JOB 1r, iE`ST' i 7 d OT FOR PUELft4.: I
An Foras Forbartha Teoranta COATSERVATIO1,I AND AMENITI .The National ADVISORY SERVICE Institute for Physical Planning and Construction Research
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A P tEJ,IKI JARY REPOiT ONAi;l_: OF SCIENl FIC INTEnE T IN COUNTY LOUTH r1 J
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Teach Mhairtin £d \ard Fahy, Regis,- irch Assistant. Bothar Waterloo ,4thCliath 4 August,1972. Telefon 64211 St. Martin's House Waterloo Road Dublin 4 J
G O N F I D ENT IA L
;'OT FOR PUBL1G11A T;a-.
7 An Foras Forbartha Teoranta CONSERVATION AND AMENIT .The National ADVISORY SERVICE J Institute for Physical Planning and Construction Research
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J Edward Fahy, Teach Mhairtin Research Assistant. Bothar Waterloo , J Ath Cliath 4 August, 1972. Telefon 64211 St. Martin's House Waterloo Road Dublin 4 CONTENTS Page
A. Preface 1
B . Vulnerability of the Various Habitats 4
C . Procedure and methods; limitations of the report 7 J D. Introduction to areas of scien tific interest in 9 County Louth J E. Explanation of the criteria used in rating areas of 15 scientific interest and in deciding on their priority
F. Table summarising details of areas of scientific 17 interest
G. Detailed reports on areas of scientific interest 22
H. Table summarising recommendations for the con- 112 servation of areas of scientific interest
I . Appendix 1. 115 Maps showing the distribution of some plant species, known to occur in County Louth, in the geographical J unit of Ireland and Britain.
J ote: The maps presented in this report are based on the Ordnance Survey by permission of the Government, (licence number 121/72).
The help of Donal Synnot of the National Herbarium, Glasnevin , J is gratefully acknowledged.
J This report is based on data abstracted from the filesof the Conservation Unit, An Foras Forbartha, from the published literature and fromseveral periods of field observations.It is a provisional document, subject to future research. J J PREFACE
This report concerns country-planning J . It should enable the county council to pick out those areas thatare important on a national or local level and whose conservation can be based on strong scientificor educational grounds. The Conservation and Amc:- `yAdvisory Serviceis attempting to identify a representativE range of natural or sc> natural habitats throughout Ireland and alsoto list sites of special sign..ince, usually containing a rare speciesor a rare natural phenomenon.Around these areas, developmentcan proceed with relative impunity, once waste-disposalproblems have been surmounted. It may be stressed that the amount ofland available is such that development will very seldom mean the impoverishmentof the national heritage, if it is properly planned.
However, it is true that scenicallyattractive areas which appeal because of the combination of hills, woodlandand water, may introduce conflicts. They are naturally sought after by housingor recreation interests but, at the same time, they often contain communitiesof plants and animals, interesting because of their isolationfrom rural or urban development. To compromise between the opposing forcesis always difficult, but it may be pointed out that large trees and especiallythe woodland community isan
irreplaceable feature of the landscapeon a timescale of 10-20 years.
Conservation of natural communitiesmay be important for amenity, scientific or educational reasons, or any combination of thethree.Frequently the natural vegetation of an area gives to ita characteristic atmosphere, an indefinable value, but very real to those thatwalk or drive through it. Diversity is the key quality of the environmentthat attracts people to an area or that makes them find relaxation there; thecontrast between cul- tivation and wilderness, betweenwater and land or between trees andgrass.
Fortunately, diversity is also the sinequa non of rich biological communities.
Examples of all habitats must be preserved forscientific research.Uncul- tivated areas are essential as reservoirs fororganisms that may be useful J for soil conditioning or pest control in thefuture.Quite apart from their
1. inherent interest and complexity they are needed also as controlareas . Without them it would be impossible to judge the effectivenessof, or to improve man's attempts at land management.For example, how can pollution be controlled if no unpolluted watercourse or lake remains inwhich to decipher the natural breakdown processes?Or how can the great productivity of marshes and seasonally flooded land be harnessed, other than byrice growing, if no natural swamps are left?Finally, how can cutover bog be best used for tree growing if no natural self-sustaining bog community orno wooded J peaty areas exist?These questions are of growing importance in a com- petitive world that demands efficiency and an optimum level offood production J compatible with little damage to the ecosystem.
In education, field studies of all sorts are of immensevalue, and biological field studies are a stimulus that many other disciplines envy.Natural communities provide some of the clearest expositions of the ecological principles that operate through all growing and harvesting methods.In addition, there is the challenge of identifyin f and gettingacquainted with numerous and very different species . J Field work attracts practically all children at some stage and enables everyone to better appreciatebeing in
rural surroundings. Already, since the introduction of hiolcgy teaching, there is greater awareness of the environment and interest inwildlife. Such J constructive recreation should be encouraged by the maintenance of variety in the countryside. J It is the intention of this survey to encourage theuse of the countryside by J drawing attention to scientifically interesting places. All of those mentioned can support much greater numbers of people - less soin certain cases of marshes and bogs, or at certain times of the year.But the carrying-capacity of each site will eventually have to be analysed.How much recreational use can co-exist with a nesting wildfowl population?How many people can walk a woodland floor without damaging the plant cover?Or what number of trees can be felled each year while preserving the attractivefeatures of the wood?The idea of preserving any but the smallest areas intactand without change is unrealistic and multiple use should be encouraged.Many of the areas would respond to sound management and become much moreproductive.
2. The majority of the sites listed are now productive inthe crude sense of producing fish, game birds or timber.All are productive if they encourage people to visit the area and make use of servicesnearby, and we believe that all contribute to the relaxation, mental health and happinessof the community, especially the generation of town-dwellers thatnow form most of our nation.
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3. SECTION B
VULNERABILITY OF THE VARIOUS HABITATS
Areas of scientific interest can be damaged in many ways.They can be J completely destroyed by scrubortree clearance, by turf cutting or byarterial drainage, or they can suffer insidiously through pollution, fertilization, grazing or overuse for recreation.
Of these various instances the first poses the greatest threatbecause of the rapidity with which it can occur.In the absence of a fine large enough to be a sure deterrent, co-operation to maintain the county's deciduouswood- lands at all levels of landowner, forester and the generalpublic must be actively sought.It will seldom be sufficient to put a prevention orderon an area which would lose its value immediately the trees arefelled.The volun- tary organisations have a role to play in this actingas observers throughout the county.
Turf cutting on a small, private scale is not occurringat either of the peatland sites included but Bord na Mona have plans to exploitone of them.It is suggested that the county council might take up this matter,if not to try to prevent such exploitation then at least to postpone it untilthe last possible moment.The demand for machine turf may fall as central heatingbecomes the standard form and thus save at least one easternraised bog in the county. The marginal areas that are scheduled to remain uncut areof much less value J than a deep bog and the most satisfactory agreement wouldbe to cut them out completely and leave the latter untouched.
Burning of the vegetation related to turf-cutting causes undesirable modifi- cations in the plant cover, so it should be discouragedif possible.
J Drainage schemes of all sorts have serious consequences for thescientific interest of aquatic sites but- the threat may not beas serious in Louth J as elsewhere.Thus in some instances the areas are large lakes orthe
4. marshes around them and when the water level is loweredthe plant communi- n ties develop again at a lower level. No large marshyarea exists that supports u large numbers of wildfowl, but in the case of smallerlakes there is a danger J that conditions suitable for the same plant community will notrecur and impor- tant species will be lost.The particular example of the Scraw Boa, however, may be mentioned as it would never recover its presentform after drainage.
Dredging of river beds with the resulting steepening of theirbanks has a damaging effect on fish life and also sometimes on wildfowl.
As is well-known pollution of lakes changes their character tobegin with, and if it is continued has bad effects on waterquality and fish life.Aquatic communities of all sorts are the most vulnerable since theincoming matter cannot be localised but is transported everywhere in the water:they also require less nutrients than the land.For these reasons, development upstream of important areas must be carefully controlled, and alternative sites for domestic or agricultural developments, ordrainage routes from them, must always be considered if such an area isinvolved.Where a greater distance of river or stream bed is available, itcan be used within reason to deal with larger quantities of effluent.The lack of turbulence, and, therefore, oxygenation, does add considerably to waste disposal problems throughout the county, however.
Several farming operations are potentially destructive, apart from straigh-
forward pollution by silage effluent or intensive livestock units. Excessive fertilization produces run-off of nutrients, especially nitrates and these are
particularly bad for nutrient-poor ecosystems such as acid laces andbogs. Introducing such run-off into any natural community will change thespecies composition.
Grazing has a similar effect,It selects out of the vegetation those species that are most resistant to constant cutting and allows themto multiply at the expense of others .This reduces the diversity of the flora and also oftenits interest. ri U Light grazing is seldom detrimental except that it prevents thenatural
colonisation of grassland by shrubs and trees,but as it is intensified such n changes as those mentioned above occur and in extreme casesthe vegetation Li may not be able to persist. at all.
The last influence to be mentioned is that of recreationwhich probably deserves a place here at the moment only for its destructiveaspect of flower or plant collecting.Opening up of areas with a rare noticeable plant maydamage that species but in general enough individuals escape notice so thatit persists from year to year.In future fragile ecosystems such as marshes, or unfores- ted eskers may suffer excessive use such as sand dunesare at present receiving, but no problems of this exist in the countytoday. J
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6. SECTION C
rl METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURE; LIMITATIONS OF THE REPORT J
J The information presented here has been obtained from the fileson the county kept by An Foras Forbartha. A field survey and examination of the relevant literature were supplemented by information from people with practical know- ledge of the county.Resulting from this work a number of habitats were
investigated.Coverage of the county is shown in Figure i.
Fig 1 A map of Co. Louth showing the areas which wereinvestigated in the course of making an inventory of sites of scientific importance.
7. The information on the county is not considered complete.Large areas in the north west and on the Carlingford peninsula remain tobe investigated. Large sites like Carlingford Lough, whose potential as a marineduck site J is known to be great (Scaup and Merganser occur therein large numbers), require more detailed study before recommendations are made.
Ratings and priorities must be regarded as provisional.Ideally, as ratings are relative, a complete national inventory should be assembled beforethey are given and, were this to occur, ratings could beexpected to change as sites were were destroyed or others became available.Examples of the latter are to be found where coniferous forests develop to an interestingsize or new quarries are opened revealing stratigraphic phenomena.
Priorities are judged on the most obvious information available.It is unlikely, however, that the available information is complete and factors outsidethose considered could be significant. Procedural Note: J Rare plant species for which sites are listed are referredto as "a rare species" only, this information being regarded as a form of protection.Plant species which are treated. in this way are listed in SectionH of the report.
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8. SECTION D
INTRODUCTION TO AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST IN CO. LOUTH Co. Louth is divisible on structural grounds into four areas(Fig. 2) and the scientific interest of each corresponds to its basic geology.The Carlingford Peninsula (1) is a high mountain area composed of intrusiveigneous and metamorphosed sedimentary rocks.Being a part of the Sliev.e Gullion Ring Dyke complex extending southwards from Co. Down, some features ofexcep- J tional structural geological interest are displayed.The coastal zone (2) which is demarcated on the west by the Dundalk- Dublin railway line, consists of low tidal ground, much of which has beencolonised by salt marsh species.
DRUMLIN ZONE
HIGH, THIN DRIFT ZONE
Fig. 2:A division of Co, Louth into four homogeneous regions.
9. Its geological interest is its Quaternary raised beaches. The north-west landscape of the county (3) is dominated by drumlin hillswhich are rich in calcium carbonate and which enclose small water bodies andraised bogs. To the south of the River Dee the terrain changesand deep drift is replaced by a shallow drift cover on high ground. The woodlandsof this area are typical of those found elsewhere in the countybut otherwise it is without distinctive features. Ratcliffe* (1968) discussed climatic and other abiotic conditions for Bryophyte growth in Ireland. He concluded that Co.Louth was the least atlantic of the Irish counties.Biologically, it remains to discover a representative range of ecotypes in the county. Geologically, J the objective of this wo rk is to list siteswhich display aspects of the M Tertiary and Quaternary geology of the region. J
Tertiary Geology: The Carlingford area has one of the two best exposedring dyke sy7 stems in Ireland. The Slieve Gullion ring d;''.e complex is widespreadand extends south of Barnavave on the peninsula..
