JBA Consulting Carried out This Work

Office of Public Works Arterial Drainage Maintenance Works – Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme

Stage 1: Appropriate Assessment Screening October 2014

Office of Public Works Main Street Headford Co Galway Ireland

JBA Project Manager Jonathan Cooper 24 Grove Island Corbally Limerick Ireland Revision History

Revision Ref / Date Issued Amendments Issued to

Nathy Gilligan, OPW Draft Report / September 2014 Denise Delaney, OPW Contract This report describes work commissioned by Christine McCann, on behalf of the Office of Public Works (OPW), by a letter dated 28th April 2014. OPW’s representatives for the contract were Nathy Gilligan and Denise Delaney of the OPW. Declan Egan, Laura Thomas, Tom Sampson and Flore Salicis of JBA Consulting carried out this work.

Prepared by ...... Laura Thomas BA MRes MCIEEM Senior Ecologist

Prepared by ...... Thomas Sampson BSC MSc Chartered Senior Analyst

Reviewed by ...... Declan Egan BSc. MSc. CSci. CEnv. CWEM MCIWEM MCIWM Project Manager Purpose This document has been prepared as a Draft Report for the OPW. JBA Consulting accepts no responsibility or liability for any use that is made of this document other than by the Client for the purposes for which it was originally commissioned and prepared. JBA Consulting has no liability regarding the use of this report except to the OPW.

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Copyright © JBA Consulting Engineers and Scientists Ltd 2014 Carbon Footprint A printed copy of the main text in this document will result in a carbon footprint of 140g if 100% post-consumer recycled paper is used and 140g if primary-source paper is used. These figures assume the report is printed in black and white on A4 paper and in duplex. JBA is aiming to reduce its per capita carbon emissions.

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Executive Summary JBA Consulting has been commissioned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to provide environmental consultancy services in relation to statutory arterial drainage maintenance activities for 2014. Following the methodology outlined in the Screening Methodology Report (Ryan Hanley, 2014a), this report assesses the likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme in accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora). Three source > pathway > receptor chains have been examined to assess the likely impact of drainage maintenance activities on Natura 2000 sites; surface water, land and air, and groundwater pathways. From this screening exercise it has been determined that significant likely effects may arise on the following Natura 2000 sites as a result of OPW drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. Pathway of Impact Comment Site Surface Land Ground Water and Air water The petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) habitats for which this site is designated could be impacted upon by surface water pathways given their likely proximity to Arroo Mountain SAC scheme watercourses. No other qualifying

(001403) interests are likely to be affected by surface water pathways. Other pathways are not likely to have an impact as no works will be undertaken within the site and works are downgradient of the SAC boundary. The surface water dependent qualifying interests for which this site is designated (i.e. petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion), watercourses with floating river vegetation and Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Geyer’s Whorl Snail) could be adversely impacted Glenade Complex SAC upon by surface water pathways. No other (000623) qualifying interests are likely to be affected by surface water pathways. Other pathways are not likely to have an impact as no works will be undertaken within the site and works are downgradient of the SAC boundary. Alkaline fens and mudflat habitats in this site are vulnerable to impacts via surface water pathways. Bunduff Lough And A number of qualifying interests are also likely to Machair/ Trawalua/ be affected via land and air pathways, dependent

Mullaghmore SAC on their location within the site. Machairs and (000625) alkaline fens, which are groundwater dependent habitats, could also be adversely impacted upon via groundwater pathways. Lough Melvin SAC No significant impacts, via any of the three

(000428) pathways, have been identified as part of this assessment. Donegal Bay SPA

(004151) Sligo/Leitrim Uplands

SPA (004187)

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Pathway of Impact Comment Site Surface Land Ground Water and Air water

Note: Red = likely significant effect Green = no likely significant effect

GIS files of the screening results by channel and embankment are supplied with this report. The attributes of these files are presented in Appendix B. The impact of OPW drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme will therefore need to be subject to further assessment at a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment.

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Contents

Executive Summary ...... iii 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Legislative Context ...... 1 1.3 Appropriate Assessment Process ...... 1 1.4 Methodology ...... 2 2 Descriptions of Proposals – The Duff Scheme ...... 4 2.1 Background ...... 4 2.2 Drainage Maintenance Activities ...... 4 2.3 The Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme ...... 5 3 Surface Water Pathways ...... 6 3.1 Introduction ...... 6 3.2 Results for the Duff Scheme ...... 6 4 Land and Air Pathways ...... 13 4.1 Introduction ...... 13 4.2 Results for the Duff Scheme ...... 13 5 Groundwater Pathways ...... 20 5.1 Introduction ...... 20 5.2 Results for the Duff Scheme ...... 20 6 Conclusions ...... 27 Appendices...... I A Natura 2000 Site Attributes and Objectives ...... I B Screening Results ...... IV

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List of Figures Figure 1-1: The Appropriate Assessment Process (from: Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities, DEHLG, 2009) ...... 1 Figure 1-2: Assessment process and relevant report sections ...... 3 Figure 2-1: Map of the Duff Scheme ...... 5 Figure 3-1: Channels and embankments with potential impacts via surface water pathways ...... 12 Figure 4-1: Channels and embankments with potential impacts via land and air pathways ...... 19 Figure 5-1 : Channels and embankments with potential impacts via groundwater pathways ...... 26 Figure 6-1: Map of all channels, embankments and structures where significant likely effects may arise ...... 28

List of Tables Table 2-1: OPW Drainage Maintenance Subcategories ...... 4 Table 2-2: OPW Drainage Maintenance Types ...... 4 Table 3-1: Surface Water Pathway - Step 2 ...... 6 Table 3-2: Surface Water Pathway - Step 3 ...... 6 Table 3-3: Surface Water Pathway - Step 4 - WFD Risk Status of Surface Water Bodies in 5km of Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme ...... 7 Table 3-4: Surface Water Pathway - Step 5 ...... 8 Table 3-5: Surface Water Pathway - Step 6 ...... 8 Table 3-6: Surface Water Pathway - Steps 7 and 8 for SACs ...... 10 Table 3-7: Surface Water Pathway - Step 9 ...... 11 Table 3-8: Surface Water Pathway - Step 10 ...... 12 Table 4-1: Land & Air Pathway - Step 2 ...... 13 Table 4-2: Land & Air Pathway - Step 3 ...... 13 Table 4-3: Land & Air Pathway - Step 5 ...... 14 Table 4-4: Land & Air Pathway - Step 6 ...... 15 Table 4-5: Land & Air Pathway - Step 8 ...... 16 Table 4-6: Land & Air Pathway - Step 9 ...... 19 Table 4-7: Land & Air Pathway - Step 10 ...... 19 Table 5-1: Groundwater Pathway - Step 2 ...... 20 Table 5-2: Groundwater Pathway - Step 3 ...... 21 Table 5-3: Groundwater Pathway - Step 4 ...... 21 Table 5-4: Groundwater Pathway - Step 5 ...... 22 Table 5-5: Groundwater Pathway - Step 6 ...... 23 Table 5-6: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Tullaghan-Lough Melvin (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) Productive fissured bedrock GWB (for SACs) ...... 24 Table 5-6: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Largydonnell (IE_NW_G_045) Productive 2014s1164 AA Screening Duff v2.2

fissured bedrock GWB (for SACs) ...... 24 Table 5-6: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Rossinver (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) Poorly productive bedrock GWB (for SACs) ...... 25 Table 5-8: Groundwater Pathway - Step 9 ...... 26 Table 5-10: Groundwater Pathway - Step 10 ...... 26 Table 6-1: Conclusions ...... 27

Abbreviations COSD ...... Conservation Objective Supporting Document DEHLG ...... Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government EPA………………………..Environmental Protection Agency GIS ...... Geographical Information System GWB ...... Groundwater Body GWD ...... Groundwater Dependent IFI ...... Inland Fisheries Ireland IROPI ...... Imperative Reason of Overriding Public Interest NHA ...... Natural Heritage Area NPWS ...... National Parks and Wildlife Service OPW ...... Office of Public Works SAC ...... Special Area of Conservation SPA ...... Special Protection Area SWD ...... Surface Water Dependent WFD……………………….Water Framework Directive

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1 Introduction

1.1 Background JBA Consulting has been commissioned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to provide environmental consultancy services in relation to statutory arterial drainage maintenance activities for 2014. This report provides the results of the Appropriate Assessment Screening methodology for the Duff arterial drainage scheme. It assesses the likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed drainage maintenance activities in accordance with Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora).

