R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv E R C La Re R Iv

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Environmental Constraints Study Area

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

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LoughLough CorribCorrib NHANHA // SPASPA // SACSAC LoughLough CorribCorrib SACSAC SiteSite Code:Code: 000297000297 SiteSite Code:Code: 000297000297 SiteSite Code:Code: 000297000297 

CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge ClaregalwayClaregalway

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Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Title

Environmental CashlaCashla Designation Map

CarnmoreCarnmore Figure KiltullaghKiltullagh TurloughTurlough NHANHA CarnmoreCarnmore 2.6 KiltullaghKiltullagh TurloughTurlough NHANHA Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 534199 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details Drawn by: JH Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: PK File Ref.

Approved by: WM MGE0262MI0001F01

Scale: N.T.S. Drawing No. Rev.

Date: June '11 MI0001 F01

Notes 1. This drawing is the property of RPS Group Ltd. It is a confidential document and must not be copied, used, or its contents divulged without prior written consent. 2. All levels are referred to Ordnance Datum, Malin Head. 3. Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence EN 0005011 ©Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland.

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

The proposed works are located within the catchment of the Clare River, which is designated under Lough Corrib candidate Special Area of Conservation ( cSAC Site Code: 000297). In addition, the proposed works are located upstream of Lough Corrib proposed Natural Heritage Area (pNHA Site Code: 000297) and Lough Corrib Special Protection Area ( SPA Site Code: 004042).

An Appropriate Assessment is required under the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Article 6(3) and (4), Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 if it is identified that a proposed plan or project is likely to have significant impacts on a Natura 2000 site. Articles 6(3) and (4) of the Directive, state the following;

6(3) ‘Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to Appropriate Assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives... the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned….’

6(4) ‘If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest… the Member State shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected...’.

Table 2.5 Designated Sites within the Constraints Area Study Area and their Conservation Objectives Site Name Site Species Habitats Code Lough Corrib 000297 • Sea Lamprey • Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic cSAC/pNHA (Petromyzon marinus) vegetation of Chara spp. • Atlantic Salmon (Salmo • Oligotrophic waters containing very few salar) minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia • Brook Lamprey uniflorae) (Lampetra planeri) • Active raised bogs* • Lesser Horseshoe Bat • Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum (Rhinolophus in British Isles hipposideros) • Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or • Otter (Lutra lutra) clavey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae) • Freshwater Crayfish • Alkaline fens (Austropotamobius • Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and pallipes) species of the Caricion davallianae* • Freshwater Pearl • Limestone pavements* Mussel (Margaritifera • Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland margaritifera) facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco • Slender Naiad (Najas Brometalia)(*important orchid sites) flexilis) • Bog woodland* • Green Feathermoss • Water courses of plain to montane levels with (Drepanocladus the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho- vernicosus) Batrachion vegetation • Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion)* • Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration • Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion Lough Corrib 004042 • Black-throated Diver, As above SPA • Red-throated Diver, • Golden Plover, • Great Northern Diver, • Bar-tailed Godwit, • Common Tern and • Sandwich Tern

(*denotes priority habitat)

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.6.3 Flora Atlas Data

The principal source of information regarding the distribution of flora in Ireland is the New Atlas of the British & Irish Flora (Preston et al. , 2002). This atlas shows data for vascular plants in individual hectads (10 km by 10 km squares). The site for the proposed flood alleviation works falls within 4 hectads, M33, M34, M43 and M44 (see Figure 2.7 below). The records for these hectads were consulted and cross-checked with the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Checklist of Rare and Protected Species, to investigate if any rare or protected plant species had been recorded in the squares, during the 1987-1999 atlas survey (and any previous surveys) carried out by the Botanical Society of the British Isles (BSBI). The search included the vascular plants that are listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive, Flora Protection Order (FPO) of 1999 and the Irish Red Data Book (IRDB). The results were also compared with species mentioned in the Site Synopsis for the designated sites in the area and records for these hectads from the NPWS Rare and Protected Species database. Results are detailed in Table 2.6.

M34 M44

M33 M43

Figure 2.7 10km Squares M33, M34, M43 and M44

Table 2.6: Flora Atlas Data

Common Name Scientific Name Square M33 Square M34 Square M43 Square M44

Corncockle Agrostemma githago - - § - Blue Fleabane Erigeron acer - - § - Green-winged Orchis morio - § - § Orchid Small White Orchid Pseudorchis albida - - + - Northern Rorippa islandica + - - - Yellowcress Wood Bitter-Vetch Vicia orobus - + + - + Record from the 1987-1999 BSBI Flora Atlas survey § Pre-1970 Record - Not recorded in the relevant Grid Square during any Flora Atlas Survey

Small White Orchid was recorded in Grid Square M43 during the 1987-1999 flora atlas survey. This is a tuberous perennial with small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers and a faint scent. It is found on open, well-drained upland pastures and heaths. This species has undergone a decline in recent

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study years which mirrors that of the Green-winged Orchid (discussed above). Agricultural improvement and increased grazing pressure on hill pastures seem likely to have led to its decline. This species is listed as Vulnerable in the Irish Red Data Book for Vascular Plants, and is afforded legal protection under the Flora Protection Order, 1999.

Northern Yellowcress is an annual or short-lived perennial cress. It is found on bare damp ground, pond edges, stream sides and turloughs. It is listed as Rare in the Irish Plant Red Data Book but is not afforded legal protection in Ireland. This species was recorded in Square M33 in the 1987-1999 BSBI Flora Atlas Survey.

Wood Bitter-vetch , a bushy perennial of meadows, scrub and rocks in hilly districts, is listed as Vulnerable in the Irish Red Data Book and is afforded legal protection in Ireland under the Flora Protection Order, 1999. This species was recorded in Grid Squares M34 and M43 during the 1987- 1999 flora atlas survey, and is mentioned in the site synopsis for Lough Corrib cSAC.