Dykes originate by the welling up of magna into fissuresformed by tension. Ring. dyke s are formed by cauldron subsidence, i.e. alu(or cone) in the earth's crust collapses and is. replaced by molten material whichhardens around it in a circular or elliptical shape. The Carlingford,Slieve Gullion complex has been formed by a number of plug collapses.
The original stratigraphic rocks in this area were, as elsewhere,Silurian overlain by Carboniferous limestones. The first material to be injectedin a molten state was gabbro and this was followed by granophyreswhich surrounded the subsiding gabbro plug, thus forming circular dyke structures.
*Ratcliffe, D.A. (1968) An ecological account of Atlantic Bryophytes inthe in the British Isles. New Phytol..67 : 365 - 439
10. Exposures of the ring dyke complex are listed under onesite heading.
J Quaternary Geoloav:
Glacial features are frequent in Co. Louth. The drumlins ofRegion 3 and west-east moraine are examples. The scheduled features are J particularly valuable as educational aids and for their value toresearch. J Biology: Typical habitat types and sites of rare species. Examples weresought in the survey of the county and the following remarks will serveto explain the choice of sites: -
J Woodlands: The selection of woodlands for conservation is considered on several grounds. The most valuable stands are "primeval" forests of certain hardwood species, such as oak. Primeval stands, because they have been untouched, or largely so, since man's arrival in Ireland,contain reservoirs of native plant and animal life. Oak and birchform primc al J stands in hilly areas of the country where their harvesthas proved uneconomic. Planted oak and birch also occur in various parts ofIreland - steep slopes in Co. Wicklow for example have large areas of oakand they have conservation values as sites to which surviving native fauna and florahave imigrated and become established.They are not,however,untouched since primeval times so their values are lower than purely natural woodland.
Another woodland type of equal conservation value to that justmentioned is secondary forest which forms on uncultivated land and sometimesinvades and overtakes existing deciduous woodland. J J
11. In the western counties a common secondary tree species isbirch, but on the limestone drift in Co. Louth,ash (Fraxinus excelsior) is themost common J tree.Secondary woodlands are self-established and when composed of native hardwoods arelikely to contain a native fauna and flora.
Beech (Fagus sylvatica) is not a native Irish tree butwas widely grown as an estate and parkwood species because of its satisfactoryyield. The nutrient products of beech leaf breakdown and the fact that lightpenetration through its branches is similar to that in other deciduous woodspermit a profuse J and varied ground flora to develop and this in turnsupports invertebrate populations more generally found in native deciduous woods. Coniferous woodlands are not generally of any conservation value. Yew Taxusbaccata and juniper (Iuniperus communis) are native species and their distribution is limited.Larch Larix spp.) is important as the only deciduous conifer which allows some light penetration to the herb layer ina forest which thus supports a varied ground flora.Most conifers however, as they near maturity, permit some light to get as far as the forestfloor.Ravensdale forest is a good J example.Sites of this kind have a local importance but carefulmanagement is required if they are to maintain their scientific values.
Particular mention should be made of groups of deciduous treesoccurring on limestone outcrops in the northwest of the county. Because thesearc in- I- accessible to farm machinery, they have remained untouched. As arule the trees are ash (Fraxinus excelsior), elder (Sainbucus Nigra) and variousplanted ri species.Often the central dome of a hill is not forestedand is covered in LJ bracken (Pteridium aguilinum). The ground flora of the outcrops examined varied but was in places very poor (Rumex spp only.)A detailed survey of these sites will be carried out in the future.Their only apparent threat at this time is clearance for house building.
The enforcement of a blanket control by the Local Authorityis considered to be the best way of ensuring the survival of isolated standsand roadside trees of obvious value to amenity but of less scientific worth.
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Wetlands; Wetlands, and particularly lakes, have a particular scientific interest to
researchers and educationalists. Because a lake forms a closed and discreet biological system, its value is immense.But marshlands, whether coastal or freshwater are of noteworthy significance in Ireland which is anoverwintering and feeding area for northern wildfowl.The destruction of habitat that has occurred in recent years has resulted in a number offormerly common species becoming rare.To conserve what remains, it will be necessary to retainsuitable existing wetlands and possibly to create others.Virtually all of the extant marshlands in County Louth can be shown to be ofornithological importance.
The cut-over bog at Ardee is the only remaining exampleof a raised bog in the county.Rejuvenation is taking place whore deep channels have been cutand botanical rarities still exist at the site.
Sand Dunes: The sand dunes system at Baltray is one of theleast eroded on the east coast of Ireland.In addition to containing a typical fauna and flora; thedune system
has a number of rarities. In the future, this area will certainly come under greater pressures from recreational use and constant vigilance will berequired to keep its scientific values at their present level.
13.. THE VULNERABILITY OF SCIENTIFIC SITES IN CO. LOUTH In Fig. 3, The priorities for the county are summarised.It will be obvious that a large proportion of the areas considered have ahigh priority and will require constant vigilance and management to ensure that they retaintheir scientific interest.Two weeds are particularly dertrimental to existing biological sites, some of which have deteriorated as a resultof invasion and have lost almost all their features of scientific interest.Rhododendron ponticum is widespread and well established in Co. Louth andmost woods examined had some plants.The same is true of Spartina townsendii which has colonised all the coastal marshes and replaced the naturalflora of the sea frontage at Lurgan Green.
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Fig. 3 :A summary of site prioritiesfor Co. Louth. arbitary. The vertical scale is
14. SECTION E
RATING OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE
This is a measure of the relative importance of areasof scientific importance. n U The importance of each area is indicated in terms ofthe following categories:
International Importance
1. Only area of its type in Europe. 2. One of a few such localities in Europe. 3. One of a natural series in Europe. 4. Recognised international importance. 5. Specialised educational importance.
National Importance
1. Only area of its type in Ireland.
2. One of a few such localities in Ireland. 3. One of a natural series in Ireland. 4. Recognised national importance. 5. General or specialised educational importance.
Regional Importance
1 . Only area of its type in province. rl J 2. . One of a few localities in Ireland. 3. One of a natural series in region. J 4. Fine example of its kind. 5. General or specialised educational importance. Local Importance J 1. Only area of its type in county. 2 . One of a few localities in province. 3. Fine example of its kind. J 4. General educational importance.
PRIORITY OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST
This is a measure of the relative urgency necessary forprotection of the J areas of scientific importance.
Each site is given a priority rating of A, Bor C.
The rating of any area is based on a combinationof the following criteria:-
J the importance of the area b) the vulnerability of the area c) the nature and imminence of any threats to the area. J
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16. : LI r U CU C_ ] C C CJ TABLE SUMMARISING DETAILS OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST U EJ U C_] U LI C-] C L7 C-j Area at Greenore Map No. 1 Grid Reference C Geological:Interest Dundalk Marshes 7 L 2 J.086, 070 A Ecological,containingthe site is an archaeological botanical, important zoological raised remains. beach and Clogher Head z 3 845 B ABotanical,a combination saltornithological: marsh ecological: system. of rare plant species Melifont Abbey 73 2j f 4 B Ecological,aoccurs typical on fauna abotanical rocky and promentory. floraand zoological:occurs with a Woodlands at Darver Castle 3 5 0.010, 988 B Ecological,rareflora. plantwoodland species. botanical having and a typical zoological: fauna and Carlingford Mountain - 6 J.165,125J.110,11.85 & B communitiesEcological,acid grassland, botanical occur blanket at andthese bog zoological: areas. and alpine LI C___] LJ C__J L_ _ ] LI C1 L7 LJ LA J L . J U LJ L__] LJ L_J - C___) C__.. Baltray Dune SystemArea (i/C. h' Map No. 7 0.157,772Grid Reference Rating C InterestEcological, botanical and zoological: Ardee Bog N.930,914 Regional C ananimalBotanical,and intactcutaway animal community.dune ecological speciesbog system with and with aand typical some typicalzoological:. rarities. plant plant and ExposuresMapastown of theGlacial RingSlieve Site Dyke Gullion Complex 10 9 N .989, 949 ,102 C GeologicalexposuresGeological:ring dyke. show and botanical: the structure of the Various minerals occur. Woodlands at Stevenstown House 11 J.005,025 A a Ecological,anddeposit animals. of glacial botanical species and zoological: of plants Woodlands at Narrow Water Y S 'V ,_. 12 1.123 ,193 A Botanical,andwoodlandsgood invertebrates ground ecological having flora . typical and typicalzoological: herb layerinvert- Shore North of Castlebeliingham 13 0.070,977 A aEcological,ebrates theraisedornithological mudflats present.beach botanical, arehaving anda wintering ageological: zoological, profuse area flora; for YCO birds. %J L--- , - 1 , L_J LI L_] LI LJ L- L.J LI LJ L_ 7 L-1 U C--7 C_.] C Area , Map No. Grid Reference Rating Priority Interest C-7 l 14 Local A . Ecological: ReaghstownBraganstown MarshBog 15 0.034,935N.907,982 Local A theandEcological,marsh remnant ornithological: having of botanical, atypical large marsh;fauna zoological and an flora. Derelict Woodlands 6 -- / 16 & 17 N.950,967 & Local A Botanical:important botanical site. Headwater Lakes Riveron the Fane 18 H.969,065N.960,917 Local B andEcological, ornithological:could botanical, be interesting zoological woodlands. Flurrey River Site 7 D J.077,096 Local B waterTheEcological lakes in County are and the Louth. botanical: largest areas of open Castle Coo Hill l 19 20 0.145,830 Local B a Botanicalwithmeander some belt and unusual wetlandecological: plant and species. estuary Salt Marsh at Baldoyle -, 6 6'j 21 0.145,775 Local B a Ecological:androcky a rareoutcrop plant with species. a heath vegetation Boyne J;stuary 7 21b 0.140,775 Local B AandOrnithologicalan river example waders. estuary of of aand importance salt ecological: marsh. to wildfowl LJ L LJ L] LI LI LJ L-1 L_] LI U CJ U L] Ll Ld L1 1-3 LJ LI C -L. Blackhall WoodlandsArea Map No. 22 0.125,825Grid Reference RatingLocal Priority B EcologicalInterest and botanical: Woodlands at Barmeath Castle (/L 23 0.095,875 Local B Ecologicalplanteda good groundwood. and florabotanical: occurs in this Kill;ncoole Marsh , b/ y 0.006,997 Local B Ecological:the woodsite is hasa Phragmites a varied ground (reed) flora. marsh. KingPond William'sand Trees GlenOppositeStevenstown House . , 2524 0.045,765J.012,026 LocalLocal CB TheanimalEcological, sitetypical containscommunities. example botanical typical of and a plant static zoological: and waterbody. Liscarragh Marsh 1^ 26 J.185,062 Local C aEcological: good example of a marshland. Ravensdale Woods 2827 J.089,133 Local C floraaEcological, mixed and forest fauna. botanical containing and zoological:a typical Trumpet Hill andArea Surrounding 1 / V J.100,100 Local woodlandaEcological, basalt volcanic and botanicaland including cone covered a marshzoological: in nearby. II L:I CI Cd CI U C __ I C __ J C __ J Lj U CJ C __ I L . J C-J C.__J LJ C__J C-J U L__ Area Map No. Grid Reference Rating Priority Interest TheDunany Park Wood End Moraine Omeath c 0/ 3029 0.160,918J 125,175 Local C a woodGeologicalBotanical, composed ecological and of botanical: secondary and zoological: birch. Kildemock Marsh 31 N.973,885 Local C Ecological,plantathe Phragmites sitespecies is abotanical glacialoccurs (reed) moraine; there.marshand zoological: with an typicaluncommc Cooley Peneplain C ' 32 J.230, 070 Local C Geological;flora theand sitefauna. is a peneplain. J
SECTION G
Name of area RAISED BEACH AT GREENORE UI Acreage 7 - but seerecommendations J. 225, 105 J Grid reference Scientific interest Geological r-1 Ratin National importance U Priority C J
Description of the area See Map 1 The site is a raised beach, similar to the existingbeach in composition J but approximately 10-15 feet higher. rl LJ Evaluation The beach dates from the post-mesolithic period in Ireland.In addition to showing the elastic recovery of the land after the iceretreat, the feature is dated by its possession of rolled flint implements tog 3 , 000 B C.
