The Selby Biodiversity Action Plan

HABITAT ACTION PLANS

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

1. Woodland Habitat Action Plan Woods such as Brayton Barff will be covered by this. Introduction Recent woodland comprises of all other This Habitat Action Plan covers Semi- woodlands not categorised as ancient. natural ancient woodland and Recent This includes woodland that has woodland. colonised naturally, referred to as secondary woodland. Ancient woods are defined as 'having continuous woodland cover since1600 Plantations of both native and non-native AD' and are listed in the Inventory of tree species are important for some UK Ancient Woodland (Phillips14). This BAP species, and for landscape quality. continuity is essential for the survival of rich ground flora communities that take Sub-habitats within woodland, such as millennia to develop. The IAW does not glades, rides, pools, bare ground and include sites smaller than two hectares, woodland edge are desirable, especially although the Selby BAP partnership for invertebrates. believes that this is desirable. National status All ancient woodlands are a priority, because they are effectively an The IAW records ' 2 million ha of irreplaceable resource. They cannot be re- woodland of which 534,000 ha are created simply by planting trees. estimated to be ancient. Approximately 300,000 ha of this can be described as High priorities for conservation action are ancient semi-natural woodland, the plantations where native broadleaves balance having been converted into have been replaced with conifers, but the plantations.' ground flora persists, such as in Bishop Wood. Such woods are referred to as Regional status Plantation on Ancient Woodland Sites 7 (PAWS). The regional audit (Selman ) attributes the region with 6.7% of the ancient and Ancient woodland is covered by four UK natural woodland in England and Wales. BAP priority habitats: The report highlights the fact that the data Lowland beech & yew woodland is very patchy and woodland classes, Upland mixed ashwoods particularly Wet woodland, are under Upland oakwoods recorded. The figures given in the audit Wet woodlands for the relevant types are:

In addition, some Lowland broadleaf UK priority habitats woods, such as Brayton Barff, are also Lowland beech & yew woodland 0 ha ancient. The UK BAP Steering Group is Upland mixed ashwoods 2,338 ha preparing a new UK action plan for 2005 Upland oakwoods 2,946 ha which has relevance to the District – Wet woodlands 343 ha ‘Lowland mixed deciduous woodland’.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Local status

The IAW14 identifies the fact that very little ancient woodland survived in the flatter and more fertile areas of the region. The regional audit shows Selby District as having only Wet woodlands. The IAW lists 62 Selby woodlands covering 1,075 ha. Of this 497 ha is semi- natural ancient woodland and 578 ha is on PAWS.

The largest site in the District is Bishop Wood, managed by Forest Commission England (FCE). This is a 330 ha PAWS site. Once restored to its original Wet woodland state, it will be of key national Legal status importance. Forestry Act 1967 (as amended). Brockadale YWT Nature Reserve Felling licences required from includes an area of lowland ash Forestry Commission (FC) under woodland, which is actively managed for Forestry Regulations. wildlife. The bluebell, a key woodland plant, is legally protected from up-rooting and Places to visit: sale under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). Bishop Wood Environmental Impact Assessments Grid reference SE 561332 for planning applications. Coniferous plantation with wet woodland. Brayton Barff Associated species priorities Grid reference SE 587308 Lowland acid oak woodland. Bluebell Primrose Woodland habitat (all types). Baseline Spotted flycatcher distribution map, 2003. Song thrush Bullfinch

The creation of new woods and the conservation management of existing woods, will benefit all of the associated priority species.

Local status of Selby priorities

The bluebell is found in many of the District’s ancient woodlands. 34

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Conservation-minded woodland management. Creation of new woodland using local provenance stock. Retention of dead and dying timber. Control of invasive exotic species - Rhododendron, cherry laurel, Japanese knotweed and Himalayan balsam. Control of beech, sycamore and poplars in ancient woods. Bluebell New planting to link existing semi- natural habitat. The spotted flycatcher is a local and 20 decreasing breeding bird. (Cooper ) cites Current action two to five pairs. FCE regulates timber harvesting through felling licences. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations. The FC has produced Forest Practice Guides for different woodland types (Forest Authority 21). Woodland planting and conservation is encouraged by Woodland Grant Song thrush Scheme (WGS) and Woodland Improvement Grants (WIG) available The song thrush has seen a national 25- from FC. year decline (1974 to 1999) of 53%, but FC National Inventory of Woodland no local population figures are available. and Trees started in 1995. Data collected as part of the WGS The bullfinch has seen a 57% national documentation. decline over the same period (Gregory19). 20 FC organises breeding bird surveys. Cooper estimates 50 pairs bullfinch for FC financially supports surveys in the Selby District. their forests. Local businesses promote woodland Threats planting through the uptake of grants.

Habitat Fragmentation Opportunities Illegal up-rooting of bluebells for commercial sale. FC to restore Bishop Wood to Wet woodland. Requirements Woodland advisory companies to secure planting schemes using FC No loss of ancient woodland. grant aid. Reversion of PAWS to native broadleaved woodland. 35

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

More natural regeneration and use of achieve that favourable condition for direct seed scattering rather than tree 70% within SSSIs and 50% of total planting. resource by 2004. Woodland creation and planting; Achieve favourable condition of 50% woodland restoration and of total resource and 70% of maintenance of high value woodland designated sites by 2010. will be available under the proposed Complete restoration to site-native Environmental Stewardship Higher species to 1,600 ha of PAW, by 2010 Level Scheme (Defra). Help with and a further 1,600 ha by 2015. fence maintenance may also be Establish 3,375 ha of wet woodland included. on un-wooded sites or plantations by FCE will seek to protect all ancient 2010, with a further 3,375 ha by 2015. semi-natural woodland sites under the England Woodland Grant Scheme to Links to Species Action Plans be launched in spring 2005. Otter – see SAP 1. What you can do to help: Bats - see SAP 9. Bumble bees - see SAP 10. Enjoy woodland flowers without picking Clearwing moths - see SAP 11. them. Argent and sable moth (UK BAP), scarce vapourer moth, triple spotted Rather than burning it, leave fallen timber pug and white-marked moth, all to decay, for fungi and insects to colonise. recorded from Bishop Wood - see SAP

12.

UK BAP targets Objective

Wet woodland To conserve and restore all ancient Maintain total extent and distribution semi-natural woodland and to increase of 50,000 to 70,000 ha. the number of woods under favourable Maintain current area (24,000 to management. To increase the amount 30,000 ha) of ancient wet woodland. of new woodland from the current Initiate management measures to 1.7% of the Selby land area to the achieve favourable condition in 100% Yorkshire average of 6.7% of Wet woodlands within SSSIs and 80% of total resource by 2004 and to

Ten year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Restore 150 ha of coniferous plantation to native woodland, giving preference to natural regeneration wherever possible. 2 Re-create 50 ha new, native species woodland. 3 Maintain or increase the distribution of the six priority species.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Raise awareness of the Forestry Act 1967, which 1 FCE 1,3 covers the protection of trees in all situations, to landowners and planning authorities.

Protection and management

Restore 50% of Bishop Wood to native broadleaved 2 FCE 1,3 Wet woodland. Internal Drainage Board to undertake necessary ditch 3 IDB 1,3 work in Bishop Wood in order to raise water table. Continue to use grant incentives, especially the 4 FCE, RDS 2,3 England Woodland Grant Scheme, to encourage the (Defra) planting of new woods and the management and restoration of woods. Encourage the restoration of re-planted ancient 5 FCE, FWAG 1,3 woodland in private ownership. Encourage woodland owners to implement appropriate 6 FCE 3 long-term management plans, particularly through the England Woodland Grant Scheme. Erect open-fronted nest boxes in woodland areas, 7 FCE, BTCV, 3 which may encourage spotted flycatchers and other Groundwork species to breed. Selby

Research and monitoring

Undertake an annual breeding survey for spotted 8 Five Towns 3 flycatcher, song thrush, tree pipit and bullfinch at Bird Club recently recorded sites.

Advisory

Advise landowners on grants for planting, 9 FCE 1,2,3 management and restoration, especially through the England Woodland Grant Scheme.

Communications and publicity -

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

2. Lowland wood pasture and Wooded commons. Parklands with their origins in the parkland Habitat Action Plan th 18 century, but with much older Introduction trees from an earlier landscape. Under-managed and unmanaged Lowland wood pasture and parkland is a wood-pastures with ancient trees. UK BAP priority habitat. Sites are Surviving ancient trees following products of historic land management conversion to other land uses such as systems and represent a vegetation arable or forestry. structure rather than being a particular Ancient trees that originated as plant community. Typically this hedgerow standards. structure consists of large, open-grown or high forest trees at various densities, English Heritage (EH) has sought to in a mosaic of grazed grassland, conserve important parkland and heathland or woodland ground flora. designed landscapes for their historic Wood-pastures and parkland are often of value. Parks of national importance are archaeological, historic, cultural and recorded on the register of Parks and landscape importance. Gardens of National Historic Interest. These are graded in terms of their Wood-pastures have been managed by a importance. Many parks not included on long-established tradition of grazing, the register are also important for their with the survival of multiple generations historical and ecological qualities. of trees, characteristically with at least some ancient trees. Parklands are more This is a key habitat for dead wood formal, but many have also developed invertebrates and fungi of veteran trees under grazing regimes. and pasture. However, surveys for these groups have not been undertaken in The tree component can occur as Selby and the BAP has identified this scattered individuals, small groups, or as need. No target has been set for ancient more or less complete canopy cover. trees due to the lack of a comprehensive Abundant cavities provide for bats and register. nesting birds, while dead timber provides for fungi and invertebrates. The Ancient (or veteran) trees are found in a key issue is the continuity of a full age wide range of habitats and each one is range of trees. valuable. These are trees that are of interest biologically, aesthetically or A wide range of tree and shrub culturally because of their age, size or communities may occur as part of wood- condition. Important characteristics pasture systems. Exotic non-native include: species feature in many parks. Large girth. Types of wood-pastures and parkland Trunk cavities or hollow trunk. include: Water pools. Decay holes. Remnant medieval hunting forests Sap runs. and deer parks. Physical damage to trunk.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Bark loss. limes and mature beech trees), Large quantity of dead wood in the Hazelwood Castle (ancient woodland canopy. and parkland), Monk Fryston Hall, Fungal fruiting bodies. Newton Kyme Hall (with over-mature Ferns and mosses growing on the lime trees and pasture), Queen tree. Margaret’s School, Escrick, and Scarthingwell Park. National status Places to visit: There are no reliable statistics on the extent of the overall resource, or on Hazelwood Castle historical and current rates of loss or Grid reference SE 450400 degradation of this type of habitat. The figure of 10-20,000 ha ‘currently in a Habitat distribution map working condition’ given in the ‘habitat This habitat has not been mapped. statement’ of the UK BAP is the current best estimate. The habitat is most Legal status common in southern Britain. Forestry Act 1967 as amended. Ancient trees are of European Some sites protected by Deposit importance. Draft Selby District Local Plan (1997), as amended by modifications Regional status policy. Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) There are scattered examples, with administered by Selby DC. Duncombe Park in the North York Moors National Park identified as Associated species priorities 7 nationally important (Selman ). None. Local status