There are pre-1970 records for the species Corncockle, Blue Fleabane and Green-winged Orchid, but none of these species have been recorded in subsequent surveys. It is therefore assumed that they have disappeared from the area (Corncockle is now considered extinct in Ireland).

2.6.4 Fauna Assessment

The likelihood of faunal species occurring in the existing environment is discussed in this section. Species which are afforded statutory protection, whether under International, European or National legislation, are considered in detail. Relevant legislation is as follows:

• Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora (Habitats Directive) – transposed into Irish law as Regulations European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, SI 94/1997 (amended by SI 233/1998 & SI 378/2005). o Species protected under the EU Habitats Directive can be separated in to two categories: Annex I of the directive lists species that require protection of their habitats, for which Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) are designated, while Annex IV of the directive lists species which are afforded strict protection, wherever they occur in the country (inside or outside SACs) • Directive 2009/147/EC (codified version of Directive 79/409/EEC as amended) (Birds Directive) – transposed into Irish law as European Communities (Conservation of Wild Birds) Regulations, 1985 (S.I. No. 291 of 1985, amended by S.I. No. 31/1995, S.I. No. 284/1995 and S.I. No. 269/1996) o All birds listed on Annex I of the EU Birds directive require protection of their habitats, for which Special Areas of Protection (SPAs) are designated. • Wildlife Act 1976 and Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 Under this Act certain species are afforded statutory protection and as such there is a requirement that any proposed development assesses the likelihood of impacting such species. Under Schedule 5 of the Act it is an offence for any person to intentionally: - - kill, injure or take any wild animal listed, - damage or destroy, or obstruct access to, any structure or place which any wild animal uses for shelter or protection, - damage or destroy anything which conceals or protects any such structure, or - disturb any such animal while it is occupying a structure or place which it uses for shelter or protection.

Each of the faunal species protected under the above legislation, and the likelihood of their occurrence within the study area, is discussed individually below.

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.6.5 NPWS Rare and Protected Species Database

The NPWS Rare and Protected Species database was consulted for records on species of conservation importance in the area. The site for the proposed development lies within the 10km Grid squares M41, M42, M51 and M52. According to this database, there are records for seventeen rare and protected species within the four grid squares (see Table 2.7 below). However, the NPWS dataset is known to be incomplete, particularly for fish, bats and birds, and so the absence of records for a species does not necessarily mean that the species does not occur in the area. The relevant hectads are shown in Figure 2.7. Rare and protected faunal species recorded within these hectads are provided in Table 2.7.

Table 2.7 Fauna Recorded within the Study Area Species Protection Records Bats There are many suitable habitats for Bat Conservation Ireland’s bats within the study area (e.g. records were consulted for woodland, scrub, hedgerows, information on bat activity wetlands, etc.) The river itself may in the area. Bat species serve as a foraging site for bats, in that have been recorded in particular Daubenton’s Bat ( Myotis the locality are: daubentonii ), which is known to All Irish bat species are protected under the occur in the area. The bridges in the Wildlife Act (1976) as amended and under - Lesser Horseshoe Bat area may also serve as roosting the EC Directive on The Conservation of (Rhinolophus sites for this species. Natural habitats and of Wild Fauna and hipposideros ) Flora (Habitats Directive 1992), The Lesser - Common Pipistrelle Horseshoe Bat ( Rhinolophus hipposideros ) (Pipistrellus is afforded further protection under Annex II pipistrellus ); of the EU Habitats Directive. West County Galway is a stronghold for the Lesser - Soprano Pipistrelle Horseshoe Bat and there are several known (Pipistrellus roosts for the species in the locality, though pygmaeus ); the largest concentration is further south of - Leisler’s Bat ( Nyctalus the study area, on the Galway/Clare border. leisleri ); There is a possibility that the species may occur within the study area. - Natterer’s Bat ( Myotis nattereri ); - Daubenton’s Bat (Myotis daubentonii ); and - Brown Long-eared Bat (Plecotus auritus ). Badgers are listed in the ‘ Irish Red Data Badgers have been recorded in Grid Book 2: Vertebrates ’ (Whilde, 1993) as Square M43. The study area being of international importance. Badgers contains many suitable habitats for prefer farmland / woodland mosaics but are this species. Badgers sometimes found in upland areas up to 500m in elevation and solitary badgers can occupy territory in open upland, which is dry and not susceptible to flooding.

Otters are listed in Annex II and IV of the EU Habitats Directive and as a ‘protected There are numerous records for fauna species’ in Annex III of Bern Otter within the study area, including Convention. The Irish population is also several along the Clare River. The Otter listed in the ‘Irish Red Data Book 2: freshwater habitats, e.g. rivers, Vertebrates’ (Whilde, 1993) as being of streams, marsh, etc. provide ideal international importance and is also foraging ground for this species. protected under the Wildlife Act.

This species is listed on Annex II of the EU White-clawed Crayfish are known to White-clawed Crayfish Habitats Directive, and is one of the occur in the Clare River and the qualifying features of Lough Corrib cSAC. Abbert River.