Threats to the area 1 Natural marine erosion is occurring but at a slow pace.In one part of the site rubbish tipping has taken place and this may beobscuring the cliff line. J
Recommendations
At this time the precise inland limits of the siteare not known although research on them is proceeding.It would be desirable to remap the area as soon as possible. Protection of the site can besecured by prevention of building or rubbish tipping on it.
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NOTE:This is a raised beach section.The inland extent of the feature is not yet known.
23. J Name of area DUNDALK MARSHES See also shore north of Castlebellingham Acreage 425 Grid reference J. 086, 070 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical, zoological and ornithological Ratin Regional importance Priority A
Description of the area See Map 2. J The seaward side of the site is occupied by theupper zone of a salt marsh and this contains the following plant species: J Halimione portulacoides sea purslane Juncus gerardii salt mud rush Festuca rubra red fesque Agrostis stolonifera common bent grass Cochlaeria officinalis common scurvy grass Spergularia marina sea spurrey Glaux maritima saltwort Puccinellia maritima common salt marsh grass Plantago maritima sea plantain Aster tripolium sea aster J and Armeria maritima sea pink
The area has traces of pans and channels and thesecontain various species of Crustacea, particularly Isopoda. Frequent inundation is therefore.likely.
To the east the salt marsh goes into a thinSalicornia zone and thereafter J into shallow mudflats which contain a typical fauna of Crustacea, particularly Corophium volutator.
The inland margin of the marsh is formed of ahigh ditch along which
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grow Agropyron juncifor:ze sand twitch J Beta maritima sea beet
Inland there are a number of fields, some cultivated, ofsignificance as winter feeding areas and as a buffer zone.
Evaluation The site is of interest as an example of anupper salt marsh, with typical flora and fauna. The area has an added significanceas a
wildfowl feeding ground during the winter months. Figures on its potential as a feeding ground are incomplete, there being no residentmonitor during
the winter months. The following maximum recorded figures give an indication
of its value:
Duck Mallard 200 Teal 400 Wigeon 500 Pintail 10
Shoveler 5 Goldeneye 50 Common Scoter 50 Merganser 20 Shelduck 30
Swans and Geese
Mute swans 40 Brent geese 40
These figures indicate considerable scientific value although the holding capacity of the site is likely to be higher.
Threats to the area
The grass Spartina, which has obliterated much of the shoresite north J 26. of Castlebellingham, is well established in parts of this ,Harsh,and forms tufts in the important zone.Its removal is a matter of urgency.
Other threats to the site are likely to come inthe future from water borne effluents, particularly oil,and the increase in human pressures .The latter will take at least two forms, building and recreation.A third J possibility is casual, or official, refuse disposal on the marsh.
Recommendations The immediate problem is the protection, and, if possible, enhancement
of the site which should proceed as follows:
1 . Demarcation of the area and provision of a buffer zone of no housing or industrial. development around it 2. The eradication of Spartina 3. Careful observation of recreational pressures on the marsh. This should include summer ti.-,e recreation and shooting in winter. Although there was no evidence of wildfowling when the site was visited, neither is there any indication that the area is protected in any way. 4. In the future consideration should be given to the useof a conservation order to protect the scientific values of the site.
27. Name of Area CLOGHER HEAD Acreage 96 Grid reference 0. 175, 845 J Scientific interest Botanical, ecological Ratin Regional importance Priority B
Description of the Area See map 3 Clogher Head is a promentory of Silurian quartzite whichis faulted upwards on its eastern side.The rocks are covered with a thin layer of soil and the vegetation occurring on the headland istypical of communities on shallow soils, grazed by sheep elsewhere.The stonecrop (Sedum auglicum) daisy (Bellisperennis) and birds foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) are common. The grasses,crested dog's tail CVynos urus cristatus) and sweet vernal grass(nthoxanthum odoratum) are abundant.Sea pink (Armeria maritime), lonsewort (Pedicularis sylvatica) and heathers (Erica tetralix andCalluna vulgaris) also occur.
Evaluation Four rare plant species occur on the headland.Although all are widely dispersed in the coastal area, two partsof the headland are better colonised than the rest.These are surrounded by a heavy line in the accompanying map.
Threats to the Area Land adjoining the head will come under increasing pressurein the future.Recreational forces are the most likely and use ofthe land for building second homes will be an inevitable pressure.
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`i 7 A second despoiling influence will arise from the movement ofpeople J along the coast. This is likely to be critical inthe vicinity of the most n valuable parts of this site.Port Oriel was, when the site was visited, u in a poor state because of domestic and picnic rubbishscattered about. This factor, if it extends to the surrounding coast, couldbe a despoiling influence, but it would be unlikely to alter the statusof the rare plant species unless tipping occurred.
J Recommendations. It is desirable that the scientific values of this sitebe maintained. J As in other cases, the management of the headland inthe best amenity interests will go a long way towards maintaining its scientificvalues. Firstly, the headland should be maintained without alteration and no change in the land use policy should occur, eg. thereshould be no building. In the future the manipulation of large number ofpeople may provide a partial answer to the conservation of thesite.Such procedures would involve the closing of certain pathways to the areas of greatest importance.
In the meantime, the site should be kept under observationand a policy evolved as the occasion demands.
30. r1 W
Name of area MELIFONT J Acreage 350 Grid reference 0.01 2, 835 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Patin Regional importance
Priority B n U
Description of the area See Map 4 The site is wet secondary woodland. The trees consist mainlyof ash (Fraxinus excelsior) which appears to have been coppiced at one time,alder (Alnus glutinosa), birch (Betula sp.) and an exotic sycamore Acer sp.)also occur. The shrub layer is dominated by Rhododendron and there issome guelder rose (Viburnum opu.lus). The area of greatest interest is surrounded by adouble line in Map 4.
The herbs are profuse and varied and the following dominatethe ground layer:
Rubus fruticosus agg. bramble Circaea lutetiana enchanters nightshade Lysimachia nernorum_ yellow pimpernel Listera ovata twayblade Ajuga reptans bugle The fern Dryopteris dilitata is common.
A lake is included in the area of scientific interest.It is shallow and is gradually filling with sediment. The lake margins are an alderswamp and a Typha sp. is common, together with Menyanthes trifoliata (begbean).
Evaluation
The woodland has a varied invertebrate fauna and red squirrelsare common. A rare plant species occurs there.
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Landreclamation is possible and some of the woodland has theappearance of being cleared at present. Rhododendron spread will destroy thescientific and amenity values of the wood if not checked.
Recommendations The area of woodland included in this site is largeand partial clearance may occur. The area surrounded by a double line onMap 4 is most valuable and should be retained along with trees surrounding thelake. Consideration should be given to managing part of this estateas a nature reserve.If necessary, preservation should be secured by use of atree preservation order.
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33. Name of area WOODLANDS AT DARVER CASTLE Acreage 11 Grid reference 0. 010, 988 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Patin Regional importance Priority B
Description of the area See Map 5 The site is a small, mixed deciduous woodland consisting ofbeech (Fagus y.lvatica), alder (A1nus glutinosa) hawthorn (Crataequs monogyna) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior), the last species being the best established interms of regenerative ability.There is some rhododendron (Rhododendron
ponticum). The ground flora is diverse and noteworthy : Listera ovata twayb.lade (orchid) Pyllitis sco.lopendrium hart's tongue fern Iris pseudacorus yellow flag 7 J Typha latifolia bulrush Equisetum sylvaticum horsetail E. palustre Dactylorchis fuchsii orchid Dryopteris felix-mas male fern Arum macu.latum arum lily Viola reichenbachiana dog violet Geranium roberti.anum herb robert Festuca gigantia giant fescue grass Rumex sanguineus dock Circea lutetiana enchanter's nightshade Hedera helix ivy Epilobium sp. willow herb Geum urbanum wood aven Fragaria vesca wild strawberry Ranunculus ficaria lesser celandine
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35. Threats to the area Being small, the site will be difficult to conserve.In common with the other 7 'J Louth woodlands rhododendron spread will occur if the plant isnot checked.
Recommendations The persistence of this site as a wet deciduous woodlandwould be desirable. To this end management is required to eradicate rhododendron and replant deciduous trees .In time ash will become dominant, if permitted to do so and this would be satisfactory from anecological point of view.
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.1 36. Name of area CARLINGFORD MOUNTAIN Acreage 1800 and 800 Grid reference J. 110, 18S and J. 165, 125 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Ratin Regional importance
Priori B
Description of the area See Map 6 The Carlingford mountain range is composed of acidic and basicigneous rocks and metamorphic and sedimentary rocks surround the hill-range which hasa n rugged appearance. J The Northern slopes are composed of silurian slates, dolerite, gabbroand granite at the summit. The basic gabbro supports a richflora which may be described as acid grassland. Presumablyif other conditions, notably rainfall, were suitable, blanket peats would develop. The most important plantspecies n in the vegetation are: Festuca rubra red fesque Listera ovata twayblade Schoenus nigricans black bog rush Erica tetralix cross leaved heath Calluna vulgaris l ing Lotus corniculatus bird's foot trefoil Nardus stricta mat grass n Thymus drucei thyme J Galium saxatile heath bed-straw Polygola sp. milkwort Eri.ophorum spp. bog cotton Platanthera bifolia lesser butterfly orchid Ulex eurooaeus gorse
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Note: The precise limits of this site remain to he described; work on these is proceeding. J
38. .i. The presence of the mosses Sphagnum palustre and Polytrichum juniperinum indicates a wet habitat which, in places, becomes bog. Thefrequent rocky outcrops in the area support a distinct flora andthe granite summit of Carlingford Mountain (above 1000 ft.) has a number ofalpine species. 7 In places along the northern side of the mountain thesite which stretches J in an irregular manner along a north- south axis is dominated by alder
Alnus glutinosa) and some ash (Fraxinus excelsior). The ground flora consists in the wetter areas of:- Juncus effusus soft rush Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Lapsana communis nipple wort Mentha aguatica water mint Hypericum perforatum perforate St. John's wort Ranunculus ficaria lesser celandine and the grass Agrostis stolonifera common bent
Publication R.L. Praeger, (1934), The Botanist in Ireland, Hodges Figgis; Dublin.
Evaluation
The site is notable for the diversity of its flora,four hundred species being found in a small area. A number of rarities alsooccur.
Threats to the Area
A large part of the potential ecotype has already beenlost to coniferous afforestation. A similar fate for the remainder of thesite is likely. Building is a remote possibility.
Recommendations
In the near future a revision of the existing siteboundaries to include the most valuable piece of hillside should be carried out.It is understood that a more detailed survey of the area is in progress.
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This area should be managed as a grazing area asat present. Coniferous J afforestation should be discouraged and any destruction of the areaby, for example, house building prevented.
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40. Name of Area BALTRAY DUNE SYSTEM Acreage 375 J Grid Reference O. 151, 772 Scientific Interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Regional Importance.
Priority C "
Description of the area See Map 7 The site consists of highly calcareous, stable sand dunes.A complete succession of sand dunes in good condition occurs: 7 J The foredunes are a narrow band.The plant species occurring include Agrapvron junceiforme sand couch grass J Elymus arenarius sea lyme grass Ammophila arenaria marram grass Stabilisation of the dunes begins very close to the shoreand a species list, 7 J similar to that drawn up at the shore site northof Castlebellingham occurs. Further inland there is a dune grassland and some duneslacks also occur.These J contain a plant community typical of wet places.
