora of the deep peat is dominated by theheathers Calluna vulgaris ling and Erica tetralix cross leaved heath

7 J In places the fern Pteriduim aguilinum is dominant.

Thedrier parts of the area contain the following: Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Dryopteris carthusiana narrow buckler fern Vaccinium vitis-idaea cowberry Blechnum spicant hard fern

J An under-layer of the following plant species occurs: Polytrichum commune moss Hypnum cupressiforme 11 Cladonia spp. lichens Rhytidiadelphus sguarrosus moss R. trigueter

I Lu Thuidium tamariscinum " Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel J The wetter areas contain: Eriophorum angustifolium bog cotton E. vaginatum Juncus conglomeratus

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M J Earlier cutting of the bog for fuel has resulted inthe formation of trenches (1 - 2 ft deep) in which bog regeneration istaking place and Sphagnum growth has resumed. n u Evaluation The blanket bogs of the Kippure area are a goodexample of high altitude J blanket bogs in Ireland.This site is one of those listed by project Telma as worthy of preservation

Threats to the area Turf harvesting would, if carried out without controls, result inthe n drainage of the peat-lands. u Recommendations The area should be preserved as at present and turfremoval should be controlled or, preferably, not permitted.Consideration might be given to the use of a conservation order in the future 7 J

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33. CONTENTS PAGE

Section A Preface 1 J Section B Introduction IVulnerability of the various habitats 4 r-1 Introduction IIIntroduction to the areas of scientific 7 U interest in County Wicklow.

Section C Table summarising details of areas of scientific 15 interest. 7 v Section D Explanation of the criteria used in rating areas and 22 in deciding on their priority.

Section E Detailed reports on areas for which sufficient 24 information has been collected.Each report is compiled under the following headings: Name of Area Acreage (approx) Grid Reference 7 U Scientific Interest 7 Rating J Priority Description of Area Publications (where available) Evaluation 7 J Threats to the Area Recommendations

LJ J Section F Table summarising recommendations for protection of 181

II the areas of scientific interest. J Section G Appendix 1

Maps showing the distribution of some plant species, 810 significant to County Wicklow, in the geographical unit of Ireland and Britain. Acknowledgements; Dr. A. M. Flegg, Geological Survey. Mr. David Scott, I.W.C. Mr. Gerhart Gallagher Mr. Con Breen, Dublin Naturalists Field Club NOTE The maps presented in this report are based-on the Ordnance Survey by permission of the Government (Licence Number 121/72). r-1 u

J SECTION A

PREFACE J This report concerns country-planning. It should enable the county council to pick out those areas that are important on anational or local level and

whose conservation can be based on strong scientific or educationalgrounds. The Conservation and Amenity Advisory Service is attempting to identifya representative range of natural or semi-natural habitats throughout Ireland and J also to list sites of special significance, usually containing arare species or a rare natural phenomenon.Around these areas, development can proceed J with relative impunity, once amenity and waste-disposal problems have been surmounted.It may be stressed that the amount of land availableis such that 7 Li development will very seldom mean the impoverishment of the nationalheritage, if it is properly planned.On the contrary, in selected examples it will allow more people to obtain meaningful recreation in the countryside.

J However, scenically attractive areas which appeal because of the combination fl of hills, and water with woodland or rock may introduceconflicts.They are LJ naturally sought after by housing or recreation interests but, atthe same time, 7 they often contain communities of plants and animals interesting becauseof Li their isolation from rural or urban development.Usually it will be possible n to compromise between these interests but occasionally development will have u O to be curtailed to preserve the scientific interest in thearea.

Conservation of natural communities may be important for amenity, scientific or recreational reasons or any combination of the three.Frequently the natural J vegetation of an area gives to it a characteristic atmosphere,an indefinable value but very real to those that walk or drivethrough it.Diversity is the key Li quality of the environment that attracts people to an areaor that makes them find relaxation there: the contrast between cultivation and wilderness, between J water and land or between trees and grass .Fortunately, diversity is also the sine qua non of rich biological communities. J

Examples of all habitats must be preserved for scientific research.Uncultivated J areas are essential as reservoirs for organisms that may beuseful for soil

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conditioning or pest control in the future.Quite apart from their inherent

I LJ interest and complexity they are needed also as control areas. Without them it would be impossible to judge the effectiveness of, orto improve man's j attempts at land management.For example, how can pollution be controlled if no unpolluted watercourse or lake remains in which todecipher the natural breakdown processes?How can cutover bog be best used for tree growing 7 if no natural self-sustaining bog community or no wooded peatyareas exist? LJ These questions are of growing importance in a competitive worldthat demands little -1 efficiency and an optimum level of food production compatible with LJ damage to the ecosystem.

LJ In education, field studies of all sorts are of immensevalue, and biological e-i field studies are a stimulus that many other disciplines envy.Natural u communities provide. some of the clearest expositions of the ecologicalprinciple: 0 that operate through all growing and harvesting methods .In addition, there is the challenge of identifying and getting acquainted with numerousand very rl different species .Field work attracts practically all children at some stage LJ and enables everyone to better appreciate being in rural surroundings. Already, since the introduction of biology teaching in Ireland, there isgreater awareness of the environment and interest in wildlife.Such constructive recreation should f-I be encouraged by the maintenance of variety in the countryside. LJ

11 It is the intention of this survey to encourage theuse of the countryside by LA o drawing attention to scientifically interesting places .All of those mentioned can support much greater numbers of people - less soin certain cases of marshes and bogs, or at certain times of the year.But the carrying-capacity. of each site will eventually have to be analysed.How much recreational use can co-exist with a nesting wildfowl population?How many people can walk 7 a woodland floor without damaging the plant cover?Or what number of trees LJ can be felled each year while preserving the attractive featuresof the wood? The idea of preserving any but the smallest areas intactand without change is J unrealistic and multiple use should be encouraged.Many of the areas would 7 respond to sound management and become much more. productive. J

The majority of the sites listed are now productive inthe crude sense of producir fish, game birds or timber.All are productive if they encourage people to visit

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LJ J'-1 the area and make use of services nearby, and webelieve that all contribute to the relaxation, mental health and happiness of the community,especially the generation of towndwellers that now form most of ournation.

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SECTION B n INTRODUCTION I VULNERABILITY OF THE VARIOUS HABITATS U ri . They can be Ll Areas of scientific interest can be damaged in many ways completely destroyed by scrub or tree clearance, by turf cuttingor by 7 J arterial drainage; they may be obliterated by development or cansuffer insidiously through pollution, fertilization, grazing or over-use in recreation. 7 L] Of these various instances, the first poses the greatest threatbecause of the 7 J rapidity with which it can occur.In the absence of a fine large enough to be a sure deterrent, co-operation to maintain thecounty's deciduous woodland 71 Lj at all levels of landowner, forester and the general publicmust be actively on an area n sought.It will seldom be sufficient to put a protection order

I LJ which would lose its value immediately the trees are felled,though it is an important first step.The voluntary organisations have a role to play in this, 7 U acting as observers throughout the county. v7 Drainage schemes of all sorts have serious consequences for thescientific n interest of aquatic sites . U n As is well known, pollution of lakes or rivers changestheir character to begin with, and if it is continued has bad effectson water quality and fish 0 life.For this reason, development upstream of important areas mustbe J carefully controlled and alternative sites for domestic or agricultural installations, or drainage routes from them, must always be consideredif such an area is involved.Where a greater distance of stream bed is available,. it can be used within reason to deal withlarger quantities of effluent.

Several farming operations are potentially destructive in other ways .Excessive fertilisation produces run-off of nutrients, especially nitratesand these are J particularly bad for nutrient-poor ecosystems such as acidlakes and bogs . Introducing such run-off into any natural community willchange the species

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J composition.Fertilisation at any intensity changes the plants of grassland and where grassland is scientifically important, as on the blanketbogs of parts of the Wicklow moorlands, it should be actively restricted. l The last influence to be mentioned is that of recreation,which has two facets: J excessive use of fragile ecosystems and the collecting of noticeableplants. 7 Without management, sand dunes that have a high density ofusage undergo J self-destruction by wind erosion.Altering access paths to the beach and n fencing off the bare sand of blowouts are often effectiveways of combating J this. The dunes at Brittas Bay need such attention. Openingup an area with a rare noticeable plant may damage that species but, ingeneral, enough individuals escape so that it persists from year to year.County Wicklow has sc many species of this type that it is scarecly 'openingit up' to put conservation orders on individual areas.This would, however, provide some measure of control.

Because of its proximity to Ireland's capital, County Wicklow islikely to come under increasing recreational and domestic pressuresin the future. Industry is also likely to expand and, in this context,it is unfortunate that the regions surrounding Arklow and Wicklow should have the problemsthey do. The full use of the resources thecounty possesses for residential, amenity and industrial purposes will necessitate careful planning and management.

The most significant impact on the scientific heritage of CountyWicklow n is likely to come from activities associated with human habitationand u communications.The wilderness component of the high mountain scenery .will have to be rigidly defended if it is toretain its scientific and amenity values .The widening of existing and the creation of further roadswill be critical in the destruction of the present solitude and itsamenity value.

7 Some minor points require mention here: J Roadside verges are being extensively sprayed with selective weedkillers 7 J throughout the county.Apart from the unfavourable long term effects of selective herbicides, roadside verges are reservoirs of plant and invertebrate life and their maintenance as such is biologically desirable.To prevent

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J the spread of obnoxious plants to cultivated land or thescreening effects J of high plants, roadside cutting or, in some cases wherepossible without danger, burning is to be recommended.Spraying should be resorted to only U where these methods are not applicable. r-1 u A second trend which is visible in the countryside aboveWoodenbridge is the disappearance of hedge boundaries .These are not only biologically J desirable but safeguard the landscape from wind erosion.In the majority M of cases where a paling replaces a hedge the localauthority may be powerless u to influence the decision but the point is mentioned incase opportunities to do so arise.

Third is the burning of moorland vegetation.In accordance with the Game J Preservation Act (1930), Section 28(1), this must be completed before31st March 7 yet this year extensive firing was taking place as lateas May.At Lough LA Ouler, a site of national scientific importance; the rare mountainflora was burned on the 26th April when young growth for 1972had already been under way for some time.In the interests of maintaining the scientific heritage for game management, etc. existing legislation should be extensive.

Finally, mention should be made of the wild deer ofCounty Wicklow.Sika deer are known to range between Lough Nahanaghan and Glenmalurand red r-1 The red deer are especially charac- u o deer are reported at Mullaghcleevaun. teristic of highland areas and an effort should be madeto protect them.

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INTRODUCTION II THE SCIENTIFIC HERITAGE OF COUNTY WICKLOW n s The county contains the largest area of highlands in thecountry and is in many respects similar to the high terrain in most ofthe English national

7I J parks. Undoubtedly, much of the value of such areas residesin the changing scenery but additional features of interest are the fauna andflora in which an increasing interest is being shown in Ireland in recentyears . rl L] The report as it stands is necessarily unfinished. Constant re-appraisal n and assessment of the areas concerned must be carried outin the future. U Further sites almost certainly remain to be discovered, as, forexample, where quarries are opened to expose geological phenomena, or coniferous J forests develop to a size where they become interesting. Someof the areas already identified in this report remain to be explored: thehigh mountain tarns J like Lough Cleevaun (at 2,244 ft. the highest tarn inIreland), almost certainly contain unusual fauna and work will be carried out onthese in the future. Other ecotypes, like the marshes south of Baltinglass, were cursorily examined and a more detailed report on their conservation shouldbe prepared.

GEOLOGY County Wicklow is dominated by a Caledonian batholith of graniticrock intruded into Lower Palaeozoic slates. The hot molten state ofthe intrusives converted the surrounding slates to schists and these form acover (aureole) J of 2 miles thickness over the granite.In places, at the higher peaks, the ri granite has weathered through the aureole and forms a barepinnacle. Some Li of the areas of scientific interest listed in this reportare of significance as examples of the volcanic process and the earlier stratigraphy.

Wicklow is more widely known as an area of Pleistoceneinterest. The ice J age had a considerable effect on the earlier morphologyand extensive rl studies. Examples J glacial remains make the county a classical area for such of moraines, outwash gravels, dry valleys, corries and U-shaped valleys 7 7.