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

Species Protection Records There is one record for Sika Deer (Cervus nippon ) on the NPWS Rare and Protected Species records for All Deer species in Ireland are protected the area, from Grid Square M34. Sika Deer under the Wildlife Act (1976) and the This species favours a varied habitat Wildlife (Amendment) Act (2000). that provides cover and grazing, in mixed deciduous woodland or conifer plantation. The Hedgehog is listed in Appendix III (protected fauna) of the Bern Convention, and is afforded legal protection in Ireland The NPWS Rare and Protected under the Irish Wildlife Act, 1976. Species Database has records for Hedgehog Hedgehogs are found in woodlands, this species from Grid Squares M34 hedgerows, gardens, and meadows. (Headford). Hedgehogs are mostly nocturnal, but juvenile or sick animals can sometimes be seen during the day. There has been one sighting for Marsh Fritillary ( Euphydryas aurinia ), The Marsh Fritillary ( Euphydryas aurinia ), considered one of the most considered one of the most threatened threatened species in Europe and is Marsh Fritillary species in Europe and is the only Irish the only Irish butterfly species butterfly species protected under the EU protected under the EU Habitats Habitats Directive. Directive, in Grid Square M33 (Butterfly Ireland Records). The Irish Hare is listed as an ‘animal species of community interest whose taking in the wild and exploitation may be subject to management measures’ in Annex V of the EU Habitats Directive and as a This species has been recorded ‘protected fauna species’ in Annex III of from all Grid Squares encompassed Bern Convention. The Irish population is by the study area. It is therefore Irish Hare also listed in the ‘Irish Red Data Book 2: highly likely that this species occurs Vertebrates’ (Whilde, 1993) as being of within the study area. international importance. The Irish Mountain Hare is present in all counties both in lowland and upland habitats. It is generally found in open habitats including upland heath. The Pine marten is listed in Annexes II and There is a record for this species IV of the Habitats Directive as a species of from Grid Square M34, at Knockma European interest. This requires both strict Woods, approximately 13km north of protection of the species and the the study area. It is possible that designation of cSACs. It is also listed in this species also occurs within the Annex II of the Bern convention. Under study area. Pine Marten domestic Irish legislation it is offered complete protection. The Pine marten has in recent times begun to colonise coniferous and mixed forest, particularly in the west of Ireland. They also like to hunt in areas of clear felled conifer plantation. The Irish stoat, a species protected under There are no records for this species the Irish Wildlife Act, 1976, can be found in within the study area, but it is likely a number of habitats, including; woodlands, that this species occurs within the heathlands and farmlands. The stoat is the study area, due to the presence of Irish Stoat smallest of our flesh-eating mammals, is suitable habitat. about a foot long, and like the badger, is nocturnal. This species is known to be widespread throughout the country. The wide range of wetland habitats Common Frog All reptiles and amphibians in Ireland are within the study area provides much protected under the Irish Wildlife Act, 1976. suitable habitat for reptiles and amphibians. Frogs have been

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

Species Protection Records recorded within all the Grid Squares Smooth Newt encompassed by the study area and there are specific records from Claregalway (NPWS Rare and Protected Species records). The habitat of the smooth newt ranges from large lakes to densely weeded ditches. The NPWS Rare and Protected Species Records contain two records for Smooth Newt from Athenry, which is approximately 7km east of the study area. It is likely Lizard that this species also occurs within the study area. There are no records for the Viviparous (Common) Lizard (Zootoca vivipara ) within the study area.

The Red squirrel is in listed in Appendix III There are no records for this species (protected fauna) of the Bern Convention, within the study area. and is afforded legal protection in Ireland under the Irish Wildlife Act, 1976. Red Red Squirrel squirrels are found in coniferous forests composed of Pine, particularly where grey squirrels are absent. This habitat type is their main stronghold in Ireland. They are scarce along the western seaboard and in plantations of conifers other than Pine. The Pygmy Shrew is Ireland's smallest There are no records for this species mammal, ranging in weight from 3g in within the study area, but the winter when food sources are low, to 6g for habitats on site would provide this breeding adults in the summer. The pygmy species with suitable habitat. shrew is common throughout the country where there is good ground cover in Pygmy Shrew grassland, woodlands, hedgerows, and bogs. They build spherical nests from dried grass under ground cover, dead wood or rocks. The Pygmy Shrew is listed in Appendix III (protected fauna) of the Bern Convention, and is afforded legal protection in Ireland under the Irish Wildlife Act, 1976.

2.7 HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY CONSTRAINTS

The hydrological and drainage features of the study area were determined by consulting the following:

• OS survey vector, six inch and ‘discovery’ series mapping, • Aerial photography, • The Office of Public Works, • Western River Basin Management Plan (2009-2015), • Water Framework Directive national website & WaterMaps viewer www.wfdireland.ie • Environmental Protection Agency, • WRFB – Anglers Guide to Game Fishing in the Western Fisheries Region • Study to identify practical measures to address flooding on the Clare River (Ryan Hanley, 2010) and, the Study to identify practical measures to address flooding at Carnmore/Cashla (Ryan Hanley, 2010).

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Legend

CorballyCorbally Environmental Constraints Study Area CorrandullaCorrandulla SurfaceSurface WaterWater QualityQuality MonitoringMonitoring PointPoint BridgeBridge nearnear DrumgriffinDrumgriffin GroundwaterGroundwater QualityQuality MonitoringMonitoring PointPoint

LackaghLackagh BrBr

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rrr BridgeBridge S.S. ofof AddergooleAddergoole rrr eee eee 

0 50 100 ClaregalwayClaregalway BridgeBridge Kilometers CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge Client CurraghmoreCurraghmore BridgeBridge CregmoreCregmore BridgeBridge CurraghmoreCurraghmore BridgeBridge ClaregalwayClaregalway CregmoreCregmore BridgeBridge

Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Title Water Quality Map

Figure 2.8 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details CashlaCashla Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262 Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MI0003F01 CarnmoreCarnmore Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev. Date: May '11 MI0003 F01

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.7.1 Water Quality and the Water Framework Directive

There are a number of streams, rivers and lakes located within the Clare River catchment ( Figure 1.1 ), of which the Study Area ( Figure 1.2 ) is part. The key source of information in relation to water quality in the study area is the Western River Basin Management Plan 2009-2015 (Western RBMP), developed to implement requirements specified under the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC). An Action Plan has been developed for the Clare River catchment and is known as the Clare River Water Management Unit Action Plan (Clare River WMU).

In the Clare River Study Area WFD monitoring is undertaken at a number of locations by the EPA and Galway County Council. These monitoring points are listed below in Table 2.8 and shown in Figure 2.8.

Table 2.8 WFD Surface Water Monitoring Locations

River Location Type of Monitoring Comment name monitoring authority Clare 30C011200 Claregalway Operational Galway County EPA Q Bridge site – physico- Council values chemical available for elements only this site up to 2006 Clare 30C011300 Curraghmore Surveillance EPA & Galway EPA last Bridge site – Q values, County Council monitored in diatoms, fish, & 2009 physico- chemical elements

Figure 2.9 below illustrates how WFD ecological classification is determined and Figure 2.10 illustrates the WFD ecological classification for the Clare River catchment.