Threats Sites in the District have not been investigated for their biodiversity Loss of trees, especially ancient interest. If arranged this would provide ones, because of public safety fears. useful information. Skewed age structure leading to a

break in the availability of old trees Two sites are on the national register – for invertebrates. Nun Appleton Hall, which is described Removal of dead wood needed by as ‘well wooded’, with new planting in some species. 1893 and Moreby Hall near Stillingfleet, which is in woodland. Requirements

Other sites include Byram Hall (belts of Long-term management plans. woodland, but very open), Carlton Appropriate grazing regimes for Towers (in woodland, with lake), open ground (grassland or heath). Grimston Park (woodland belts, ancient

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Planting of specimen trees to restoration and maintenance of wood maintain continuity of ancient trees. pasture. Conservation of individual ancient trees. What you can do to help: Reinstating pollarding where this form of traditional management has Leave fallen timber to decay naturally, stopped. for the benefit of insects and fungi. Presence of varied nectar sources for invertebrates. Network of sites, to off set poor UK BAP targets powers of dispersal of many specialist animals. Maintain the current extent and Extension planting adjacent to sites. distribution of all, and the condition Research in to history and ecology of of all that is in favourable ecological sites. condition. A register of ancient trees. Initiate, in areas where there are derelict examples, a programme to Current action restore 2,500 ha to favourable ecological condition by 2010. The Ancient Tree Forum (hosted by By 2002 initiate the expansion of the Wildlife Trusts) promotes 500 ha in appropriate areas to help identification and conservation of reverse fragmentation and to reduce lowland wood pastures, parkland and the generation gap between veteran veteran trees. trees. The District Council can protect locally valued trees through Tree Links to Species Action Plans Preservation Orders. Bats - see SAP 9. Opportunities Objective • Identification and conservation of ancient trees within hedges. Ensure positive conservation • Conservation options under the management of all key sites. In the proposed Environmental long term, double the area of wood Stewardship Higher Level Scheme pasture by reinstating the habitat on (Defra), to include creation, sites where it occurred historically. Retain veteran trees wherever they occur.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 No net loss of the current resource of Lowland wood pasture and parkland. 2 Maintain or increase the breeding population and distribution of spotted flycatcher.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Raise awareness of the Forestry Act 1967, which 1 FCE 1,2 covers the protection of trees in all situations, to landowners and planning authorities.

Protection and management

Continue placing TPOs on appropriate trees. 2 SDC 1

Research and monitoring

Prepare a register of identified ancient trees, including 3 NEYEDC 1 ones within woodland, parkland and isolated trees. Undertake condition surveys, subject to landowner 4 NEYEDC permission. Establish ownership of ancient trees and seek access 5 NYCC 1 permission. Arrange for tress to be surveyed either for features indicative of veteran tree interest, or by specialist ecologists for their invertebrate or fungi interest 1

Advisory

Give advice to interested parties on management and 6 RDS (Defra), 1,2 grants. FWAG Publish articles promoting this habitat and ancient 7 NYCC 1 trees. Encourage management or restoration under the RDS (Defra) 1 proposed Environmental Stewardship Higher Level 8 FWAG Scheme.

Communications and publicity

Identify owners and raise awareness of the BAP. 9 NYCC 1 Set up a tree warden scheme. 10 NYCC 1

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Identify ancient tree champions, particularly from the 11 NYCC 1 business community.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

3. Ancient and/or species-rich of English hedges. Prior to the 1997 hedgerows Habitat Action Plan Hedgerow Regulations the net loss of hedges was 1.7% through removal and Introduction 3.5% through neglect per annum (UK BAP). The 1997 Hedgerow Regulations This is a UK BAP habitat. Ancient make it an offence to remove a hedge hedgerows, which tend to be those that without permission from the local support the greatest diversity of plants planning authority. The key issue is and animals, are defined as those that neglect. were in existence before the Enclosure Acts of 1720 to 1840. Some derive from National status early woodland clearance, which left a narrow strip of ‘wildwood’. These can In 1995 the UK total for all hedges was retain ancient woodland indicator estimated at 450,000 km. Analysis of species like wood anemone, ramsons and data from 1978 and 1990 indicates that about 42%, or 154,000 km, of British primrose. Ancient hedgerows should be considered as being irreplaceable. hedges are ancient and/or species-rich. These are concentrated mainly in south- This HAP includes hedges failing to west England and south Wales. About meet the above criteria but which have a 33%, or 41,000 km, of hedges in rich basal flora of herbaceous plants, and Northern Ireland are ancient and/or recently planted species-rich hedges. species-rich, giving a combined UK total resource of 195,000 km (UK BAP). The straight hawthorn hedges that characterise later parliamentary Regional status enclosures and single species hedges of privet, yew, beech or non-native species The Countryside Agency (CA) estimated are excluded. in 1990, that the region had 10% of England’s hedgerows and gave the In addition to their wildlife value, North Yorkshire stock as 18,000 km (all hedges have farming, landscape, cultural types). and archaeological importance. Between 1991 and 1998 123.5 km of Hedges form a significant wildlife native species hedge was planted in habitat, being a refuge for many species North Yorkshire with aid from the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) and also a wildlife corridor allowing 7 migration and dispersal. Hedge (Selman ). management is important, for example hawthorn only flowers on second year Local status growth. Different species of bird require different types of hedge management. No information on the amount or quality and none on locally important plants or Between 1947 and 1985 about 22%, or invertebrates. 300,000 km, of hedgerows were lost in England and Wales. Between 1984 and 1990 there was an estimated loss of 21%

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Sympathetic management of both Ancient &/or species-rich hedgerow. hedge and hedge bottom, including Baseline distribution map, 2003. traditional hedge-laying. Protection from agricultural spray drift through creation of adjacent grass margins. Planted trees should be of local provenance. Hedges to be left uncut for two or more years. Hawthorn flowers grow on second year growth. A variety of hedge shapes and sizes. Hedge junctions uncut to create scrub cover in field corners. Trim after berries have been eaten but before nesting season. Trim hedges on rotation around farm to provide a continuous food source. Hedge planting to connect semi- natural habitats. Legal status Current local action This habitat is protected under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. Defra is Selby District Council (SDC) currently revising the Regulations. implements the Hedgerow Regulations, which safeguard this Associated species priorities habitat. Training by FWAG, LEAF and None others for farmers. Linking Environment And Farming Threats (LEAF) demonstration farms. BTCV development of local Lack of knowledge regarding the provenance tree nurseries. resource. Yorkshire Hedgerow Campaign run Illegal removal of hedges. by BTCV. Neglect of hedge management. Management of existing and Unsympathetic hedge management. neglected hedges can be funded Agricultural spray drift killing hedge through defra schemes. species. Preference for alternative methods of Opportunities stock control, such as wire fencing. Conservation options under the Requirements proposed Defra schemes, including management under the Environmental Stewardship Entry Level Scheme and planting under the

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Environmental Stewardship Higher Maintain the overall number of Level Scheme. hedgerow trees within each county Hedgerow survey and database to be or district at least to current levels organised through the BAP. and ensure a balanced age structure.

What you can do to help: Links to Species Action Plans

Avoid severe cutting of garden hedges Bats - hedgerows provide corridors during the bird-nesting season, from between suitable habitats. See SAP 9. March to the end of July. Objective

UK BAP targets To retain and manage all Ancient and species-rich hedgerows, and to double Halt the net loss through neglect and the amount of species-rich hedgerow, removal by 2000 and all loss by using plants of local provenance. 2005. Achieve the favourable management of 25% (47,500 km) by 2000 and of 50% (95,000 km) by 2005.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Protect all Ancient and/or species-rich hedgerows qualifying under Hedgerow Regulations from removal. 2 Restore 10km of neglected Ancient and/or semi-natural hedge. 3 Increase the number of species-rich hedgerows by 50km.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Assess Hedgerow Removal Notices under the 1 SDC 1 Hedgerow Regulations 1997. Raise awareness of the Forestry Act 1967, which 2 FCE 1 covers the protection of trees in all situations, to landowners and planning authorities.

Protection and management

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Plant new species-rich hedges. 3 FWAG, RDS 3 (Defra) Work with landowners to manage hedges, especially 4 FWAG, RDS 2 neglected ones. (Defra) Encourage the planting of ash trees in hedges, to 5 FWAG - provide trees with cavities in the long term, for nesting birds and invertebrates.