1.2 Legislative Context The Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora) aims to maintain or restore the favourable conservation status of habitats and species of community interest across Europe. The requirements of this Directive are transposed into Irish law through the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations) 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011). Under the Directive a network of sites of nature conservation importance have been identified by each Member State as containing specified habitats or species requiring to be maintained or returned to favourable conservation status. In Ireland the network consists of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs), and also candidate sites, which form the Natura 2000 network. Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive requires that, in relation to European designated sites (i.e. SACs and SPAs that form the Natura 2000 network), "any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives". A competent authority (e.g. the OPW or Local Authority) can only agree to a plan or project after having determined that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned. Under article 6(4) of the Directive, if adverse impacts are likely, and in the absence of alternative options, a plan or project must nevertheless proceed for imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI), including social or economic reasons, a Member State is required to take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure the overall integrity of the Natura 2000 site. The European Commission have to be informed of any compensatory measures adopted, unless a priority habitat type or species is present and in which case an opinion from the European Commission is required beforehand (unless for human health or public safety reasons, or of benefit to the environment).

1.3 Appropriate Assessment Process Guidance on the Appropriate Assessment (AA) process was produced by the European Commission in 2002, which was subsequently developed into guidance specifically for Ireland by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DEHLG) (2009). These guidance documents identify a staged approach to conducting an AA, as shown Figure 1-1.

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4

Screening for AA AA Alternative Solutions IROPI

Figure 1-1: The Appropriate Assessment Process (from: Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities, DEHLG, 2009)

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1.3.1 Stage 1 - Screening for AA The initial, screening stage of the Appropriate Assessment is to determine: a. whether the proposed plan or project is directly connected with or necessary for the management of the European designated site for nature conservation b. if it is likely to have a significant adverse effect on the European designated site, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects For those sites where potential adverse impacts are identified, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects, further assessment is necessary to determine if the proposals will have an adverse impact on the integrity of a European designated site, in view of the sites conservation objectives (i.e. the process proceeds to Stage 2).

1.3.2 Stage 2 - AA This stage requires a more in-depth evaluation of the plan or project, and the potential direct and indirect impacts of them on the integrity and interest features of the European designated site(s), alone and in-combination with other plans and projects, taking into account the site's structure, function and conservation objectives. Where required, mitigation or avoidance measures will be suggested. The competent authority can only agree to the plan or project after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site(s) concerned. If this cannot be determined, and where mitigation cannot be achieved, then alternative solutions will need to be considered (i.e. the process proceeds to Stage 3).

1.3.3 Stage 3 - Alternative Solutions Where adverse impacts on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites are identified, and mitigation cannot be satisfactorily implemented, alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the plan or project that avoid adverse impacts need to be considered. If none can be found, the process proceeds to Stage 4.

1.3.4 Stage 4 - IROPI Where adverse impacts of a plan or project on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites are identified and no alternative solutions exist, the plan will only be allowed to progress if imperative reasons of overriding public interest (IROPI) can be demonstrated. In this case compensatory measures will be required.

The process only proceeds through each of the four stages for certain plans or projects. For example, for a plan or project, not connected with management of a site, but where no likely significant impacts are identified, the process stops at stage 1. Throughout the process, the precautionary principle must be applied, so that any uncertainties do not result in adverse impacts on a site.

1.4 Methodology This screening assessment has been conducted in line with guidance produced for the OPW in 2013 (Ryan Hanley, 2013a, b and c). This methodology is based on source > pathway > receptor chain principles and involves assessing likely significant effects on Natura 2000 sites within the zone of influence of the proposed drainage maintenance in relation to three pathways: 1. Surface water 2. Land & air 3. Groundwater The screening assessment involves assessing the impacts of drainage maintenance operations within the arterial drainage scheme, and its zone of influence, in relation to each of the three pathways individually. The results of each pathway are then combined in a concluding section to identify if/where likely significant effects may arise.

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Figure 1-2: Assessment process and relevant report sections

Surface water Land & Air Groundwater

Section 3 Section 4 Section 5

Source > Pathway > Receptor Chain Receptor > Pathway > Source

Conclusion

Section 6

The screening process uses a combination of GIS analysis and qualitative assessment to identify which drainage maintenance activities, on which specific watercourses, are likely to have significant effects on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites. This screening report has been produced on currently available information, with the most up-to- date versions used. Where new, or updated, information becomes available the OPW will consider and review this screening assessment if necessary.

1.4.1 Consultation The findings of the screening assessment will be subject to consultation with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) will also be consulted in relation to fisheries interests within the designated sites and watercourses/embankments where drainage maintenance activities are proposed.

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2 Descriptions of Proposals – The Duff Scheme

2.1 Background Between 1945 and 1995, under the Arterial Drainage Act (1945), the OPW completed 34 Arterial Drainage Schemes on river catchments, along with five estuarine embankment schemes (over 11,500km of channel and 730km of embankments). The OPW is statutorily obligated to maintain arterial drainage channels under the 1945 Arterial Drainage Act, and since their completion, maintenance of these Arterial Drainage Schemes has been ongoing, with the majority of channels maintained every five years. However, larger channels tend to be only maintained every ten years, on average.

2.2 Drainage Maintenance Activities Arterial Drainage Maintenance includes a range of operations such as silt and vegetation management, mowing and structure maintenance, as detailed in Table 2-1, and listed as channel, embankment or structure maintenance in Table 2-2 below. It is required to retain the arterial drainage scheme design capacity. Table 2-1: OPW Drainage Maintenance Subcategories Drainage Maintenance Subcategories

A Silt and vegetation management B Aquatic vegetation cutting C Bank protection D Bush cutting/Branch trimming E Tree cutting F Mulching G Mowing H Gate installation I Sluice maintenance J Bridge maintenance K Other

Table 2-2: OPW Drainage Maintenance Types Category Maintenance Type Code

Silt and vegetation management A Aquatic vegetation cutting B Channel Bank protection C Maintenance Bush cutting/Branch trimming D Tree cutting E Other K Bush cutting/Branch trimming D Tree cutting E Embankment Mulching F Maintenance Mowing G Gate installation H Sluice maintenance I Bridge maintenance J Structural Bank protection C Maintenance Bush cutting/Branch trimming D Tree cutting E

Within the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme the exact location and type of required maintenance activity varies over time. For the purposes of this screening exercise we have therefore assumed

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that all activities may occur on all Scheme channels, structures and embankments (i.e. following the precautionary principle). In terms of structural maintenance operations it is not currently known where and when maintenance will be required. Therefore, all bridges and associated structures on those watercourses screened into the assessment via each pathway are also screened into the assessment. The list of bridges screened in for each pathway is included in Appendix B.