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i LJ will be listed as worthy ofpreservation. r'l UI r-1 VEGETATION AND FAUNA u Pethybridge & Praeger, 1905(The Vegetation of the dsitrictlying south of the Dublin, Proc. R. Ir. Acad. 25(B): 124-180) divided the vegetation of North Leinster mountains intothe following types:(1)The Littoral, (2) Agrarian, Hill pasture and (3)Moorland zones (Highlands). Moore, 1966 (A Resurvey of the vegetationof the district lying South ofDublin (1905-1956) Proc. R. Ir. Acad. 61(B):1-36) noted some changes in the distribution of vegetation from the situationdescribed in the earlier report but the main divisionsremain.In terms of conservation allthree areas contain sites ofnatural scientific interest whichremain as unaltered scrub or wetland but area 3 retainsmost of its interest intact, itsgreatest modifying forces being coniferousafforestation, sheep grazingand, increasingly, recreational forces.

7 Li (1)The Littoral Zone In this category the lowland,drift covered western areas of the countyand J the eastern, alluvial marshes areincluded.

J Apart from the murroughs ofKilcoole and Broad Lough a relativelysmall area of lowland of CountyWicklow is wetland. The range ofwetland J types in the areas that remainundrained is large however. To thenorth, M close to Lemonstown, is a smallmarsh, much of its area being openwater. L] Near Dunlavin and shared withCounty Kildare is a drier, Phragmitesmarsh and, to the south of Baltinglass there is asmall raised bog. There J are other areas alsoand it is likely that the majority werenot thoroughly inspected; a further more detailed accountof these would be desirable. J Every effort should be made to preservethe small sites described in this report of extensive wetlands. J as some of the best examples

8. n U

Th(: sand dune system on the east coastis a valuable ecotype.It is a good example of a stable dune systemand in addition, contains several I danger of disintegration U rare plant species .Parts of the system are in as a result of intenserecreational pressures and wind erosion.Some of the more stable of the dunes northof Arklow are being used as grazed by cattle and parts of one rl construction sites and others are being policy for the system is LI dune slack contain sileage. A management necessary in order to conservetheir value to amenity and in implementing this, consideration should also be given topreserving a part of the system as a scientific reserve. Agood management policy for the wholedune 7 J system would, of course, makeadditional preservation measures unnecessary. _ JL O (2)Agarian and Hill Pasture Zones The most characteristic vegetation ofthese areas are the following species: Nardus stricta Mat grass Agrostis spp. bent grasses crested dog's tail grass n Cynosurus cristatus u Plus some of the moorland plant species .(See below) .

The most widespread use of these zones isconiferous afforestation.In County Wicklow afforestation started at anearlier date than elsewhere in Ireland and there are some interestingstands of mixed forest which include mature conifers and hardwoods.Three mixed woodland areas are singled out in this report as deserving of specialrecognition for conservation purposes Woodlands in the vicinity of Glenealy, Glenmalurand Rathdrum

" 11 Woodenbridge and it of of Laragh and Glendalough

In all of these areas the ground flora iswell developed because the conifers are sufficiently high toallow light penetration to ground level.In addition to these Wicklow contains somescientifically valuable stands of native hardwoods, as both mature trees andscrublands.

9. 7 LJ 7 vI 7 J It would not be possiblein a report of thislength to list every patchof forming small woodland and it is hopedthe trees fringingroadsides and copses will be givenprotection,, if only fortheir considerable amenity would values. A desirableand practical way ofapproaching this problem be to enforce a blanketcontrol on the fellingof trees over six feet in is height and to try to obtainreplanting concessionswhen planning permission granted.

amenity and scientific The oakwoods of CountyWicklow are of value for regeneration of oak, purposes .In almost all, however,there is little natural carried out on this problemin the dominant tree.So far, no work has been At present, the Ireland although An Forashas plans to do so inthe future. offered: cause of lack ofregeneration is not knownbut several possibilities are Climatic changes in recent yearshave reduced successfulfruiting. (1) . in rodents and 71 The reduction of predatorybirds has led to a rise (2) W.H., LJ insectivores, leading togreater consumptionof acorns (See Pearsall, Mountains and Moorlands.Collins, New Naturalist,London 1965). soils on which they 3) Oak have been confinedto the less productive J C) have been planted by manbut are unable toregenerate naturally. approximately 130 The woods at SheltonAbbey, where the trees are this theory. 7 years old and mostwithin the same size rangesupport listed Certainly the SheltonAbbey wood, like themajority of woodlands slope of more than40° in this report, occupies,for the greater parts, a the on which it hasprobably survived becauseof the cost of harvesting trees .

Whichever of the aboveexplanations applies themajority of the artificial woodlands require managementand periodic replanting.

7 J 10. r1I IJ

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of Bogs in Ireland . Fig .1 The Distribution The Geology ofIreland, From J. K.Charlesworth (1966). London. Oliverand Boyd. v7

1 11. Most of the areas on this mapare relativelyinaccessible for building which is their greatest threat.Grazing by sheep, however,should be controlled 7 managed as game breeding. Ll where the areas are to be

There are indicationsof a fauna and flora that ispeculiar to the high Wicklows: Halbert, 1896, (Insectscollected on Lugnaquilla andin Glenmalur Valley, sub-arctic Hemiptera on J County Wicklow. jr. Nat.5: 210-212) reports finding high mountains in the county.The flora of the county isalso unusual and the higher plants have receiveddetailed attention (J. P.Brunker, 1950, Flora of County Wicklow, Dundalk.Dundalgan Press).

Detailed surveys haveidentified a number of highaltitude communities and some of these arelisted as worthy of preservationin this report.

7 number of LA The lichens of the county arealso noteworthy as are perhaps a invertebrate and plant taxawhich have hitherto beeninvestigated.Knowles, 1929 (The Lichens of Ireland,Proc. R. Ir. Acad. 38(B) (12): 179-434) lists of seven specieswhich appear to be confined tothe acidic mountain regions Nyl. County Wicklow.Three of these: Alectoriajubata Act., Lecidea bruieriana Sm. are rare in Ireland. 7 and Biatorella flava A. L. LJ Some mention is made ofinland waters of scientificvalue.At the outset it ^1 J should be said that anywater-body is of scientific interestand all in Ireland have great economic valueand recreational potential.In this report the sites The fall into two categories,both of which are of primarilyscientific value. British first of these containchar, a rare salmonid fishof great interest in the species Salvelinus Isles.Two Wicklow lake systemscontain populations of the waterbody which obtusus.The second type of site is atypical or representative is a good example of itstype in the region.

waters of the high At this point attentionshould be drawn to the running mountains which contain aunique fauna dominated(in terms of a predator at the top of a foodchain) by a stonefly, Diurabicaudata .

12. J 7 J

Name of Area LOUGH BRAY CORRIES Acreage 226 J Grid Reference O. 130, 160 Scientific Interest Geological Rating International Importance 7 Priority B Li 7 J Description of Area See Map 4 r-, The site consists of a corrie and a number ofmoraines. u

7tJ Evaluation 7J o These corries are the most spectacular in the east ofIreland.There is a series of moraine stages from a large outer oneto a number of small but clear inner moraines.

1 Threats to the Area J Forestry planting would obscure the geological features, particularly n the moraines. U Recommendations

Forestry planting in the vicinity of the interesting features shouldbe n prevented and any further development of this valuable site shouldbe Li in accordance with its scientific value. r-t u

I LJ

34. C

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Name of Area ATHDOWN MORAINE Acreage Requires Precise Measurement Grid Reference 0. 070, 140 Scientific Interest Geological 1 Rating International Importance LA Priority B

Description of Area See Map 5 The site is a moraine across the Liffey valley. J Evaluation J o The meltwater gravels associated with the moraine descend below the level of glacial lake Blessington which was impounded during thelast J midland ice advance. Thus the maximum of the mountain glaciers followed the maximum of the main ice sheet.

Threats to the Area J

r1 A small sand-pit nearby could expand and destroy the site. u Recommendations 7 0 L_j Sand quarrying should not proceed to a point at whichthe site is 7 endangered and general planning controls should be exercised to J preserve the site. n

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n Name of Area' LOUGHS DAN AND LUGGULA Ll Acreage Not calculated Grid Reference O. 155, 035 7L_ Scientific interest Zoological Rating National

Priority B

Description of Area The site consists of two acid glacial lakes. 7Ll 0 Evaluation A population of Char occurs in the lake. The speciesis Salvelinus rl obtusus which occurs only in Counties Wicklowand Kerry.Lough Dan LJ also contains the very rare alga Nitella gracilis and arare Angiosperm n species. Some rare plant species also grow alongside thelake. PublicationJenkins, J.T.The Fishes of the British Isles, Warne 1958 7 J Threats to the Area 0 None at present, but care should be taken with thesiting of houses and industry to prevent eutrophication or discharge oftoxic waste.

Recommendations Any development in the vicinity of the lake shouldtake its scientific value into account.

n U

38, u

Name of Area BROADLOUGH n Acreage 730 u Grid Reference T. 305, 970 n Scientific Interest Ornitholigical,ecological,botanical and u zoological Rating National importance Priority A

Description of the Area See Map 6 Going from east to west the site begins with wasteground of the type described in the Wicklow coast site (Map 37)..The majority of the J vegetational species encountered at that site occur also in thefields in the eastern side of the open water. Some ofthese fields, at the southern end of the site are dominated by a profusegrowth of gorse. Further north there is good pasture. The grasses, Dactylis glomerata (cock's foot grass) and Lolium sp., (a rye grass) aredominant and the 7 plants, Verbascum sp., Juncus articulatus, (jointed rush)and Rumex LJ crispus, (curled dock) occur. J7 At the water's edge, there is a fringing salt marshdominated by the

speciesLimonium vulgare (sea lavender).

On the western side of the tidal area are largebeds of Phragmites communis (common reed).

At the northern end of the site are mature deciduoustrees.

Evaluation Because of the varied vegetation and habitats, the site isof ecological, n botanical and zoological interest.It is particularly valuable however as u an ornithological site.

39. I it n U

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LJ A six-inch map of the area will be retained byAn Forasand will be available on request .

40-. u rl Ji The breeding bird species are as follows: 7 Confirmed Possible & Probable Shag Lj Cormorant Tufted duck Red brested Merganser

I7I U Mallard Sparrow hawk Shelduck Kestrel J Mute swan Corncrake Pheasant Great black backed Gull CommonTern Kittiwake Stock Dove J Little Tern Cuckoo Razorbill Kingfisher Black Guillemot Hooded Crow Wood Pigeon Magpie Collared Dove Jay Coal Tit J Swift Longtailed Tit

!'1

1 Swallow Treecreeper HouseMartin Mistle Thrush SongThrush ij Rook Wheathear n Grass Warbler u Jackdaw Great Tit Sedge Warbler Blue Tit Blackcap Wren Willow Warbler Blackbird Chiff Chaff

Stonechat Goldcrest Robin Spotted Flycatcher Whitethroat Dunnock

r-, u n 41. u U

Meadow Pipit Greenfinch Rock Pipit Goldfinch Pied Wagtail Redpoll Starling Bullfinch Linnet Yellow Hammer Chaffinch Reed Bunting House Sparrow Tree Sparrow Grey Wagtail

Recent winter migratory wildfowl counts recorded the following: 47 rl Mallard 8 -

i j r Teal 31 -62 Widgeon 35 - 380

U Pintail Duck 1 n Shoveler 2 u Golden Eye 4

Merganser 1 Shelduck 27 n Mute Swan 29 -32 u Whooper Swan 13 o Coot it - 15 J Grey-lag goose 1 n u Threats to the Area Building is a possibility but, in view of the recognisedimportance of the area, an unlikely one. A more serious threatis the dumping 7 of rubbish or noxious effluent into the tidal area orthe transport LJ of effluent to the site by streams entering it -the River Vartry being J an example.

42. J

M u Recommendations Special care should be taken with effluent disposal. in thevicinity of Broadlough and rubbish tips at the southern end ofthe site should J be confined. A periodic clean up of the shorlines ofthe waterbody would be desirable because polythene containers and other rubbish which has blown off tip heaps collects there.

Any future development of the area around the site shouldbe in accordance with the scientific value of the site. u o J

n lJ

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43, Name of Area UPPER LOCKSTOWN DELTA Acreage not calculated J Grid Reference N.980,020 Scientific Interest Geological Rating National Importance Priority A

Description of Area See Map 7 The site is a glacial delta consisting of a valleymoraine which crosses the King's River.