Research and monitoring

Advisory

Training / advice for farmers, contractors and Local 6 FWAG, 2,3 Authority staff in traditional hedge management BTCV, LEAF techniques. Sympathetic hedge management. 7 FWAG, 1,2,3 BTCV, LEAF Advise landowners on grants and current research. 8 RDS (Defra), 2,3 FWAG Promote Environmental Stewardship schemes to 9 RDS (Defra), 1,2,3 landowners and land managers. FWAG, LEAF

Communications and publicity

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

4. Arable Farmland Habitat Where specific species are already Action Plan known to exist, derogation from the normal set aside management rules can Introduction be obtained to create ideal breeding/feeding conditions for these It has been established through long- species. For example in areas where term research that the farmed lapwing are known to breed or are countryside is important for biodiversity. frequent visitors, set aside land can be However, many species, particularly ploughed in early spring to create bare flowering arable annual plants and ground ideal for nesting, alongside short farmland birds, have declined and are grassland it provides the ideal feeding the focus of UK BAP Species Action ground for young chicks. The sowing of Plans. wild bird cover mixtures is also encouraged. Set aside strips of 20 m or The decline in biological value has 10 m wide, can be created to buffer other largely been due to production- existing wildlife habitats such as orientated agricultural policies and woodland and watercourses. technological advances since 1945. A change in arable cropping patterns has Cereal field margins encourage wildlife led to a switch from spring sown to on intensive arable farms and this man- autumn sown crops. In the Selby area, made habitat has become a UK BAP the land is predominantly in intensive priority. Defra has supported field arable cultivation. margin creation, through the Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS). However, many farmers manage their This ten-year payment scheme has a land for wildlife as well as crop diverse range of options for the whole production to the benefit of both habitats farm including 2m and 6m arable grass and species. Chemical use on farmland margins and beetle banks. Field margins has fallen and has become more targeted can buffer watercourses. in recent years and many farmers typically farm in an environmentally From 2005, Environmental Stewardship friendly way. in the farming industry will be determined by Defra in a new way, and Under the England Rural Development CSS will be phased out as ten-year Plan, Defra is delivering biodiversity agreements run their course. A wide conservation through its agri- suite of Environmental Stewardship environment schemes and its Rural Entry Level Scheme (ESELS) and Development Service. Defra is also Environmental Stewardship Higher responsible for EN. Level Scheme (ESHLS) options will succeed CSS arable options. There will Under the IACS scheme the amount of be around 17 arable options for ESELS set aside can be anything from 10% up and about 19 different options within the to 50% of the total arable area on a farm. ESHLS. This provides a huge opportunity to manage a significant area of normally Stubble is the remains of a cereal crop cultivated land for wildlife benefit. after harvest. The CSS can pay farmers

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

for the retention of stubble until Cereals cover about 51% of arable land February through the Arable options in Great Britain and 63% in England. package, with further financial Information on stubble has never been incentives if this is followed by a period collected. of fallow or low input crop. Wildlife seed mixtures and pollen and nectar Regional status mixes are also part of the arable options. Arable land is a refuge for seriously The regional audit (Selman7) gives declining arable flowers, such as figures on lengths of arable field margins cornflower. However, none of the UK in the CSS in 1998, for North Yorkshire BAP arable weed species are known to (excluding the National Parks). This grow in the District. gives 72.7 km of ‘un-cropped arable margins’ and 207 km of ‘2m grass A number of key farmland birds are margins and beetle banks’. These are associated with this habitat. These are added to give a total of 279.7 km of the species that have undergone a severe UK BAP priority habitat Cereal field decline in the UK over the last 50 years. margins for north Yorkshire in 1998. Research suggests that this is due to changing farming practices, usually Local status referred to as intensification. Birds have been adversely affected by the loss of The Phase 1 habitat survey report nest sites, winter seed and summer (Warburton9) gives a total for arable invertebrates. The latter are essential for land/urban land of 61,446ha or 85% of the chicks of some species, such as tree the total land area (NB: this figure is for sparrow. the 72,486ha land area of the pre 1996 local government boundary changes). The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) No figures are available for current areas researches changes in the population of of cereal field margin or winter stubble. wild birds through national recording schemes. Habitat distribution map This habitat has not been mapped. Bats and the bumble bees group are associated with farmland and have Legal status dedicated SAPs. • The Environment Protection (Duty The aim of this action plan is to increase of Care) Regulations 1995. cereal field margins and over-winter • Defra - good agricultural practice stubbles and it is assumed that in doing guidelines. so, the target species will benefit. Additional actions, such as winter bird Associated species priorities feeding, will be pursued. No opportunities for re-introducing ‘arable Nine species of breeding bird, one weeds’ have been identified. species of non-breeding bird and one mammal - brown hare. National status

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Recent BTO and RSPB analysis (Gregory19) gives the following national population declines for the nine birds, for the period 1974 - 1999:

Tree sparrow 95% Corn bunting 89% Grey partridge 84% Turtle dove 69% Starling 66% Grey partridge House sparrow 62% Linnet 55% Turtle dove (UK BAP) local breeding Skylark 55% summer visitor, declined to about 10 Yellowhammer 54% pairs (Cooper20). Faces threats on migration through southern Europe. The Twite (passage and wintering) main local issue is loss of weedy arable land. Status of Selby priorities The starling is a resident and widespread The tree sparrow (UK BAP) is an breeder and winter visitor. No uncommon resident and local breeder. assessment of local breeding population From a limited study, four small has been attempted, but the national colonies and declining (Cooper20). The decline is reflected by loss of large species is still found in the parish of winter roosts. Escrick. The house sparrow is a resident and The corn bunting (UK BAP) is also an widespread breeder. No assessment of uncommon resident and local breeder, breeding population, but declining, with larger winter flocks recorded than particularly in rural areas. the previous species. Declining and probably about 25 pairs (Cooper20).

Grey partridge (UK BAP) is an uncommon resident and local breeder, with about ten pairs reported by Cooper20 from a few regularly watched sites. Declining dramatically. A grey partridge re-introduction scheme has House sparrow been instigated on the Escrick Estate, through the Farm Conservation Officer. The yellowhammer is a locally declining resident and widespread breeder and winter visitor, but no local estimate of breeding pairs is available.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Retention of grassland with tussocks and nectar sources. Use of targeted pesticides. Planting of low input crops or summer fallow following winter stubble. Winter-feeding and nest box schemes benefit some birds. Protection of water quality. Yellowhammer Good hedgerow management.

The linnet (UK BAP) is a resident and Current local action widespread breeder and winter visitor, but no local data is available. Many farmers have entered the ten year CSS and most of the Skipwith The skylark (UK BAP) is a resident and estate in the parish of Escrick is in a widespread breeder and winter visitor, scheme. but it is declining dramatically locally as Training for farmers and agronomists well as nationally. by FWAG and others. Linking Environment and Farming Twite is a declining breeding finch of (LEAF) demonstration farms in the uplands. It has been found on Ryedale and Hambleton. passage or wintering at Beal Carrs. FWAG/ Yorkshire Agricultural Society Demonstration Farm at The brown hare (UK BAP) has a Hopewell House, Knaresborough. widespread distribution, and its RSPB run the Volunteer Farmer population is possibly stable. Alliance, to increase breeding bird surveys on farms. Threats Nest boxes and bird feeding can be funded through Defra schemes. Field management is greatly influenced by European Agricultural Opportunities policy through the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP). Farmers Environmental Stewardship (see above). are therefore directed in how they Voluntary Agreements on pesticide can work their land. use. The environmental impact of RSPB Bird Aid Scheme, targeting Genetically Modified (GM) crop winter bird feeding at sites in the technology requires further research. region. Development of conservation Requirements measures for arable weeds through the BAP. Corn marigold has been A wide variety of countryside reported on the Escrick Estate. features. Rotational cutting of cereal field margins.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

What you can do to help: Ancient &/or species-rich hedgerows – see HAP 3. Follow the Country Code on farmland. Lakes and ponds – see HAP 10. Rivers, streams and ditches – see HAP Keep dogs on a lead during the breeding 12. season (mid-March to end June). Bats - see SAP 9. Farmers can help seed-eating birds by Bumble bees - see SAP 10. winter-feeding with waste corn. Objective UK BAP targets Increase the biodiversity potential of Maintain, improve and restore the all arable farmland by appropriate biodiversity of 15,000 ha of cereal cropping practices and conservation field margins on appropriate soil management, thereby helping to types by 2010. restore recent losses of farmland wildlife. Links to Species Action Plans

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Increase the area of winter stubble year on year. 2 Increase the area of cereal field margins year on year. 3 Increase the distribution of the ten priority species.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Protection and management

Set up community projects to produce tree sparrow 1 BTCV, RSPB, 3 nest boxes. NYCC Undertake the erection of nest boxes on local farms 2 RDS (Defra), 3 populated by tree sparrows (especially where few FWAG, BTCV, suitable trees are available). RSPB Farmers to set up winter bird feeding stations using 3 RDS (Defra), 3 waste cereal (tailings). FWAG Encourage the planting of ash trees, which provide 4 FWAG 3 nesting cavities when mature. 53

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Undertake grey partridge conservation measures, 5 Landowners 3 such as not shooting unless the population is viable. Promote the retention of areas of scrub, especially 6 NYCC 3 gorse, for nesting by linnets.

Research and monitoring

Working with interested farmers, undertake 7 RSPB 3 breeding bird surveys as part of the RSPB Volunteer Farmer Alliance. Monitor success of nest box schemes. 8 NYCC 3 Establish the wintering status of twite. 9 Five Towns Bird 3 Club

Advisory

Support farmers in applying for Environmental 10 Defra, FWAG 1,2,3 Stewardship schemes. Arrange training days for farmers or agronomists, 11 FWAG 1,2,3 on arable field margins and arable options. Support farmers in the setting up of winter bird 12 FWAG, RSPB 3 feeding. Work with the Farm Conservation Officer of the 13 FWAG, NYCC 3 Forbes-Adam estate on farm wildlife conservation, especially the grey partridge, and use guidance from the Game Conservancy Trust, the lead agency for the UK BAP grey partridge SAP.

Communications and publicity

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

5. Grazing marsh Habitat Action Regional status Plan In the Yorkshire and The Humber Introduction region, the majority of Neutral grassland survives in the Derwent Valley and on This action plan covers those Neutral the Humberhead Levels. Regional grasslands that have significant bird figures are not available. interest. These are chiefly the wetter grasslands. Local status

Less botanically interesting grassland, The local resource has been estimated with some marshy vegetation is from the phase 1 habitat survey (Warburton9), the phase 2 habitat survey, important for declining breeding waders, 10 22 including birds such as redshank, snipe (BioDAT ), the English Nature (EN ) and lapwing. Grassland Inventory and the EN Grazing marsh inventory. Most sites are less than One UK BAP priority habitat is covered 2.6 ha in size. - Coastal and floodplain grazing marsh (here referred to as Grazing marsh). There are 1,500 ha of Grazing marsh in Selby District. Grazing marsh is pasture or meadow that occasionally floods and is dissected by Places to visit: ditches. The ditches are often permanently wet and can be rich in North Duffield Carrs, Derwent Ings plants and invertebrates. Grid reference SE 697367

The RSPB, EN and EA are undertaking Habitat distribution map a Geographical Information System No map currently available. (GIS) feasibility study for flood plain habitat restoration. This may identify Legal protection habitat opportunities for the BAP to adopt. Includes sites protected through the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and National status the Deposit Draft Selby District Local Plan (1997), as amended by The exact amount of Grazing marsh in modifications. the UK is not known but was estimated in 1994 to be about 300,000 ha, Associated species priorities including 290,000 ha of marshy grassland and 10,000 ha of herb-rich. Harvest mouse The UK has seen severe declines in the Barn owl last fifty years due to conversion to Snipe arable or re-seeding and annual fertiliser Lapwing input, to support intensive grazing or Redshank silage production. Yellow wagtail