J Evaluation The site is of importance because it has a numberof sand dune habitats.In addition several rare plant species and a rare snail occurthere.
Threats to the area
The dunes are at present in good condition and arenot apparently in any immediate danger as a result of recreation pressures but these arelikely to increase in the n J future.Some of the stabilised dune area has been given overto a golf course and some building has taken place in another part.Both are unlikely to prove a threat to the dune system. n
41. n
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J Recommendations J Various pressures on the dunes are likely to materialise orintensify in the future.An overall policy for the system should be devised, stressingthe limits of development such as building.Allowance should also be made for increased recreational pressures and countermeasures planned well in advance. Correct management of the dune system should be an adequatesafeguard of its scientific values.
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43. J Name of area ARDEE BOG Acreage 670 Grid reference N. 930, 914 Scientific interest Botanical, ecological and zoological Rating Regional importance Priority C
J Description of the area See Map 8 The site is a cutaway raised bog on which remnantsof the original flora J persist. The following species were observed :
Calluna vulgaris ling Luzula multiflora woodrush Epilobium angustifolium willow herb Drosera rotundifolia sundew Pteridium aguilinum bracken Potenti.lla erecta tormentil Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious Polygola sp. milkwort J Carex rostrata bottle sedge Osmunda regalis royal fern Molinia caerulea purple moor grass
Where channels have been cut Menvanthes trifoliata (bogbean) iscommon. J The most notable feature of the area is the largeexpanse of Eriorphorum spp. Their presence indicatesa regenerating bog and suggests that other species, like Sphagnum, are regenerating at the same time.
Evaluation A number of rare plant species are recorded from thisarea. During the cursory examination associated with this survey their status was not assessedbut some are likely to persist. Apart from these the area is of ecological
44. j n
value as a regenerating bog and as an invertebrate habitat. n U Threats to the area Further land reclamation by trench cutting would be the mostlikely.
Recommendations If reclamation is to occur here then a part ofthe bog should be left intact. A more detailed re-survey and reassessment would be required todetermine L] a conservable area for preservation. 7 J
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Name of area EXPOSURES OF THE SLIEVE GULLION RING DYKE COMPLEX Acreage 14 Grid Reference J. 183, 102(but see 6" map). J Scientific interest Geological Rating Regional importance Priority C
Description of the area See Map 9 . J The sites consist of two quarries and a number ofsurface exposures.
In Fig. 4the relationship between a central cone sheet (plug) and the surrounding dyke material is shown. The Figure also shows theposition of the quarries and other observation points in relation to thesolid geology of the area.In Map 9the position of the sites on a 6" 0. S.Map is shown. The ring dyke phenomenon has been discussed in SectionC.
Publications
Bailey, E .B. 1959Mobilization of granophyre in Eire and sinking of
olivine in Greenland L.pcol. Manchr. Geol. J. 2: 143-154 J Nockolds, S. R . & R . L . Mitchell 1944Contributions to the petrology of Barnavave, Carlingford. I .F. S .4 Some limestone xenoliths enclosed in the junction hybrids
Geol. Mag.81: 88-94 rl u Nockolds, S.R. 1947On tilleyite and its associated minerals from Carlingford, Ireland Miner. Mag. 28:151-158 J Nockolds, S.R. 1950 On the occurrence of nepunite and endialytein quartz bearing syenites from Barnavave, Carlingford, Ireland Miner. Mag. 29:27-33 n Nockolds, S . R . 1938Contributions to the Petrology of Barnavave, Carlingford. u I.F.S. 3 On some hybrids from the E. and S.E.slopes of Barnavave MountainGeol. Mag. 75 :469-479 J
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G,dnophyro E. and Granr to (G)
G.6610 and ElUrrlvrne (E)
rurpbyrnic IMr,sr Grannphyra (PG,
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A Ccnr JA :(IvrnarJ!n
-c U-s (9) J
!+}- + 1_ +', + Cl,lor.dero .s (dl ,5' ++ + 4,+
-rllvi"+ ++ `c+ +t + N-!wrv Granod,nri!a (D.vnnian) (NG)
+ I+ + \``V+ ' 1 Lower t to casts (b) +,. + + I'f' r
+ -V\-,+ + Key
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Fig. 4 A map of the stratigraphy of the Carlingfordarea in the vicinity of the Barnavave and Rosemount Quarries. From C. H. Emeleus and J. Preston, Field Excursion Guideto the Tertiary Volcanic Rocks of Ireland, Oxford, 1969. J
48. 7 u
Evaluation
The area contains examples of the reaction between gabbro andgranophyre, J both of which are important components in the ring dykecomplex. The reaction between both igneous rock types and the limestone isalso obvious in places. n Barnavave Quarry: basic hybrids are exposed and basic rock isveined and J enclosed by granite which is contaminated by the basic material. Rosemount Quarry: Consists of relatively unmetamorphosed fossiliferous carboniferous limestone which has been quarried leaving dykes andcone n sheets isolated. J Other, circular areas on Map 9 show various aspects of contact between the igneous and metamorphosed rocks.
The sites are of widely known significance andare visited regularly by geology students.
Threats to the area House building is a threat likely to apply to someof the sites shown on Map 9. Some rubbish tipping is occurring in the quarriesand this, if continued,
could obliterate structural details.
Recommendations Basic protection will serve to maintain the scientific values ofthese sites. Building and rubbish tipping however should be prevented, especially inthe vicinity of the two quarries.
Future quarrying in this area would be welcome, from thescientific point of view.It would however be undesirable to remove the structural features in the Rosemount quarry.
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50 Possible Site
Name of area MAPASTO`vVN GLACIAL SITE Acreage less than 1 Grid reference N. 989, 949 Scientific interest Geological, botanical and ecological Patin Regional importance Priority Unknown J
Description of the area See Map 10 The site, close to the River Glyde, consists of outwashgravels containing fragments of igneous rock derived from the north. The areaof scientific interest is in the subterranean sediments which are highly fossiliferousand have yielded giant Irish deer and plant species having alpineand general distributions in Central Europe.
Publication G.F. Mitchell, 1953 Further identifications of macroscopic J plant fossils from Irish Quaternary deposits especially from a lateglacial deposit at Mapastown, Co. Louth. Proc. R.Ir. Acad. (B)55,255-281
Evaluation Several of the plant species which were discovered at thesite were recorded for the first time in Ireland. The floral composition isindicative of a rare plant community.
Threats to the area Removal or widespread destruction of the sediments might occur asa result of drainage. Building could obscure the site for further research.
Recommendations
The value of the area for future research is atpresent unknown.It should be ascertained as soon as possible.In the meantime efforts should be made to prevent unsuitable development on the site.
51 J n L i L. r S6 4at1 fv3{ til.b'vii U r ai-f[ trill Iru ii at.ESL i E.E.. t- 1 7 O LJ r p!2: i1 1 1 S ,! -iOs to li
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50 50:::...... ' : j O SD ! G. .
rt 21::c5iI ` Y i o:' Grr t+ 1 Y.57 , rD 74 93 '\ ,S 74 1? ....\ a te_ """ - ._.C I L ) ?tom - r <<. ..1Z3 .2 t' o 11 a_ Ltdudt,7 2 J ?f snfy ..8 Y. 5_ -JICI -.4
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52. 7 IJ Name of area WOODLANDS AT STEVENSTOWN HOUSE Acreage 50 Grif reference J. 005, 025 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Ratin Local importance Priority A
Description of the area See Map 11. The site is a mixed deciduous- coniferous planted woodland. The shrub layer is composed of elder (Sambucus niger) and rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum). The ground flora includesa wide range of species, having a scattered distribution.Nettles (Urtica dioica) and brambles (Rubus fruticosus0 agg .) are common as are semi-aquatic species in partsof the area. J Evaluation
J The site supports a typical flora and is likely tocontain a typical invertebrate fauna. J7 Threats to the area
The woodlands require management; rhododendron, byobstructing light
penetration, has impoverished the ground flora. The land might be cleared L1 for agricultural or building purposesor the deciduous trees replaced by 7 conifers. 7J
Recommendations
The area should be managedas a woodland, and gradually replanted as deciduous trees are felled.Its maintenance as a mixed forest, managed for timber yield will ensure the preservationof its scientific values provided consideration is given to ground flora conservation- as, for example, recommended for the woods at Ravensdale.
53. n r1 r, r,; "I Ct!i+lt. ;i(~.. . ed bii_J l itl LtlLS T 11
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54. LJ !J n Name of area WOODLANDS AT NARROW WATER Acreage 26 Grid reference J. 123, 193 Scientific interest Botanical, ecological and zoological Rating Local importance J Priority A
Description of the area See Map 12.
The woodland consists mainly of beech (Fagus sylvatica) and includessmall numbers of oak (Quercus sp.) sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) and other rl deciduous trees, decreasing in that order. There is some hollyIlex
Li aguifolium) as an under-storey and the ground flora is dominatedby woodsorrel n (Oxalis acetosella) and includes violets (Viola riviniana), dock (Rumex spp.) and bluebells (Scilla non-scriptus).
J Evaluation The site is a good example of deciduous woodland containinga typical ground J flora. The invertebrate fauna is likely to be typical.
Threats to the area
J Rhododendron is profuse in places and could dominate the vegetationif not controlled.
Recommendations Manyof the trees in this woodland are nearingor have reached maturity. n Management of the woodland in the future will involve fellingand trees that are U so removed should be replaced with deciduous saplings.An improvement to the n site, in scientific terms, would be a replacement of maturebeech with oak. I L1
SS. It 17 Cy3I..... cr r L'r anwW-.r~ C.,a3C... --j CDLt-
'Ut YI , J 1 " )(' 'Y } 7 C`7 C"-7 (T 7 C-7 C-7 C--j C-3 J -c---) C l C-73 C-7 C-7 C A noteworthy point about the woodland is the range oftree sizes.Approximately one third of the trees are mature and the woodshould not be clear-felled. Bole v marks (numbers, lines, etc.) in the Narrow Water wood suggesta higher percentage are due for removal. rl Theclearance of rhododendron should be undertaken as a matter ofurgency.
The maintenance of this wcodland should be ensured by useof a tree preservation order, if necessary. J n u .0
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Name of area SHORE NORTH OF CASTLEBELLINGHAM Acreage Not calculated Grid reference 0. 070, 977 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical, zoological, ornithological and geological Rating Local importance Priority A
Description of the area See Map 13. This site consists of a number of habitats. The shoreis a raised beach, covered n in shingle and having a varied flora. Within an areaof 5m2 the following species
were listed: Daucus carota wild carrot J Rumex crispus curled dock Lapsana communis nipple wort Potentilla reptans creeping cinquefoil P. anserina silverweed Plantago lance olata ribwort plantain Loiium perenne Italian rye grass. Artemisia vulgaris mugwort Chenopodium album fat hen Myosotis arvensis common forget-me-riot Poa trivialis rough meadow grass Rosa spinosissima wild rose Veronica chamaedrvs germander speedwell Gali.um a pa nine goose grass Vicia ang ustifolia narrow leaved vetch Honkenya peploides sea purslane Festuca rubra red fescue grass Sinapis arvensis charlock Lotus corniculatus bird's foot trefoil
58. 7I LJ :1-t! tow- .- i' l...t (mot': ``t *i?UG-fdi ti ins.E (l i 13
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J Centaurea scabiosa great knapweed Galium verum ladies bedstraw rl J Anthriscus sylvestris cow parsley Sonchus oleraceous cow thistle ri to Trifolium pratense clover Veronica hederifolia ivy Ieaved speedwell J Tripleurosoermum maritimum scentless chamomile r, u On the sand and mud-flats there is a Salicornia europaea(glasswort), marsh n with some Limonium vulgare (sea lavender). This area has largepopulations
LJ of the sand shrimp (Crangon vulgaris) and the Crustacean (Cornniurn volutator).
Evaluation 1 J The area contains several habitat types which have representative floral composition. The area also has a rare plant species. Variouswader and J duck species feed on the salt marsh.