Ll O Evaluation J The phenomenon is the last surviving glacial meltwater delta nearDublin. n tJ Threats to the Area Quarrying of sands and gravels which is taking place nearbyis likely to be a serious threat in the future. J Recommendations 0 Quarrying should be discouraged and efforts should be made toprotect the area in the future.

u u

44. i

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U 45. 7 ;J Name of Area BUCKRONEY SAND DUNES Acreage 395 J Grid Reference T. 290, 795 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating' National Importance Priority B -A u Description of Area See Map 8 J The site is a mature, stabilised sand dune system.

The following plant assemblage-occurs: u Ubiquitous species Juncus acutus Sharp sea rush Pteridium aguilinium bracken, dominant on the tops of the stabilised dunes 7 U Senecio jacobea ragwort Arum maculatum arum lily. Dicranum sp. moss Carlina vulgaris carline thistle Bryum capillare moss r, Ps eudoscleropodium purum moss Rubus fruticosus agg. bramble

Taraxacum s pp. u Viola riviniana common violet Dactylis glomerata cock's foot grass Rhvtidiadelphus triguetrus moss

Camptothecium sp. " Trifolium repens clover The more typical sand dune species were:

Ammophila arenaria Marram grass Euphorbia portlandica portland spurge E. paralias sea spurge

46. Ononis repens rest harrow Festuca rubra n red fesque u Thymus drucei common wild thyme Potentilla anserina silverweed 7 J Luzula campestris field wood-rush Lotus corniculatus bird's foot trefoil

Cladonia pixidata)

C. impexa ) lichens Galium verum lady's bedstraw Phleum arenarium sand cat's-tail JA Tortula ruraliformis moss

In the dune slacks the willow Salixaurita is common.

J Evaluation The site is the only place in Co. Wicklowat which occur three rare plant species.

The site is a good exampleof a sand dune habitat containing representative 7 plant and probably animal species. r1 u Threats to the Area Recreational pressures are probably thegreatest threat to the site. 0 The status of the rare plant speciesis unknown.Cattle grazing and storing of sileage are also occurring but their effectsare not obvious.

Recommendations

Intense recreational pressures shouldbe prevented in order to safeguard the dune system. This could be achievedby- I . making pathways through the dunesto the beach in order to minimise publicpressures on the sandhills 2. additionally, railing off parts of the dunesystem from 7 public access. L) 48. J

These recommendations are in keeping with proposalsBay for the Brittas dunes to the north (see Mawhinney, K. A., Development inthe Brittas Bay Area, Co. Wicklow, An Foras Forbartha, Jan. 1971, pts.1 and 2). Specific plans as to location of pathways etc. require furtherinvestigation. The impact of cattle on the vegetation also requiresassessment. 7 LJ

49. J

Name of Area GLEN OF THE DOWNS Acreage 235 Grid Reference T. 260, 110 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical, zoological and geological Rating National Importance

Priority B

J Description of Area See Map 9. J7I The area is a woodland consisting mainly of oak andhaving a lower canopy of holly and rhododendron. There is some ash (Fraxinusexcelsior mountainash (Sorbus aucuparia), beech(Fagus sylvatica), hazel (Corylus avellana), Spindle tree (Euonymus sp.) and various conifers, mainly 7 J Pinus sylvestris.

The ground flora is rich in species and includes thefollowing:

Arum maculatum Arum lily J Luzula svlvatica wood rush Allium ursinum wild garlic Saniculaeuropaea wood sanicle Conopodium majus pignut o Dryopteris dilitata fern Heracleum sphondyliumhogweed Stellaria holostea stichwort Teucrium scorodonium wood sage Festuca rubra red fescue grass Hypericum pulchrum beautiful St. John's wort Viola riviniana common violet Ranunculus ficaria lesser celandine Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel Veronica chamedrys Germander speedwell J Galium odoratum sweet woodruff J Lonicera periclymenum honeysuckle Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry 50. 2J LI r I r 1 L1 L] L=] LJ L_] LJ LJ [-J L-] U L..-i LJ LI L_j L__j '...- , 21 4D FLg. '13 lw+. ` r r; h y Xlk rte= J Yj :J 0, _ j; L s v s1 $KO - v v 1^ ` i . Y ,mss i .. LL_L7 cm a.. ^ Tie [J,ucrxAx F-1 C F--] [----3 .. F---J C--] F-1 17--] 1-1ncns 17-3 F-73 [---] E-3 1-77 E-3 F-73 ? ~< E-73 Hedera helix ivy Melica uniflora wood melick 7 Endymion non-scriptus bluebell LJ Ranunculus auricomus goldilocks 7 Veronica montana wood speedwell v Anemone nemorosa wood anemone

Evaluation The oak wood has a rich ground flora.As a refuge for animals, it is of interest and the ornithology of the site includesa number of species like J the jay and blackcap which are uncommon ona national sclae.Some work has been carried out on the insects, (Fahy, E. 1970 ri The Distribution of the u Irish Psocoptera Proc. R. Ir. Acad.(B) 71 : 139-163) and this suggests the fauna does not contain the introduced species which occur inoakwoods in southern Ireland.The invertebrates are therefore representative ofa 'native' n rather than 'artificial' fauna. J The occurrence of a coniferous plantation close to the oak-woodprovides a J useful contrast for educational

The site is of additional value as an example ofa glacial overflow channel. 0 Threats to the Area n Being on steep slopes the woodland is likely to besafe from most kinds of U destructive influence.Educational interest in the area is also seen as aform 7 of protection.A certain amount of the forest has however been lostto road LJ widening. n u Recommendations

The woodland has been well planned as a nature trail,the existence of which will ensure its conservation. Some thought might be given tothe removal of J alien trees from the site and returning the area toa more natural state.

52. u

J Name of Area GLENDALOUGH UPPER LAKE Acreage 119 Grid Reference T. 100,960 Scientific Interest Zoological Rating National

Priority B h u Description of Area See Map 10. The site is an acid mountain lake. J

7 Evaluation J o The lake contains Char.

Threats to the Area n u Potential threats are the siting of housesand industry close to the lake or in places from which eutrophicating or toxic substancescould enter the water.

Recommendations

Particular care should be taken with the sitingof buildings and control `J Q of effluent entering the area.

7 LJ

53. L I LI L'I LI L_J LJ LI L] L- LI L_] L_] L_I L] LJ L_j L-] L_] L_] L- n 1 _,.- . I - ip_a z y - -.. - - -,l-.-a - - .a as 1, i s n AA A . . f t it'a ata a ii i a. ..y as a !i a a. a y n ^ ' fi at.t-lf : aasa .t_ t . a t - _... f (ac'dl I (+-s / .,. I/ . . I 1 ^ 1'' r r-. 't A Y f _: ia' w' s l a` -aa :; x f *Zn_ Ill'"i i/{ t. 1 .. .'.[ .. n _ . / 5 . .77 00 y' .y i' ...(: ' j rat ` s y, r T rot, O.Lf/r _ r! - tia-+ '...__... j ,. ,,.w._.I i ... I r ; (.O. .. - _! a ;a a ' a .< - _ L _ a 4 _ a- t>. a.a r ...... t.- ...... -=<:. _s f a .l AR ` _a , a t w. ....- .:a -a-.i -f, t _, _ei .i't a , a s. ix ..i !. _.... 70C .r-.+.. :a 4.;+ a .. a -! t t i C'.Cf.([[Si j ' f,1= I l ..... + - m a .. ct' . -.... w Aas > ` S - i I 00 .. ., ...... y-. .^. 'f...-...... ! LR /I i .l ti",i + C .E 1 ' _a / 1 . a R'a ' . a a , t ...... i a a;t ;.xa a iA.a t. Ij:. a i t t ` _ 1 s 1 I t. L cross ``1 t wA: !.....Y.. t :i ' r- f i t: ! i % . Ioruro IGtcsg `:. !_: aRc7 of r ..Si ° 3S:a_ '.. o a 1J' ' i;rfrr 1 r - io(F( a a. :. ° °°.'- 4 4\.J- O G" Y 3y4 3J °.' 0. G G ) J:' -.e\. 0 a rlf?. 1._t yl _f .+ ya°.. ] a oa P Il !.W . ! , 1 a 4 a }. t a y.. ayJ ... 1_i 1 0-.. a as °°.° o . -. a. a):A 4 ° G°n a a a. i.lua oo a °, s.ti .a>.a i L .4 i r y'' f ° l ° t a a J , ' \ 4 ' _.. >t ryt- ...... tr _ .....,. ° - P i y .... W J`am' }- 1 .--nn- ...... a `, . : . l LJ

7 J Name of Area WICKLOW TOWN GLEBE LAND Acreage 2 Grid Reference T. 315, 945 Rating National importance 7 J Priority B

JI r-, Description of the Area ,See Map 11. u The sites are waste ground on which grow the followingplant species: Euphorbia peplus petty spurge Galium aparine goose grass Poa pratensis meadow grass P. annua annual meadow grass Urtica dioica stinging nettle Senecio vulgaris groundsel r-1 u Medicago lupelina black medick Trifolium pratense red clover Plantago maritima sea plantain Lamium amplexicaule henbit L. purpureum purple dead nettle Plantago coronopus buck's horn plantain Heracleum sphondylium hogweed Clematis vitalba traveller's joy Cochlearia danica stalked scurvy grass

Evaluation Two rare plant species occur at this area.

55. J

ft!iAlS11C'J G AREA Oil: SCIE TIFIC INTE EST --11

Scale: 25 Inches to 1 R.FiHe ri J

7 Li

7 LJ

7 J Threats to the Area 7 lJ Dumping of rubbish is occurring at the present time. Intense recreational pressures may become significant in the future. 7 LA Recommendations J Continual observation should be kept on these areas to ensurethe plants are surviving. Dumping, which is at present of gardenrefuse, should be prohibited.In the future it might be desirable to consider

i other conservation measures. LJ

57. 71 LA 7 Lj Name of Area SHORE LINE OF LOWER LAKE AT GLENDALOT Acreage 11 Grid Reference T. 117, 965 Scientific interest Botanical, ecological and zoological 7 Ll Rating National importance

Priority. B

7 Li Description of the Site See Map 12. The lake shore is a marshy area containing: Potentilla erecta tormenti1 r1 Molinia caerulea purple moor grass Lj Sphagnum sp. moss Juncus articulatus articulated rush Eguisetum fluviatile horsetail Viola palustris marsh violet

7 The lake contains: LI Potamogeton sp. pondweed r-1 LI Behind the marsh fringe is a stripof deciduous trees witha typical ground flora and this gradually merges into deciduous woodland. 7 Lj Evaluation 7 Lj The site has a rare plant species. 7 Lj Threats to the Area 7 Recreational pressures and casual rubbish dumping. LJ

Recommendations Any future development at this site should be in accordancewith it's scientific value.

58. U

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4 i. a '/'a! n .;a ya a - i4 w - Si 0 'a: ara , ti; a . > is fi-. as if 0 - iaia>a . s °a.f ` . a > x>: G/tt/ItOU h . >ti .. iu °y afai. L+ ..CI{uUsGJ .+ -r..\ r,L.. . > . tf u.... i a` a i.,at. i a Lila f/s ' ,. .. a;.' . .it 1, `\ .tj>,s .r < . i:a a a a a as - a a " ± ' R Za.fa s a . i..Y a - r4 IT 3eeR .e,LaL. i.;. t a.R 1 as sLa -i ConeQr.' . r >is a^ , :. : dtlat-ierrtht .tom. < }.'.. '.-.za._ `. 1. > , t.` ' .4 <.a_ .fcf:a \ e' .,:CtiJEtIIIJe,Ya>' q L g'M.r, 5 l> .t./ f-..f .f a , a A 1,it, a,. > iota.`' ,¢.,y- r. i? ..:` ^-`i - £r "'tk .^\\" 31 'Z..'tiLe 7G6.ai Sri --.' C.i.` < + .i , ti -atxi n .V . r 4 :' Slew - he l>a I:. f1 ^ f>. -`-._\ J v 3`cirtR ]ZOOrt`IIP is v n \COSS ;yaff'

'aw Bar + rer r afar -

..... _ 1 a .r /a'aj a. a-o'a X.a .°. _1- Tr1- ...\y '"'° M -4' a y 9 <.;a.. 4,. .040 qa ! J a< o a w*' a...... a °d. as

S9. iii acne of Area SAND DUNES AT MAHERABEG Acreage 131

Grid Reference T. 323,875 Scientific Interest Ecological, Botanical and Zoological National Importance 7 Ratin J Priority B 7 J Description of Area See Map 13. The site is a sand dune system.The flora is typical of the dune systems in the area (C. F. Buckroney - Map 27).