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Status of Selby priorities hunting during migration through the Mediterranean region. Little information is available on the status of the harvest mouse and further Threats research is needed. Housing and industrial development. Barn owl is a local resident breeder, with Disturbance to breeding animals by probably 20 – 30 pairs and stable. The people and dogs. snipe is a winter visitor and localised resident breeder, with probably 10 – 20 Requirements pairs, especially in the Lower Derwent Valley and Fairburn Ings. Probably Traditional agricultural management, stable (Cooper20). including hay cutting or grazing. Use of organic herbicides and fertilisers. The lapwing is a winter visitor in Seasonally high water table for sizeable numbers. Cooper20 mentions a Grazing marsh. dramatic decline over the last ten to 15 Bare ground is important for many years and estimates that at least ten pairs invertebrates. still breed. Current local action Lapwing This is a target agri-environment scheme habitat, with options for the management, restoration and re- creation of wet grassland for breeding or wintering waders and wildfowl. The Environment Agency (EA) produce Catchment Flood Management Plans (CFMP) that provide a strategic planning framework for the integrated management of flood risks to people and the developed and natural The redshank is a passage migrant and environment in a sustainable manner. localised resident breeder, especially in EN SSSI management plans. the Lower Derwent Valley and at EN has published the Lower Fairburn Ings, but with no definite Derwent Valley agri-environment breeding data. Declining. information pack. RSPB run the Volunteer Farmer The yellow wagtail is a passage migrant Alliance, to increase breeding bird and localised breeder, with probably ten surveys on farms. pairs. Declining dramatically, for Advice from RDS (Defra) and example there were 80 pairs in the FWAG. Lower Derwent Valley in 1994 (Cooper20). Faces severe threats from Opportunities

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Creation, restoration and Maintain existing quality and extent management options available under of 30,000 ha. the proposed Defra schemes, due to Rehabilitate 10,000 ha that is too dry start in 2005. These include the or is intensively managed by 2000. Environmental Stewardship Entry Begin creating 2,500 ha from arable Level Scheme and the land by 2000. Environmental Stewardship Higher Level Scheme. Links to Species Action Plans Identify potential land suitable for habitat re-creation in Humberhead Water vole - see SAP 2. Levels and lower Aire valley. Tansy beetle - see SAP 4. Manage best road verges. Bats - see SAP 9. Bumble bees - see SAP 10. What you can do to help: Objective Keep dogs under control when walking in meadows and along riverbanks in the Maintain the extent and quality of breeding season. remaining remnants of Floodplain grazing marsh. Double the existing UK BAP targets resource, which will benefit birds in particular. Floodplain grazing marsh

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Re-create and manage 25 ha of carefully targeted, Grazing marsh for its bird interest. 2 Maintain current distribution of harvest mouse. 3 Increase distribution of five target species.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Protection and management

Re-create floodplain grazing marsh in the Lower 1 EA, RDS 1,2,3 Aire Valley. (Defra)

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Re-create this habitat in the Selby part of the 2 RDS (Defra), 1,2,3 Humberhead Levels Natural Area. EN Landowners to use Environmental Stewardship 3 RDS (Defra), 1,2,3 schemes to re-create this habitat. FWAG, NFU, CLA Landowners to enter Environmental Stewardship 4 RDS (Defra), 1,2,3 schemes to manage existing habitat. FWAG, NFU, CLA Assist hay meadow owners with clearing river-born 5 BTCV - debris prior to cutting. Increase the area of reed canary grass habitat, 6 RDS (Defra) 2 favoured by harvest mouse.

Research and monitoring

Undertake work to identify potential areas for habitat 7 EA, RSPB 1,2,3 re-creation. Investigate breeding bird populations, possibly 8 RSPB, local bird 3 through Volunteer Farmer Alliance. clubs Erect barn owl nest boxes. 9 NYCC 3

Advisory

Pro-actively advise landowners and funding 10 RDS (Defra), 1,2,3 opportunities. FWAG, NFU, CLA, EN, EA

Communications and publicity

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

6. Unimproved grassland Habitat Action Plan Local indicator species include quaking grass, bird’s-foot trefoil, lady’s Introduction bedstraw, bloody cranesbill and wild carrot. Insects include common blue Unimproved grassland can be described butterfly and yellow meadow ant. as acid, calcareous or neutral, depending on the underlying soil conditions, each Lowland dry acid grassland type being characterised by specific Sites tend to be isolated, occurring on plant species. heaths and along forest rides. Plant species include wavy hair-grass, heath This action plan considers important bedstraw, sheep's sorrel and tormentil. botanical grasslands, which are un- Animal species include small copper improved or semi-improved in butterfly and birds include meadow pipit agricultural terms. They are generally and green woodpecker. herb-rich and low input management is the key to their conservation. Some Lowland meadows (neutral grassland) conservation organisations own their Lowland meadows are neutral, herb-rich own stock – often including rare breeds grasslands, such as unimproved of cattle and sheep – to manage nature meadows, churchyards and road verges. reserves. Nearby meadows are also These support plant species such as needed for winter grazing. meadow barley, sweet vernal grass, great burnet, pignut and betony. Breeding Unimproved grassland is a fragile birds are represented by skylark, and habitat that has declined severely in the non-breeding birds by invertebrate UK. feeders such as starlings. There is a considerable invertebrate interest. Three UK BAP priority habitats are covered - Lowland calcareous Road verges grassland, Lowland dry acid grassland Some of the surviving remnants of good and Lowland meadows. grassland are found on road verges. North Yorkshire County Council Lowland calcareous grassland (NYCC) undertakes some verge cutting, In Selby all of the calcareous grassland salt storage and gritting. is found on shallow, lime-rich soils over Magnesian Limestone. Much has been National status lost to land use change, with remnants restricted to steep valleys, old quarries There is between 33,000 and 41,000 ha and on rail and road embankments. of Lowland calcareous grassland of all types in the UK, (some 78% is on chalk). Nationally, Magnesian Limestone The UK total for Magnesian Limestone grassland has a unique assemblage of is between 1,000 and 4,000 ha (UK plant and invertebrate species, including BAP). over 13 Nationally Scarce plants and 84 Nationally Scarce invertebrates (UK There are 30,000 ha of Lowland dry acid BAP). grassland in the UK (UK BAP).

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

The Lowland meadows resource in Unimproved grassland. All types). England and Wales is less than 12,000 Baseline distribution map, 2003. ha and declined by 97% between 1930 and 1984 (UK BAP).

Regional status

The Yorkshire and The Humber Region has Upland calcareous grassland (on limestone) and Lowland calcareous grassland (on chalk and Magnesian limestone).

A total of 642 ha of Magnesian Limestone grassland is given for the region (Selman7).

Between 160 and 750 ha of Lowland dry acid grassland is given for the region 7 (Selman ). Places to visit:

No regional figure for Lowland meadow Brockadale YNT Nature Reserve. is available. Grid reference SE 508168

Local status Stutton disused railway track. Public footpath at SE 478411 The local resource has been estimated from the phase 1 habitat survey A63 road embankment at Selby Fork 9 10 (Warburton ), BioDAT and the English Hotel junction. Nature (EN) Grassland Inventory. Access from lay-by at SE 470299

Lowland calcareous (Magnesian Lowland dry acid grassland limestone) grassland Just 0.2% of the Selby land area is this Just 0.05% of the Selby land area habitat. This is a total of 126 ha, some of contains this habitat. This is a total of 31 which occurs at Skipwith common SSSI ha, of which some is within Sherburn and 5.2 ha within seven SINC sites. Willows SSSI, some is within (Warburton9 and BioDAT10). Brockadale SSSI and 0.7 ha is within seven SINC sites (Warburton9 and 10 Places to visit: BioDAT ). Barlow Common LNR. Car park at SE 638281

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Lowland meadow provenance) for re-instatement after engineering works. There is 127 ha of Lowland meadow, Current local action including 104ha within Sites Important for Nature Conservation (SINC) Skipwith Common SSSI (Warburton9 and BioDAT10). management plan (acid grassland). YWT management plan and Legal status Countryside Stewardship Scheme in place for Brockadale Nature Magnesian Limestone grassland is listed Reserve, including scrub control on the EC Habitats Directive. (Magnesian Limestone grassland). North Yorkshire County Council Associated species priorities Road verge strategy.

Green hellebore Opportunities

Status of Selby priorities: Favourable management of road verges by the highways authority. Green hellebore has occurred at a single Review of restoration schemes for site on the Magnesian Limestone since active mineral sites by NYCC, 1888. Although it may have come from a should identify opportunities for herb garden, it is suspected of being restoration of Unimproved grassland. native. Good number of plants at this site Creation, restoration and in 2002. management options available under the proposed Defra schemes, due to Threats start in 2005. These include the Environmental Stewardship Entry Loss of habitat to development, road Level Scheme and the building, farm diversification. Environmental Stewardship Higher Habitat degradation through Level Scheme. inappropriate management, such as Parish road verge management lack of grazing or over grazing. projects. Inappropriate cutting regimes on Conservation grazing project, links road verges. to rare breed trusts and machine rings to share stock and equipment. Requirements Discourage the planting of garden plant varieties, such as daffodil, Grazing at appropriate levels and outside of the urban aea. time of year. Arable land with low fertility levels Mowing at sites where grazing is is ideal for habitat re-creation under impractical. Environmental stewardship. Scrub management. Some bare ground for insects. What you can do to help: Use of appropriate conservation wildflower seed mixes (of local Enjoy wild flowers, but leave them for others to enjoy.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Re-establish 500 ha at targeted sites Seek owner consent and BAP by 2010. partnership advice to manage a road verge for wildlife. Lowland meadows Arrest the depletion. Within SSSIs initiate rehabilitation management for all significant stands UK BAP targets in unfavourable condition by 2005, to achieve favourable status by 2010. Lowland calcareous grassland: For stands elsewhere, secure Arrest depletion. favourable condition over 30% of the Within SSSIs start rehabilitation resource by 2005 and near to 100% management for significant stands in by 2015. unfavourable condition by 2005, to Re-establish 500 ha at targeted sites get favourable status by 2010. by 2010. For other sites, secure favourable condition over 30% of resource by Links to Species Action Plans 2005 and 100% by 2015. Re-establish 1,000 ha at targeted Bats - see SAP 9. sites by 2010. Bumble bees - see SAP 10. The forester moth - see SAP 12. Lowland dry acidic grasslands: Arrest depletion. Objective Within SSSIs start rehabilitation management for significant stands in To conserve and enhance all unfavourable condition by 2005, to remaining areas of species-rich, get favourable status by 2010. unimproved grassland. Doubling of For other sites, secure favourable the resource through restoration and condition over 30% of resource by re-creation. 2005 and 100% by 2015.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Enhance 0.5ha of calcareous grassland. 2 Enhance 0.5ha of acid grassland. 3 Enhance 0.5ha of neutral grassland. 4 Re-create 5 ha of acid grassland. 5 Maintain the current population of green hellebore.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Set up maintenance schedules for roadside verges, 1 NYCC 1,2,3,4 based on favourable management for wildlife. Integrate appropriate verge management practice into 2 NYCC 1,2,3 NYCC road verge policy and focus upon Special Interest Verges as a priority NYCC in conjunction with the mineral planning 3 NYCC authority to seek strong mitigation for much more strategic habitat creation, for the after use of mineral sites. Biodiversity gains to be based on the historic losses of habitats from the District as shown by BAP priorities. Conservation decisions to be based on the principle of prioritising as follows: Protection and favourable management of the existing resource, enhancement of the existing resource where it is degraded and re-creation of lost resource.