2.3 The Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme The Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme is located in County Sligo. It includes 53.2km of watercourse and 0km of embankment. Figure 2-1: Map of the Duff Scheme

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3 Surface Water Pathways

3.1 Introduction The following section identifies where surface water pathways may result in drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme having a significant effect on Natura 2000 sites.

3.2 Results for the Duff Scheme

3.2.1 Level 1: Characterisation and Initial Impact Assessment It is assumed that none of the proposed drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are directly necessary to the nature conservation management of Natura 2000 sites. Step 1 Each of the drainage maintenance activities detailed in Table 2-1 is proposed in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. Step 2 There are Four Natura 2000 sites within the same surface water catchment and sub-catchments overlapped by the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme, as detailed in Table 3-1. All sites were identified as having surface water connectivity with the Scheme. Table 3-1: Surface Water Pathway - Step 2 Is site within the same Is there surface water Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) surface water catchment connectivity with the as the scheme? scheme? Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Yes Yes Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Yes Yes Complex SAC (000623) Bunduff Lough And Yes Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC Yes (000625) Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) Yes Yes

Four Natura 2000 sites remains within the screening assessment. Step 3 The Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests for the remaining Natura 2000 site were obtained from the relevant Conservation Objective document available from the (NPWS) (2014). Table 3-2 below details which of the remaining Natura 2000 sites have Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests which can be potentially impacted upon by surface water pathways (i.e. Surface Water Dependent (SWD) Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests). Table 3-2: Surface Water Pathway - Step 3 Does the site contain SWD Qualifying Natura 2000 Site Interests/Special Conservation Interests? Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Yes Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex Yes SAC (000623) Bunduff Lough And Yes Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

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Does the site contain SWD Qualifying Natura 2000 Site Interests/Special Conservation Interests? Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) No

3.2.2 Level 2: Existing Impact Assessment Step 4 The 'At Risk' status (under the Water Framework Directive (WFD) of all surface water bodies within 5km of the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme was identified, as detailed in Table 3-3. Table 3-3: Surface Water Pathway - Step 4 - WFD Risk Status of Surface Water Bodies in 5km of Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme No. of Ecological Time Risk Water Management Unit Channels Status Period Status WE_Coastalx5_Grange_Grange1 (IE_WE_35_1752) 0 Good Protect At Risk WE_Coastalx5_GrangeTRIB_Derry (IE_WE_35_864) 0 Moderate 2021 Not at risk WE_Drumcliff__LoughGlencar1 (IE_WE_35_917) 0 Poor 2015 Not at risk WE_Drumcliff_DiffreenTRIB_Mulkaun (IE_WE_35_3483) 0 Poor 2015 Not at risk WE_Garvogue_BonetTRIB_RassaunWest (IE_WE_35_2887) 0 Good Protect Not at risk WE_Garvogue_Bonnet_Magheramore (IE_WE_35_2893) 0 Poor 2015 Not at risk WE_Garvogue_Bonet_Gubinea (IE_WE_35_1444) 0 Good Protect Not at risk WE_Drumcliff__LoughGlencar3 (IE_WE_35_3628) 0 Poor 2015 Not at risk WE_Drumcliff_Diffreen_Corglass(RosclogherBy) 0 Not at risk Poor 2015 (IE_WE_35_1113) WE_Drumcliff_Drumcliff_Creaghadoo (IE_WE_35_1495) 0 Poor 2021 Not at risk WE_Coastalx5_GrangeTRIB_Barnaderg (IE_WE_35_1316) 0 Moderate 2021 Not at risk WE_Coastalx5_Grange_Lyle (IE_WE_35_1043) 0 High Protect At Risk WE_Drumcliff_DiffreenTRIB_Tawnamachugh 0 Poor 2015 Not at risk (IE_WE_35_2369) WE_Coastalx5_Grange_ArdnaglassUpper (IE_WE_35_2499) 0 High Protect At Risk WE_Garvogue_Shanvaus_GorteenaGuinnell 0 Good Protect Not at risk (IE_WE_35_1348) WE_Drumcliff__LoughGlencar4 (IE_WE_35_3311) 0 Good Protect At Risk WE_Coastalx5_Carney_Cartronwilliamoge (IE_WE_35_601) 0 Moderate 2015 Not at risk Cross Boarded River Waterbody (IE_WB_35_6) 0 Good Protect At Risk Not on WFD Ireland Website 0 At Risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_2 (IE_NW_35_3803) 3 Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_5TRIB_Cleighragh (IE_NW_35_750) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_Tullaghan (IE_NW_35_2327) 0 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_3 (IE_NW_35_3453) 2 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Ballaghnatrillick1_Lower Not at risk 3 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_3920) NW_Duff120_BallanaghtrillickTRIB_Gortnahoula Not at risk 0 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_3237) NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Ballanaghtrillick2_Upper Not at risk 0 High Protect (IE_NW_35_3228) NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_4 (IE_NW_35_3302) 1 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_Glenaniff (IE_NW_35_1341) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Drowes121_Drowes1 (IE_NW_35_1056) 0 Good Protect At Risk NW_Duff120_Duff1_Lower (IE_NW_35_3775) 16 Good Protect At Risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_5_Upper (IE_NW_35_1133) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_6 (IE_NW_35_1303) 1 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Lecklasser (IE_NW_35_1277) 0 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Cloonawillin (IE_NW_35_1349) 0 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Glenade (IE_NW_35_1500) 2 High Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_Duff2_Mid (IE_NW_35_1011) 3 High Protect At Risk NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_1 (IE_NW_35_1700) 0 Good Protect At Risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_5_Lower (IE_NW_35_817) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_5TRIB_Shesknan (IE_NW_35_3585) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_BallanaghtrillickTRIB_Shancrock Not at risk 0 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_1076) NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_StracummerTRIB_Aghavoghill 0 Moderate 2015 Not at risk 2014s1164 AA Screening Duff v2.2 7

No. of Ecological Time Risk Water Management Unit Channels Status Period Status (IE_NW_35_2390) NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_TRIB1_Cloone Not at risk 0 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_3875) NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_StracummerTRIB_1 Not at risk 0 Moderate 2015 (IE_NW_35_3437) NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_Drummans (IE_NW_35_4049) 1 High Protect Not at risk NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_Rosclogher (IE_NW_35_2472) 0 Moderate 2015 Not at risk NW_Duff120_DuffTRIB_1 (IE_NW_35_2541) 1 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_BallaghnatrillickTRIB_1 (IE_NW_35_3229) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Coastaly5_Tawnytallan1 (IE_NW_35_2645) 0 Good Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_Duff3_Upper (IE_NW_35_2684) 0 High Protect Not at risk NW_Duff120_BallanaghtrillickTRIB_Mullanafad Not at risk 0 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_2597) NW_Drowes121_DrowesTRIB_TRIB1_Moneen At Risk 0 Good Protect (IE_NW_35_2686) NW_Bradoge122_Bradoge1_Lower (IE_NW_35_4239) 0 Poor 2021 At Risk NW_Bradoge122_Bradoge2_Upper (IE_NW_35_4253) 0 Good Protect At Risk

3.2.3 Level 3: Potential Impact and Significance Assessment Step 5 This stage determines whether there is potential for proposed drainage maintenance activities within a scheme to effect Natura 2000 site(s) within the surface water catchment; this is based on the hydrological setting (i.e. marine, estuarine, freshwater). This is assessed from a matrix of pre-determined distances and typologies (i.e. upstream or downstream) which define the zone of influence within which effects can potentially occur within each type of setting (Ryan Hanley, 2014a). The results of this are summarised in Table 3-4. Table 3-4: Surface Water Pathway - Step 5 Drainage maintenance activity Hydrological location relative to Natura 2000 Natura 2000 Site Result Setting site boundary Downstream Upstream Overlap Arroo Mountain SAC Potential Freshwater <3km None No (001403) Effect Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Potential Glenade Complex SAC Freshwater <3km None No Effect (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair / Potential Trawalua / Mullaghmore Marine None <3km 0km Effect SAC (000625)