Figure 2.9 Determination of WFD Ecological Status for Surface Waters

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Legend

EnvironmentalEnvironmental ConstraintsConstraints StudyStudy AreaArea HighHigh GoodGood ModerateModerate RRR ModerateModerate RRR

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CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge  ClaregalwayClaregalway

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Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

Title WFD River Water Body Status CashlaCashla Figure 2.10 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, CarnmoreCarnmore Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MI0005F01

Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev.

Date: May '11 MI0005 F01

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

Below is an account of the Clare River, its main tributaries within the wider catchment, and Lough Corrib which it flows in to, and a summary of the current status classifications for these rivers and this lake.

Clare River: The Clare River and its tributaries form part of the Corrib catchment, located within Hydrometric Area 30, and within the Western River Basin District. The Clare River catchment starts north of Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo with the Dalgan River. The Dalgan and the Sinking Rivers confluence above Milltown forming the river known as the Clare River; the Clare River then flows west of Tuam where the Nanny River confluences with it at Weir Bridge; the Grange River confluences with the Clare River north of Corofin and continues its course flowing through Corofin; south of Corofin, the Abbert River confluences with the Clare River; in its lower stretches it flows through the town of Claregalway and eventually flows in to Lough Corrib at Coarsefield. The section of the Clare River within the Study area, which consists of the stretch from 1 km north of Crusheeny Bridge to the outflow at Lough Corrib, is largely classified at Good status , with the section of the river above Crusheeny Bridge deemed to be at Moderate status ( Figure 2.10 ).

Dalgan River : The Dalgan River forms the most northerly part of the Clare River system. It is classed at Poor status along its length (based on ecological monitoring). The Dalgan River is joined by the Tullaghaun River flowing from the east near Levally Lough. The Tullyvaughan is classed at Good status (based on recent monitoring).

Sinking River : Further south, the Dalgan River is joined by the Sinking River, flowing from the east, in Bellaconeen townland south of Dalgan Bridge before becoming the Clare River. The Sinking River flows through Dunmore. In the eastern part of the catchment it is joined by the Yellow River flowing south from Meelick townland via Boyounagh Beg. The Yellow River has been classed as Moderate status (based on fish sampling). The Yellow River merges with the Gortgarrow stream in the upper reaches of the Sinking River. Monitoring of the Gortgarrow indicates that this section of the river is at Poor status . The Sinking River itself along its entire length from the confluence of the Yellow River and Gortgarrow stream through Dunmore and to the confluence with the Dalgan River is classed at Poor status (based on ecological assessment). A small tributary of the Sinking River, which flows northwest through Gorteen and Addergoole More townlands, is also classed as Poor status .

Nanny River: The Nanny River joins the Clare River west of Tuam. Above Tuam this river is classed at High status (based on ecological and physico chemical monitoring). Below Tuam and above the confluence with the Clare River the classification is Moderate status (biological monitoring) reflecting the impact of discharges from Tuam itself.

Grange River : The Grange River flows west from Corskeagh More and through the townlands of Grange and Ballinderry before joining with the Clare River approximately 1.5kms north of Corofin. The river is classified at moderate status along its entire length (based on biological monitoring).

Abbert River : The Abbert is a major tributary river of the Clare, which it joins east of Anbally townland. It drains the southeastern portion of the Clare catchment. In its upper reaches the Abbert comprises two tributaries, the Kilaclogher River and the Mill stream which join near Clooncurreen townland. The Kilaclogher River is classed at Moderate status (biological monitoring) along most of its length with the exception of the uppermost section which is classed at Good status (physico chemical monitoring data). This is above the confluence with a small tributary the Glenamucka stream classed at Moderate status (through biological monitoring). The Mill stream, which flows just north of Coolmanstown is classed at Moderate status also. The entire length of the Abbert River is as Moderate status (mainly through biological monitoring data).

Lough Corrib

Lough Corrib is 165 km 2 in size, and the Clare River catchment is a significant catchment of lower Lough Corrib. Lough Corrib is an internationally known as a Salmon Fishery. Lower Lough Corrib and the Corrib River are strong candidates for future designation as Heavily Modified water bodies under the WFD due to the sluice barrage at Galway City which controls their water level (Western RBMP 2009-2015). Lough Corrib is designated as an SAC and an SPA. The lake supports 14 habitats and six species, including salmon, that are listed on Annex I and Annex II respectively of the EU Habitats Directive.

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

The highly invasive plant species Lagarosiphon major (also known as "Curly Waterweed") was first identified in the lake in 2005. This rapidly colonizing plant has already excluded native plant species from bays in which it has become established. The Zebra mussel ( Dreissena polymorpha ), another invasive species in Ireland was first recorded in Lough Corrib during 2007 and it is thought they were introduced to the lake in 2000 and 2001.

The EPA has classified physico-chemical parameters and biotic elements such as macroinvertebrates and macrophytes, at good status in the lake. However, using the WFD fish multimetric classification tool and expert opinion, Lough Corrib has been assigned a draft classification of moderate status as a result of the fish assessment.

2.7.2 Fisheries

Clare River Catchment

The Clare and the Grange Rivers are best known for salmon and trout, and some sections of the Clare River offer some of the best quality trout found anywhere in Ireland. Salmon fishing is excellent in many sections of the river, with spring salmon often been taken from the end of March.

Lough Corrib

Lough Corrib is one of the best game fisheries in the world and is internationally renowned for its brown trout fishing. The lake is known to hold brown trout, salmon, perch, roach, bream, roach by bream hybrids, eels, 3-spined stickleback and pike. Roach, a non-native invasive fish species, was introduced to the lake in the early 1980s.