Evaluation J CU A very rare hybrid sedge occurs at the site inaddition to typical sand dune flora and fauna.

7 li Threats to the Area These are as for the other dune systems occurring alongthe coast.The most likely danger is sand erosion as a result of recreationalpressures.A second possibility is sand inundation of the dune slack as aresult of sand erosion.

Recommendations A management policy for the dune system, such as thatsuggested for Brittas J Bay and Buckroney should serve to protect the scientific valuesof the site.

60. J )n ri-I-13

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61. Name of Area LOUGH OULER 7 Li Acreage 94 Grid Reference O. 090,022 ;3cientific Interest Botanical and Geological Patin National Importance 7 Li Priority B

Description of Area See Map 14. Lough Outer is a corrie with a steep west wallof approximately 300 feet (l00 m) at its highest point.The vegetation surrounding the corrie consists L] of the following species: Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry

Erica cinerea) heaths

E. tetralix ) cross leaved heath Calluna vulgaris ling 7 J Carex binervis green ribbed sedge Potentilla erecta common tormentil Sphagnum spp. moss Juncus effusus soft rush Luzula sylvatica wood-rush U Polytrichum commune moss Juncus sguarrosus heath rush Eriophorum sp. cotton-grass

In addition there are nine rare plant species occurring atthe site.

Evaluation The area is of importance because of the alpine vegetationoccurring there. The site is a good example of a high corrieshowing a succession of young LA to old moraines and an unusual rock structure on thehigh back wall.

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Threats to the Area At present there are few except possible encroachment on thecliff-site by forestry planting.Late vegetation burning is however taking place.

The cirque might be used as a pumping storage tank.

Recommendations The site should be maintained for its scientific value andvegetation burning should be restricted to the permissable season.

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64.

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Lyame of Area RATHDANGAN END MORAINE J Acreage Not calculated Grid Reference S. 970, 860 --entific interest Geological Rating National importance

Priority B

Description of the Area See Map 15.

r"1 The site is a glacial moraine consisting ofa sandy outwash fan with a clear ice

LJ contact on the west side.This site is pitted with kettle-holes. The moraine r"1 contains no granular limestone but a feature of it iscalcium carbonate dissolved u by acid ground water.

Evaluation

The site is a clear indication of the eastern limitof the last midland ice sheet.

Threats to the Area The structure might be quarried for sand or gravel. n u Recommendations The site should be afforded protection by use of basicplanning controls J to maintain its scientific values.

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Name of Area THE MOTTE STONE

Acreage 1 Grid Reference T. 200, 830 Scientific Interest Geological Rating National Importance Priority C

7 Description of Area . See Map 16. J The area is a rocky piece of ground. J Evaluation r1 J o The phenomenon is a large perched block orerratic which was carried by ice of the Brittas glaciation from Glenmalur.The erratic stands in a rocky area.

Threats to the Area Mining would be the most dangerous but is notconsidered likely.

Recommendations Every effort should be made to preserve thissite at present, basic planning control measures should be adequate to securethis.

67 J

MAP SHOWING AREA OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST-16 Scale:6 Inches to1 Mile

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Mme of Area UPPER GLENMALUR VALLEY

J edg 71520 Grid Reference T. 070, 930 n Scientific interest Geological u Rating National importance Priority C

7 J Description of the Area See Map 17. The site is a valley area and includes hanging valleys.

Evaluation The site is the most striking example of a glaciatedvalley in Co. Wicklow. It has the appearance of having had a large glacier.

Threats to the Area

Alteration of the basic structures of interest is unlikely. Theymight o however be obscured by forestry development. Recommendations Care should be taken with the planting of cariferous treesin the vicinity.

69. J

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Name of Area TOOR CHANNEL (Jackdaw's Glen) 7U Acreage 51 J Grid Reference N. 950, 030 Scientific interest Geological Rating. National importance Priori ty C 7 ;J

771 Description of the Area See Map 18. Li The site is a dry valley.

Evaluation At 900 ft. O.D. the valley is the highest outletof the lake dammed between the margin of the midland ice sheet and thehills.

Threats to the Area None obvious.

Recommendations Any future development should allow for the scientific values ofthe area.

71. J

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n u 72. J

Name of Area n TEMPLERANY END MORAINE AND PINGOES u Acreage Not calculated .rid Reference T. 250, 770 "cientific interest Geological n Ratin National importance

Lj Priority C n u Description of the Area See Map 19. The site consists of an area of drift lying onboth sides of the Arklow - Redcross Road, within the triangle containing Lewisville.

Evaluation The site marks within narrow limits the margin of thelast glacial advance from the Irish Sea. Well formed pingoes lie onan older drift outside this limit.

Threats to the Area J None obvious.

L__1 Recommendations

7 Any future development should maintain the scientific values of thisarea. 7lJ

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7 Li r- u 74. Name of Area GREAT SUGARLOAF Acreage 233,600 -Id Reference 0. 240, 130 ientfic interest Geological atin National importance Priority C

Description of the Area See Map 20. J The site is a steep mountain modified by ice erosion. J J Evaluation 7 The Great Sugar Loaf was considerably modified by ice erosion.It stood as a LJ Nunatak which was scoured by the Ivernian, midland and mountainice sheets. Its profile contrasts with those of Bray head and Howth- flat on top.The J sides of the Nunatak are marked by glacial action. Thereare also bench marks and the Quill valley is a marginal drainage channel. J

Threats to the Area The site might be obsured by forestry planting or unsightlytourist 7 CU developments. rl LJ Recommendations Basic planning controls should be exercised to maintain the scientificvalue of this site.

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76. J

Name of Area GLENMACNASS 7 LJ ge 262 Cr_, " Reference 0.110, 020 Scientific interest Geological R;tin National importance Priority C rI

LJ Description of the Area See Map 21. The site is a waterfall at the head of avalley at the junction of the intrusive granite and metamorphosed schist. Below the waterfall there are moraines.

Evaluation The site shows the junction between intrusive and metamorphosed rocks. r1 The moraines were deposited by ice moving eastwards and thiswas the LJ last glacial episode at the site. 7 LJ Threats to the Area J 0 None obvious.

Recommendations Future development of this area should allow for the scientificvalues of the site.

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POWERSC OURT WATERFALL J Name of area Acreage 12 Grid reference 0. 195, 118 Scientific interest Geological Ratin National importance Priority C

Descrirtion of Area See Map 22.

The site is a steep waterfall ofapproximately 100 m. height with J a steady fall.The surrounding bedrock isincluded in the site. 7 LA Publications Farrington, A. 1934 The Glaciation of the Wicklow Mountains Proc. R. Ir.-Acad.42 (B) : 173 - 209

Bruck, P.M. 1968The Geology of the Leinster granitein the Enniskerry-Lough Dan area, Co. Wicklow Proc.R. Ir. Acad.

J 66 B: 53 - 70

Evaluation The ordovonian schists, next to theLeinster granite, are exposed at the gorge.Geomorphologically, this waterfall is one ofthe most spectacular in Ireland.At its base there is a partialcorrie.

Threats to the area J None obvious

Recommendations Basic planning controls should protectthe site adequately in the future

n 79. u J 1

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80. :-j

Name of Area AVONDALE FORESTRY SCHOOL Acreage Not calculated J Grid Reference T. 195,855 Scientific Interest Ecological and Botanical Rating National Importance Priority C J

Description of Area

7__ various tree species. L] The sites of interest are experimental plots containing r- u Evaluation Some of the plots are of considerable age.They provide examples of coniferous tree growth since the early 1900s .

Threats to the Area None obvious.

Recommendations Future development of the areas and theirsurroundings should be in accordance with the scientific values of the site.

81. J

Name of Area BRAY HEAD (A) Acreage 67 rl Grid Reference 0. 2 86 ,174 LJ Scientific Interest Geological and Ornithological Rating National Importance Priority C v7 Description of Area See Map 23. n U Evaluation r-1 The cliffs display a number of important geological features including u fossil localities. The stratigraphic features are of especial significance to the Cambrian era.The rock outcrops and cliffs also provide nesting 7 lJ areas for seabirds .

-, u Threats to the Area r1 Minimal at present but likely to increase with recreational pressures. U

Recommendations The ideal would be the inclusion of these cliff areasin an amenity area order referred to in Bray Head (B) - Map 31, butfailing this, specific pressures on the bird populations (e.g. shooting or egg collections) should becountered by use of a conservation order.

82. In the channels containing stagnant water the following occurred:

Phragmites communis common reed Apium nodiflorum fool's watercress Callitriche platicarpa stonewort Ranunculus flammula lesser spearwort

Evaluation The above flora is typical of a marsh. Calcicole marshareas are uncommon in County Wicklow and Buckroney probably exists as a resultof sand underlying the waterlogged areas. The marsh is notable asthe site of the largest stand of Thelypteris palustris (marsh fern) inIreland.

Threats to the Area A contraction in the area has occurred since drainage wascarried out and this has adversely affected the flora, notably the fern mentionedabove.

Building on the surrounding land could present a problem ofsewage and domestic rubbish disposal.

Recommendations

The marsh at present retains much of its former value(prior to drainage).

It would be desirable that further drainage should not occur;in this way, much of the value of the area will be retained.Some land on the western side of the area is for sale and will almostcertainly be used for building purposes.It would be desirable that special care should be takento J direct domestic effluent away from the marsh. In the future,consideration might be given to protection of the area by useof a conservation order.

95.

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Name of Area MARSHES NEAR LEMONSTOWN Acreago *2

J Grid Reference N .923, 051 n Scientific interest Ecological, Botanical and Zoological U Ratin Regional Importance Priority A

Description of Area See Map 28. The area of scientific interest isa chain of calcicole eskers containing

open water in the hollows between the hillocks. In these wet areas n a profuse flora has developed consisting, in the best u examples of the following:

Potentilla palustris marsh cinquefoil Cardamine pratensis lady's smock Riccia fluitans a liverwort Epilobium palustra bog willow herb Menyanthes trifoliata bog bean Carex rostrata bottle sedge Juncus effusus soft rush Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Lemna minor duckweed Galium palustre marsh bedstraw Ranunculus flammula lesser spearwort and Callitriche stagnalis stonewort

In the best examples(marked withan asterisks)there is much open water.

The bird life of two marsheswas profuse on the day they were visited and the following counts were made at the bestarea (marked with an asterisk):

Tufted duck 4

Mallard 2

Coot 5

96. AP S11-0.1WI IG AREA OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST- 28

Scale:6 Inches to1 Mile

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u Waterhen 3 Black headed gulls c. 200 J Cursory examination of the fauna confirmed that most commonspecies of invertebrate found in such places were present.

LJ Evaluation f-1 the presence of u The site is a good example of a calcicole marsh, Piccia fuitans indicating a eutrophic condition. While there are some marshes in County Wicklow, a eutrophic area is rare, hencethe regional r:: Ping .

Threats to the Area The most widespread and imminent is drainage which has destroyeda number of previously wet areas .Alteration of the chemical constitution of the water might result from the siting of sewageoutflows (e.g. from septic tanks) or artificial fertilization or insecticide treatmentof the grassland and there is some evidence of dumping. The wildfowlpopulations in winter are also being shot.

Recommendations At least the best of the marshes should be protected,possibly by use of a conservation order.It is the most difficult to drain, which accounts for its survival, and it is very small.

98. J Name of Area ARKLOW HEAD u Acreage 36 Grid Reference T.240, 700 Scientific interest Geological Re: _rx; Regional importance

Priority A J7 Description of the Area See Map 29. The site is a quarry. n u Evnluation At the site there is a good exposure of volcaniccrater pipes in pale Acidic (rhyrolitic) Ordovician rocks.The pipes are filled with volcanic material.

Threats to the area A quarry to the north of the exposure is beingworked through the rocks of interest.

Recommendations Some effort should be made to preserve what is leftof the exposure, on a part of it, or to prevent filling in the exposure afterworkings have ceased.

99.

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100. J

arm of Area WOODLANDS IN THE VALE OF CLARA NEAR LARA AND GLENDALOUGH Acreag 660 C°; iRef: rence T. 135,960 Sci,- tific interest Ecological, Botanical and Zoological

Rtir."w Regional Importance

Priority B

DescripLan of Area See Map 30. There are three blocks of mixed deciduous and coniferous treesin this area: J their bounryaries on Map 30 are approximate.