Step 6 Relevant information relating to each of the remaining Natura 2000 sites, including the Conservation Objectives Supporting Document, Site Synopsis and Natura 2000 Standard Data Form, were then reviewed to identify the potential for pressures and threats and related cumulative and in-combination effects. The results of this assessment are detailed in Table 3-5. Table 3-5: Surface Water Pathway - Step 6 Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or surface Threat Codes Impact and In- Site Threats water from Article 17 combination pathways Effects

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Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or surface Threat Codes Impact and In- Site Threats water from Article 17 combination pathways Effects

Arroo Overgrazing No A04.01 *Potential Effect Mountain Peat cutting No C01.03 SAC Proceed to Step (001403) Afforestation No B01 7 Overgrazing No A04.01 Erosion No K01.01 Afforestation No B01 Peat cutting No C01.03 Invasive species Ben Bulben, (Rhododendron, Gleniff And Yes I01 Potential Effect New Zealand Glenade Willowherb) Proceed to Step Complex SAC 7 (000623) Scrub clearance No B02.02 Over-collection of No F04.02.02 rare plants Re-opening of mine No C01 Water pollution from Yes H01.06 agricultural activities Fertiliser spreading No A08 Bunduff Lough And Localised Machair / concentrations of No A04.01.01 Potential Effect feeding cattle Trawalua / Proceed to Step Mullaghmore Sewage discharges Yes H01, H03 7 SAC Recreational use of (000625) No G01 the beaches

Litter No G05

Note: * proceeding under the precautionary principle as no pressure or threats with a complete source-pathway- receptor chain via surface water were identified,

Steps 7 and 8 These stages involved examining the SWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests for each of the remaining 'screened in' Natura 2000 sites to identify which may potentially be impacted upon by drainage maintenance activities. This was done using a set of pre-determined buffer zones derived for each individual habitat and species, within which effects can potentially occur (Ryan Hanley, 2014a). The location of the Natura 2000 site for these stages is also important, depending on whether it is downstream, upstream or overlaps the Scheme as this situation may allow some Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests to be screened out. Information, including from the Conservation Objectives, was also reviewed to determine the location of the drainage maintenance activities relative to the SWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests. Where no information on the location of SWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests was available, the precautionary principle was applied and the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests were screened in. Table 3-6 summarises the results of this stage for the remaining sites.

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Table 3-6: Surface Water Pathway - Steps 7 and 8 for SACs Drainage Activity location SWD Qualifying EU relative to SWD Qualifying Interest/Special Desktop Study Comment Conclusion Code interest Conservation Interest Downstream Upstream Overlap Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) NPWS (2009) report that calcareous springs, flushes and seepage zones occur at the site, with tufa deposits in a calcareous Potential Petrifying springs with flush in the north of the site for Likely 7220 tufa formation <3km No No close to the cliffs. This Significant (Cratoneurion) northern part of the site is Effect within 3km of channel C1 Sect E. and consequently adverse impacts on this habitat may arise via surface water pathways. Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Geyer’s Whorl Snail NPWS (2013b) reports that Vertigo geyeri the rare whorl snail, Vertigo geyeri, has recently been discovered at the site. Five populations have been found at three locations, all in calcareous flushes on Potential sloping ground. These for Likely 1013 <3km No No calcareous flushes are Significant located in the upland areas Effect and as the upland areas of this site are located within 3km of channel C1 Sect E. adverse impacts on the habitat supporting this species may arise via surface water pathways. Otter Lutra lutra NPWS (2013b) report that No 1355 No No Otter is known to occur on Potential the site. Effect Water courses of plain NPWS (2013b) states that to montane levels with many fast flowing, upland the Ranunculion streams rise on the summit fluitantis and of the plateau and flow Callitricho-Batrachion down its sides. The upland Potential vegetation areas of this site are for Likely 3260 <3km No No located within 3km of Significant channel C1 Sect E. and Effect consequently adverse impacts on this habitat may arise via surface water pathways. Potential Petrifying springs with NPWS (2013b) reports that for Likely 7220 tufa formation <3km No No throughout the site, on Significant (Cratoneurion) scree slopes and cliffs, there are a large number of Effect 2014s1164 AA Screening Duff v2.2 10

Drainage Activity location SWD Qualifying EU relative to SWD Qualifying Interest/Special Desktop Study Comment Conclusion Code interest Conservation Interest Downstream Upstream Overlap calcareous springs and seepage areas, many with associated tufa deposits. The upland areas of this site are located within 3km of channel C1 Sect E. and consequently adverse impacts on this habitat may arise via surface water pathways. Bunduff Lough And Machair / Trawalua / Mullaghmore SAC (000625) NPWS (2013c) identifies that alkaline fen occurs where machair habitats transition into wetter areas. This fen habitat is best Potential developed south-west of for Likely 7230 Alkaline fens No <3km 0km Bunduff Lough; this area is Significant within 2.5km of a scheme Effect watercourse and consequently adverse impacts on this habitat could arise via surface water pathways. Mudflats and sandflats NPWS (2013c) identifies not covered by that the site features seawater at low tide characteristics intertidal sediment communities often found in association Potential with large bays. OPW for Likely 1140 No <3km 0km channel C1 Sect A. Significant discharges into the sea at Effect Holy Wells, near Bunduff and mud and sandflats may be present within 3km of this area.

Step 9 A review of the attributes and targets for the SWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests has identified that there is potential for significant effects on Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests in the following Natura 2000 sites. Table 3-7: Surface Water Pathway - Step 9 Potential for Effects Based Potential for Likely Natura 2000 Site on Attributes Significant Effects Arroo Mountain SAC Yes Yes (001403) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC Yes Yes (000623)

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Potential for Effects Based Potential for Likely Natura 2000 Site on Attributes Significant Effects Trawalua / Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

Step 10 In conclusion, the above steps have determined that the following Natura 2000 sites will require a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment to be undertaken and the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement. However, if more data becomes available, further site specific investigations can be undertaken and this screening conclusion re-assessed. Table 3-8: Surface Water Pathway - Step 10 Potential for Likely Potential for Cumulative Natura 2000 Site Significant Effects must be Impacts must be considered considered Arroo Mountain SAC Yes Yes (001403) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC Yes Yes (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair / Trawalua / Mullaghmore SAC Yes Yes (000625)

The screened in channel and embankment sections (and the bridges within these sections) in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are shown on the map below, and tabulated in Appendix B. Figure 3-1: Channels and embankments with potential impacts via surface water pathways

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4 Land and Air Pathways

4.1 Introduction The following section of this report examines the land and air pathways which may arise due to drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. The impacts of these pathways, if any, on Natura 2000 sites are then assessed.