The lake was surveyed to assess its fish stocks by the Central Fisheries Board (CFB) and the Western Regional Fisheries Board (CFB) in 1986 and 1996 (O’ Grady, 1986; O’ Grady et al , 1996). Lough Corrib has also been included in the CFB and WRFBs long term water quality monitoring programme of lake ecosystems since 1975.

The lake was most recently surveyed in 2008 under the WFD fish monitoring programme. A total of seven fish species and one hybrid were recorded on Lower and Upper Lough Corrib between the 16th and 27th of June 2008. A total of 1716 fish were captured during the survey. Perch, followed by roach were the most common fish species encountered. A small number (40) of brown trout were recorded. In total, 36 eels were captured. Arctic char have historically existed in Lough Corrib; however none were recorded in the 2008 survey or in the previous 1996 survey.

2.7.3 Potential Constraints

The main hydrology and water quality constraints are in relation to the objectives set under the WFD and the fisheries status of the river. The WFD requires that the Clare River stretch within the Study area is Protected as it is currently at good status. Any deterioration in status which may potentially result from flood alleviation measures, is to be avoided or mitigated for. In particular, widening or deepening of the river channel could cause further deterioration of the river, and any silt release could impact on river flora and fauna.

Stretches of the river are important for fisheries, and may be important for spawning, although it is understood that most spawning occurs in the Clare River tributaries rather than in the Clare River itself. However, instream works and lowering of water levels could pose large constraints and could impact on resident/migratory fish populations, spawning zones and sensitive salmonid ova, smolts or elvers and other fish species. Timing to avoid impacts to such sensitive species will be required and will require consultation with Inland Fisheries Ireland.

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.7.4 Surface Water Designations and Water Uses

There is one surface water body designated as a drinking water protected area – Danganbeg Spring which flows in a channel before abstraction for treatment at Mid Galway water treatment plant. Downstream of the study area however, Lough Corrib Upper and Lower are designated drinking waters.

There are no source protection areas in place within the study area and the Clare River.

There are no bathing waters designated within or downstream of the study area.

There are no shellfish waters designated within or downstream of the study area.

Galway County Council’s trunk watermain runs through the centre of the study area following the N17 road and the R339 at Carnmore. There are also a number of watermains from private group water supply schemes within the study area; Carnmore No. 1 GWSS Carnmore No. 2 GWSS Carnmore No. 3 GWSS Lisheenavalla GWSS Kiniska GWSS Cahernashilleeny GWSS Cloon GWSS Claregalway GWSS Claregalway No. 2 GWSS

Galway County Council are proposing to construct Claregalway Sewerage Scheme with a treatment plant and outfall which will be located on lands to the west of Claregalway bridge.

2.8 SOILS, GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY CONSTRAINTS

The following sources of information were used to complete the assessment:

• A Geological Description to accompany the Bedrock Geology 1:100,000 Map Series; Sheet 14; Geology of Galway Bay, • Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) geological and hydrogeological data including online maps (www.gsi.ie ), well database, aquifer classification data and groundwater vulnerability maps, • Aerial Photography (OSI, flown 2000 and 2005), and • Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 Discovery Series.

2.8.1 Soils

Based on information from the Teagasc Subsoils Map, (Western RBD Region), subsoils within the study area are comprised predominantly of cutover peat and till derived chiefly from limestone. Cutover peat is predominant along the banks of the Clare River from Montiagh townland downstream to Lough Corrib. Limestone till is predominant along the banks of the Clare River from Montiagh townland upstream to Crusheeny Bridge and Carnmore. There is an area of made ground in the village of Claregalway and areas of alluvium can be found along the banks of the Clare River. Pockets of lake sediments can also be found in the study area. Outcrops of karst rock are scattered throughout the study area. Details on soils in the study area are shown on Figure 2.11 .

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BasEsk Legend

RckCa EnvironmentalEnvironmental ConstraintsConstraints StudyStudy AreaArea

RRR RRR

iii iii vvv vvv CutoverCutover PeatPeat eee TLs A eee rrr rrr LimestoneLimestone TillTill LimestoneLimestone TillTill LimestoneLimestone TillTill

CCC CCC

lll lll BedrockBedrock atat surfacesurface aaa aaa

rrr rrr -Calcareous-Calcareous-Calcareous eee eee AlluviumAlluvium L AlluviumAlluvium Cut BasicBasic EskerEsker sandssands && gravelgravel LakeLake SedimentsSediments GlaciofluvialGlaciofluvial sandssands A && gravelgravel CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge MadeMade GroundGround Made MadeMade GroundGround ClaregalwayClaregalway 

TLs

RckCa 0 50 100 Kilometers

Client

Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme

CashlaCashla Title

CarnmoreCarnmore Soils Map

Figure 2.11 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MGE0262MI0007F01

Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev.

Date: June '11 MI0007 F01

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 2.8.2 Bedrock Geology

The bedrock geology of the area is Visean Limestone (undifferentiated). Details on bedrock geology are shown on Figure 2.12 .

The location of mineral sites and quarries in proximity to the study area are shown in Figure 2.12 and detailed in Table 2.9 and Table 2.10, however none are located within the land area as illustrated in Figure 1.2 .

Table 2.9 Mineral Sites Located within proximity to the Study Area Location No. Mineral Townland Description Notes Grey marble quarry worked in this limestone (in 2165 Terryland Non-metallic townland. Not marked on duplicate 6in. general) map. Said to have produced stone for St. Augustine's Chapel, Galway. Large active quarry in Carboniferous Lst. which produces aggregates, agricultural dimension 3001 Pollkeen Non-metallic ground limestone and concrete stone productions Known as Two Mile Ditch Quarry or Castlegar Quarry. No potential for block stone production. dimension Recently developed aggregate quarry. 4610 Coolagh Non-metallic stone This quarry has no potential for block stone production at present. Disused aggregate quarry of grey dimension micrite. Unlikely to be developed as a 4705 Cregboy Non-metallic stone source of dimension stone due to blasting damage. dimension Lisheenkyle Extensive limestone pavement of grey 4717 Non-metallic stone West micrite. Potential for production of ornamental blocks. Patchily dolomitized Burren Limestone 5241 fluorspar Glennascaul Non-metallic contains calcite veins with fluorite. Noted by Tara Exploration and Devt. (1969). Tara Exploration and Development Co. 5365 copper Ballybrit Metallic Ltd. recorded finely disseminated chalcopyrite and malachite coatings in Burren Limestone bedrock in 1969.