Subsite 1 is mainly deciduous scrubland with a ground flora O similar to that at the Lough Dan site (Map 30). Subsite 2 consists of mature oak and coniferous trees where the ground flora is dominated in places by Vaccinium

myrtilius (bilberry). Parts of this area are scrubland and these are beingplanted with coniferous trees . Subsite 3 contains well grown hardwoods with some conifers.The ground flora is varied, containing most of the species found inthe Glen of the Downs. There is a well developed holly (Ilex aguifolium) layer inthe woods.

Evaluation All sub-areas contain good examples of mature woodland, much ofit deciduous, and the ground flora is diverse and profuse.

Threats to the Area

J The most prevalent is replanting of deciduous trees with conifers.

Recommendations At least some of the native hardwood should be maintainedas untouched stands and the selective removal of some conifers should be considered.

101. J

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102. J

Name of Area BRAY HEAD (B) Acreage 100 & 6 Grid Reference O. 286, 174 Scientific Interest Botanical, Zoological and Ecological Patin Regional Importance

Priority B

Description of Area See Map 31. The site is a steep-sided, rocky headland. There are twosites of interest on the headland, the higher of importance as anexample of a heath vegetation dominated by Ulex galii summer gorse 7 and Erica cinerea fine-leaved heath LJ The second site is the southern side of the headland,overlooking the Cable Rock. At the northern end of this site thevegetation is dominated

Sedum anglicum English stonecrop but further south the following all become dominants:- 7 Pteridium aguilinum bracken L] Rubus fruticosus agg. bramble Vicia sylvatica wood vetch and Equisetum telmatia horsetail

Publications M Clark, S. C.1966. The structure of some Ulex galii heaths in Eastern Ireland.Proc. R. Ir. Acad. 66 (4).

Evaluation Both sites have unusual plant associations. The Cable Rock areahas, in addition, six rare plant species. The invertebrates of thearea are profuse and varied.

103. 7-73 E-3 n C-I n n [^7 F--7 7 [7J o F--3 t F -I -]o F--3 L [-- F---] J

Threats to the Area

Building could well destroy parts of these areas in thenear future anu7 is the only likely threat.Recreational pressures ire also possi.i . the development of a road system at the upper partof the areas described is a potential danger.

Recommendations J The areas described above are the most noteworthy parts ofan interesting cliff system. n In view of the use of Bray Head for recreational U purposes it might be advisable to consider putting an amenity area order on theheadland. J (See also Bray Head (A) - Map 23).

7 J

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105. J

U Name of Area HOLDENSTOWN BOG

Acreage 7 n Grid reference S. 883, 850 J Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and Rating Regional importance

Priority B

J Description of the area See Map 32.The site is a small raised bog whose margins areopen water in places. Plants occurring at the bog margins include 7 LJ Caltha palustris marsh marigold Menyanthes trifoliata bog bean Equisetum fluviatile horsetail Sparagnum sp. and Mentha aguatica water mint The bog has a very well developed hummockhollow system and is wet and soft J underfoot.There are tufts of Polytrichum sp. (moss) in addition toSphagnum 7 and there is some Aulocomnium palustre.The tops of some hummocks have a Li profuse growth of Calluna vulgaris(ling) and Vaccinium oxycoccus (cranberry) 7 forms a close cover over most of the moss hummocks.There is also a good growth LJ of Scirpus caespitosus (deer grass).

l Evaluation Riased bogs are unusual in eastern Ireland and this siteis the only example of the

phenonemon in Co. Wicklow.The site is of ecological value as a wetland :,c:?tainin7

a typical raised-bog flora.The presence of Vaccinium oxvcoccus is noteworthy. ,i o area is likely to be a rich source of invertebrates.

Threats to the Area Drainage, associated with turf cutting or land reclamation, would destroythe site. There are some other possibilities like rubbish tipping. J Recommendations This site should be preserved in its present form andany land use in the vicinity s` oal be considered for its likely effects on the area ofscientific interest. 100. 7 Li -A !f t1,Pi6 7 Li

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7 LJ 107 . r`l LJ Name of Area WOODLANDS ?N THE AVOCA RIVER VALLE" Acreage 1,300 Grid Reference T. 215, 755 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Regional Importance Priority C

LJ Description of Area See Map 33. J This is a woodland containing coniferous and deciduoud trees, thedensity of the latter being sparse.In places the deciduous woodland is over-run with rhododendron which requires to be controlled. The ground florais typical of oakwoods elsewhere in County Wicklow except where close

17 LJ planting of conifers excludes light penetration. rl Evaluation lJ The woodlands could be reconverted to deciduous woodland which should, anyway, be more prevalent than it is. The area markedwith an asterisk

contains a rare plant species.

U Threats to the Area

The most obvious is further underplanting with conifers which shouldnot take place.

Recommendations

Any development on further use of this site should bein accordance with J it scientific value.

108. 10`,9.

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5oI ' Name of Area DARGLE RIVER VALLEY

I 7u Acreage Less than 4 Grid Reference 0. 241,169 J Scientific Interest Geological Rating Regional Importance J Priority C

Description of Area See Map 34. LJ The site is a river section with steep banks.

Evaluation

The site is an exposure of Ordovician volcanicrocks which are faulted against well exposed Bray group: strata.This exposure is unique in County Wicklow.

Threats to the Area None obvious.

Recommendations

Further development of the area should be in accordancewith its scientific value.

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r 1:T,%,aII 7cL'_7 I --7e 7.T A Name of Area WEST BANK OF VARTRY RESERVOIR Acreage Less than 46 Grid Reference 0.100.062 Scientific Interest Botanical, ecological Rating Regional Importance Priority C

Description of Area See Map 35. One site is on the margin of the Vartry reservoir.The terrain is marsh with occasional hillocks of drier ground. The following speciesoccur o in the wet areas: Juncus inflexus ) rushes J. conglomeratus) Caltha palustris marsh marigold Equisetum fluviatile horsetail Montia fontana water chickweed Valeriana officinalis wild valerian Ranunculus flammula lesser spearwort R. hederaceous ivy leaved crowfoot Veronica scutellata Sphagnum sp moss

On the drier hummocks occurred: Salix aureta willow Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Galium palustre marsh bedstraw Senecio iacobea ragwort Polytrichum commune moss Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus moss Festuca rubra red fesque grass Angelica sylvestris wild an jelica Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious Ranunculus acris commor: buttercup 112. MAP SHOW11aG AREA OF SCIENTIFIC 1a 1EIEST

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113. ri u Evaluation J This marsh area contains a rare plant species. 7 Li Threats to the Area

7171 None obvious: drainage of the area, in question would notbe feasible. L__l Possible alteration of the habitat might result from an encroachmentby rl

I coniferous afforestation which could cut down, incident light. L

Recommendations

ri C) Care in the planting of trees should be taken toavoid adverse effects

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r1 Ii . u iia ne of Area RATHDRUM RAILWAY CUTTING Acre Ia e Extent requires investigation Grid Reference T. 205, 894 c 'tic Interest Geological Regional Importance C

Descriotion of Area See Map 36. [ho :3ite is a railway cutting. J Publications 7 l__1 Ear, F. W. & A. Harvy 1899, Report of theGeological Survey for 1898,p. 58

7 aluation J The bedrock contains Graptolites of considerable taxonomic value.

Throats to the Area J c "Mown.

J cin iendations Further development of this area should be in keeping withits scientific value.

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7 Li n J 11-6. Name of Area WICKLOW COAST SITE

Acreage 9 7 Grid Reference T. 309, 955 U Scientific interest Botanical Rating Regional importance L! Priority C u

7 Description of the Area Li See Map 37.

'-l The site is a piece of waste ground close tothe Wicklow-Dublin J railway line and on the eastern side of it.The ground has been

r, subjected to burning, possibly accidentally, for a long time.

i LJ The plants occurring there include: 7 Rumex acetosella sheep's sorrel v Cochlearia officinalis common scurvy grass Pilosella officinarum mouse ear - hawkweed Prunus spinosa blackthorn n Vicia sepium bush vetch J Achillea millefolium yarrow Pimpinell e saxifrage burnet saxifrage Rosa spinosissima burnet rose Funaria hycjrometrica moss Gorse (Ulex sp.) is the dominant species. Evaluation A rare plant species is known, to occur at thesite. :J

Threats to the Area None is obvious. The species in quc stion grows indisturbed situaticns.

Building is the only possible hazard and it would seemunlikely % r1he site.

Recommendations

Any development at this site should take cognisance of itsscientific 7 values. Ll n

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J Name of Area HOLLYWOOD GLEN rl Acreage 90 l__! Grid Reference N. 930,015 Scientific Interest Geological i s Rating Regional Importance Priority C

7 j Description of Area See Map 38

LJ The site is a complex of dry,steep-sided valleys which are orientated in a n jj north-south direction.The valley which is cut in rock was formed bymelt u waterflowing submarginally beneath the ice from glacial Lake Blessington.

Evaluation Farrington, A.(1957) Glacial Lake Blessington Irish Geography, 3: 216-222.

Threats to the Area Rubbish tipping is the most likely 7 Li Recommendations 7 Li Any development of this area should bein accordance with its scientific n value. u

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Name of Area SITE ALONG THE KING'S RIVER Acreage 18 Grid Reference N. 980, 032 Scientific Interest Botanical J Rating Regional Priority C 7J

J Description of Area See Map 39.

The site is a sandy area of river bank. Surrounding it are pasture 7 LJ and lands dominated by Ulex sp. (gorse). The plant species occurring at the site are: 7J Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Cynosurus cristatus crested dog's tail grass andSarothamnus scoparius broom

Wetter areas along the bank have a m<

Evaluation The site has a rare plant species.

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J Threats to the Area J None obvious as long as the present land use policycontinues.

rl J Recommendations Any development of this area should take account of itsscientific value. r1 J

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Name of Area POULAPHOUCA RESERVOIR Acreage 8,400 Grid Reference O. 0010 Scientific interest Ecological,Ornithological, Botanical and Zoological r1 Rating Regional Importance I Priority C

. Description of Area See Map 40. The site is a large reservoir.

Publication

Moriarty, C.J. 1963Food of Perch and Trout in an Irish Reservoir, Proc. R. Ir. Acad.63 B (1)

Evaluation Li This is the only large area of open water inthe region and is relatively near Dublin. The wildfowl of the area is noteworthy; thelake contains the largest inland stocks of water fowl in Co. Wicklowduring the winter months. Counts carried out between 1967 and 1969 revealed thniollowi.ng maxima:- J Mallard 300 Greylag Goose 200 r-1 Teal 250 White fronted Wigeon 250 Goose 1 Pochard 40 Pink footed Tufted Duck 200 Goose 1

Goldeneye 7 Mute Swan 7

Whooper Swan 22 The area marked with an asterisksisa feeding ground for approximately one third of the Country's Greylag Goose population. Li

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J Breeding records for birdsoccurring close to or on the lakesare as:;-

Confirmed Possible & Probable 7 LJ Moorhen Heron Coot Teal Tufted Duck 7 J Mute Swan Sparrow Hawk J Kestrel Lapwing 70 LJ Snipe Curlew Black headed Gull

Threats to the Area

The E.S. B . own the water body and access tothe shore is controlled.The J most likely threat is buildingon the area marked with asterisks. r-1 J Recommendations rl Any development in the region should J be'in keeping with the scientific value of the area.In particular disturbance to the foreshorelineand building close to the margin of the lake should J be prohibited.The of coniferous trees too close to the lake margin wouldinterfere with wildfowl feedingan,,? should not be allowed. J Consideration should be given to theuse of a conservation order for the area, known tosupport the Greylag geese. 7 J

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J 12G. Name of Area WALPOLE'S MOUND 6S-ifl Acreage Not calculated Grid Reference U T. 270, 972 Scientific interest Botanical and ecological 7 Rating Li Regional importance Priority C 7 J Description of the Area J The site is a sheltered exotic gardencomposed of tropical Mediterranean and temperate plants growingunder naturalised conditions.The gardens 7 LJ are on either side of theRiver Dargle. C) Evaluation J The area is of value because tropicaland other exotic plant speciesgrow u naturally out of doors.The area is also likely to be ofinterest as a invertebrate habitat because similarareas in Southern Ireland have been J found to contain unusual importedinsect assemblages.