4.2 Results for the Duff Scheme

4.2.1 Level 1: Characterisation and Initial Impact Assessment It is assumed that none of the proposed drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are directly necessary to the nature conservation management of Natura 2000 sites. Step 1 Each of the drainage maintenance activities detailed in Table 2-1 is proposed in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. Step 2 There is 1 Natura 2000 sites within 0.01km and 2 Natura 2000 sites located within 0.6km of the Scheme, as detailed in Table 4-1. Table 4-1: Land & Air Pathway - Step 2 Natura 2000 Site Name 0.6km Buffer Zone 0.01km (Overlap) (Site Code) Indirect impacts for noise and Direct impacts from physical Type of Impact visual disturbance through air disturbance of habitats pathways through land pathways Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC Yes No (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC Yes Yes (000625)

Step 3 The Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests for each Natura 2000 site were obtained from the relevant Conservation Objective document available from the NPWS (2014). Table 4-2 below details which of the 2 Natura 2000 sites identified in Table 4-1 above have Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests which can be potentially impacted upon by land and air pathways. Table 4-2: Land & Air Pathway - Step 3 Natura 2000 Site Presence of Land and Air Pathways Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex Yes SAC (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/ Yes Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

4.2.2 Level 2: Existing Impact Assessment Step 4 Not applicable to this pathway.

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4.2.3 Level 3: Potential Impact and Significance Assessment Step 5 This stage assesses whether there is potential for a drainage maintenance activity to affect the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of the Natura 2000 site(s) within the zone of influence of a scheme. This is determined from a set of pre-established distances for each individual habitat and species within which effects can potentially occur (Ryan Hanley, 2014a). The results of this are summarised in Table 4-3. Table 4-3: Land & Air Pathway - Step 5 Drainage maintenance EU activity location relative to Location of Species/Habitats Result Code qualifying interest/ special Impact conservation interest Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Geyer’s Whorl Snail No Impact - Screen 1013 >500m <1km MAC Vertigo geyeri out Qualifying Interest Otter Lutra lutra INST/MAC + No Impact - Screen 1355 >500m <1km 150m out Qualifying Interest Water courses of plain to montane levels with the No Impact - Screen 3260 Ranunculion fluitantis and >500m <1km 10m out Qualifying Interest Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation European dry heaths No Impact - Screen 4030 >500m <1km 10m out Qualifying Interest Alpine and Boreal heaths No Impact - Screen 4060 >500m <1km 10m out Qualifying Interest Juniperus communis No Impact - Screen 5130 formations on heaths or >500m <1km 10m out Qualifying Interest calcareous grasslands Petrifying springs with tufa No Impact - Screen 7220 >500m <1km 10m formation (Cratoneurion) out Qualifying Interest Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to No Impact - Screen 8120 >500m <1km N/A alpine levels (Thlaspietea out Qualifying Interest rotundifolii) Calcareous rocky slopes No Impact - Screen 8210 with chasmophytic >500m <1km N/A out Qualifying Interest vegetation Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (000625) Mudflats and sandflats not Potential Effect - 1140 covered by seawater at 0km / overlap 10m Further information low tide required Large shallow inlets and N/A – marine No Impact - Screen 1160 0km / overlap bays habitat out Qualifying Interest Reefs N/A – marine No Impact - Screen 1170 0km / overlap habitat out Qualifying Interest Petalwort Petalophyllum Potential Effect - 1395 ralfsii 0km / overlap MAC Further information required

2120 Shifting dunes along the 0km / overlap 10m Potential Effect - 2014s1164 AA Screening Duff v2.2 14

Drainage maintenance EU activity location relative to Location of Species/Habitats Result Code qualifying interest/ special Impact conservation interest shoreline with Ammophila Further information arenaria (white dunes) required Fixed coastal dunes with Potential Effect - 2130 herbaceous vegetation 0km / overlap 10m Further information (grey dunes) required Machairs Potential Effect - 21A0 0km / overlap 10m Further information required Juniperus communis Potential Effect - 5130 formations on heaths or 0km / overlap 10m Further information calcareous grasslands required Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland Potential Effect - facies on calcareous 6210 0km / overlap 10m Further information substrates (Festuco required Brometalia) (*important orchid sites) Alkaline fens Potential Effect - 7230 0km / overlap 10m Further information required

Notes: MAC = Maintenance Access Corridor BR = Bridge INST = Instream

Step 6 Relevant information relating to each Natura 2000 site, including the Conservation Objectives Supporting Document, Site Synopsis and Natura 2000 Standard Data Form, were then reviewed to identify the potential for pressures and threats and related cumulative and in-combination effects. The results of this assessment are detailed in Table 4-4. Table 4-4: Land & Air Pathway - Step 6 Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Threat Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or a Land & Air Codes from Article Impact and In- Site Threats Pathway 17 combination Effects Overgrazing No A04.01 Erosion No K01.01 Afforestation Yes B01 Ben Bulben, Peat cutting Yes C01.03 Gleniff And Potential Effect Glenade Invasive species (Rhododendron, Proceed to Complex SAC No I01 Step 7 (000623) New Zealand Willowherb) Scrub clearance Yes B02.02 Over-collection of Yes F04.02.02 rare plants

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Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Threat Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or a Land & Air Codes from Article Impact and In- Site Threats Pathway 17 combination Effects Re-opening of mine Yes C01 Water pollution from No H01.06 agricultural activities Fertiliser spreading No A08 Bunduff Lough And Localised Machair / concentrations of Yes A04.01.01 Potential Effect feeding cattle Trawalua / Proceed to Mullaghmore Sewage discharges No H01, H03 Step 7 SAC Recreational use of (000625) Yes G01 the beaches

Litter Yes G05

Note: * proceeding under the precautionary principle as no pressure or threats with a complete source-pathway- receptor chain via land or air were identified,

Step 7 Not applicable to this pathway. Step 8 As part of this step, further information on the following sites was collected to determine the location of drainage maintenance activities relative to the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of each site, to determine if they are located in or outside of the zone of influence:  Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

Where no information on the location of Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests was available, the precautionary principle was applied and the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests were screened in, given their unknown location. The results are given in Table 4-5 below. Table 4-5: Land & Air Pathway - Step 8 Maintenance Qualifying Interest/ activity location Special Conservation EU Location of Species/Habitats relative to Interests location Result Code Impact Natura 2000 site relative to drainage boundary maintenance activity Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (000625) Mudflats and NPWS (2013c) identifies sandflats not that the site features covered by characteristics intertidal seawater at low sediment communities tide often found in Potential 1140 0km / overlap association with large 10m significant bays. OPW channel C1 effect Sect A. discharges into the sea at Holy Wells, near Bunduff. Although the channel here is

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Maintenance Qualifying Interest/ activity location Special Conservation EU Location of Species/Habitats relative to Interests location Result Code Impact Natura 2000 site relative to drainage boundary maintenance activity narrow it is not known if mudflat and sandflat habitats are present. If they are present adverse impacts on this habitat could arise via land and air pathways. Petalwort NPWS (2013c) reports Petalophyllum that Petalwort has ralfsii recently been recorded from machair habitats within the site. This habitat is common Potential throughout the SAC, 1395 0km / overlap MAC significant between the dune ridges effect and alkaline fen; consequently adverse impacts on the habitats supporting this species could arise via land and air pathways. Shifting dunes NPWS (2013c) report along the shoreline that shifting dune with Ammophila habitats are best arenaria (white developed at Trawlua; dunes) this area is over 2km No likely away from the closest 2120 0km / overlap 10m significant scheme watercourse effect and therefore no significant adverse impacts on this habitat, via land and air pathways, are likely. Fixed coastal NPWS (2013c) reports dunes with that fixed dune habitats herbaceous are found at Bunduff vegetation (grey Strand and Trawalua. dunes) These areas are over No likely 2km away from the 2130 0km / overlap 10m significant closest scheme effect watercourse and therefore no significant adverse impacts on this habitat, via land and air pathways, are likely. Machairs NPWS (2013c) reports that machair habitats are common throughout the Potential 21A0 0km / overlap site, mostly occurring in 10m significant the flat areas between effect dune ridges and alkaline fen; consequently adverse impacts on this