J Threats to the area
J Rubbish dumping is occurring in such quantity as to obliterateareas of the shingle vegetation. The salt marsh north of the dashed lineon Fig . 13 is obliterated by So_artina growth. rI Recommendations iLi n Clearance of domestic rubbish should be undertakenas a matter of urgency. u Management of this site as an amenity area would ensurethe survival of the plant species.
A desirable improvement would be the removal of Spartina beforeit spreads to create further damage. Removal of the grass would requirean eradication policy, with which An Foras would give assistance.
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Name of area REAGHSTOWN MARSH n Acreage 75 u Grid reference N 907, 982 J`r Scientific interest Ecological Rating Local importance Priority A
u Description of the area See Map 14. The area is a wetland of similar floral composition toBranganstown Bog, (next site). Drainage channels have been cut at intervals and the interveningareas in places have wall developed grassland. Salix aureta (willow) scrub is U widespread. rl J Evaluation The site is rated as a good example of awetlandhabitat having a typical fauna and flora.
Threats to the area
Drainage has occurred and will, no doubt, be extended intime.
Recommendations This wetland should be maintained in as intact a formas possible and any development of the site should be in accordance with itsscientific values.
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Name of Area BRAGANSTOWN BOG Grid Reference O. 034, 935 Acreage 14 n Scientific Interest u Ecological, botanical, zoological andornithological Rating Local Interest J Priority A
Description of Area See Map 15.
The site was formerlymore extensive but has been intensively drainedand n reclaimed for tillage.The remaining wetland is approximatelyas shown on U Map 15.The westerly end of thearea is dominated by a grassland flora with some wetland species: J Potentilla anserina silverweed Ranunculus acris J buttercup Pilipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Rumex crispus curled dock P. acetosa common sorrel Pteridium aguilinum bracken Angelica sylvestris wild angelica Jrl Sonchus arvensis corn sowthistle Cardamine pratensis lady's smock ri Hypericum tetrapterum J square stemmed St. John's wort Holcus lanatus Yorkshire fog n Poa trivial is u rough meadow grass
-1 J Moving eastwards, more wetlandspecies are encountered.At the eastern-most limit of the site the followingspecies occur: Cladium mariscus fen sedge r1 Equisetum fluviatile horsetail J E. palustre n Mentha aauatica water mint L-1 Dactylorchis fuchsii orchid u n u 63. U U L L_] L] C_] LJ 1__3 C_i C_] LJ LA U C] r C_.7 LJ LI LI LI C a c,,, yd L t M P r ; 1 ' r r w.w-u"'_., r r a.rn,n r ) rk' - - r e^. -nCW C. 1 A!ll..!rll--U ti 11, i-[Ik 1' _ z;r lff,xr . Z- - - - i 7 rrN ,l-rf r ..+tv;iuu ;::¢::'!::';1ivan; nr r r) m.tR:f :r , [''bG3-j.,s _ ) r -.. y -_"- ±L 47 l `_ --«. Yyy i'r+ Jl : bI r k:: - N i W,y `"Pp tr /i iG4r,w: RC CM .r r r -r r ti r +y) 4 J ca .N r - r- gg 7 1'Y i 7 Y c- i V G 7 01 Ranunculus flammula lesser spearwort Irispseudacorus yellow flag Typha latifolia bulrush Osmunda regalis royal fern Eriophorum angustifolium bog cotton Rorippa sp. water-cress Potamogeton sp. Cirsium palustre marsh thistle Galium palustre marsh bedstraw Menyanthes trifoliata bog bean Carex disticha creeping brown sedge andChara sp. stonewort
r') u The vegetation is dominated by the willow, Salix aureta.
J In the wettest area, heron, lapwing, mallard and pheasant wereseen. n Evaluation The site contains two types of flora: Calcifuge species, like Osmunda re. alis(of which this site formerly had the largest east coast colony in Ireland) andCalcicole species, like Cladium rnariscus and a Chara sp.
The wetland is therefore in transition from bog to fen.This feature gives it value from the e:ological point of view.Botanical cornposition also suggests that the invertebrate community may be typical of such wetlands,thus adding a zoological interest.
Threats to the Area
Drainage is the most catastrophic and, as can be seenfrom Map 15 the greater part of the wetland has already been destroyed.The remaining portion is very- r1 J small arid, although quaking at present, could be advefsely affectedby drought.
65. Recommendations
Efforts should be made to retain this site for itsscientific values to education and research.Further drainage should be prevented and existing drains close to the site should be blocked to maintain the watertable at a high level.
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66. J Possible Sites
Name of area DERELICT WOODLANDS r-1 u Acreage 40 & 35 Grid references N. 950, 967 - Louth Hall rl J N. 960, 917 - Ardee Woods Scientific interest n Botanical Ratin No significance at present, but could be of local importance u Priori A u Description of the areas See Maps16 and 17 r') u Both sites have mixed, planted deciduous woodlands typical of thoseelsewhere r-1 in Co. Louth. The under storey of Rhododendron ponticum (rhododendron)is W however so well developed as to obscure the herb layerwhich has survived at Louth Hall as an isolated damp woodland flora and hasbeen virtually destroyed at the other site. Many of the trees at eachsite are ready for felling.
Recommendations Both sites require the removal of rhododendron. Further management of J the woodland involving the felling and replanting of certain trees isalso necessary. J Both sites are at present being used as dumps forcasually tipped domestic refuse. They should be cleaned up as part of the n management programme. u Both sites are close to centres of populationand could be of significance' r1 u as recreational and educational areas. Their correct management as eitherwill ensure the survival of their scientific values.
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f1 69.. u Name of Area HEADWATER LAKES ON THE RIVER FANE Acreage 104;21; 75 Total = 200 u Grid Reference H. 969, 065 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical, zoological and Ornithological Rating Local importance Priority B
J Description of the Area See map. 18 J The area surrounding these three lakes is drumlin country. Thehills enclose basins which in three places form shallow lakes. Comparison 7 of the existing water surface area with earlier maps indicatethat a reduction in lake size has occurred. Semi-aquatic vegetation is now J extensive occupying, in places, half the lake surface. As sedimentary deposition is not apparent a reduction is lake size isattributed to an J earlier drainage scheme on the lower parts of the RiverFane.Distinctive portions of the lakes are as follows:-
1. There is an extensive marginal marshland dominated by: Irissendacorus (yellow flag) Filipendula uimaria (meadowsweet) Menyanthes trifoliate (bogbean) interspersed with grassland. More aquatic species include Phra mites communis (common reed). Typha latifo1.a (bulrush) and Caltha palustris (marsh marigold) and the water lilies Nuphar lutea and Nymphaea alba.
drying n The marshland has a few Salix sp. (willows) suggesting its u out from open water has been relatively recent and inone part coniferous trees have been planted. n u
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\. r 1 n Li 2. This lake has become almost entirely a marshland. The dominant semi-aquatic plant species is Phaiaris arundinacea (canary gross) and there is some Sparganium erectum (branched bur reed). Apium nodiflorum (fool's watercress) isalso common. The occasional remaining pools contain Nuphar lutea (water lily).
3. This lake resembles the first of the three in itsvegetation. As for J Lake 1 the marginal marshland has some Salix sn. (willows)but tree cover is sparse.
Evaluation The three lakes represent the largest areas of open waterin Co. Louth. They are Likely to contain populations of typical plant andanimal species. The sites support typical bird populations and are likely tobe important feeding grounds in winter.
Threats to the Area Further drainage of the River Fane system could destroy thelakes com- pletely. J Surrounding agricultural and domestic development could lead to eutrophication while industrial development might result in pollution rl J by toxic substances.
Recommendations
n Further drainage of the Fane should include structural safeguards against J further drainage of the wetlands. The siting of buildings anduse of chemical agricultural methods within the catchment should be approached carefully, bearing in mind the consequences of eutrophication or toxicity.
M i LJ In their existing condition, two of the lakes have considerableamenity as well as scientific values. Their preservation and improvement should be regarded as. a matter of urgency.
rl J r 72. Name of area FLURREY RIVER SITE I LJ Acreage 198 Grid reference J. 077, 096 Scientific interest Ecological 71 Rating Local importance
Priority B
Description of the area See Map 19 Just before it enters Dundalk Bay the Flurrey River developsa meander belt. The river is confined to a single channel forpart of its course by nI artificially raised banks but over a large area it flowsin a diffuse stream U network over flat ground.In this vicinity a marsh flora has developed.
7 J The plants occurring there include: Myosotis secunda marsh forget-me-not Rorippa sp. water cress n Iris pseudacorus yellow flag j Mentha aquatica water mint Polygonum persicaria common persicaria Juncus effusus soft rush T. subnodulosus blunt flowered rush Senecio aauaticus marsh ragwort Alisma plantago-aguatica water plantain
The marsh community is best represented at the south-east endof the site. To the north there is a Phragmites marsh.
Trees occurring in the vicinity of the river include alarge proportion of alder (Alnus glutinosa.
Woodlands to the west of the site contain varied deciduoustree species and there is a profuse ground flora of herbs occurring elsewherein Co. Louth. The river estuary consists of mud flats which have somevegetation.
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74. Evaluation
The significance of the site is the variety of diversehabitats containing a typical flora, occurring together in a small area.The mud flats have several rare plant species. Threats to the area Alteration of the habitats might occur as a result ofwater borne effluent in the Flurrey River.
Some casual rubbish dumping has occurred at the site andreclamation involving drainage is possible.
Recommendations Water borne pollution must be guarded against in the Flurrey,and indeed, other Co. Louth Rivers. Otherwise the areas should be maintainedin their present form, drainage being prevented and the trees on thesite being replaced after felling with deciduous saplings.
75. 1 LJ
1 Name of area CASTLECOO HILL LJ Acreage 15 Grid reference O. 145, 830 Scientific interest Botanical and ecological Rating Local importance
Priority B 7 LI n Description of the area tiJ See Map 20 The site is a rocky outcrop covered in heath vegetation,dominated by Rubus fruticosus agg. (bramble) and Ulex europaeus (gorse).
The plants present included: Anthoxanthum odoraturn sweet vernal grass Vulpk bromoides squirrel tail fescue grass Dactylic glomerata cock's foot grass Cynosurus cristatus crested dog's tail grass Poa pratensis meadow grass Lira praecox early hair grass
Galium sa.xatile ) bedstraws
G. verum ) Plantago lanceolata ribwort plantain Vicia angustifolia narrow leaved vetch Potentilla erecta tormentil Prunus pinosa blackthorn M Endymion non-scriptus bluebell Viola sp. Achillea millefolium yarrow Polygala serpillifo.lia heath milkwort J Geranium molle soft cranesbill Rumex acetosella sheep's sorrel Conopodium majus pignut Trifolium dubium clover
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Sedum anglicum stonewort Aphanes arvensis parsley piert Ranunculus repens creeping buttercup Sagina procumbens common pearlwort Umbilicus rupestris penny wort
7 Evaluation The site has a rare plant species
Threats to the area Building would appear to be the most likely
Recommendations Any development of this site should be in accordance withits scientific value
78. J J Name of Area SALT MARSH AT BALDOYLE Acreage 37 J Grid Reference 0. 145, 775 Scientific Interest Ecological U Rating Local Importance
Priority B
LJ n Description of Area See Map 21 M The site is low-lying ground at the Boyne estuary.The following plants k-1 occur there: - Halimione portulacoides sea purslane Limonium humile sea lavender Puccinellia maritima common salt marsh grass Armeria maritima sea pink Triglochin maritima sea arrow grass Plantago maritima sea plantain Spergularia marina sea spurrey Salicornia eurooaea glasswort
The plants fall into two groupings, the outermost of whichis dominated by Salicornia.The inner zone corresponds to a Puccinelletum but the dominant species is Halimione portulacoides.Close to the roadway Armeria becomes frequent.
Evaluation The site contains a good example of a salt marshhabitat.