J Threats to the Area None known.

Recommendations Any development of thisarea should take into account its scientificvalue.

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12 of Area POWERSCOURT DEMESNE Acreage Not calculated

Grad Reference O. 215,1-0-0 J Scientific interest Ecological Rating 7I Regional importance U Priori ty C

Description of the Area LJ The site is a demesne consisting of cultivated areas, woodsand parkland.

Evaluation

Demesnes like Powerscourt were at one time common in Ireland.Powerscourt contains a representative selection of birds and a deer park.It is a valuable example of a form of land management which has widelydisappeared and it serves to show the impact of man on his environment,by an earlier form of land management.

Threats to the Area. 7 None obvious. LJ r1 u ::,commendations . As far as possible the estates should be kepttogether in the future. A desirable step would be the continued practice of traditional farmingis thois in order to preserve breeding populations of native fauna.

u r'1 Li Name of Area LUGNAQUILL "H AND Acreage 550 Grid Reference T. 030, 920 Scientific interest Eotanical, ecological and zooic;cai Rating Regional importance Priority C

7I7I U n Description of the Area See Map 41. U The site is an area of high altitude moorland containinga number of unusual plants. u Evaluation The vegetational composition of the Lugnaquilla community is similar to, J but of less importance, than at Lough Ouler.

7I U Threats to the Area

I LJ Forestry planting is the most likely, but out of seasonburning is also possibly a disturbing influence on the vegetation. n Recommendations u General planning control should be exercised to prevent harmfulcie ; lo r:,,, in this area. J

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130. IU Name of Area GLENDALOUGH Acreage Not calculated Grid Reference T. ScientificInterest Geological J Rating Regional Importance Priority C

Descriptionof Area The mines are situated at the head of Glendalough Valley- just above the upper lake .The mine shafts occur to the north of the riveralong the granite/schist contact. n Evaluation u The mines, buildings and tipheads are typical of the Wicklowlead mines. The tip heaps contain small quantities of galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, malachite and other minerals.The mine area is a suitable demonstration 7 area for educational purposes . LJ

Threats to the Area None obvious.

7 Recommendations U One of the mines might be re-opened as a demonstrationmodel for the .

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i LJ // 7 LJ 7 Name of area BALLINACOR WOOD Li Acreage 400 Grid Reference T. 130, 885 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological 7 Rating 1j Local importance Priority A 7 LJ Description of the area See Map 42.

These woodlands are composed ofvery old oak trees with some Betula sp. 7 LJ (birch) and Fagus sylvatica (beech) closeto the Rathdrum Road. The forest was visited on one occasion and the slopeexamined at one point. The following flora was found close to the foot ofthe slope: Sphagnum sp. moss J Polytrichum sp. If Juncus effusus soft rush

and some Rubus fruticosus agg. 7 Li Higher up the hillside the flora becomesmore similar to that of a deciduous J woodland with 7 Endymnion non-scriptusBluebell J and Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel

forming the greater part of the groundcover.In addition the species Lonicera periclymenum honeysuckle Pteridium aquilinum bracken 7 LJ Blechnum spicant hard fern

.-I and Rhytidiadelphus triquetrusmoss

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Ii U Evaluation r-, The area is a good example of an oakwood having,in places, a typical u

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ground flora.It is likely to be a good invertebrate habitat.

Threats to the Area

J Some of the woods are being cut down at present.Clearance for any purpose (underplanting, reclamation of land for tillage, building, etc.) is thechief danger.

Recommendations

rl The woodlands on the slope should be protected, if necessary,by use of J a tree preservation order. The woods at this point require.. a management policy especially for the control of rhododendron which is wellestablished and regenerating profusely.

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LA 134. n J Name of Area THE QUILL WOODLAND 7 Acreage 25 L Grid Reference O. 240, 135 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Local Importance

Priority A J n u Description of Area See Map 43.

7 The area is a small and apparently secondary woodland, dominatedby LJ oak, birch and holly. The site is divisable into twoareas, an eastern part which is on a hill.The ground flora here is an impoverished collection of plants found in other deciduous woods in thecounty; with 1 some heath plants: Blechnum spicant hard fern Pteridium aguilinum bracken Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Calluna vulgaris ling and the mosses, J Hylocomium splendens Pleurozium schreberi 7 LJ andDicranum majus

r'1 u The western end of the site is a damp gulleycontaining a bog flora: Molinia caerulea purple moor grass Sphagnum spp. 7 Juncus effusus soft rush U Calluna vulgaris ling 7 Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Ll Blechnum spicant hard fern

i LJ The moss Polytrichum commune forms large tufts.Birch (Betula sp.) ismore common in this part of the site than theother. U7

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This woodland is noteworthy as a collecting site for invertebratesand has been visited by various collectors including Beirne who givesa 7 Li number of references to it in his published work.

7,17 v Threats to the Area Some clearance is taking place, possibly for buildingpurposes .

Recommendations Care should be taken to leave the greater part ofthis site intact for

scientific purposes.

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1 J Name of Area LOWTOWN MARSH n Acreage 32 u Grid Reference S. 845, 923 Scientific Interest n Ecological Rating Local Importance LJ Priority A rl Li

Description of Area See Map 44. The site is a wetland which has been )artially drained.The plants occurring there include large areas of Phragmites communis =mon reed Iris pseud-acorus fellow flag r and lj Holcus lanatus orkshire fog grass

'1 Additional species are: Ranunculus flammula lesser. spearwort .1 LJ Apium nodiflorum cool's water Rumex acetosa :ommon sorrel L] Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious 7 Festuca rubra red fescue LJ jo Lathyrus pratensis yellow meadow vetchling Prunella vulgaris elfhea1 Cirsium palustre narsh thistle ^1 Clemacium dendroides i moss LJ Hylocomium splendens Aulocomnium sp Acrocladium sp Filipendula ulmaria neadowsweo:t Mentha aquatic watermint Ranunculus bulbosus ,ulbous buttercup Luzula campestris Field wood-rush J 7 J

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M juncus effusus soft rush u Vicia (sepium?) bush vetch Pedicularis sylvatica lousewort Cardamine edulis lady's smock 7 Senecio aguatica marsh fleawort LJ Eriophorum angustifolium common cotton grass

The trees in the marsh area are the willow Salixaureta and S. cinerea. n I LJ Evaluation '1 LJ In spite of partial drainage, and resultant shrinkage, the marshis still a representative ecotype with a typical fauna andflora.

Threats to the Area The most serious is further drainage. Dumping and effluent disposal 7 are also likely to alter the area. LJ

Recommendations Efforts should be made to protect this area, possibly byreversing the effects of drainage. Consideration should be given to the useof a conservation order. Care with the siting of sewage pipes fromseptic rl J tanks should be taken. 7 J u u

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140. Name of Area LOUGH NAHANAGAN Acreage 65

Grid Reference T. 0 80,991 u Scientific Interest Botanical Rating Local Importance

Priority B

7 Description of Area See Map 45. LJ The site is a steep corrie wall like that atLough Ouler. 7 LJ n The common heath flora is the same as at LoughOuler with the addition of u 0 Epilobium angustifolium (rose bay willow herb) but there are fewerrarities, although some of these occurring at Ouler are also foundhere. --1 LJ Evaluation u The site has a good example of a mountain flora. 7 J Threats to the Area These are as for Ouler.Forestry encroachment could spoil the ground flora but late season burning is possibly a danger at thepresent time.

Recommendations General planning should be exercised to maintain this site asat present.

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142 Name of Area ANNAMOE FENS

Acreage 102

Grid Reference T. 187,997 j Scientific Interest Ecological, Botanical and Zoological Rating Local Importance

Priority B

Description of Area See Map 46. ^1 J The site is a wet area of rough grazing land(dominated by uncus spp.) going into marsh in places.The areas of interest are surrounded by a solid line- LJ in Map 46 and the subsidiary, supporting areas are outlinedwith a dashed line.

A vegetational list for the marsh areasis as follows: 7 J Ranunculus repens creeping buttercup Narthecium ossifragum bog asphodel Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious Erica tetralix cross leaved heath Molinia caerulea purple moor grass (dominant in places)

juncus articulatus) These rushes are dominant J J. acutiflorus in the damp areas surrounding J. effusus the fens, some occur in the J. inflexus fen region also. Carex rostrata bottle sedge Veronica scutellata marsh speedwell Galium palustre marsh bedstraw Agrostis tenuis creeping bent grass Polytrichum commune moss Eriophorum vaginatum hare's tail grass Angelica sylvestris wild angelica J

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144. J Ranunculus hederaceous iv/ leaved crowfoot Cardamine pratensis la ly's smock J Ranculus flammula le 3ser spearwort _1 Calluna vulgaris lirg J Mnium hornum mass Viola palustris mi rsh violet Aulocomium sp. me ss 7 Carex echinata st it sedge J Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Acrocladium cuspidatum me ss

L.J The drier areas are dominated by Pteridium aguilinum br. tcken

-1 and channels containing stagnant water havethe following species: J Glyceria maxima (?) rei d sweet grass Potamogeton polygnofolius bo j pondweed Sphagnum sp. (palustre?) mess Callitriche intermedia (?)

In places the fen supports a scrub of :=i Salix aureta wi low CD and Betula pubescens bix ch J and some Pteridium aguilinum brz cken occurs

Evaluation

In County Wicklow fens are infrequent. The sites describedabove contain a representative selection of plant spec ies andare probably a good invertebrate habitat.

Threats to the Area

Drainage, which has occurred in places.

145 Recommendations If further drainage is to occur in theseshould be areas given to thought 7 the protection of the sites by devising a suitable drainagepattern, LJ i . e . one which would remove surplus watersfrom all but the fens proper. Research on the pattern is required.Failing preservation by use of basic J planning controls a conservation order for the best of theareas might be 7 considered.Further recommendations to this end would be devised by J An Foras.

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i GLENCREE WOODLANDS LA Name of area Acreage 1,200 Grid Reference 0. 165, 160 Scientific interest Botanical, ecological Rating Local importance

Priority B

Description of Area See Map 47. n The woodland is located on the floor of a glacialvalley.At the western u end of the site the trees are most concentrated butfurther east they become scattered.Open ground is therefore included in Map 47. The .1 O majority of the trees are- oak but birch or hazelalso occur.Holly is occasional.

Among the trees the ground vegetation cover is composed mainlyof Bryophytes. The following were recorded: Acrocladium cuspidatum Plagiothecium undulatum J Hypnum cupressiforme Thuidium tamariscinum Polytricum commune Mnium hornum J Pleurozium schreberi

Additional species occurring there included: Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Luzula sylvatica woodrush Blechnum spicant hard fern Chrysosplenium oppositifolium golden saxifrage Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel 'J

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J The open ground is colonised by the following: Erica tetralix heather 7 Li Calluna ling Molinia caerulea purple moor grass i Scirpus deer grass

Smaller species occurring among these are: Potentilla erects tormentil Narthecium bog asphodel Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious 7I U Sphagnum moss 7 D C ladonia s pp. lichens v C irs ium marsh thistle Nardus mat grass Festuca grass .-, Vaccinium oxycoccis cranberry u Dryopteris fern Iuncus acutifloris rush

Evaluation The site is a good example of deciduous woodland andis likely to contain several invertebrate habitat types. J Threats to the area J Recreational pressures are likely to increase in the future bringingthe attendant risk of fire.Building is a possibility in parts of the area. Forestry planting is occurring on the site.

7Ll Recommendations The long term objective should be to preserve the wetgrazing and woodland nature of the area.Tree felling should be prevented and building around the area controlled.Building in the area delimited shouldbe discouraged.In time it may be necessary to devise a manage r"1 policy for the area. The removal of forestry plantings fromthe deciduous u woodlands would be desirable. J

Name of Area BALLYNAMONA MARSH

Acreage 92 7 Grid Reference T'. 270, 823 Li Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological 7 Rating Local Importance U Priority B 7 J

Description of Area See Map 48. The marshlands are diffuse within the site limitson Map 48. The wetlands 7 J proper contain the followingplant species: J Myostis secunda marsh forget-me-not Eguisetum telmatea horsetail Valeriana officinalis valerian Iris pseudacorus yellow flag '-1 Cirsium palustre marsh thistle U Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Alnus glutinosa alder uncus articulatus articulated rush 1. effusus soft rush Galium palustre marsh bedstraw J Mentha aguatica water mint Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious 7 Callitriche stagnalis J mud water starwort Carex panictilata greater tussock sedge Sparganium ramosum bur reed Brachythecium sp. moss

The largest vegetational species in the wet areas is Salixcinerea, Willow. J Within the marsh area as indicated on Map 48 thereoccur dry hills which have the following plant species: Ranunculus acris buttercup Vicia sepium bush vetch

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Lythrum salicaria purple loosestrife Senecio jacobea ragwort Lonicera periclymenum honeysuckle Hypericum tetrapterum square stemmed St. John's wort J Centaurea nigra knapweed Sieglingia decumbens heath-grass J Cynosurus cristatus crested odg's tail grass Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass J and Ulex europaeus gorse, which is the largest r1 species occurring in the dry areas. J

J Evaluation The site contains a representative range of plant species andis probably 7 Li a good invertebrate area.