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Maintenance Qualifying Interest/ activity location Special Conservation EU Location of Species/Habitats relative to Interests location Result Code Impact Natura 2000 site relative to drainage boundary maintenance activity habitat could arise via land and air pathways. Juniperus No information is communis available on the location formations on of this habitat type within Potential 5130 heaths or 0km / overlap the SAC; consequently 10m significant calcareous adverse impacts on this effect grasslands habitat could arise via land and air pathways. Semi-natural dry NPWS (2013c) report grasslands and that orchid-rich scrubland facies on grasslands are found in calcareous fragmentary form in a substrates small area north of (Festuco Bunduff Lough. This Brometalia) area is located No likely 6210 (*important orchid 0km / overlap approximately 3.5km 10m significant sites) from the nearest scheme effect watercourse and consequently no significant adverse impacts on this habitat, via land and air pathways, are likely. Alkaline fens NPWS (2013c) identifies that alkaline fen occurs where machair habitats transition into wetter areas. This fen habitat is best developed south- west of Bunduff Lough, Potential which is 2.5km from the 7230 0km / overlap 10m significant closest scheme effect watercourse, however it is reported to be present throughout the site; consequently adverse impacts on this habitat could arise via land and air pathways.

Notes: MAC = Maintenance Access Corridor BR = Bridge INST = Instream

Step 9 A review of the attributes and targets for the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests has identified that there is potential for significant effects on Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests in the following Natura 2000 sites.

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Table 4-6: Land & Air Pathway - Step 9 Potential for Effects Based Potential for Likely Natura 2000 Site on Attributes Significant Effects Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore Yes Yes SAC (000625)

Step 10 The following Natura 2000 sites will require a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment to be undertaken and the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement or further site specific investigations, if more data becomes available. Table 4-7: Land & Air Pathway - Step 10 Potential for Likely Potential for Cumulative Natura 2000 Site Significant Effects must be Impacts must be considered considered Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore Yes Yes SAC (000625)

The screened in channel and embankment sections (and the bridges within these sections) in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are shown on the map below, and tabulated in Appendix B. Figure 4-1: Channels and embankments with potential impacts via land and air pathways

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5 Groundwater Pathways

5.1 Introduction The following section of this report examines the groundwater pathways which may arise due to drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. The impact of these pathways, if any, on Natura 2000 sites, is then assessed.

5.2 Results for the Duff Scheme

5.2.1 Level 1: Characterisation and Initial Impact Assessment It is assumed that none of the proposed drainage maintenance activities in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are directly necessary to the nature conservation management of Natura 2000 sites. Step 1 Each of the drainage maintenance activities detailed in Table 2-1 is proposed in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme. Step 2 The Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme is located across 4 groundwater bodies (GWB). All GWBs remained in the assessment as all contained Natura 2000 sites. There are 6 Natura 2000 sites (4 SACs and 2 SPAs) located within 4 GWBs and remain within the screening assessment, as detailed in Table 5-1. Table 5-1: Groundwater Pathway - Step 2 GWB name (EU_Code) and Natura 2000 Site Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) flow regime within GWB Bunduff Lough And Yes Tullaghan-Lough Melvin Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) (000625) Productive fissured bedrock Donegal Bay SPA (004151) Yes Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes Ballaghnatrillick Yes (IE_NW_G_046) Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Poorly productive bedrock Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes Largydonnell (IE_NW_G_045) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Yes Complex SAC (000623) Productive fissured bedrock Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) Yes Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) Yes Rossinver Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Yes (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) Complex SAC (000623) Poorly productive bedrock Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Yes Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes

Step 3 The Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests for each Natura 2000 site within the identified GWBs were obtained from the relevant Conservation Objective document available from the NPWS (2014). Table 5-2 below details which of the 6 Natura 2000 sites identified in

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Table 5-1 above have Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests which can be potentially impacted upon by groundwater pathways. Five Natura 2000 sites were identified as containing groundwater dependent (GWD) Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests and therefore remain in this screening assessment, as detailed in Table 5-2. Table 5-2: Groundwater Pathway - Step 3 GWD Qualifying GWB name (EU_Code) and Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) Interests/Special flow regime Conservation Interests Bunduff Lough And Tullaghan-Lough Melvin Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore Yes (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) SAC (000625) Productive fissured bedrock Donegal Bay SPA (004151) Yes Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes Ballaghnatrillick Yes (IE_NW_G_046) Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Poorly productive bedrock Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes Largydonnell (IE_NW_G_045) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Yes Complex SAC (000623) Productive fissured bedrock Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) No Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA (004187) No Rossinver Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Yes (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) Complex SAC (000623) Poorly productive bedrock Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Yes Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Yes

5.2.2 Level 2: Existing Impact Assessment Step 4 Under the requirements of the WFD the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified GWBs as being ‘at risk of not achieving’, ‘possibly at risk of not achieving’, ‘expected to achieve’ and ‘strongly expected to achieve’ good water quality status. This data has been reviewed to determine the groundwater quality status of the GWBs containing Natura 2000 sites with GWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests. The ‘At Risk’ status of these groundwater bodies is given in Table 5-3. Table 5-3: Groundwater Pathway - Step 4 GWB name (EU_Code) and EPA Water Framework Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) flow regime Directive 'At Risk' Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Not at Risk Tullaghan-Lough Melvin Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) (000625) Productive fissured bedrock Donegal Bay SPA (004151) Not at Risk Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Not at Risk Ballaghnatrillick Not at Risk (IE_NW_G_046) Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Poorly productive bedrock

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GWB name (EU_Code) and EPA Water Framework Natura 2000 Site (Site Code) flow regime Directive 'At Risk' Largydonnell Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Not at Risk (IE_NW_G_045) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Not at Risk Productive fissured bedrock Complex SAC (000623)

Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Rossinver Complex SAC (000623) Not at Risk (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Not at Risk Poorly productive bedrock Lough Melvin SAC (000428) Not at Risk

5.2.3 Level 3: Potential Impact and Significance Assessment Step 5 This stage assesses whether there is potential for a drainage maintenance activity to affect the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of the Natura 2000 site(s) within the zone of influence of a scheme. This is determined through undertaking a visual assessment of the topographic catchment of the Natura 2000 site, combined with the application of a buffer to the Natura 2000 site boundaries at a pre-established distance dependent on the flow regime of the GWB (i.e. karstic, fissured, poorly productive, intergranular etc.) (Ryan Hanley, 2014a). Depending on this, a conclusion can then be made as to whether potential effects may occur. The results of this are summarised in Table 5-4. Table 5-4: Groundwater Pathway - Step 5 GWB name Drainage maintenance Natura 2000 Site (EU_Code) and flow activity location relative to Result Name (Site code) regime Natura 2000 site boundary Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua Potential Within Natura 2000 site /Mullaghmore SAC effect Tullaghan-Lough (000625) Melvin Within GWB containing (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) Donegal Bay SPA No Potential Natura 2000 site AND >3km (004151) effect Productive fissured from Natura 2000 site bedrock Within GWB containing Lough Melvin SAC No Potential Natura 2000 site AND >3km (000428) effect from Natura 2000 site

Ballaghnatrillick Within GWB containing Natura 2000 site AND (IE_NW_G_046) Lough Melvin SAC No Potential outside topographic (000428) effect Poorly productive catchment of Natura 2000 bedrock site Within GWB containing Lough Melvin SAC No Potential Largydonnell Natura 2000 site AND >3km (000428) effect (IE_NW_G_045) from Natura 2000 site Productive fissured Ben Bulben, Gleniff Within GWB containing Potential bedrock And Glenade Complex Natura 2000 site AND <3km effect SAC (000623) from Natura 2000 site Ben Bulben, Gleniff Within GWB containing Rossinver Potential And Glenade Complex Natura 2000 site AND <1km (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) effect SAC (000623) from Natura 2000 site Poorly productive Within GWB containing bedrock Arroo Mountain SAC Potential Natura 2000 site Within 2014s1164 AA Screening Duff v2.2 22