Table 2.10 Quarries Located in proximity to the Study Area Quarry Name Quarry Address Operation Name Operation Address Coolagh, Menlo, Lackagh Quarries Lackagh Quarries Ltd. Hardiman House, Eyre Coolough Galway Square, Galway Roadstone Two Mile Two Mile Ditch, Roadstone Provinces North West Regional Office, Ditch Quarry Pollkeen, Galway Ltd. Two Mile Ditch, Galway J. Smith Sand & J. Smith Sand & Gravel Cloonboo, Tuam, Cloonscragh, Tuam, Galway Galway Gravel

There are numerous karst features shown in Figure 2.12. In order to minimise the number of karst features at the constraints stage, only the karst features located within the study area are shown in Table 2.11 below. There are three karst features located within the study area.

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Legend 1717 1616 1515 Environmental Constraints Study Area 5252 1818 1818 6363 J.J. SmithSmith SandSand && GravelGravel ViseanVisean LimestoneLimestone -- VISVIS 1414

RRR RRR KarstKarst FeatureFeature

iii iii vvv vvv

eee eee

rrr MineralMineral SitesSites rrr MineralMineral SitesSites

CCC CCC

lll lll aaa aaa QuarriesQuarries

rrr rrr eee eee

11 1313

CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge 33  ClaregalwayClaregalway

0 50 100 22 Kilometers

Client 4,7054,705

66 MenloMenlo QuarryQuarry Project MenloMenlo QuarryQuarry Clare River (Claregalway) 55 Flood Relief Scheme 44 44 1212 Title 2,1642,164 99 Geology Map CashlaCashla 88 77 3,0013,001 Figure 2.12 3,0013,001 CarnmoreCarnmore Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, RoadstoneRoadstone TwoTwo 1010 Mervue, Galway, 1111 Ireland LackaghLackagh QuarriesQuarries 2323 MileMile DitchDitch QuarryQuarry T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 CooloughCoolough 2424 4,7174,717 E [email protected] 1133 1919 W rpsgroup.com/ireland 1133 2525 2525 5,2415,241 Issue Details 3737 2020 3737 4141 Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262 4040 Checked by: BnC File Ref. 4,6104,610 4,6104,610 4242 Approved by: WM MI0008F01 3939 4242 4343 3939 4646 Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev. 2727 Date: June '11 MI0008 F01 2727 4444 Notes 1. This drawing is the property of RPS Group Ltd. It is 4545 a confidential document and must not be copied, used, 2,1652,165 4747 or its contents divulged without prior written consent. 2,1652,165 2. All levels are referred to Ordnance Datum, Malin Head. 7777 3. Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence EN 0005011 7777 ©Ordnance Survey Ireland and Government of Ireland. 5555

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

Table 2.11 Karst features within study area Map No. GSI Name Type Name Townland Lithology Limestone, clean (>=90% CaCO3), 1 1123SEK014 Spring N/A Laghtgeorge bedded Limestone, clean (>=90% CaCO3), 2 1123SEK007 Turlough N/A Gortatleva bedded Limestone, clean (>=90% CaCO3), 3 1123SEK008 Estevelle Polldonnell Kiltroge bedded

2.8.3 Aquifer Classification, Vulnerability and WFD Status

The rock underlying the study area is classified by the Geological Survey of Ireland as a ‘Regionally Important Aquifer – Karstified”. A segment of rock to the south east of the study area is classified by the Geological Survey of Ireland as a ‘Locally Important Aquifer – moderately productive only in local zones”. The aquifer classification in the study area is shown on Figure 2.13.

The GSI records show that there are a number of wells located in the area as shown in Figure 2.13. In order to minimise the number of karst features at the constraints stage, only the karst features located within the study area are shown in Table 2.12 below. A number of these wells are used as sources for group water schemes.

Table 2.12 GSI Well Data

Map Depth No. GSI Name Source Name Type (m) Address Source Use Yield Class Claregalway Gortadooey, Group Intermediate 8 1123SEW035 GWS Spring Claregalway Scheme Spring Carnmore West Carnmore, Group 9 1421NWW050 GWS Borehole 60.4 Cashla Scheme Good Intermediate 14 1123SEW041 Spring Laghtgeorge Spring Cahernasheleehy Kiltroge, Group 15 1123SEW033 - Kiltroge GWS Borehole 23.8 Claregalway Scheme Good Lakeview Upper Lakeview Upper, Group 18 1123SEW029 GWS Borehole 21.3 Claregalway Scheme Good

There is 1 groundwater body in the study area – Clare-Corrib. This groundwater body has been classified as a drinking water protected area under the Western RBMP. There are no groundwater dependent terrestrial ecosystems (GWDTE) identified within this groundwater body. The Clare-Corrib groundwater body is classified as having Poor status due to contribution of surface groundwaters to surface water phosphorus levels. The objective set for this water body is to restore good status by 2021.