Protection and management

Cut Special Interest Verges to benefit nature 4 NYCC 1,2,3 conservation Management of scrub encroachment at Brockadale 5 YWT, RDS 1 YWT Reserve. (Defra), EN Establish ownership of Magnesian Limestone 6 NYCC 1 grassland near Selby fork hotel and seek access permission. SINC Survey Steering Group to undertake botanical survey to identify potential for SINC designation by North Yorkshire SINC Panel Organise the management of scrub encroachment at 7 NYCC 1 calcareous grassland site near to the Selby Fork Hotel. Involve community groups in management work. 8 Selby All Groundwork, BTCV Re-creation of acidic grassland as part of the 9 NYCC 4 restoration of working sand quarries.

Research and monitoring

Utilise local knowledge to identify and record Special 10 NYCC 1,2,3 63

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Interest Verges

Advisory

Advise landowners on nature conservation value, 11 FWAG, RDS 1,2,3,4 management and funding opportunities. (Defra) Offer advice to mineral extraction companies and 12 NYCC 1,2,3 landowners regarding strategic habitat creation, especially species-rich grasslands.

Communications and publicity

Discourage the planting of garden plant varieties 13 NYCC outside of the urban envelope, through publicity material.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

7. Lowland Heathland Habitat with about 950 ha in the Vale of York 7 Action Plan (Selman ).

Introduction Local Status

Lowland Heathland is characterised by Approximately 300 ha occur in Selby the presence of plants such as heather, District. The most significant site is cross-leaved heath and gorse. It is Skipwith Common SSSI. At 293 ha generally found below 300m. Good this site represents over 95% of the quality heathland includes a mosaic of local heathland resource. Smaller heather ages, with scattered trees, fragments of heathland remain scrub, bare ground, wet heaths, bogs elsewhere, for example near the villages of Hambleton and Hensall and open water. Associated with these 9 10 habitats is a rich and varied fauna with (Warburton and BioDAT ). many characteristic species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Places to visit:

Lowland heathland is a UK priority Skipwith Common BAP habitat. In England, only one Park at grid reference SE 644374 or sixth of the heathland present in 1800 access from Skipwith Village SE now remains. This loss is reflected 665384. internationally with the British heaths now representing around 20% of the Legal status remaining habitat on a global scale. Skipwith Common, the key site, is a Large areas of heathy commons were candidate SAC and a SSSI. once a feature around many towns and villages in the Vale of York. It has Associated species priorities been estimated that heathland once covered between 4,000 – 20,000 ha in Marsh gentian the region. Only a fraction of this now Nightjar remains. Woodlark Tree pipit Heathland losses have resulted from Adder changes in agricultural practice, afforestation and urban development. Status of Selby priorities

National Status The breeding nightjar population had a high of 17 pairs in 1990, but there have The UK has some 58,000 ha of this been only two or three pairs in recent habitat, of which about 55% is found years (Cooper20). Up to six pairs of in England. The most significant tree pipit nest (Cooper20). Although concentrations of the habitat are in the found in other habitats the adder is southern counties of England and closely associated with heathland South Wales (UK BAP). habitats, with Skipwith Common thought to be a stronghold for the Regional Status species. Marsh Gentian is found at a single site and its status is Although reduced in extent, heathland consequently vulnerable. covers at least 1,100 ha in the region, 65

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

One site – Skipwith Common – Requirements supports the UK BAP plant pillwort. This has a dedicated Species Action No loss of the remaining heathland Plan. resource. Appropriate management of existing sites. Restoration of neglected sites. Re-creation of heathland from forestry plantations or through arable reversion – following careful targeting to identify suitable low fertility sites. Site management plans to include prescriptions for priority Selby Adder species.

Threats Current local action

Small fragments of heathland may A partnership between EN, be vulnerable to changes in land Forestry Commission (FC), use. Ministry of Defence (MOD), Lack of management. A lack of Escrick Park Estate and Yorkshire management has resulted in Wildlife Trust (YWT) (on land remaining sites becoming outside the District) has been dominated by scrub and woodland, awarded a 347k Heritage Lottery decreasing the area supporting Fund (HLF) grant for the 750k heathland. Tomorrow’s Heathland Heritage Fragmentation and isolation. The project. This will manage and above factors and historical losses restore existing heathland in the mean that remaining heathlands are Vale of York, look at opportunities often isolated, being surrounded by for the expansion of the heathland improved agricultural land or resource and promote public forestry. This can make appreciation and understanding of management difficult and can often the habitat. This project will resulting in the diversity of deliver many of the Heathland individual sites decreasing. BAP targets. Recreation use. Although not a Skipwith Common has been major problem at present motor designated a SSSI and receives cycle use at Skipwith Common international protection through its does have the potential to damage classification as a candidate SAC. the heathland present and disturb The site is covered by an EN wildlife. management agreement ensuring Trespass and fly tipping. Both sympathetic management these activities can physically Land adjoining Skipwith Common damage sites and result in them is being managed for heathland re- becoming unsightly and dangerous. creation under the CSS. Reversion, restoration and management options available under the proposed Environmental

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Stewardship Higher Level Scheme Maintain and improve by (Defra) due to start in 2005. management, all 58,000 ha. Re-establish 6,000 ha, especially in southern England and southern Opportunities Wales by 2005.

Delivery by EN of substantial conservation work through the Links to Species Action Plans Tomorrow’s Heathland Heritage (THH) HLF award. Pillwort - see SAP 6. Agri-environment scheme options A water beetle, Agabus uliginosis - to allow the reversion of arable, see SAP 8. improved pasture and forestry to Bats - see SAP 9. Lowland heath. Bumble bees - see SAP 10. Defra may fund feasibility studies. Clearwing moths (at least one species) - see SAP 11. Rare moths (six species) - see SAP What you can do to help: 12.

Keep dogs under control when visiting Objective heathland sites. Ensure that fires are not started. Double the Lowland heathland resource, through re-creation, restoration and management, and UK BAP targets manage it for priority Selby species.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Re-create 50 ha of heathland. 2 Restore 100 ha of heathland. 3 Maintain or increase distribution of five priority species.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and Legislation

Protection & Management

Pro-actively identify suitable areas and implement 1 THH All heathland re-creation, through the THH project. Remove scrub and woodland at Skipwith Common. 2 THH 2,3

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Pro-actively identify sites requiring favourable 3 THH 2,3 grazing regimes and implement through the THH scheme. Provide appropriate habitat management for marsh 4 THH 3 gentian at Skipwith Common and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for nightjar 5 THH 3 at Skipwith Common and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for 6 THH 3 woodlark at Skipwith Common and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for tree 7 THH 3 pipit at Skipwith Common and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for adder at 8 THH 3 Skipwith Common and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for the - THH See bumble bee (Bombus jonellus) at Skipwith Common SAP10 and other appropriate sites. Provide appropriate habitat management for priority - THH See SAP moths at Skipwith Common and other appropriate 11 & sites. SAP 12

Research & Monitoring

Identify suitable areas for heathland restoration 9 THH 2,3 schemes. Undertake research, where necessary, into the habitat 10 THH 3 management requirements of priority Selby species. Establish status of adder. 11 THH, 3 NEYEDC

Advisory

Advise land managers on potential of agri- 12 THH, RDS All environment schemes to re-create, restore or manage (Defra) heathlands.

Communications and Publicity

Development of visitor infrastructure at Skipwith 13 THH All Common and the running of heathland events for the public.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

8. Fens Habitat Action Plan a large proportion of the European resource. Eighty fen sites are listed in the Introduction UK BAP action plan.

Four similar habitats are categorised by their wetness and in order of wetness these are swamp, fen, bog and marsh. Regional status

Fen is a type of mire, which receives at Fens are concentrated in the Yorkshire least part of its water and nutrients from Dales, the North York Moors and the soil, rock or groundwater, as well as Humberhead Levels (Selman7). rainfall. Fens contrast with bogs, which mainly receive water and nutrients from Local status rainfall alone. Fens are commonly divided into ‘rich-fen’, which is fed by Fen communities occur at Fairburn Ings calcium-rich water, and ‘poor-fen’ SSSI and on Skipwith Common SSSI. which is typically acid and has low fertility. There are 25 ha of swamp (defined as swamp, fen, bog and marsh) on 24 sites Fen vegetation succeeds from aquatic in the BioDAT database. The fen plants through reed beds to sedge beds. resource in Selby is therefore very small Over time the build up of plant material (Warburton9 and BioDAT10). raises the level of the ground leading to drier conditions and Wet woodland. Places to visit:

Fen communities, along with other Fairburn Ings RSPB Reserve. floodplain wetland habitats, were Park in Fairburn Village at grid historically a major landscape reference SE 471279 and follow the component in the District. track to the south, or at the car park at grid reference SE 452278. Fens support a large range of invertebrates including nationally rare Swamp/fen habitat. Baseline beetles and flies. distribution map, 2003.

The RSPB, EN and EA are undertaking a Geographical Information System (GIS) feasibility study for flood plain habitat restoration. This may identify habitat opportunities for the BAP to adopt.