GWB name Drainage maintenance Natura 2000 Site (EU_Code) and flow activity location relative to Result Name (Site code) regime Natura 2000 site boundary (001403) GWB containing Natura effect 2000 site AND <1km from Natura 2000 site Within GWB containing Lough Melvin SAC No Potential Natura 2000 site AND >1km (000428) effect from Natura 2000 site

Step 6 Relevant information relating to each Natura 2000 site still remaining in the screening assessment at this stage, including the Conservation Objectives Supporting Document, Site Synopsis and Natura 2000 Standard Data Form, were then reviewed to identify the potential for pressures and threats and related cumulative and in-combination effects. The results of this assessment are detailed in Table 5-5. Table 5-5: Groundwater Pathway - Step 6 Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or Groundwater Threat Codes Impact and In- Site Threats pathways from Article 17 combination Effects

Arroo Overgrazing No A04.01 *Potential Effect Mountain Peat cutting No C01.03 SAC Proceed to Step (001403) Afforestation No B01 7 Overgrazing No A04.01 Erosion No K01.01 Afforestation No B01 Peat cutting No C01.03 Ben Bulben, Invasive species Gleniff And (Rhododendron, No I01 Potential Effect Glenade New Zealand Complex Willowherb) Proceed to Step SAC 7 (000623) Scrub clearance No B02.02 Over-collection of No F04.02.02 rare plants Re-opening of mine No C01 Water pollution from Yes H01.06 agricultural activities Fertiliser spreading Yes A08 Bunduff Lough And Localised Machair / concentrations of No A04.01.01 Potential Effect feeding cattle Trawalua / Proceed to Step Mullaghmore Sewage discharges Yes H01, H03 7 SAC Recreational use of (000625) No G01 the beaches

Litter No G05

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Potential for Presence of Pressure/ or Cumulative Natura 2000 Pressures or Groundwater Threat Codes Impact and In- Site Threats pathways from Article 17 combination Effects

Note: * proceeding under the precautionary principle as no pressure or threats with a complete source-pathway- receptor chain via groundwater were identified,

Step 7 This stage involves examining each of the GWBs in turn and determining, based on the GWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of each Natura 2000 site, whether they are likely to be significantly affected by the drainage maintenance activates. This is based on an assessment of whether the activity is up or down gradient of a Natura 2000 site. Table 5-6: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Tullaghan-Lough Melvin (IEGBNI_NW_G_014) Productive fissured bedrock GWB (for SACs) GWD Drainage maintenance GWD Qualifying Interest Habitat activity location relative to Result Habitats Typology Natura 2000 site Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua /Mullaghmore SAC (000625) Machairs [21A0] B1 Upgradient Potential effect Alkaline fens [7230] A# Upgradient Potential effect

Note: GWD Habitat Typology after Table 5.1 Kilroy et al (2008) in Ryan Hanley (2014a) A = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands B = Type B, Groundwater Flow-through Depression Wetlands A or B = No available information, based on expert opinion B1 = Where identified by Kilroy et al (2008) as both A and B type. B has been selected as worst case scenario A# = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands additionally identified in consultation with NPWS as potentially being impacted by downgradient activities

Table 5-7: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Largydonnell (IE_NW_G_045) Productive fissured bedrock GWB (for SACs) GWD Drainage maintenance GWB Qualifying Interest Habitat activity location relative to Result Habitats Typology Natura 2000 site Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Geyer’s Whorl Snail Vertigo geyeri [1013] (assume same as petrifying springs A Downgradient No potential effect as found in calcareous flushes) Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and A Downgradient No potential effect Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260] Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) A Downgradient No potential effect [7220]

GWD Drainage maintenance GWB Qualifying Interest Habitat activity location relative to Result Habitats Typology Natura 2000 site

scenario A# = Type A, Groundwater Discharge Zone Wetlands additionally identified in consultation with NPWS as potentially being impacted by downgradient activities

Table 5-8: Groundwater Pathway - Step 7 - Rossinver (IEGBNI_NW_G_044) Poorly productive bedrock GWB (for SACs) GWD Drainage maintenance GWB Qualifying Interest Habitat activity location relative to Result Habitats Typology Natura 2000 site Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Geyer’s Whorl Snail Vertigo geyeri [1013] (assume same as petrifying springs A Downgradient No potential effect as found in calcareous flushes) Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and A Downgradient No potential effect Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260] Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) A Downgradient No potential effect [7220] Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix A Downgradient No potential effect [4010] Blanket bog (*active only) A Downgradient No potential effect [7130] Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) A Downgradient No potential effect [7220]

Step 8 As part of this step, further information on the remaining GWB and Natura 2000 site (i.e. Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua /Mullaghmore SAC) was collected to determine the likely effects of drainage maintenance activities relative to the GWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests of each site, based on their typology. No additional information was available in the conservation objectives supporting documents; the remaining site has therefore proceeded to step 9.

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Step 9 A review of the attributes and targets for the Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests has identified that there is potential for significant effects on GWD Qualifying Interests/Special Conservation Interests in the following Natura 2000 site. Table 5-9: Groundwater Pathway - Step 9 Potential for Effects Potential for Likely Natura 2000 Site Based on Attributes Significant Effects Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua Yes Yes /Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

Step 10 The following Natura 2000 site will require a Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment to be undertaken and the preparation of a Natura Impact Statement or further site specific investigations, if more data becomes available. Table 5-10: Groundwater Pathway - Step 10 Potential for Likely Potential for Natura 2000 Site Significant Effects Cumulative Impacts must be considered must be considered Bunduff Lough And Machair/ Trawalua Yes Yes /Mullaghmore SAC (000625)

The screened in channel and embankment sections (and the bridges within these sections) in the Duff Arterial Drainage Scheme are shown on the map below, and tabulated in Appendix B. Figure 5-1 : Channels and embankments with potential impacts via groundwater pathways

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6 Conclusions From this screening exercise it has been determined that significant likely effects may arise on the following Natura 2000 sites as a result of OPW drainage maintenance activities. Table 6-1: Conclusions Pathway of Impact Comment Site Surface Land Ground Water and Air water The petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) habitats for which this site is designated could be impacted upon by surface water pathways given their likely proximity to scheme watercourses. No other qualifying Arroo Mountain SAC (001403) interests are likely to be affected by surface water pathways. Other pathways are not likely to have an impact as no works will be undertaken within the site and works are downgradient of the SAC boundary. The surface water dependent qualifying interests for which this site is designated (i.e. petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion), watercourses with floating river vegetation and Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Geyer’s Whorl Snail) could be adversely Glenade Complex SAC impacted upon by surface water pathways. No (000623) other qualifying interests are likely to be affected by surface water pathways. Other pathways are not likely to have an impact as no works will be undertaken within the site and works are downgradient of the SAC boundary. Alkaline fens and mudflat habitats in this site are vulnerable to impacts via surface water pathways. A number of qualifying interests are Bunduff Lough And Machair/ also likely to be affected via land and air Trawalua/ Mullaghmore SAC pathways, dependent on their location within the (000625) site. Machairs and alkaline fens, which are groundwater dependent habitats, could also be adversely impacted upon via groundwater pathways. Lough Melvin SAC (000428) No significant impacts, via any of the three pathways, have been identified as part of this Donegal Bay SPA (004151) assessment. Sligo/Leitrim Uplands SPA