Threats to the Area

7 Drainage is the most obvious; has occurred in parts ofthe area. J Recommendations

It would be desirable to preserve at least a partof the site.In the r"l event of further drainage, this could be done by drainingaround the deepest area; a similar recommendation to that made for Site36 (Annamoe n u Fens)might be made.

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7 Li Name of Area DUNLAVIN MARSHES Acreage 6 0 (in C o. Wicklow). Grid Reference N. 853, 025 Scientific Interest Ecological, Botanical and Zoological Rating Local importance

Priority B

J Description of the Area See Map 49 The site is an area of waterlogged ground, without openwater, as at the Lemmstown Marsh (Site 18).A stream runs through the area and contains the following plant species.

Rorippa sp. water cress 7o L] Apium nodiflorum fool's water cress Mentha aguatica water mint rl L__1 Caltha palustris marsh marigold n Lythrum salicariapurple loosestrife is profuse at the stream margins u The vegetation surrounding the stream is dominated by Phragmites communis J (common reed) and Carex paniculata.

There are some largeswards of Holcus lanatus (Yorkshire foggness). J Additional 1/0 species include: Cardamine pratensislady's smock Galium palustra marsh bedstraw Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Angelica svlvestris common angelica 7 Eguisetum fluviatile horsetail L] Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious

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15 =/- The site has some scrub cover of Salixspp. (willows) and Betula sp. (birch) in addition to some conifers.

Evaluation

This site, which extends into Co. Kildare isone of the most extensive n marshes in Co. Wicklow.Itfloral composition is varied and suggests u it might be a good invertbrate habitat.

Threats to the Area

Drainage is a possibility, especiallyas this has been the fate of most of the marshes in this area.Rubbish dumping might also occur.

Recommendations

In view of the scarcity of wetlands of thistype in Co. Wicklow, efforts should be made to preserve this site without alterationor contamination by domestic or farm effluent. n J rl

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LJ n U rl J Name of Area OAK WOODS BESIDE LOUGH DAN

Acreage 920 _ Grid Reference O. 158, 048 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical Rating Local importance

Priority B

Description of the area See Map 50 The site is an area of oak woodland or moorlandand there is some open ground.The trees making up the woodland area include birch andhazel. Some areas of the wood contain conifers. n s Ground layer vegetation comprises the following: J Erica cinerea heather E. tetralix heather Blechnum spicant hard fern Luzula sylvatica wood rush Molinia caerulea purple moor grass Tuncus articulatus rush T. effusus common rush Dryopteris dilitata fern Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Lonicera periclymenum honeysuckle Teucrium scorodinia woodsage n Narthecium ossifra um bog asphodel s Dactylorhiza fuchsii orchid Galium saxatile bedstraw J Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass

Bryophytes occurring on the wet mountainside include: Thuidium sp. Dicranum scoparium Pleurozium schreberi f t 3p i'VJ ICU, i; LID 01+ SV IrEi'r T1 F1,C.! 61i1 aLU 1 -50

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u 157. Polytrichum commune Hylocomium splendens Sphagnum spp.(occasionally)

Evaluation The area is a good example ofan oak wood.

Threats to the area Recreational pressures and possibly building

Recommendations The site is visited by casual holidayersand thought should be given to a management policy in the futureas recreational pressure is likely to increase.The provision of fire fighting equipmentand warning notices would be useful as fire has been knownat the site in recent years. The long term object should be the n conservation of the site;the u proetction of its character and possiblyincreased utilization as a place of recreation.Building should be prevented. J 7 J

n L

158 J

Name of Area BRITTAS BAY SAND DUNES Acreage 350 7 Grid Reference T. 310, 840. J Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological. Rating Local importance J1

Description of the Area See Map 51. The site is a stable sand dune system (c.f. Buckroney- See Map 2).

LJ Evaluation The site has a typical flora and fauna.

Threats to the Area Themost urgent is intense recreational use. J Recommendations

The Brittas Bay system has been the subject ofan intense study by An Foras Forbartha (Mawhinney, K.Development in the Brittas Bay Area. January 1971 7 J Pts. 1 & 2).Management of this dune system should be undertakenas a matter of urgency. o

7 J 7 J

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7 LJ Name of Area DEVIL'S GLEN 7 L Acreage 880 Grid Reference T. 250,985 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical, zoologicrli and orinthological 7 Rating vi Local importance Priority B

Description of the Area See Map 52 J A deciduous oak woodland underplanted withconifers.

I L, Evaluation

In parts of the woodlandthere is a well developed ground flora.The area is also important because of its luxuriant cryptogavic florawhich indicates that the climate of the area is mild (oceanic)and suggests the invertebrate fauna may also be distinctive.

A pond in the area of interest provides food andresting places for a small n number of wildfowl (teal, mallard and mute swans). Lj Threats to the Area

Further planting of the area with conifers is themost likely threat.

7 Recommendations L.I 0 As far as possible the native hardwoods should bemaintained at this site. A management and improvement policy for the millpondwould enhance its scientific values and amenity.

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161. L7 U U U CU L7 L> o C.__ UE -j L__J L] L-] L7 Ll LJ L_I L.:] LJ LJ L] L_ c0 2151 t i SEDUMB ROSEA (L)Sco? . a-_sY . , « c7 t J i _ j i 1930 onwardsRose-root Irt;-J:::::o. Y f' I t . I ;;i __ s ' o Before - 1930 s' k 7 : ., 4 r i si ai«, 1 - 4fa r - . r o - - " t I.::. 1, tsar v1 .i-_!-a. i oO T , , r t 1 . o.C ^ - ^TT------0 91 7- tile 8 I ( 06 I14 f I «, __id I I i I r - -_ - , I o o a j Q b ( r

0 Name of Area MARSH CLOSE TO THE GLEN OF THE DOWNS Acreage 24 Grid Reference O. 253,134 Scientific Interest Ecological Rating Local importance

Priority B

Description of the Area See Map 53 The site is a small marsh, beside the main DelganyRoad containing a typical marsh flora (Cf. Buckroney and other marshes).There is a succession to trees .

Evaluation The mill is likely to be a representative site forplants and invertebrates.

Threats to the Area. 7j Some form of reclaimation is possible and casual dumpingis probable. L

u Recommendations It would be desirable to retain this site in itspresent condition in the future.

J n U r 9 0 !rn1v rrf"1I %--: 1 M(I c_J::'t r u i i!u1t r lLAUI" 53

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164. Name of Area ARKLOW BIRD RESERVE Acreage 10 Scientific Interest Ornithological Rating Local importance Priority C

Description of Area See Map 54 A shallow pond containing Phragmitescommunis

Evaluation

Species visiting or inhabiting thepool in the national wildfowlcensus of 1970 were:

Pochard Mallard Swans (mute and whooper) and Coot

Threats to the Area

Because the pool has the approval of theLocal Authority it is unlikely to be in danger as a result of development.

Ji 0 Recommendations

As a wildfowl refuge, the pond couldbe much improved by the provision of screening, depth alternatives and thecreation of islands and possibly J nesting boxes.An identification board would alsobe useful.An Foras would give advice on these developmentsafter a more detailed survey.

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`--' 166 Name of area CONIFEROUS WOODLANDS IN GLENMALUR. VALLEY AND ENVIRONS INCLUDING BALLYTEIGP,, WOOD Acreage Map boundaries give indication of standsonly. Grid Reference T. 100, 910 Scientific interest Ecological Rating Local importance Priority C

rl !l Description of the area See Map 55 Lj J Boundaries approximately drawn.The coniferous plantations of Glenmalurand Glenealy (Map 56) are among themost mature in the country.Those in Glenmalur consist of: Larix sp. larch Pinus sitchensis sitka spruce -1 Pseudotsuga menziesii douglas fir LJ and Taxus baccata yew J The ground flora at most standsconsists of Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Pteridium aguilinum bracken n Vaccinium myrtillus u bilberry

When the coniferous tree is larcha reasonable ground floral development would be expected because thetree is deciduous and so permitsa certain amount of light penetration during the wintermonths.

However, the best developed groundflora in Ballyteige Wood occurred under a stand of douglas fir and consists of the species: J Teucrium scorodonia wood sage Vaccinium myrtillus bilberry Blechnum spicant hard fern Digitalis purpurea foxglove J

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Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Lonicera periclymenum honeysuckle Dryopteris dilitata fern Stellaria graminea lesser stitchwort -, u Luzula pilosa hairy wood rush Ilex aguifolium holly

and Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) which is dominantin places. Ballyteige Wood includes some mature oak with a good groundflora.

Evaluation The occurrence of a varied ground flora suggests that thesites are good invertebrate habitats.

Threats to the area Replanting with small trees which would obscure the ground flora n J Recommendations rI Replanting of the sites should be carried out after blocksof existing timber were felled.This would permit a reservoir of ground cover species to persist and be available to invade the newly planted areasonce conditions favoured their doing so.The deciduous areas should be maintained without further conifers.

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Name of Area RATHDRUM AND GLENEALY FORESTS Acreage 2,290 Grid Reference T. 245,990 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Local importance Priority C

Description of the Areas See Map 56 7 Boundaries approximately drawn.These are two large areas of mixed forest. LJ The area marked with an asterisk contains a high proportionof deciduous wood.Because these trees are high there is much light penetrationand a consequently good ground flora.Most of the species occuring at the Glen of the Downs are present and the flora is, inmany cases, as profuse as in Ballyteige forest.

Evaluation These areas are of local interest by virute of therepresentative ground flora; n all are likely invertebrate habitats. u Threats to the Areas Clearfelling any of the areas would remove their scientific interestespecially J after replanting when the ground flora would be killed off.

Recommendations These are as for site 1, the previous site.

The mature trees should be felled in small blocks andthe underplantings given time to reach a height at which the groundflora could immigrate, before felling continued.

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Name of Area BALLYCORE RATH Acreage 24 Grid Reference S. 815, 942 Scientific Interest Botanical, Ecological Rating Local Importance Priority C

Description of Area See Map 57 The site is a large drift deposit on top ofwhich a rath has been built. The vegetation of the area includes the following species:

Senecio iacobea Ragwort Cynosurus cristatus crested dog's tail grass Primula vulgaris primrose Ranunculus repens creeping buttercup Plantago lanceolata ribwort plantain Cirsium arvense creeping thistle Viola riviniana common violet Teucrium scorodonia wood sage 7 Bellis perennis J common daisy Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Luzula campestris field wood rush Centaurea nigra hardhead Taraxacum officinale agg. dandelion Anthoxanthum odoratum sweet vernal grass r-1 Prunella vulgaris u selfheal Pedicularis sylvatica lousewort Carex flacca glaucous sedge Leucanthemum vulgare dog daisy Galium verum lady's bedstraw Carex carvophyllea spring sedge Ranunculus officinarum bulbous buttercup Pilosella bulbosus mouse-ear hawkweed MAP SHOWING AREA OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST-57

Scale:6 Inches to1 Mile

A r1 L

7I U 7 J 0 Cerastium vulgare common chickweed Heracleum sp. Rumex acetosa common sorrel Hvpochaeris sp. Achillea millefolium yarrow 7 Stellaria media chickweed Agrimonia sp. agrimony Cerastium vulgare mouse ear chickweed Lotus corniculatus bird's foot trefoil LJ Conopodium s- P. ? Rhytidiadelphus sguarrosus moss Pseudoscleropodium purum nO u Evaluation This site is a good example of a calcicole grassland.Three additional species occurring there: i Blackstonia perfoliata yellow-wort Gentianella amarella autumn felwort andPoterium sanguisorba salad burnet are typical of calcicole conditions. On the accompanying distribution maps for the species (Section G)they are clearly concentrated in the -r}eit+al limestone areas of Ireland.