National status

The UK once had vast tracts of fens, long since converted to rich farmland. However, the UK is still thought to hold

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Threats

Lack of knowledge regarding the resource. Nutrient enrichment. Most fens are small and isolated and their fragmentation has led to local extinctions.

Requirements

Maintenance of high water table. Regular cropping of fen plants to slow the growth of peat and delay succession. Creation of new areas of open water within drying fen systems. Legal status Current local action Fairburn Ings and Skipwith Common are SSSIs. Fairburn Ings is managed for its fen and other communities by the RSPB. Associated species priorities Opportunities Aquatic beetle - Acilius canaliculatus Aquatic beetle - Agabus labiatus Habitat re-creation as part of Mineral Aquatic beetle - Helophorus strigifrons Restoration Strategies. Aquatic beetle - Dryops auriculatus Carefully targeted creation, restoration and management options Status of Selby priorities available under the proposed Environmental Stewardship Higher Water beetle assemblages associated Level Scheme (Defra) due to start in with shallow fen pools are particularly 2005. important in Selby District. Scarce or threatened species found in this habitat UK BAP targets include Acilius canaliculatus (Skipwith Common), Agabus labiatus (Skipwith Initiate restoration of priority fen Common), Helophorus strigifrons sites in critical need of rehabilitation (North Duffield Carrs, Skipwith by the year 2005. Common, Camblesforth) and Dryops Ensure appropriate water quality and auriculatus (Skipwith Common). Many water quantity for the continued other species occur. Agabus labiatusis is existence of all SSSI fens by 2005. seriously declining. Links to Species Action Plans

Water vole - see SAP 2.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

A diving beetle Agabus uliginosus - see Objective SAP 8. Bats - see SAP 9. To increase understanding of the extent, quality, ownership and current management of Fen habitat in the District, and to conserve and enhance all fen communities. To investigate techniques for fen creation and increase the resource by one site.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Create 5 ha of fen. 2 Maintain current distribution of four priority species.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Protection and management

Mineral Planning Officers to seek strong mitigation 1 NYCC 1,2 for much more strategic habitat creation, including fen, for the after use of mineral sites Provide appropriate habitat management for aquatic 2 EN 2 invertebrates at Skipwith Common. Identify suitable locations, establish land ownership 3 NYCC, RDS 2 and advise on appropriate habitat management for (Defra) aquatic invertebrates at North Duffield Carrs, Camblesforth and other sites.

Research and monitoring

Liaise with conservation organisations and 4 FWAG, 2 landowners to establish information about the fen NYCC, resource. NEYEDC

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Advisory

Advise land managers on potential of agri- 5 FWAG, RDS 1,2 environment schemes to re-create, restore or manage (Defra) fens.

Communications and publicity

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

9. Reedbed Habitat Action Plan The largest resource is at the eastern end of Fairburn Ings, otherwise few small Introduction reedbeds occur, mainly on the fringes of lakes, ings (such as in the Derwent Reedbeds are wetlands usually Valley), rivers and ditches. Common dominated by common reed, with water reed is an important species because it 9 levels at or above ground level for much creates linear habitat (Warburton and 10 of the year. BioDAT ).

Many specialist plants and animals are This is a habitat that is likely to have found in reedbeds, including nationally been much more extensive in historic rare invertebrates. The Vale of York is a times. key area for scarce aquatic invertebrates due to the long presence of wetlands. For Places to visit: example, two rare whirligig beetles favour the fringes of reed beds (see Fairburn Ings RSPB Reserve. Annex B). Park in Fairburn Village at grid reference SE 471279 and follow the Birds such as the bittern, bearded tit, and track to the south, or at the car park at marsh harrier require reedbeds and are grid reference SE 452278. all potential Selby colonisers. Reed warbler and reed bunting breed at a Habitat distribution map number of sites. No map available.

The RSPB, EN and EA are undertaking Legal status a Geographical Information System (GIS) feasibility study for flood plain None. habitat restoration. This may identify habitat opportunities for the BAP to Associated species priorities adopt. Reed bunting National status Status of Selby priorities The UK has 5,000 ha of Reedbed, not including those found along drainage The reed bunting is a UK BAP priority ditches. Few sites over 20 ha occur. species, which is a widespread resident breeder and passage migrant. Cooper20 Regional status notes at least 25 singing males.

The Regional audit gives 400 ha of Reedbed in the Yorkshire and The Humber region, including four over 20 ha in size (Selman7).

Local status

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Humberhead levels and in the Lower Aire valley. Creation, restoration and management options available under the proposed Environmental Stewardship Higher Level Scheme (Defra) due to start in 2005.

What you can do to help:

Visit one of the major reedbeds in the area such as Blacktoft Sands, Hornsea Reed bunting Mere or Fairburn Ings RSPB reserves.

Threats

UK BAP targets Hydrological changes.

Lack of a register of sites. Identify and rehabilitate all priority

reedbeds by 2000 and maintain Requirements condition through management.

Create 1,200 ha of new reedbed by Water level management to keep 2010. habitat in a favourable condition.

Habitat creation as part of the Links to Species Action Plans restoration of mineral extraction

sites. Otter - see SAP 1.

Water vole - see SAP 2. Current local action Bats - see SAP 9.

Rare moths, specifically twin-spotted Reedbeds at Fairburn Ings managed wainscot moth - see SAP 12. by RSPB.

Objective Opportunities

To establish the number of reedbeds Creation of reedbeds following in the District and to double the mineral extraction and as part of resource. flood defence work. Both the

Environment Agency (EA) and

RSPB are investigating the potential for habitat creation in the

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Create 20 ha of reedbed. 2 Increase distribution the priority species.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Consider reedbed creation as part of the EA 1,2 Environment Agency’s Catchment Flood 1 Management Plan. NYCC in conjunction with the mineral planning 2 NYCC authority to seek strong mitigation for much more strategic habitat creation, for the after use of mineral sites. Biodiversity gains to be based on the historic losses of habitats from the District, utilising areas such as those identified by the feasibility study for floodplain habitat restoration, undertaken by RSPB, English Nature and the Environment Agency in 2003.

Protection and management

Identify suitable sites, establish land ownership and 3 NYCC, 1,2 work with landowners to investigate projects to FWAG create reedbeds on lake margins.

Research and monitoring

Establish a register of sites. 4 NEYEDC -

Advisory

Advise land managers on potential of agri- 5 RDS (Defra) 1,2 environment schemes to create and manage reedbeds.

Communications and publicity

Promote Sustainable Drainage Schemes (SUDS), 6 EA, RSPB, 1,2 which include provision for reedbed creation, to NYCC developers.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

10. Lakes and ponds Habitat National status Action Plan This habitat is widespread across the Introduction UK.

This action plan covers open standing Regional status water habitat and its associated wildlife interest. It includes lakes and ponds that The regional habitat audit deals only are either natural or man-made. with the two UK BAP priority habitats. It lists nine mesotrophic lakes and four This plan covers both seasonal and eutrophic ones. permanent water bodies and a range of sizes. Local status

Human activities can result in the The Selby phase 1 habitat survey did not creation of wetlands, such as those measure open water. However, there are created through mining subsidence, and numerous examples, including flooded borrow pits created by the flooding of ings, ornamental lakes, gravel pits, sites where material has been excavated, borrow pits and ponds. Sites include usually for the construction of road or Carlton Towers, Scarthingwell Park, rail embankments. Fairburn Ings, Beal Carrs, Skipwith Common, and Camblesforth Common. Wildlife interest depends upon the nutrient status of the water. This has Places to visit: been categorised as nutrient poor (oligotrophic), having a narrow range of Barlow Common LNR nutrients (mesotrophic) or nutrient rich Car park at grid reference SE 638281. (eutrophic). A lake might switch from one type to another, or have two types at Lakes and Ponds habitat. Baseline the same time. Most lakes are eutrophic. distribution map, 2003.

Both mesotrophic lakes and eutrophic standing waters are UK BAP priority habitats (for large water bodies).

Water beetle assemblages associated with shallow pools are locally rich due to the historic abundance of this habitat.

Marginal habitats and bare ground are important for wildlife and this plan should be considered in conjunction with both the Reedbeds and Fens plans.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Legal status Stocking of coarse fish into fisheries can affect the natural predator - prey Defra guidelines on good agricultural balance in the lake. practice. Overgrazing of margins can reduce water vole habitat. Associated species priorities Requirements Whooper swan Shoveler High water quality. Protection from pollution. Status of Selby priorities Buffer zones to intercept nutrient rich run off. Small numbers of whooper swans winter Adequate water supply. regularly on wetlands such as Beal Carrs A variety of water depths. and North Duffield Carrs. The shoveler A variety of aquatic and marginal is a scarce and localised duck. It is a sub-habitats. breeding resident and winter visitor, with Complexes of pools (up to 400m probably 10 to 20 pairs (Cooper20). apart and connected by good habitat) can help to safeguard against local extinctions. Temporary pools (some species are adapted to these conditions). Good quality surrounding habitat for species that leave the water, such as amphibians and dragonflies. Minimal disturbance from people Shoveler and dogs - especially for breeding birds. Prevent colonisation of invasive non- Threats native species into new areas. Control of established invasive non- Water abstraction. native species of plant and animal. Damage and disturbance caused by Water level management. recreational use. Dredging of silt in some Radical management. circumstances. Loss of ponds through neglect. Pollution. Current local action Nutrient enrichment from agricultural fertiliser run off. Fairburn Ings is a managed SSSI and Introduced species of plant and RSPB reserve. animal, including, Canadian Creation, restoration, management waterweed, floating pennywort, New and resource protection options Zealand pygmyweed, water fern, available under the proposed Himalayan balsam, American mink Environmental Stewardship Higher and American signal crayfish. Level Scheme (Defra) due to start in 2005.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Lakes and ponds are considered in Create a garden pond for wildlife. water-level management plans, initiated by Defra and delivered by local drainage authorities. UK BAP targets Funding for pond creation work is Same for both Mesotrophic lakes and available from Yorkshire Water. Eutrophic standing waters:

Opportunities Maintain the condition of all important sites in favourable condition. Creation of wildlife ponds in gardens By 2005 initiate action to restore to and on farms. favourable condition other important Undertake survey to identify ponds sites damaged by human activity. and develop a register. Ensure that no further deterioration Undertake survey of established non- occurs to remaining sites. native species and develop a register. Management of wetland created by Links to Species Action Plans subsidence. Favourable wildlife management of Arable farmland - see SAP 4. water bodies by angling clubs. Otter - see SAP 1. Pond creation on business premises. Water vole - see SAP 2. Creation of ponds as mitigation Great crested newt - see SAP 3. within development schemes and as Pillwort - see SAP 6. part of Sustainable Drainage A diving beetle Agabus uliginosus - see Schemes. SAP 8. Better conservation of the resource Bats - see SAP 9. e.g. borrow pits. Objective