(004187)

Note: Red = likely significant effect Green = no likely significant effect

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Figure 6-1: Map of all channels, embankments and structures where significant likely effects may arise

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Appendices A Natura 2000 Site Attributes and Objectives

Natura 2000 Qualifying Interests - Annex Pathway of Impact Conservation Site(s) (Site I Habitats, Annex II or IV Objectives Surface Land & Ground- Code) Species Water Air water Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix [4010] Blanket bog (*active only) [7130] To maintain or restore Petrifying springs with tufa the favourable formation (Cratoneurion) Arroo conservation condition [7220] Mountain SAC of the Annex I habitat(s) (001403) and/or the Annex II Calcareous and calcshist species for which the screes of the montane to SAC has been selected alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii) [8120] Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [8210] Geyer’s Whorl Snail Vertigo geyeri [1013] Otter Lutra lutra [1355] Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation [3260] European dry heaths [4030] To maintain or restore Alpine and Boreal heaths Ben Bulben, the favourable [4060] Gleniff And conservation condition Glenade of the Annex I habitat(s) Juniperus communis Complex SAC and/or the Annex II formations on heaths or (000623) species for which the calcareous grasslands [5130] SAC has been selected Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) [7220] Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii) [8120] Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation [8210] Mudflats and sandflats not To maintain or restore covered by seawater at low Bunduff Lough the favourable tide [1140] And Machair/ conservation condition Trawalua/ of the Annex I habitat(s) Large shallow inlets and bays Mullaghmore and/or the Annex II [1160] SAC (000625) species for which the Reefs [1170] SAC has been selected Petalwort Petalophyllum ralfsii

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Natura 2000 Qualifying Interests - Annex Pathway of Impact Conservation Site(s) (Site I Habitats, Annex II or IV Objectives Surface Land & Ground- Code) Species Water Air water [1395] Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria (white dunes) [2120] Fixed coastal dunes with herbaceous vegetation (grey dunes) [2130] Machairs [21A0] Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands [5130] Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia) (*important orchid sites) [6210] Alkaline fens [7230] Salmon Salmo salar [1106] To maintain or restore the favourable Otter Lutra lutra [1355] conservation condition Lough Melvin of the Annex I habitat(s) Oligotrophic to mesotrophic SAC (000428) and/or the Annex II standing waters with species for which the vegetation of the Littorelletea SAC has been selected uniflorae and/or of the Iso-to- Nanojuncetea [3130] To maintain the Great Northern Diver Gavia favourable conservation immer [A003] condition of Great Northern Diver in Donegal Bay SPA To maintain the Light-bellied Brent Goose favourable conservation Branta bernicla hrota [A046] condition of Light‐bellied Brent Goose in Donegal Bay SPA To maintain the Common Scoter Melanitta favourable conservation nigra [A065] Donegal Bay condition of Common SPA (004151) Scoter in Donegal Bay SPA To maintain the Sanderling Calidris alba favourable conservation [A144] condition of Sanderling in Donegal Bay SPA To maintain the Wetlands & Waterbirds [A999] favourable conservation condition of the wetland habitat in Donegal Bay SPA as a resource for the regularly‐occurring migratory waterbirds

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Natura 2000 Qualifying Interests - Annex Pathway of Impact Conservation Site(s) (Site I Habitats, Annex II or IV Objectives Surface Land & Ground- Code) Species Water Air water that utilise it To maintain or restore Peregrine Falco peregrinus the favourable [A103] Sligo/Leitrim conservation condition Uplands SPA Chough Pyrrhocorax of the bird species listed (004187) pyrrhocorax [A346] as Special Conservation Interests for this SPA

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B Screening Results

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Channels

Channel Arroo Mountain SAC (0001403) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/ Mullaghmore SAC (000625) OVERALL_ID REF Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater 2451 C1 Sect.A x x x 2451 C1 Sect.B x x x x 2451 C1 Sect.C x x x 2451 C1 Sect.D x x x 2451 C1 Sect.E x x x x 2451 C1 Sect.F x x x x 2452 C1/3 x x 2453 C1/5 x x 2454 C1/7 x x x x 2455 C1/8 x x 2456 C1/8/3 x x 2457 C1/8/3/1 x x 2458 C1/11 x x 2459 C1/14 x x x 2460 C1/15 x x 2461 C1/20 x x x 2462 C1/23 x x x 2463 C1/25 x x x Bridges

Bridge Arroo Mountain SAC (0001403) Ben Bulben, Gleniff And Glenade Complex SAC (000623) Bunduff Lough And Machair/Trawalua/ Mullaghmore SAC (000625) Type ID Channel_ID Unique ID Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater Surface Water Land & Air Groundwater B1 C1/7 11580 x x x x B1 C1/8 11583 x x B1 C1 11586 x x x B1 C1/11 11588 x x B1 C1/5 11589 x x B1 C1/14 11596 x x B1 C1/20 11602 x x x B1 C1/8/3 11578 x x B10 C1 11607 x x x B11 C1 11608 x x x x B2 C1/5 11591 x x B2 C1/14 11597 x x B2 C1/8/3 11612 x x B2 C1/8 11579 x x B3 C1/5 11592 x x B3 C1/14 11598 x x B3 C1/8/3 11611 x x B3 C1 11584 x x B4 C1/5 11593 x x B4 C1/14 11599 B4 C1 11582 x x B5 C1/5 11594 x x B5 C1/14 11600 B5 C1 11581 x x x x B6 C1/14 11601 B6 C1 11585 x x B7 C1/14 11604 B8 C1/14 11609 x B8 C1 11605 x x x B9 C1/14 11610 x B9 C1 11606 x x x BX1 C1/3 11590 x x BX1 11595 x x BX1 C1 11587 x x BX2 C1 11603 x x x

References Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (2009) Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects in Ireland - Guidance for Planning Authorities NPWS (2014) http://www.npws.ie/ [date accessed 16th July 2014] NPWS (2013a) Arroo Mountain SAC Site Synopsis. http://www.npws.ie/media/npwsie/content/images/protectedsites/sitesynopsis/SY001403.pdf [date accessed 05th September 2014] NPWS (2013b) Ben Bulben, Gleniff and Glenade Complex SAC Site Synopsis. http://www.npws.ie/media/npwsie/content/images/protectedsites/sitesynopsis/SY000623.pdf [date accessed 05th September 2014] NPWS (2013c) Bunduff Lough and Machair/Trawalua/Mullaghmore SAC Site Synopsis. http://www.npws.ie/media/npwsie/content/images/protectedsites/sitesynopsis/SY000625.pdf [date accessed 05th September 2014] NPWS (2012) Conservation Objectives: Donegal Bay SPA 004151. Version 1.0. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. NPWS (2009) Arroo Mountain cSAC Conservation Statement. http://www.npws.ie/media/npwsie/content/images/protectedsites/conservationstatement/CS0014 03.pdf [date accessed 05th September 2014] Ryan Hanley (2014a) Office of Public Works Arterial Drainage Maintenance Environmental Services 2013. Stage 1: Appropriate Assessment Screening Methodology for the Maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes. Methodology. Unpublished Report. Ryan Hanley (2014b) Office of Public Works Arterial Drainage Maintenance Environmental Services 2013. Stage 1: Appropriate Assessment Screening Methodology for the Maintenance of Arterial Drainage Schemes. Moy Validation Report. Unpublished Report. Ryan Hanley (2014c) Office of Public Works Arterial Drainage Maintenance Service 2014-2018. Source > Pathway > Receptor Chains for Appropriate Assessment. Unpublished Report.

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