Threats to the Area The most catastrophic would be reclamation of the wetland, ashas occurred u to part of the upper zone which is now aroadway.Coastal marshes are doubly vulnerable because they may be polluted from land andsea.Noxious effluents from the Boyne estuary could have a disastrous effecton the lower
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marsh zone.Dumping of domestic and some industrial rubbishis occurring on the landward side at present.Spartina growth could destroy a sizeable J part of the marsh.
Recommendations
General planning control should be exertedto maintain the scientific values of this site and further development should bein accordance with its scientific values. 7 J
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7 J 81. Name of area BOYNE ESTUARY Acreage 250 Grid reference O. 140, 775 Scientific interest Ornithological and ecological !-l Rating Local importance u Priority B
u r, Description of thearea See Map 21b u The site is a river estuary fringed,in places, by salt marshes and,in others, by sand dunes. The river hasbeen dredged and the wateris generally deep.
Evaluation n The site has a number ofwildfowl during the wintermonths. Merganser, l.J Red throated diver,Goldeneye, Scaup, Mallard,Wigeon, teal and swans occur there. The presence ofdiving duck as a large proportionof the LJ species present is an indicationthat the water is generally deep.Detailed figures for winter populationsare not available. All known eastcoast wader species are found in the estuaryincluding rarities like the Avocet. r, u Threats t:) the area
Any major disturbance of thehabitat, as by dredging,would alter its significance, possibly ina detrimental way. Pollution by toxic n substances or oil could prove very serious. The status of Spartina U at the site is not known but should be keptunder control, if itoccurs. u Recommendations
Because of its closenessto a centre of population thissite has considerable n amenity and educational potential.Every effort to maintainits scientific lJ values should be made,specifically by countering the threatslisted above.
82. 7 Li 1 Name of Area BLACKHALL WOODLANDS Acreage 123 Grid Reference 0.125,825 Scientific Interest Ecological and Botanical Rating Local Importance
Priority B
LJ Description of Area See Map 22
The site is a planted woodland of ash (Fraxinus excelsior), chestnut(Aescuius
hippocastanum) and beech (Fagus svlvatica). The ground flora is dominated by snowberry (Symphoricarpus rivularis), wood sedge (Carex svlvatica), broad-- leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius), enchanter's nightshade (Circea lutetiana)
and Saxifraga hirsuta(a saxifrage).
Evaluation The interest of this area lies in the Bryophytes whichare a typical Atlantic community which grow on fallen timber, etc. r,
LJ Threats to the Area
Clear felling would destroythe micorhabitats occupied by the Bryophytes.
Recommendations
At least part of this area should be conserved forits scientific value.This J could be ensured by use of a tree preservation orderor a management agreement. Some of the trees are now reaching maturity and. willhave to be felled in the L] near future; they should be replanted.An additional improvement would be to introduce a larger number of native hardwood trees - likeoak.Alternatively, ash, which is a natural tree in South County Louthand which regenerates well, could be allowed to form a large proportion of thewoodland.
U rl U 84. n MAP Ss= OWIi'G AREA OF SCIENTIFIC INITEPEST--2 2
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r, u Name of area WOODLANDS AT BARMEATH CASTLE Acreage 100 Grid reference 0. 095, 875 Scientific interest Ecological and botanical Rating Local importance
Priority B jjJ
Description of the areaSee Map 23
r-1 The woodlands are a planted fringe surrounding an estate. Thetrees
consist mainly of beech (Fagus sylvatica) and yew (Taxus baccata).
r-A The herb layer on the floor of the wood iscomposed of the species : u Sanicula europaea wood sanicle .-I Geranium robertianum herb robert U Stellaria media stichwort Hedera helix ivy Silene dioica red campion Geum urbanum wood aven Endymion non-scriptus bluebell r, Carer, sylvatica wood sedge U
Evaluation
The woodlands are, like others in Co. Louth, noteworthy fortheir microflora. In this caseyew, which is a native tree, occurs.
Threats to the area
i The beech which make up the majority of the trees,require felling and Li replanting. Management of this area is required to maintain itin good condition. u
Recommendations
Gradual felling of mature trees should be carried out- along with their
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Name of area POND AND TREES OPPOSITE STEVENSTOWN HOUSE Acreaae 5 Grid reference J. 012, 026 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Ratin Local importance
Priori tv B
u Description of the area See Map 24 The main feature of this site is a central man-madelake. The water level has fallen and reed beds are extensive. Themost obvious marginal
.r_1 plants are . u Typha latifolia bulrush, reedmace rl and Phalaris arundinacea U canary grass
The water surface isprofusely covered with the water lilies Nymphaea alba J and Nuphar lutea
The area surrounding the pond supports willowsof the species, Salix alba and several oak trees (uercus sp.) are also present.
r--1 Evaluation u The pond supports a varied invertebrate community. The fish tench,roach , -1 and perch are present and coot, moorhen and duck also u occur. The site is likely to be important as a winter feedingground for birds.
Threats to the area u The lake is at present filling, as indicated by thespread of semi-aquatic vegetation and some casual rubbish tipping is occurring. U
-l Farm or domestic effluent disposal could provea danger in the future.
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90. Recommendations
Efforts should be made to dredge the lake and deepenit.The deciduous trees should, when ready for felling, be replaced by deciduoussaplings. Otherwise, every effort should be made to maintain the scientificvalues of the site which is of amenity as wellas scientific and educational value.
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Name of Area KILLINCOOLE MARSH Acreage Not calculated n Grid Reference 0. 006, 997 Ll Scientific Interest Ecological Rating Local importance
Priority B J
Description of the Area n The site is a Phragmites (common reed) dominated marsh containingplants U and animals typically associated with such a wetland.
Evaluation n This site is a typical example of a Phragmites marshbut some doubt u exists about its viability in view of an apparent fallin the regional water table.The marsh occurs on flat terrain and is not anobvious "basin". j Recommendations Further exploratory work should be carried out in the nearfuture on the advisability of conserving this site.
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_ 92. Name of area KING WILLIAM'S GLEN Acreage 80 Grid reference 0. 045, 765 U Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Local importance Priority C J J Description of the area See Map 25 The site is a steep valley whose sidesare covered with deciduous trees. J Like the majority of the Co. Louthwoods these are planted. The ground flora is varied, profuse and typicalof woodlands elsewhere in thecounty. J Evaluation
This site is selected for its possessionof a typical flora and probably invertebrate fauna. n LJ Threats to the area J The woodland is considered to be of valueto amenity and it is therefore -l unlikely that it will be used for u any purpose other than forestry. The
slope is too steep to be usedas a building site. .
Recommendations 7 J Any development at this site should bein accordance with its scientific values. 7
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i':. =;~?r,, a< ',aa.y oy:,....:y gj.. . i . , .. a <. y. y ' G. '. .''i- .... w: a: c`CCI y / 0 c 'a )Y .< 4 :J o < r _+, t 0 Y IS 4./... r.`R _ 14 . - S .. -y .._ ... --` 'f. 1l .. - - . «.i,: ;L i:'r[.'- 'T0J,1 I-ffCi!r ..:"i- \ - ` .R. t " uteri! 1"'''`a'" . _1 "fit 1^G 4 !1' ^[ ... O.O-.d . a ' `- - i:: J ,Z: +:+e - I" '. ;- Sforf H:miiton's JJ Clump _a...t t t 7 1 Hip ''\ M,/r.- J 94. Name of area LISCARRAGH MARSH Acreage 30 Grid reference J. 185, 062- Scientific interest Ecological Ratin Local interest Priority C Description of the area See Map 26 The site is a wetland which ranges fromopen water to _Phragmites marsh. Plant species occurring there include: Typha latifolia bulrush reedmace Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Iris pseudacorus yellow flag Lychnis flcs-cuculi ragged robin and the grass Holcus lanatus yorkshire fog Evaluation The site is a good example of a marsh-land, witha typical flora and probably a typical fauna also. Threats to the area None isobvious. Drainage, though a possibility, is unlikely because of the terrain which forms a natural basin containing themarsh. 7 J Recommendations Any development at this site should take intoaccount its scientific value. u7 u7 n u . 95. L1 .v -- M-2 lfl:It,lt f ' S t S r l ( E ' ^ ! r FFig `i` E rj! ( 41r.1tC._!u i i !1111`d i i 6 et Ij 11 I1, CHU. uiiuLi uu s.t l':ltiU y 7 \ s -'.chnrceus f7 t , , "Jr ;t a riR 4"i :chcc! r. s,YL ' \\ .'/(, `\o \ 33 :2 / rl IT, -r i ' A t, ,r: 'f',` c --. leg ` ! ,\'. `n t-.._.. IR 27 ,47 !