What you can do to help: Carefully target the creation of hundreds of water bodies for wildlife Keep dogs under control. and bring all existing water bodies into favourable conservation Dispose of discarded fishing tackle management. safely.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Create ten new water bodies, targeted for particular biodiversity gain. 2 Enhance ten water bodies, including borrow pits, for conservation. 3 Maintain current wintering distribution of Whooper swan. 4 Maintain current breeding and wintering distributions of shoveler.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and legislation

Protection and management

Work with developers to create wildlife wetlands as 1 NYCC 1 part of new developments, where appropriate, for example as part of Sustainable Drainage Schemes. Liaise with businesses to create ponds on site for 2 GS, NYCC 1 wildlife, which will also improve the quality of life of employees Encourage landowners to create wildlife ponds 3 FWAG, 1,3,4 within agri-environment agreements. DEFRA Encourage creation of ponds in gardens or public 4 GS, NYCC 1 open space. Establish ownership of borrow pits and seek 5 NYCC 2 agreements on favourable management. Create temporary pools within Bishop Wood. See 6 FE 2 SAP 8. Support efforts to manage Beal Carrs in a favourable 7 NYCC 2,3,4 condition for wildlife.

Research and monitoring

Advisory

Provide advice to site owners on agri-environment 8 FWAG All schemes, grants, pond management and pond ecology.

Communications and publicity

Encourage angling clubs to further recognise the 9 NYCC 3,4 desirability of wildlife conservation.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

11. Canal Habitat Action Plan Haddlesey on the River Aire has been identified as a barrier. This issue is Introduction covered in the Rivers, streams and ditches HAP. This section of the action plan covers canals and navigable rivers. Canals are National status man-made waterways originally constructed for the transport of goods The canal network, which includes and people. A small amount of freight is navigable rivers, amounts to a total still carried on some canals, but their length of 3,200 km, the majority of this primary use is recreational, attracting is owned and managed by British many users including boaters, anglers, Waterways (BW). walkers and cyclists. Navigable rivers are rivers that are accessible to boat Regional status traffic. The region has a good canal network. Canal and river corridors provide a There is 450km of canals and navigable mosaic of habitats. rivers in the region.

Canal corridors can support a large Local status number of key species and groups, including representatives from the Within the District of Selby there are following: four main canals and rivers. These are:

aquatic plants the Selby Canal which runs for 8.5 ferns km from West Haddlesey on the native trees River Aire and joins the River Ouse mammals – otter, water vole, bats at Selby Lock. birds the navigable River Ouse which runs amphibians through the District for reptiles approximately 39 km. fish the Aire and Calder Navigation butterflies & moths which runs through the south of dragonflies & damselflies Selby District for just over 6 km. molluscs – depressed river mussel the River Aire Navigation which crustacae - white-clawed crayfish runs for 9.5 km. freshwater sponges Places to visit: Canals can be very important for wildlife, providing a combination of Selby canal terrestrial and freshwater habitats and Grid reference SE 617314. often forming a ‘green’ corridor into urban areas.

The movement of migratory fish is important and the weir at Chappel

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Canal habitat. Baseline distribution Lack of, or inappropriate, habitat map, 2003. management. Hard engineering to maintain the canal and associated structures. Unsympathetic dredging and engineering works. The introduction and spread of invasive species such as American signal crayfish, floating pennywort, Japanese knotweed. Recreational pressures in sensitive areas.

Requirements

To identify key species and habitats along the canals and navigable rivers and to take these into consideration Legal status when planning any capital works or maintenance programmes. British Waterways (BW) is the navigation authority for the canals and Current local action navigable rivers in the Selby District and has statutory obligations to maintain the All works carried out by BW are subject canal to defined navigable standards. to an environmental appraisal. This The British Waterways Act 1995 also ensures that protected sites and species obliges BW to ‘further the conservation are identified and appropriate of flora, fauna…of special interest’ in consultation and mitigation is carrying out these duties and also to take undertaken. The work can be carried out into account the effect that any proposals taking opportunities to improve the relating to its functions have on the biodiversity of the waterway whilst environment. minimising environmental damage.

Associated species priorities Opportunities

None. For partners to work together to remove barriers to fish migration. Threats Undertake surveys to identify established non-native species and Threats to the various habitats and develop a register. species within the canal corridors include: What you can do to help: Pollution from surface water run-off, storm overflows, agri-chemicals and Keep dogs under control. fertilisers.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Dispose of discarded fishing tackle Water vole - see SAP 2. safely. Bats - see SAP 9.

Objective UK BAP targets No specific UK BAP plan. To improve the biodiversity of the canal and navigable river corridors. Links to Species Action Plans

Otter - see SAP 1.

Ten-year targets

No. Biodiversity target 1 Enhance four lengths of navigation by producing a BAP for each.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinator target No.

Policy and legislation -

Protection and management

Prepare a BAP for each of the BW navigations. 1 BW 1 Undertake an environmental appraisal prior to any works 2 BW 1 and consult with the relevant authorities. Ensure that maintenance works on the waterways do not 3 BW 1 compromise the conservation status of key habitats and species. Identify and implement opportunities to enhance 4 BW, EA 1 populations of key species and key habitats. Identify invasive non-native species in the waterway 5 BW, EA 1 corridor, draw up plans for eradication where possible and implement plans.

Research and monitoring

Identify the presence and distribution of UK and local 6 BW, EA, EN 1 priority species within the canal and navigable river corridors and report to the appropriate Lead Partner organisation.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Identify and map key habitats. 7 BW - Undertake surveys for invasive species and monitor 8 BW 1 eradication programmes. Following works on the waterways monitor to ensure 9 BW 1 benefits to species and habitats.

Advisory

Advise riparian landowners on the value of buffer zones 10 BW 1,2 which protect the waterway from diffuse pollution and provide a valuable habitat. Advise boaters and other users on good practice to reduce 11 BW 1,2 pollution, littering etc.

Communication and publicity

Develop links and work with local groups to promote 12 BW 1,2 good management practices, e.g. traditional hedgerow management etc.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

12. Rivers, streams and ditches maintenance of ditches is a statutory Habitat Action Plan duty, administered by the Internal Drainage Boards (IDB). Introduction National status In their natural unmodified condition rivers are dynamic systems that are Whilst rivers in general are important continually creating, maintaining and habitats for a range of wildlife, only eroding a complex of habitats. Such substantially unmodified examples or features include ox-bow lakes, banks, particular types of river are regarded as shores, riffles, exposed shingle bars, worthy of special status, such as SSSI shoreline debris and mud banks. designation.

This plan includes both the actual Chalk rivers is the only type specifically watercourse and also the riparian recognised as a UK BAP priority, but corridor, including banks and marginal none occur in Selby District. habitat. Regional status Such are the demands made upon rivers that they are now highly modified and The Yorkshire Region has one of the managed for a range of interests, many widest range of river types in Britain of which are incompatible with their The River Derwent, is of international natural biodiversity. Indeed certain of importance and designated as a SPA and these interests conflict with each other. candidate SAC. Its associated wetlands are designated for bird interest. These interests include flood alleviation, drainage, sewage disposal, water Local status extraction, fisheries, recreation and transport. Being a low-lying area all the rivers in Selby District are lowland rivers and all Selby’s rivers are migration routes for a but the Derwent are tidal. The Derwent number of fish species. Fishes must pass was tidal until the mid-1970s when the through the District in order to reach Barmby Barrage was built. The River large areas of Yorkshire. The weir at Ouse is tidal as far as Naburn weir. Chapel Haddlesay has been identified as a major barrier for fish migration on the Other main rivers include sections of the River Aire. This was built to back up Ouse, Aire and Wharfe and a number of water for the Selby canal. The estimated smaller streams. cost for its alteration is £80,000. Places to visit: Ditches are straightened streams or artificially created and maintained Public Rights of Way along R Wharfe drainage channels, usually associated from Tadcaster, R Ouse from Cawood with local agricultural land drainage. and Selby town centres and R Aire from They may be permanently wet. There is Beal village. a large network of ditches in Selby. The

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Legal status

The Water Framework Directive. Both the Environment Agency (EA) and the Internal Drainage Boards have relevant statutory duties, such as promoting and furthering conservation while undertaking flood defence, water management and Atlantic salmon pollution prevention duties. An 8m strip on either side of a The grayling breeds in the River Wharfe watercourse has to be considered for upstream of the weir at Tadcaster. flood defence. The depressed river mussel (UK BAP) Associated species priorities has been recorded by the EA in the section of the River Derwent from Low Hutton to Barmby Barrage. Allis shad – a fish