2.8.4 Geological Heritage

The Geological Survey of Ireland and the Irish Geological Heritage programme (IGH) is in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government to identify and select important geological and geomorphological sites throughout the country for designation as NHAs (Natural Heritage Areas). At the time of writing, the GSI have

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Legend

1717 1717 EnvironmentalEnvironmental ConstraintsConstraints 55 StudyStudy AreaArea

77 33 RegionallyRegionally ImportantImportant AquiferAquifer KarstifiedKarstified (conduit)(conduit) RRR AquiferAquifer KarstifiedKarstified (conduit)(conduit) 44 RRR

i i i i i i --- RkcRkcRkc 11 vvv 11 vvv

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rrr rrr LocallyLocally ImportantImportant AquiferAquifer

CCC CCC ModeratelyModerately ProductiveProductive onlyonly l l l l l l aaa aaa ininin LocalLocalLocal ZonesZonesZones --- LlLlLl rrr rrr eee eee 88 RkcRkc GSIGSI GroundwaterGroundwater WellsWells RkcRkc 1414

1010 1313

CrusheenyCrusheeny BridgeBridge ClaregalwayClaregalway 1515  1818 66

0 50 100 1111 Kilometers Client RkcRkc

Project Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme 1212 99 22 Title

CashlaCashla Aquifer Map 1616

CarnmoreCarnmore Figure 2.13 Lyrr Building, IDA Business & Technology Park, Mervue, Galway, Ireland T +353 91 400200 F +353 91 400299 E [email protected] W rpsgroup.com/ireland Issue Details Drawn by: MCS Project No. MGE0262

Checked by: BnC File Ref.

Approved by: WM MI0006F01

Scale: NTS Drawing No. Rev.

Date: June '11 MI0006 F01

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study indicated a 4 week turnaround period for consultations ( Table 2.2 ) and therefore detail on geological heritage is to follow.

2.8.5 Potential Constraints

Removal of overburden material during channel widening (e.g. upstream of Crusheeny Bridge) may give rise to an increase in aquifer vulnerability.

Given the poor status of the water body and high degree of interaction between surface and groundwaters in this water body as illustrated by the nutrient impact and status classification, any flood alleviation measures will directly impact on groundwaters.

2.9 OTHER CONSTRAINTS

2.9.1 Waste Management

There will be a requirement to handle, store, remove and dispose of waste material in accordance with the relevant waste management legislation. Waste material will be generated from two sources:

- Wastes resulting from general construction on site i.e. waste fuels, oils from machinery, cement and concrete from required masonry works and wastewater from sanitary facilities.

- Excess excavated materials generated from the proposed flood relief measure i.e. channel widening, channel deepening and construction and demolition waste from proposed bridge works.

The nature of the wastes generated from channel dreging will generally be vegetation, top soil and stone. Where this material is to be reused it is important that it is not stored close to the existing river channel. The material removed from the river bed and from any bridge demolition may be required to be removed and disposed of under a waste permit or certificate of registration from the local authority.

It is important to ensure that correct procedures for storage and disposal of such wastes and excess materials are noted and implemented.

2.9.2 Traffic

Existing Road Network

The section of the Clare River located within the study area flows from Grange West upstream of Crusheeny Bridge to Coarsefield townland where the Clare River flows into Lough Corrib. The N17 Primary Road crosses the Clare River in Claregalway village in the centre of the study area and is the main primary route in the west of Ireland. The N17 is the main route between Galway City, Tuam, Claremorris and Sligo town. The N84 Secondary Road crosses the Clare River in the townland of Curraghmore in the western part of the study area. The N84 is the primary route between Galway City, Headford, Ballinrobe and Castelbar.

At Claregalway village there are two major junctions; the junction of the N17 with the N18 primary route to Limerick and the junction of the N17 with the N63 secondary route to Roscommon. The N18 and N63 do not cross the Clare River.

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

A network of local county roads connects the N17 and N18 primary routes and the N84 and N63 secondary routes. These local county roads cross the Clare River at Gortadooey and Kiniska townland north of Claregalway village, at Crusheeny Bridge in Crusheen townland, east of Claregalway village and at Caherlea, southeast of Crusheeny Bridge.

The R339 regional road runs to the southeast of the study area and links Galway City to Galway Airport, Carnmore, Cashla and further on to Monivea village. The R339 crosses the proposed drainage pipeline in Carnmore East.

Work at the river crossings i.e. bridges or culverts, will constrain the local transport network. Based on the initial recommendations set out in the Engineering Reports the following will be the main traffic constraints:

- Crusheeny Bridge: the proposed demolition and replacement of Crusheeny Bridge will lead to traffic diversions,

- Local roads in Montiagh North and Montiagh South townlands – Raising sections of access roads and increasing the size of a culvert in Montiagh South will cause traffic delays and possible diversions,

- Claregalway Footbridge: construction of this bridge may lead to traffic disruption and delays.

The road network is shown in Figure 2.14.

Existing Rail Network

There are no railway lines in the vicinity of the study area.

2.9.3 Noise

Galway County Council prepared a Draft Action Noise Plan in 2008 in accordance with the Environmental Noise Regulations 2006 to address environmental noise from major roads in the county with more than six million vehicles per annum. The action planning area covers sections of the N6, N17 and N18 national primary roads and R336 regional road and adjoining lands.

The N17 from Galway City to its junction with the N63 Roscommon road was identified as a major road in the Draft Action Noise Plan 2008. Strategic noise maps were created for each major road and show that the area adjacent to the N17 at Claregalway is subjected to noise levels of 55 – 75dB. Noise level is highest on the N17 (75dB) and decreases with distance away from the road as shown in Figure 2.15.

The residential, working and visiting communities in the region, who would be considered the sensitive noise receptors must be considered when completing all flood relief measures. This is an issue that should be considered further at EIS stage in proposing suitable working hours, noise restraints etc during particular times of the day, weekends, night time and public holidays.

2.9.4 Air Quality The EPA report Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality in Ireland , 2009 describes the air quality in Ireland. In accordance with EU legislation, Ireland is divided into zones for the assessment and management of air quality. There are four zones in Ireland; Zone A, Zone B, Zone C and Zone D and are shown in Figure 2.16 .