` s.a'i ,;,p\ 41 errs L 3 23 t ' 7 u J I J A Lfn, 13, \:,_ s )-/ 1 7 t r_ ,/ \ In cd r \ e; /i J f 7 IJ 96 J J Name of area RAVENSDALE WOODS Acreage 440 Grid reference J. 089, 133 Scientific interest-, Ecological., botanical and zoological Ratin Local importance Priority C J Description of the area See Map 27 1 The site is a forest in part of which anature trail has been established. The trees are largely coniferous but thefollowing deciduous trees also occur: sycamore (4cer pseudoplatanus),beech (Fagus sylvatica) and ash (Fraxinus excelsior). The ground flora is particularly rich, for a coniferouswoodland. The following herbs occur: Ajuga reptans bugle Scilla non-scriptus bluebell Lysimachia nemorum yellow pimpernel Geum urbanum wood aven Silene dioica red campion Arum maculatum arum lily Allium ursinum wild garlic Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel Primula vulgaris primrose J Glechoma hederacea ground ivy Digitalis purpurea foxglove Viola riviniana dog violet Cirsea loutetiana enchanters' nightshade Geranium robertianum herb robert Pteridium aquilinum bracken Blechnum spicant hard fern 97. J J The shrub understorey is composed of 'Rhododendron oonticum , . rhododendron J Sambucus nicer elder and Rubus fruticosus bramble Ash also occurs as an understorey. Evaluation 7 The flora is typical fo deciduous woods in Co. Louthand, though not so LJ profuse as where light penetration to the herb layer isimpeded (for:exampie, at Melifont where a fairly complete floralcover exists. The insect fauna of the wood is typical and badgers, squirrels, jays anda varied passerine bird fauna occur. Threats to the area J Because the site is a nature-trail, it is probably safefrom alteration or J destruction. Rhododendron is manageablein the vicinity of maturing trees and there is evidence that it has been cut back. J Recommendations It would be most desirable if the management methodsapplied to Ravensdale nature-trail were implemented in the woodlands surroundingthis region. A particularly commendable practice is the selective fellingof small blocks of woodland, at the same time leaving otherareas nearby to support a varied ground flora.In this way a reservoir of herb species is maintained in the woodland. Another useful practice is the admixture ofsome deciduous trees with the coniferous crop. By careful management, otherareas of woodland in the neighbourhood of Ravensdale could producean economic J timber yield and, at the same time, maintain their scientificvalue. 99. Name of area TRUMPET HILL AND SURROUNDING AREA Acreage 160 J Grid reference J. 100, 100 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Priority C J Description of the area See Map 28 This site contains several habitats :the central basalt hill has rocky outcrops and, where it slopes abruptly to the north, variousferns are growing. This slope is covered in Bryophytes and the plants Teucrium scorcdonium wood sage Vaccinum myrtillus bilberry Erica tetralix cross leaved heath Potentilla erecta common tormentil Blechnum spicant hard fern Luzula sylvatica wood rush and Succisa pratensis devil's bit scabious Surrounding the hill at its base is a fringe ofscrub trees whose ground flora is dominated by Oxalis acetosella wood sorrel and Lonicera periclymen honeysuckle The hill slopes gradually in a westerly direction and thetrees are large, the majority being beech (Fagus sylvatica)Other tree species occurring in the vicinity are ash (Fraxinus excelsior), sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), elder (Sambucus niger), alder (Alnus glutinr -a), hazel(Corylus avellana) and oak (Quercus sp.). Many of the specimens are small and beechregeneration is profuse in places. 100. Rril Al 3_'- sl"trf('![-%; 1 ft i E.iii-t., e J [ t i,:tl.r. !1 IiiV11U V ` R -; Qulfy^nkcllitea.` i1 .. . G /. \... St7a .....,'- -'_vt'?.a':'L°\ ^,tea 1\ .. -t ` .'9%\1/T// t :, // { A''.'.a f49=+e[ q.a 4 ...L U I i t' .- 2r9 ` ' ."Hr.-t .[ tt - 1'..° is aa:..a y n r'./'1 t . A° .° -.4 ; N° ; tea ?.,]A y,r.' .,l.\ a a i . ; ` (1 J ''` `: .','1 1 .:` i. H11{-.% c . aao?..a: - r( a n .a .. - ta. \ a. . .al.t a f . n.n .. .tC a ) .`_9 a G ) ... t]j0 -,..,,tea at_\G.. r1\ .'Y / ]..... Alt1t <'tGJ -t l oaI .r \.. ` O a \ 4 y }'.gin -c . .i" j. a t':a a'° '0.'-r i »[y. J The wetland area of the site is dominated by Phragmites communis common reed and Alnus glutinosa alder The following are also important here: Myrica gale bog myrtle. Filipendula ulmaria meadowsweet Pteridium aguilinum bracken and Equisetum fluviatile horsetail Evaluation L-) The aspect, steep slope and varied macrophytecover of the hill form several habitat types and permit a wide range of microflorato grow there. The association of a wetland and beech woodwith the basalt outcrop add diversity of habitat to a small area. Threats to the area J Some tree clearance is taking place at present and drainageof the wetland is possible. Recommendations The deciduous woodland should be managedas such in the future. Any development in the vicinity of the site should leave theoutcrop as at n present. The wetland should be left intact, if possible. U J n J 102. Name of area THE PARE WOODLANDS, OMEATH Acreage 47 Gridreference j. 125, 175 Scientific interest Botanical, ecological and zoological Rating Local importance n Priority C Description of the area See Map 29 This site is a deciduous woodlandconsisting of birch trees Betula sp.) and alder (Alnus alutinosa. The undergrowth is dominated by bracken(Pteridium aguilinum). n Evaluation U This site is one of thevery few stands of birch in Co. Louth. ri u Threats to the area U None obvious, apart from clearancefor land reclamation. Recommendations Any development at this siteshould allow for the preservationof the trees occurring there. U J J J 103. M 0H4 CM tD Cy:) CJC-) 3 g02-=LA J -7 C-7 C-7 C-7 CJ C-7 v C-7 CJ C-7 l J C-7 C-7 C-7 C-7 C-7 C-7 C 7 C-7 CTJ C^ 1] Name of area DUNANY END MORAINE Acreage Not calculated:See recommendations Grid reference 0. 160, 918 Scientific interest Geological and botanical Ratin Local importance Priority C n U Description of the area See Map 30 The site is a rocky marine headland composed of boulderclay and large rock fragments. The sea has eroded part of the structureand, in the shingle 7 which remains, some plants are growing. U Publication n Charlesworth, J.K. 1939 Some observations on the glaciation of northeast u Ireland, Proc. R. Ir. Acad. 45B : 255-295. Evaluation The headland is part of a moraine, deposited by iceduring the Pleistocene period.It represents a re-advance stage similar to those at Solwayand Bride Hills, on the Isle of Man. The re-advance occurredafter the glacial J uncovering of the Carlingford and Mourne mountains. A rare plant species occurs at the site. Threats to the area Marine erosion is taking place at present but is agradual process which will not alter the scientific values of the site. Recommendations J As for other glacial sites treated in this report theprecise boundaries of this site are not known; they should be mapped as soonas possible. 105. n u i f:.ar; 3 0 . Art 4'lir%. .F S 4 C., ti LO ^t u n u 7 LA J J r-I u l J J Lj -1 LJ 106. Protection of this site should be secured by ensuring thatbuilding control be restricted within its boundaries. J J7 J 1 LA u Name of Area KILDEMOCK MARSH Acreage 6 u Grid Reference N. 973, 885 Scientific interest Ecological, botanical and zoological Rating Local importance Priority C Description of the Area See Map 31 The site is a Phracmites (common reed) dominated marsh. J The marsh is surrounded by hills the existence of whichare responsible for its survival.Drainage of the site would be difficult. n Evaluation U The site is a typical example ofa Phragmites marsh containing a represen- 7 J tative range or plant and animal species. J Threats to the Area None is obvious at present. J Recommendations J n Future development of this area should be in accordancewith its scientific U values. I J .-I U J J 108. !a .'' iirlt Fa --- it.liicJnJ:irt1 ji O fi I s: E i1 !'.+f E! 1 31 liCi Iu ' 0 1 II J :...... : .....R is.n} } A 248 3 23 J }o} t P v ?54..4 ...... 1 v z n n !f ;u.ne7 i 1 41 ...... 4 4 BJ[uC1 use i }07 14i .... ti.p : i.L}}JJ «n xpa J Kgdemooklf }J} ^n esorroir n 10 4_ J 'FAt 16.'Afo.i xowa 11 Y J:J fig41 3m A I `li } I 6011 J -t e LI..H.7 1 39 deL p. rt`n f.f.Ie,7 :.r J un U u 109. r-I Name of Area THE COOLEY PENEPLAIN Acreage See recommendations J Grid Reference j. 230, 070. n Scientific interest Geological u Ratin Regional importance Priority C 7 Description of the Area See Map 32. The site is a large flat land area. Evaluation Formation of the main river systems in Ireland occurred duringthe Cretaceous .1 J period.Thereafter a progressive levelling of the land by running water erosion occurred. The eventual consequence of this process was the n u production of flat land, with a gentle slope to sealevel. Variation in this kind of landscape consists of low hills or"monadnocks".The Cooley J Peneplain is a good example of this kind of feature. Threats to the Area Unsightly building or development is the only possibility. J Recommendations u The precise limits of this site should be delimited, andwork on this is proceeding at present. Following this a landscaping plan J should be devised so that future development will not 6-ndanger thescientific fl values of the area. Li J J 110. I i i t r 11iiLJ i.l2+ liJiiI E_t?i_t3 1 J 32 f-.., d F \ .Lnwy ,' r hnyrrrl P° J ';RLrc k Rrk d,..,T rl. , r lyy 1"i Tj l l r` r .,, t.,,.*' iz\1 \ {'1.n,Aol .rya r a*,ti r r..m_vrr} Eli:.- a r: . 5,i 1 <\`. r_ r _ Lenuu.r 7 !s F o\,T ti`+ - S/ 4 5 J '\ y1 Rcr:rSz.:ovn- Gmnn+ In'ih r t- + ) - ` Cart 9 jlr'/m1 :e Tj %. e+ it N hK. ( it rt f .. Lnoa`i!1 F 13 } -. i+ 1\ t (jf ..nr Lu6l.ir -b..