River lamprey – a fish Threats Sea lamprey – a fish

Atlantic salmon – a fish Pressure to implement short-term Grayling – a fish flood alleviation measures such as Depressed river mussel – a mollusc wholesale dredging and flood defences. Status of Selby priorities Increased urban development resulting in increased urban run off. A specimen of allis shad (UK BAP) was Increasing demand for water for recently caught in the River Wharfe, so domestic, industrial & agricultural must have migrated via the River Ouse. use. Chemical pollution. The River Wharfe at Tadcaster is a Invasive non-native species. regionally important site for spawning Pressure to increase recreational sea lamprey and a locally important site access and use. for river lamprey. The river lamprey also breeds in the River Derwent. Both Requirements species migrate along the River Ouse. Buffer zones between arable land Atlantic salmon migrate through the and watercourses, especially for River Ouse to spawning grounds in the higher risk soils. River Ure. It is rare in the River Reduction of grazing adjacent to Derwent. riverbanks to prevent erosion. Fencing to exclude stock from key banks. Identification of areas suitable for wetland restoration and creation, and subsequent delivery.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Production and implementation of barriers, re-stocking, etc on priority Catchment Flood Management Plans fish species. (EA statutory duty). Habitat improvements in areas of Identification of areas suitable for featureless flows. flood water storage. Research, surveys and management Undertake sympathetic management to benefit otter, water vole, water of riparian trees and woodlands. shrew and bats. Increase in the scale and scope of Monitor water quality (used in nature conservation after use for Government’s State of the aggregate sites and maximising of Environment Report) (EA statutory biodiversity gain. duty). Re-wetting of agricultural land using Identification and conflict resolution existing grants. of adverse recreational impacts. Re-wetting of washlands on former Promotion of EA leaflet ‘Best quarry sites. Farming Practice’. Greater use of Sustainable Drainage Identification of honeypot sites and Systems (SUDS) in new collation of all projects planned in developments. the river corridor. Compliance with and enforcement of Dissemination of information and Farm Waste Regulations 2004. partner working. Compliance with and enforcement of Accommodation of erosion in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones. dynamic river systems. Detection and remedy of point sources of pollution (EA statutory duty). An integrated approach to flood Evaluation of river abstractions and defence provision taking ground water abstractions (EA environmental considerations and statutory duty). opportunities for enhancement into Review and continue invertebrate consideration. monitoring. Surveys for species of conservation Surveying and research of riparian concern, including white-clawed woodlands for invertebrates and crayfish (no Selby records). birds. Improvements in fish passage Identification and protection of all facilities at key points. sand martin colonies. Survey for UK BAP plant greater Investigate and devise control water parsnip along former course of programmes for invasive species. River Aire. Assessment of levels of fish re- Fence of key sections of riverbank stocking and impacts upon wildlife. and protect from adverse effects of Assessment of abundance of key farm animals. insect and plant species associated with fish. Current local action Survey of all fish species and their access to required sub-habitats. Development of Catchment Research and reduce impacts of Abstraction Management Strategies pollution, flow rates, physical

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

(CAMS) to ensure sustainable abstraction of water. EA Fisheries Dept. and British What you can do to help: Waterways have identified barriers to fish migration. Avoid pouring car engine oil down the Aire and Calder Rivers Group drain. (voluntary) set up to promote fish migration. Dispose of discarded fishing tackle Water quality improvement targets safely. set by EA.

Opportunities UK BAP targets None applicable. Opportunities for habitat restoration may arise through Flood Defence Links to Species Action Plans Management Plans. Partnership working, to re-open fish Arable farmland – see SAP 4. migration passed the Chapel Otter - see SAP 1. Haddlesay weir. Water vole - see SAP 2. Flood defence works to counter the Tansy beetle - see SAP 4. effects of mining subsidence and increased flood risk. Objective British Waterways enforce navigation speed limits, to prevent To ensure an integrated and bank erosion and protect nesting sustainable approach to river birds. management with the key aims being University of York research into environmental improvements and tansy beetle ecology. increased biodiversity. Riverbank management through proposed Environmental Stewardship Scheme.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Increase species diversity in all four major rivers. 2 Enhance river ecology by removing one barrier to fish migration. 3 Enhance the wildlife value of 25km of the ditch network. 4 Maintain current distribution of five priority species.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets Co- target ordinator No.

Policy and legislation

Implement CAMS to ensure sustainable water 1 EA 1,4 abstraction.

Protection and management

Undertake work to meet EA water quality targets 2 EA 1 for appropriate rivers. Identify barriers to fish migration. 3 EA, BW 2 Undertake feasibility study and then bypass the 4 EA, Aire and 2,4 Chapel Haddlesey weir to re-open fish migration. Calder Rivers Group Through Development Control planning functions, 5 SDC 3,4 mitigate for ditch enhancement, as part of housing developments applications. See SAP 2. Manage ditches to a high nature conservation 6 IDB 3,4 standard. See SAP 1 and SAP 2. Establish ownership of riverbank at Barlow 7 NYCC 4 Grange, where sand leek occurs and liase with landowner to offer conservation advice.

Research and monitoring

Monitor water quality. 8 EA 1,4 Undertake surveys to record species of 9 NEYEDC 4 conservation concern. Monitor the status of priority species through 10 EA 4 current monitoring initiatives. Monitor species diversity. 11 EA 4

Advisory

Communications and publicity

Provide a point of contact for riparian owners and 12 NYCC All river users. 89

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

13. Towns and Villages Habitat Leave a pile of cut branches for Action Plan wildlife shelter. A small patch of stinging nettle, Introduction and thistles provides habitat for insects. Although Selby District is largely Avoid disturbing butterflies rural, it contains a substantial built up hibernating inside churches. area of towns and villages. The Keep entranceway and paths tidy. wildlife that survives in these areas and the potential for conservation are Although often referred to as ‘green considerable. deserts’, playing fields and other amenity grassland provides foraging Urban greenspace and accessible areas for some birds of conservation wildlife have an important role in concern, including song thrush, increasing the quality of life of blackbird, fieldfare, redwing, starling residents, and this is the area where and golden plover. local people can directly help wildlife. A number of locally important bird Wildlife in towns and villages is not species are found in towns and isolated and many species move villages, including song thrush, through habitat corridors and into the bullfinch and more rarely tree sparrow wider countryside. Urban features such and spotted flycatcher. Bumble bees, as river and rail corridors, factory which have been identified as a grounds, ‘wasteground’, churchyards priority for Selby, are often attracted to and residential gardens provide special gardens, and garden ponds are known opportunities for some species. to support newts, frogs and toads.

In many parishes the only flower and The swift is a common and widely invertebrate-rich grassland is within distributed bird that has decreased in churchyards. Walls and gravestones numbers, possibly due to the reduction can support rich lichen and fern floras. in aerial insects and loss of nesting The ferns wall rue and black opportunities. They nest in high spleenwort occur on two or three buildings where they can gain access churches. Typical churchyard to roof spaces or similar. However, maintenance does not favour wildlife, swifts rarely nest in post-1944 so there are opportunities to agree buildings, nor in re-furbished older some wildlife friendly management, buildings, as they cannot gain access. including: The species would benefit from the provision of cavities in new buildings. Give whole grassed area a late This can be achieved with minimum summer hay cut and remove cost through the installation of ready- cuttings. made concrete Swift Bricks. Avoid spraying flower-rich grass swards with herbicide. Recent work by Sheffield University Hand pull undesirable weeds. has shown that gardens are very good Avoid excessive tree planting, to for invertebrates, including some favour grassland. scarce species. Micro-habitats such as Encourage composting. bare ground and decaying timber are Avoid spraying walls and desirable. Invertebrates are a key link gravestones with pesticides. in the food chain. 91

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

This action plan covers: Status of Selby priorities

Private gardens, school and hospital The sand leek is a rare species, which grounds in Selby occurs on the riverbank near Village Greens Barlow Grange and in Cawood Churchyards churchyard. Parks, open spaces Allotments The swift is declining locally. Selby ‘Brownfield’ sites town has about 18 pairs (Cooper20).

These can be in private, municipal or Threats institutional ownership. Change of land use. National Status Intensive or inappropriate management, which suppresses There are around 50 million gardens in wildlife. the UK. Use of peat, which is contrary to good environmental practice. Regional Status Dominant stands of non-native, invasive plants, which reduce Widespread. biodiversity. Use of environmentally damaging Local Status products such as pesticides.

No comprehensive information is held Current local action on this habitat, but it is locally important, due to the cumulative total Selby Countryside Management of habitat. Project (SCMP) and Groundwork Selby (GS) offer advice and Legal status assistance with environmental schemes within the District. Town and Country planning Act Management plan for sand leek in 1990. operation. Allotment Act 1952. National recording schemes such National Planning Policy as Garden Bird Watch, butterfly Guidance. reporting and phenology (timing of The Local Authority can issue Tree natural events). Preservation Orders to protect Local Agenda 21 initiatives, such amenity trees. as green waste collection and Restrictions under the CROW Act composting. on the spreading of Japanese Yorkshire Wildlife trust Living knotweed and giant hogweed. Churchyards Project.

Associated species priorities Opportunities

Sand leek Initiatives with those responsible Swift for the upkeep of areas, community groups and churches to create wildlife areas. Initiatives with garden centres. 92

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

Survey of vacant industrial land (‘brownfield’ sites). Links to Species Action Plans What you can do to help: Water vole - see SAP 2. Buy only, peat free compost. Great crested newt - see SAP 3. Use alternatives to slug pellets. Dingy skipper - see SAP 5. Tie a bell to your pet cat. Bats - see SAP 9. Put up an open-fronted nest box. Bumble bees - see SAP 10. Feed the birds. Clearwing moths (specifically currant Grow flowers favoured by bumble clearwing) - see SAP 11. bees. Grow a dense shrubbery for nesting Objective birds. Plant fruit trees, currant bushes and To maximise the wildlife value of berry-bearing shrubs. Selby District’s greenspace, through Leave fallen timber to decay. education and encouraging Create a wildlife pond, avoiding the management practices sympathetic use of non-native aquatic plants. to wildlife.

Five year targets

No. Biodiversity targets 1 Create five community wildlife areas. 2 Maintain or increase the distribution of the two priority species.

ACTIONS

Action No. Possible Meets co-ordinators target No.

Policy and Legislation

Seek biodiversity gains when determining 1 SDC 1,2 planning applications. (Planning)

Protection and Management

Create wildlife areas. 2 GS 1,2 Provide practical help on creating and managing 3 SCMP and GS 1,2 small wildlife areas. Engage with local community and follow 4 GS 2 management plan for sand leek in Cawood churchyard. Control invasive, non-native plants and animals 5 EA, GS, 2 where applicable to conservation projects. NYCC Encourage grounds maintenance committees of 6 NYCC 2

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004

institutions to adopt a habitat. Continue to run and expand a green waste 7 SDC - collection and composting scheme. Recommend the installation of Swift Bricks to 8 SDC 2 new and re-furbished buildings. Work with church communities to manage 9 YWT 1,2 churchyards for wildlife.

Research and Monitoring

Promote participation in national surveys e.g., 10 SCMP 2 garden butterflies count, garden bird survey.

Advisory

Provide advisory leaflets on best practice, sources 11 SCMP and GS 2 of environmentally friendly products etc. Investigate local sources of environmentally 12 GS 2 friendly gardening products. Offer advice to institutions on landscaping and 13 NYCC 1,2 management for wildlife.

Communications and Publicity

Produce Towns and Villages HAP display 14 SCMP 2 material. Produce advisory leaflets. 15 SCMP and GS 1,2 Run media campaigns to raise awareness and 16 SCMP and GS 1,2 promote involvement. Organise a training event for Parochial Church 17 FWAG 2 Councils and those responsible for churchyard maintenance, on wildlife management of churchyards.

Approved Selby Local Biodiversity Action Plan August 2004