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100 and. 50 used, used, t is t Head. Kilometers 0 Rev. F01 consent. MGE0262 +353 91 400200 91 +353 400299 91 +353 [email protected] rpsgroup.com/ireland  MI0011F01 File Ref. File Drawing No. Drawing MI0011 Project No. Project Lyrr Building, Lyrr Park, Technology & Business IDA Galway, Mervue, Ireland T F E W Legend Flood Relief Scheme MCS BnC WM Traffic Map Environmental Constraints Environmental Constraints Environmental Constraints Environmental Area Study Area Study Area Study National Primary Road National Primary Road National Primary Road National Road Secondary National Road Secondary National Road Secondary National Road Regional Road Regional Road Regional Local Roads Local Roads Local Roads Section to of road Section to of road Section to of road raised be raised be raised be Environmental Constraints Environmental Area Study Environmental Constraints Environmental Constraints Environmental Area Study Area Study National Primary Road National Road Secondary National Road Regional Local Roads Section to of road raised be National Primary Road National Primary Road National Road Secondary National Road Secondary National Road Regional Road Regional Local Roads Local Roads Section to of road Section to of road raised be raised be Environmental Constraints Environmental Constraints Environmental Constraints Environmental Area Study Area Study Area Study National Primary Road National Primary Road National Primary Road National Road Secondary National Road Secondary National Road Secondary National Road Regional Road Regional Road Regional Local Roads Local Roads Local Roads Section to of road Section to of road Section to of road raised be raised be raised be Clare River (Claregalway) River Clare 2.14 June '11 June NTS 3. Ordnance Survey Ireland Licence EN 0005011 EN Licence Ireland Survey Ordnance 3. Irel of Government and Ireland Survey ©Ordnance 1. This drawing is the property of RPS Group Ltd. I Ltd. Group RPS of property the is This drawing 1. copied, be not must and document confidential a written prior without divulged contents its or Malin Datum, Ordnance to referred are levels All 2. Notes Date: Checked by: Checked by: Approved Client Project Title Figure Details Issue by: Drawn Scale: Cashla Cashla Cashla Cashla Cashla Cashla CClllaarree Cashla Cashla Cashla RRiiivveerr CClll

Carnmore Carnmore Carnmore

Carnmore Carnmore Carnmore Carnmore Carnmore Carnmore

9 3

Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny

Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny

Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny Bridge Crusheeny

3 3

6 R N

Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway Claregalway

84 N

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

Figure 2.15 Strategic Noise Map for N18

Figure 2.16 Air Quality Zones 2009

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Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study

The Clare River is located within Zone D. Zone D is compliant with the air quality standards in relation to the following air pollutants: particulate matter (PM 10 ), Ozone, NOx, SO 2, lead, CO, heavy metals, PAHs and benzene. The major source of air emissions in Ireland is road traffic. The N17 primary road is located in the study area and passes over the Clare River in the village of Claregalway.

The residential, working and visiting communities in the region, who would be considered the sensitive air receptors must be considered when completing all flood relief measures. This is an issue that should be considered further at EIS stage in proposing suitable working hours, machinery with lower emissions, dust control when dealing with bridge works, storage and removal of waste material etc.

MGE0262RP0001 36 Rev F01

Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme: Stage 1 – Environmental Constraints Study 3 CONCLUSIONS

This Report has identified a number of potential environmental constraints associated with the measures proposed for the Clare River (Claregalway) Flood Relief Scheme. The constraints have been detailed in Section 2 of this report and are summarised in the Executive Summary. These constraints are based on the proposed flood alleviation measures proposed by the Engineering Studies ( Table 1.1 ). As the review and re-design of these measures progresses towards a preferred Scheme, this Scheme will be assessed in light of the constraints identified in this Report.

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4 REFERENCES

Bennett, I. (ed.) 1987 −2007 Excavations: Summary Accounts of Archaeological Excavations in Ireland . Bray. Wordwell.

Brindley, A.L & Lanting, J. N 1990 The Dating of Fulachta Fiadh In Buckley, V 1990 Burnt Offerings: International Contributions to Burnt Mound Archaeology Wordwell: Dublin

Byrne, F. J 1973 Irish Kings and High Kings London

Claregalway Local Area Plan 2005-2011

Donnelly, C. and Murphy, E. 2008. The origins of cillíni. Archaeology Ireland , 22 No. 3, 26 −29.

Environmental Protection Agency. 2003a Advice Notes on Current Practice (in the preparation of Environmental Impact Statements) . Dublin: Government Publications Office.

Environmental Protection Agency. 2003b Draft Guidelines on the Information to be Contained in Environmental Impact Statements . Dublin: Dublin: Government Publications Office.

Environmental Protection Agency. 2009 Key Indicators of Ambient Air Quality in Ireland ,.

Galway County Development Plan (2009 −2015).

Institute of Field Archaeologists. 2001a. Standards and Guidance for Archaeological Desk-based Assessments. Manchester: IFA.

Institute of Field Archaeologists. 2001b. Standards and Guidance for Archaeological Monitoring. Manchester: IFA.

Institute of Field Archaeologists. 2001c. Standards and Guidance for Archaeological Test Trenching. Manchester: IFA.

Inland Fisheries Ireland. 2008. Sampling for the Water Framework Directive – Lough Corrib.

Stout, G. and Stout, M. 1997 Early Landscapes: from Prehistory to Plantation. In F.H.A. Aalen et. al. (eds), Atlas of the Irish Rural Landscape. Cork . Cork University Press.

Stout, M. 1997 The Irish Ringfort . Dublin. Four Courts.

Waddell, J. 1998 The Prehistoric Archaeology of Ireland . Galway. Galway University Press.

WRFB. 2003. Anglers Guide to Game fishing in the Western Fisheries Region.

WRBD. 2010. Western River Basin Management Plan.

WRBD. 2010. Water Management Unit Action Plans.

Cartographic Sources

Ordnance Survey 6” map of County Galway (1840)

Electronic Resource www.excavations.ie - Summary publication of every archaeological excavation that has taken place in Ireland (1970 −2007), edited by Isabel Bennett. www.archaeology.ie - DoEHLG website listing all SMR sites with aerial photographs, Database of archaeological sites known to the National Monuments Service

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www.osi.ie – Ordnance Survey website containing aerial photographs and historic mapping www.buildingsofireland.ie – Website listing the results of the NIAH survey for Galway www.wfdireland.ie – WFD reports and mapping http://www.wfdfish.ie/ - WFD fish reports

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