`I;, .1 Vin,ry1i'`yi: J . :',t \ lj Bush-all\ l. v ri O'/rc'.e 'r ` raatl``apb )tea _ t\ i'. `1 gyp....:.., R'nmrT/yrr Tj 1) \ Note: The areamarked with after a an asteriskmay be reduced survey whichis inprogress in size ill. TABLE SUMMARISING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF AREAS OF SCIENTIFIC INTEREST co Area necessaryNo protection withcontrolGen. management planning possibly areaSpecial order amenity orderConservation orderTree Preservation OHC?M 3 ClougherRaisedDundalk beach Marshes Head at Greenore * or * x WoodlandsMelifont Abbey at Darver Castle * or * CarlingfordBaltray Dune Mountain System * or* ArdeeRingExposures.ofMapastown Bog Dyke Complex Glacial the Slieve Site Gullion * or * WoodlandsWoodlandsShore North at atNarrow Stevenstownof Castlebellingham Water House ** or * C_ L C____7 L._7 L_7 L_r1 L_J L_:] L._ 7 L_-J C___d C _ J Area CU necessaryNo protection C__] U L_7 controlGen. planningpossibly areaSpecial order amenity L_] orderConservation L_I orderTree Preservation C1 L_J Lj ReaghstownBraganstown Marsh Bog with management * DerelictHeadwaterFlurrey River Woodlands Lakes Site on the River Fane * CastleSaltBoyne Marsh EstuaryCoo atHill Baldoyle * KillincooleWoodlandsBlackhall WoodlandsMarshat Barmeath Castle * or StevenstownKingPond William's and Trees House Glen Opposite * or * C__:] U U U L1 LA L] C___] L] L7 L C_ . L] L7 C_ AreaLLiscarragh C U Marsh L7 L_ LI necessaryNo protection withcontrolGen. management planning possibly areaSpecial order amenity orderConservation orderTree Preservation I RavensdaleAreaTrumpetThe Woods Park HillWood and Omeath Surrounding or * CooleyKildemockDunany Peneplain End Marsh Moraine J SECTION I I APPENDIX 1 I Distribution Maps for some plant species of known occurrence inCounty Louth showing their occurrence in the geographical unit of Irelandand Britain.From Atlas of the British Flora by Perring and Walters(1962). 115. ` L r U U U L- 3 L_] L-1 L7 LJ L_] CJ LJ r I C__ 7 C__;] U LJ C---j L -j L . 3 7!1 FPJ HYMINO. 7;a I rl. q r Y TUNDRIGENSE PHYLLUMHYMENO- VrlJPHYLLUM .ONll 1100U. 4i o Before 1930 1930 onwardsFilmy Fern(L.) Sm. o Pc(orr 1930 1930 onwardsFilmy fern ! Y I c.. .. 1' . i 5 00 I G- fJ I I ,- o r, o r J 1 7 5 -J L> U L-_] L_7 L_] LJ U U U CU LJ LJ LJ L_i L-_] L_] LJ L> LJ L_j L'. 74,:r A CRYrro.CRI PA sit .MA !1 4 r RA! PANUS , G MAf.il MUS Sm.. o Before 1930 1930Parsley orwards Fern (L.)R..r. k C " r 1ve ;; e . « { Spa radish 10,1 iI ) 4 W.-;N . r, o I t0 1930 A .-r'.°. ee-ee.e ana l ANOGRAMMA --icet 4'ar -O 1--- I L FhTOi'I:Y!_LA (L.) L;nk I a tea to C.) 1930onrrolds ,:----- j dr` :.`I : e`ec ' o ca 1 - i. ,;r c r (fL cl .. ` -, o r ` s 16 L J r ts , s ..I In, I I 7 F POb I , r' I J H J , 0 I . o R e `1 r g1 I I I H I I I! 0 . 0 'tip-..-X1._..1_. L> U L] L_7 U C__7 U LI L_7 L__j U U L_J U L_J L__] L_J r B THELYPTERIS 242 e PALUSTRISHarsh Fern Schott (Homy..)Limestone SlossonRcBERTIf,:1ATHELY?TLRIS Fern o before '930 1930 onwards I I o 1 1930 onw rds * Iutroducsion ; f- y f} xo Before 1910 wallseurreaces(Jen-nrive or,oc- pus. v 1 , f o t . T I o I { 7 0 C7 C- -j U C ---j C_ ] L_J L_i L-3 C- i L-._] L-7 C- L_U C L_i C---j U L_J LI C__I C-_I 6 1 1 B COCHLEA^IAANGLICA L 63;& f 6A Horned-poppy Yellow o Before 1930 1930 or,, ards I I o x C,1530 ualCeforc onwards only 1930 L I I t e r-- S r .i s a I 0 C L7 L_7 r U CI L1 CI Ci C-1 Ci ci C-] C_J C_-j L C r U C=] Li L A. s9?-1 Q 143;3 Syr SCILLA VERNA ti uds. i rl 0 6dore 1930 1930 onwardsVernal Squill u Sf' RcULArthWore1930RUFICOL.A onwards 1930 LcLi:1 r[y a. S' A I t CSI I .L j 5 Y f+' f' I Ya:e eN 1 z4--' Fw i---- cA s. d . r_ i Y V 0 M p 0 I 0 L J U U LJ U C _ J LJ LJ t_ U C- LJ CJ L_J C__J LJ LJ C I LJ C I U LL C 15111 Je < PORTHALt1lc LILAC.(L.) AeIl n 01 DES COLUMUINUMC GERANIUM 167;;10 f I e "-2 < 1930Sea l onwardsurslarm l All records t I Ml w o 6e(ore 1930 F ? `n k t aaYI i} ' -t c ( . , 1 I t I , .L. : p - r o I mo : ' " , r c tir,nrrY' 1 IL.J ! k I r s . {- i w . I s O -A- , 5 -r-- - LrIJ - 1 r r -- LP 1 1 , __ L L_] L_ ] L _7 L a L_:] L_ ] L L C _ 7 L L L_7 L__7 L_J I--] L-] L_] L_> C LPILIACIRCAEA asg. C. nlpinaintcrmcdia 1%]OL. Fi awards Ehrl:. IG C ' :.t"r t >4h Ya rS4; " -.' . -'-- + .' ci .. _.r i..oo.c - - a i .. ' tl .. +u FSc(ore 1730 Introductions 1---(f....'...;_-: ,.. Y. . iX .cf_r % .._ o r.---°.°.' .--{ .i Almost I records I ! I ' rctrmorn toChrh. C. Inter- t qr ', ;''c'iAA -F9 ...t t. :... °-'r ' . . o ,^' ° - .-y'r I I tai d`y. _ l) l _.. Y .. ._ ._ _" : ..v as u C.) / _ . oo _ I - t ._.....1-..... ATTTI 7 ° i19 v' Ia ' V ° . I LJ, LJ L_] L 7 U LJ L CJ U U CJ C.- C--] L_7 U L-] L_J L_7 L _:] L.L ViROSA L.CICUTA ------198/1 e B1030 for. Cur: b.u1 e onwards 1930 MARII'1MUMCRITHMUf1 L. I/ ro°ki I I Rock 5 1930 onwardszmpt:ire J n Before 1930 1 I I r I s I I 005°..1 17 ( i ,sd If 3 yAr-J 1`py'- 4'rsv4- I -I t I z. !0 1 o u !I ".esq.,, a..11 t L" N I o ' 6 lI ! 0 .4---A-All I y 0 NO7 7 U L C_ ] L7 LJ C_ U C_ 7 L] ' 7 L Ci L._...] Li U LI LA Li LJ7 C_ 6 343;21 ii I HERt3ACF.A L MIX r <> X O Dwarf WillowMore1930 onwards 1930 t .;. l. a r.,u try a :ei _sr,-`----C--.++V .. f - 1 itr _t se. n > op L p Mile I l -- li t I f-2 L-. Al j .1v . O o J U U Lj C-A LL] L_J L> L__3 L__J C_i L_ i L_1 L_] L.--l L_7 C_1 L_> C._i L_] L. J C__: R 359,2 fS 365;5 PYr O1A L LIt10UIUM .7 1930P}?:U!A onward: Sc,. I O ERVOSUti , 0 Before 1930 t 1 ` I 0 Ot c° o n°° o o dc. C. E. Salmon Sensu f°:o i 4 fA, 7 f.- t..i of LavenderRock Sea __-:y'..`kE ..'O a!- K I-- (J J 7 1930 onwards I`C.'..., .atel t ffq j' o o c o0t" o I Ir o o Before 1930 ' --- y f ry4 *z1n o r ° i o t s Joi oa 0 oocoo l , , o aas.e 0 1 7 fr 9r o 2 a tL--- I 1 J )A J .4 a >al I NJI JIi Imo--, S YL :`7 U. C J C-7 C-7 L_J C LA LC_._] LJ CJ LA CJ U LJ Li L LJ L B 333/1 f Q 440:10 ---. 01.01-.NICHE OLACKSTONIArERFOLIATA (L.) lauds. ' --- C - I t ,1 I:LV L-R.AE Duby Ivy 19?0 onwardsYclluw-wort t 1 I 1 1 1Y3C,onv:ardsCroomripc o Before 1930 l F t' ? .1y-I c r- - 7 1 a° BeforeIncro4cciDns 19x0 I 5. Zn ° Cf 1 I 1 / f 0 lit'j 1 f No j-A I s °ti 4 I`,00 rfV' 1 Ji.. C. 1 tea .o j Y p0 I °i o 1 % wCL+Y o I a _o Ck4 .ee ° Y too. OOOC+ o- I 1 o- I 00 .. . r ..dY o° 1 it Yi I *00 1 I + I , . iiiieo Y° k of rff Yw fYw . .. scl . tcY isv o.cap fr P/11 o I 1 u TI 1 v1 -aa . ` c i I r ` T - L7, I y a 0 1 1 C I s '- 1 / . r L7. U E---j U LJ U L_J LA U C-__7 L_-J L_ L._] C_ U La L'] C C__J C. :: B 441/1 PINGUICULALUSITAMICA L. .i .1 11ORMINOIDES SALVIA c ._F te:%e-(-_------l K.. .71 Pourr. l,ii'a ; o Pale Bu!terwort F I b i " S+ , , / ' I 11 Wild Clary 1930 onwards .li i .: : 1 .1 1930 onwards o Before 1930 [[E`F t gJ I `eoi t o 13 Xo BcforeIntroduction: 1930 l rRro.r+. ` c `s_ I :e- r4lYi YD l srrF I C-.._-tt _.lltq r7 lii o a f0 0 1 pGY 00 0 o ! ' p u J I 1 F`t r J al I * a 1 /1! nn I o - , E .et r r ' !n f U1y ' 1 0 f 3 1 , a1 o ' I I f 1 5 . C- C-] L] L-] C_] C-.] C._] L-3 C_-] C._] U U L_] L_-] U LJ C_.:] C-._;] U L_] 53;[7 47.J3 t!SIA : . - !3 .Cp,IfPAr-ULA2h.;' Ll t`.CUL- sca Worrnwo3d i .Alltfll4A L `1 ------r OiD:SCreeping L o Ecforc 1930 1930 onwards a----1'I '- /^ L.':. -w `_ / I jl o ecfore 1930 1930Ctnip.nuia onwards t __ j r f r 1 = k « 6 ---lI 1_ --t- f i + s 'J C f mi j 6, I,i i-I `S. ! -rat - j >rb I ?c . I L' `116 r I if I . :M - U C U L:] C_ 7 C-] L_J C_-j C__i L -j LA L_J C__J C__i C__J C --j L;J L__] U L_ seijII 2 R CREPIS 5S9,s +! I .J";,7 I i 1 IIYDV.OC{{ARTSG r--tt . .. I r-~- 3 PALUDOSA (L.) I° r j, {J II 0 , .1 Moench C, y; 1 RAUAE140, L. t Cps; (1 ` .., ' ' I Marsh . "rr r' ti J Hawk's-beard : ) .. .o ai :i " Frog-bit 1 f1. .I c ° ° . j {-z, I . o Ecfore 1930 1930 onwards .. e ' 0 B ,fore WO --, r Q v I ( taln is 1933 cef- .---- CSI ` }rte iia o ' i tlons y , I ,+611: e`' : :' ' 1. ° r < I4 _`"'l 1 _.___ r r q is ' - , JIe1 Je I Ir,, s oso s Jl- I 0 o `rro a `: o . o I M . V o ::i:::: \ti I O OVw o. L i O O cy I , L'1-41 oo °d0 d p0 I 01 . 1 1 I O Ito aG oooe e 7 , O <.oc. VY4aa ,, OGe 7 = I I 1 1 h-Y- U U U L C L> C_] U U L U CU U LU L1 CJ L.j U L-j L_ 57713 IN7 B 62S 1 r ` I COLOtt:.TUS POTAt4O-G ETON PALUSI(L.)Erlrr.CTt RJS Crantt Marsh r TaylorDandyP.ccords anddet. J.G. E. Horncrn. o More 1930 1930 onwardsHcflcborine o Other records c`r 4 7 1Y 0I r c o J 1/y X1,11. . yi,-,Sy ':i.1 f 0^L by X11r o . a i c, SOS ` r' 00° s P d o pp ° ep °° ., , . _ rJr7___ 9 o boos . . L :. p 0 s 4 - 1 b 006o _-QIo 00 ooo. a ° I -t O .00 s uo I Icy .I /- r (-d 1 t o u of o o .I u o o o I oi o 'o f J i 3 . 1 o o oo :io - f ---I - 3 I oo° o s^ t, I L ,, e ie00 N o (n r'Y 0 s 1 {. G _ o 1IIG .1' n. [ =" is .1 t L J 1 tai l r s LI C-_J C_J C__7 LJ C- C--3 L_J IF -1 U LJ [] L_ L__J L_J C__l r I LJ L-] L= C-- Fr- ,UNCUS SUB- l I NUDULOSUSOwn Schrank s-(lower..Rush t lit, . - o erforc 1930 1910 onwards el------t------...r , - - I I -- °s 1 rT V I f \. l r I 0 t o i o Ira( o o. . 1. tJM 4 I _ 7 ...... eat .,`fit., . __. _..__ il.a: . ' WY t I I I i c--'book la i 1 vv-!````r I i_ - ! If? 0 -] L] LJ CJ LJ C.> C-] CJ C-1 CJ C_] CL-] LJ L-] Ci C_] C] U LJ C___] L a L3 652;': e r,- e i B i':4 tLEMNA - Tlp srnaarslluM rl U 111 r 1. r' f ty c ti> s , LUMNA - 5 .__ r I )X 0 - 0 190enw.r s i i 6A, D r! o Before 1930 1930 onward[ [ i G r l n Before 1930 f` ------'n: t .Lei. Vii. .o r r , ---._._ hndCasual only in Scct -----.5-- k I I ` e. S s 1 k ?fn - i 1 '1I Y 1° ° ..;. I° I O 1 lil ti ..-J r 1 a a I 1 . 5 o f I ' 1 "h f a - . I ll s ,° --- -- T S . l 1 , .... 1 Lo-, b. r2 I 2 ° o I F ice. ._. 1 xc r- : d(` 00 001 '--- t I (. - O o " o - ' ' . 40 .0 0 5 r I ° 1 f 1 i 1 2I L_] C_-3 U C_7 L_J L1 C - .L7 U L_] C---3 r- I L -I C---J C_I L_J LJ C_J L-j C__ ti Q ELEGCHAMUNI.I):1SIS 6Sj6 A CARER 663 56 V o More 1930 1930(Link) on.vards 56-ult. t l.; o I ` +. !'% I 1930 onwards DIANU1 A Schrank _c;;'l `Vts!t o Bzfore 1930 C oil - +; t I G-/ Is o o I I L:-Y A L f l O at I r o c. n' 4.1 L r lr c f, o ° i ( ocf0 A. Ik r tJ ' ti o,ofY f j u n .Y'/ I ,,e. 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C\j CA N Nom. j L "_ ' j r ,'' S', \\ r ' =fir 3 41-20 `-,8 N LO 1 l1 r_ r-- I( , i c .. -._ c t., c-rr ^rt7 »Il:h r+i: wz'cr 95 16 V 1 I a; o __- .. %r."f_ ir "- E?ice i- Stat,on ` 'Arc i . b IUur:Yl Ir lq 1 y !ti '; 61 of `»yr 1=::;. e Areas . of Ecological and Geological Interest Ravensdale W .i---..4 -7 HeadwateronRiver the Fane Lakes FlurreyRiverSite 4 MarshesDundalk LLL R4 11 1 .N C J C L A L Reaghstown oL CastlebellinghaShore north of Marsho RC o R AGlacialMapastownSite L V',Ioo llanJs al Barmeath Castle OA RB O L L PRIORITY International . ABC INT N B. RATING RegionalNational Local RL OA R Ornithological Ecological 0 r L INTEREST GeologicalZoologicalBotanical OA AMENITY ADVISORY SERVICE SEPTEMBERCONSERVATION 1912 AND . Small or indeterminate area Geomorphological A