7Li Threats to the Area rl None obvious. u Recommendations 7 LJ Future development in this area should take account of itsscientific n values. u

L1 174 Name of Area WICKLOW HEAD Acreage 8 Grid Reference T. 345, 924 Scientific Interest Botanical, Zoological, Ornithological and Ecoiogic Rating Local Importance Priority C

Description of Area See Map 58 The site is a rocky headland, similar to Bray Head.

Evaluation

The plant communities at the site are similar to thoseat Bray Head but with fewer rarities. There are seabird nesting colonies within the area of scientific interest.

Threats. to the Area None obvious.

Recommendations o Any future development of this site should be inaccordance with its scientific interest. 7 t L J T- in 17. 7 ("1 i J 't, t C, y ;r t 0 % r e c LPL IL'; i YI k: l.r: vj e

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U ri LI 17 Name of Area GORGE AT POULAPHOUCA Acreage 3 (in Co. Wicklow). Grid Reference N.947, 085 Scientific interest Botanical and ecological Rating Local importance Priority C

Description of Area

See Map 59.The site is a steep gorgeon the River Liffey. The slopes have large beech trees (Fagus sylvatica)on the upper sides and laurel (Prunus laureosus) lower down.There is some Acer pseudoplatanus (sycamore). The ground flora is well developed anddominated by Luzula sylvatica (wood rush) and Oxalis acetosella (wood sorrel).Other species occurring in the ground flora include: Polystichum aculeatum shield fern Sanicula europaea wood sanicle Umbilicus rupestris pennywort Conopodium majus pignut Silene dioica red campion Primula vulgaris primrose Viola riviniana common violet Vicia sepium bush vetch Geum rivale water aven

LI 7 Evaluation L) This site has a number ofuncommon plant species. 7 L1 Threats to the Area None obvious.

Recommendations Any development of this site should allowfor its scienti. is value.

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n Name of Area GLEN DING Acreage 27 (in C o. Wicklow). Grid Reference N 163155 Scientific Interest Geological Rating Local importance Priority C

Description of Area See Map 60 The site is a dry glacial valley withsteep sides on the boundary with J County Kildare.Its orientation is approximately north-south.

Evaluation

The valley was an ice overflow channelinto Lake Blessington during the last general glaciation. 7 Publication 7 Farrington, A. Li (1957) Glacial Lake BlessingtonIrish Geography, 3 :216 - 222. 7 LJ 0 Threats to the Area Rubbish tipping is a possibility. 7 LJ Recommendations

Any development in this area should takeaccount of its scientific values.

J I Li

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l 0 C 1 it C_A C__j F I C_J L=l C__j lJ L_] CI U C_.J C_A U E_ __J C-A [-A L---J L.J L_J C_._ THE SCIENTIFICA TABLEINTEREST SHOWING OF AREAS THE LISTED ACTION IN REQUIRED THIS REPORT TO MAINTAIN No General Planning Special Amenity Conservation Tree Preservation KilcooleBuckroney Marshlands sand dunes Protection Required withControl, management possibly Area Order Order Order Slieve roe * jIi f KippureLoughBlanket Brayand bogs Sally Corries Gap C ** AthdownBroad moraine Lough * or Upper Lockstown delta I * 1 i . ; * ' Glen of the Downs * r ' WicklowGlendalough, town Upper glebe Lakeland * Cf) BrayNOTE: Head Areas marked require immediate attention. * .r,ztOnH ] L_ L L > LI U L] C _rJ G LJ C _ ] C U L L1 C_J CI C___J C _:7 L L i C_ _ Protection Required No withControl,General management Planning possibly Special Amenity Area Order ! I Conservation Order Tree Preservation Order Shoreat line of Lower LakeGlendalough i LoughRathdanganSand Oulerdunes atend Maherabeg moraine The 3 Upper Glenmalur Valley Motte Stone * j Toor Channel 4 * t Templeranyand pingoes end moraine j * I i ! a ,i Great Sugarloaf ; * * t G" enn; cnass ! * t .ers urt W:.-rfall--.res'.ry school t * _] U LI L_.] L-J LI L_] L.=] C LA U LI L] L.J LJ U LJ LJ L] LJ U L Protection Required No GeneralwithControl, management Planning possibly Special Amenity Area Order Conservation Order Preservation ArklowAskintinnyandShelton Garden dune Abbey system Wood ArklowBuckroneyMarshes Head nearMarsh Lemonstown at present under review * or Woodlandsnear Lara in the Vale of Clara * or j * Holdenstown Bog , WoodlandsDargleRiver Valley River in theValley Avoca ? WestR -,i 1d!umBank of Vartry Reservoir ±n * 2_I L J L_ 7 L._J L__] U C__] L_J G C`___] L__J C__J C__j C_J L ] L_J L_] L_J L] C-2 LJ L Wicklow coast Protection Required No withControl,General management Planning possibly Special Amenity Area Order Conservation Order Tree Preservation Order SiteHollywood along the King's River Glen i i Walpole'sPoulaphouca Garden, Reservoir t i LugnaquilliaPowerscourtMount Usher Demesne * * TheBallinacorGlendalough Quill woodlandWood Mines * * or 1 * AnnamoeLoughLowtown Nahanagan Bogl ens or * r- r. Glencree `, Jc c 11e , _ _J C_ J U 1---j LI U L_I LJ LJ LJ LJ U LJ L.I 0 LU L-j U E -j C_] LI L_ No General Planning Special Amenity ' Conservation Tree Preservation Ballynamona Marsh ;Protection Required withControl, possibly management Area Order I Order Order OakDunlavin Woods Marshesby Lough Dan ** 1 or * Devil'sBrittas BayGlen sand dunes * or GlenMarsh of the close Downs to the * I environsGlenmalurArk-lowConiferous bird including Valley reservewoodlands and in ** B-11-:-corePathBallyteige rum Rath a::dWood Glenealy forests * * Section G

Appendix 1

There follow maps showing the distributionof some plant species for which conservation measures have beenproposed in Section F. The J maps indicate the importance of sites in Co. Wicklow tothe survival of the species in the geographical unit of Britainand Ireland. u

ri The maps are reproduced from the Atlasof the British Flora by F.H. Perring tJ and S. M . Walters published by Thos. Nelson and SonsLtd.,1962. Each dot represents theoccurrence of a species within a 10 km' grid square.

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7 Li LJ LJ L_J LJ L L-J LJ LJ L7 CU C---J C-J LJ LJ L_J0 LJ C_] LJ LI C-- LYCOPODIINUNDATUM UM o Before 1930 1930 onwards L ---- L_ I L.I LJ LJ L'I E-- J LJ L-1 LJ L_J LJ LJ LJ LJ L-J LJ U O L.--J L_J L-J LJ L_ HYEMALEEQUISETUM L. o Before 1930 1930 onwardsClubmoss Alpine ... o.o r o Before 1930 1930Dutch onwards Rush 0- iI U (/l .o - o t l" p P. I ` 4/ n1 J V 60O =J C_ J U L_i LI Li LI LJ L7 o L-7 L7 E---J c Li Li L_A LI Li U L7 LI E I A GRAMMACRYPTO- GRAMM 9/1 ; I (L) R. Br.CRISPA ` : y 1j .i )" o Before 1930 1930Parsley onwards fern 10(1 I l y - - b A LEPTOPHYLLAANOGRAMMA (L) Link YKS' ° Q. 1930 onwards l o i ^ a:. j { ' aP r y :.V 72 -31 isa 0i - I I p I 1../\ I i A . i a LJ LJ L7 L_J L J LJ LI LJ L_-J L__J LA L7 L] C E---j LJ L7 L-1 L_-1 C_J L-j L---j 0 CYSTOPTERIS FRAGILIS :yi i POLYSTICHUMACULEATUM (L) Roth Bladder-fern(L.) Bernh. Brittle i :e P. lobatumo Before (thuds.) 1930 1930 onwards Chevall. ° 0 ° ° ° t :... 06 =__I rI r _1 C__ I U U C_J [___a L_] U C__j L_.J L_J U C__J cJ [___] c_I L=] U c_ LI U LJ LJ LJ L1 U LJ L=] LJ L] L" LJ LJ LJ LJ LI LJ LJ L_J LJ

VIOLA LUTEA Huds. F Mountain Pansy Before1930 onwards 1930 } o i I f '- SSSSi 222 u / . ??? X / Yl\ V-p o o W., S c; _ t /t7i H222' i :.I L. LJ7 LJ1 L --j LJ U LJ LJ c L_:] L1 L--1 L _:] LJ] LJ L'I L_] L_] LI L-] U 1 13 a A ELATINE tun k ERODIUM N pierre)HEXANDRA DC. ' I j ' _ MARITIMUM(L) L'Herit. -y- ° Before 1930 1930 onwards s c I o s . o Before 1930Sea Storksbill1930 onwards s - a / s ., t 0o O o F" x Probable Intro- duaions r ° 1 0 d --f' o r l f . S f 2 O 5 a 1 O O O I o o I o O O 0 i o I 0 $ I , a. sr.I Q 4 l S 1 . S L_3 LI C__] L_a C___i L_J L_I 0 [--_] C-] L] L_] L._3 L_:] L_i U LA LI C_.] LI L---j L---i 8 TRIFOLIUMORNITHO. 192/1 PODIOIDESornithopodioldes L Birdsfoot(L)Trigonella DG xo CasualBefore 1930only 1930 onwardsFenugreek -] LJ L_7 E --j LI L- L_J LJ LA U U L_] LI C I- .j LJ Lj LJ LJ LJ U LU B 1921S I i GLOMERATUM TRIFOLIUM I I ORNITHOPUSPERPUSILLUS Clustered Clover L t - Birdsfoot L 1930 onwards c c- i .. O Before 1930 1930 onwards t . xo Casual only Before 1930 I A ' s=- . o s I s t . . s f a 0 i o0 00 _ _ s. 1i p t -9ea . p so. ioi. 0 o « t 0 a. I o O I p t .... i i M..i..iiiw11. ° . S i a o . =_J L_J. C__I U U LJ U L=J LJ L_J U C J U LJ O r -J L.J LJ C.__J LJ L_J L_:J U B ALCHEMiLLAALPINA L 220/1 k I A SAXIFRAGA 239,Is . Lady's Mantle Alpine SPATHULARIS Brat. f I , . i F ca 1930 onwards \ S I : ' . 1 l St Patrick's _ i o Before 1930 , ° i t Cabbage t \ .I t ...... t 1 r- I o Before 1930 1930 onwards a w _ J. . 1`iMIS 1 r o i i wtu. - V i is o ` s .. f a f I S . I I s I o s s Iq 7 RR Z s . I T- . . P r s I I P r 1 ! I 1 fN NO f t 0 . 0 - . I I I y o 0 f. Q 0 0 . . n l 0 JF] LIE] LJ U Fir] C._.] U LJ U LI 0 o CJ U L.1 C U E--_] , 0 B inks I I 1 C B 1921 - I GLOMERA7UM TRIFOLIUM ' _ -- 3 PODIOIDESTRIFOLIUMORITC Trlgone NITHC-NITH l ia L C o t }1l n L II Clustered I' r , 1 orn(L DC y . - ^% Bi d s f t Gower 1 -- r oo s `TI b o Before 1930 1930 onwards ' ° Fenugreek d r a 1930 onwards i _- I I I o Before 1930 x Casual only + r 7 o a x Casual only r-i aI -- t I { s 1- o . ; I f I I -- S 1 . 0 1 Z 0 41 i - ° 0 0 ° o°. Vr I QO oO J O 01 I 1 0 t t: t 0 O 00 O ! O O 1 I,J O G 0 1 ... _.f , I O -r ° I i 0 sai I A I i Otz Fi L_. l L .l i _.J C---_j i. L__J o; _] Z_:J L__J L__ J o r L_ NICRUMEMPETRUM L c ,.lore 1930 1930 onwards Gowurrry l + .. I 31V R _ _ Ik' 00. i i G' :t..i .e.. F a I hsloe* :a fK 1. ` fi : w w -i it- FI F -1 L-J 1- L1 ` jrr p = t- o it t_U l rug n7,. 1 Uil.f Scc}I3.1:! itr Eti N 6 Inches t0 i 1 Mile E` Z.Er-7"] C"?Ci7L`..3 ---4 i CoC!i CD Q I 1

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