Arroo Mountain cSAC Site Code 1403 Co. Leitrim - National Parks ...

National Parks & Wildlife Service 

Conservation Statement 2009 

Arroo Mountain cSAC 

Site Code 1403 

Co. Leitrim

SUMMARY 

Introduction 

Arroo Mountain cSAC has been designated as a candidate Special Area of Conservation under the 

EU Habitats Directive. The site has been listed due to the presence of two priority habitats listed in 

Annex I of the Habitats Directive; Blanket bogs (active) and Petrifying (calcareous) springs. The 

site has also been listed for the presence of three other Annex I habitats including heath (Northern 

Atlantic wet heath), vegetated cliff areas (Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation) 

and scree (Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels). 

Nature Conservation Value of Arroo Mountain cSAC 

Arroo Mountain is a large mountain complex comprising a variety of habitats including blanket 

bog, heath, wooded ravines, limestone gorges, limestone pavement, and steep mountain cliffs. 

The steep cliffs and the talus screes on the north face of Arroo are of particular botanical interest 

and contain an exceptional diversity of ferns. Active erosion has created several interesting 

geomorphological features at their base, including sharp pinnacles and large rock slides. They have 

a distinctive flora which occurs rarely in the rest of the country including a very rich assemblage of 

calcareous mosses including some species of national importance. For some of these species it is 

their only recorded location within Ireland. 

The hydrology of the plateau is interesting and a number of unusual geomorphological features 

reflect the underlying limestone. Many streams and flushes drain into sinkholes and several large 

flushes found at the base of limestone cliffs have an enriched calcicole element in the flora. 

Springs, some of which have tufa formations, are also an interesting feature. These springs occur 

in association with calcareous habitats in the site and Stonewort species are abundant as are 

mosses, one of which is rare. This habitat is generally undisturbed and is in a natural state. 

Because of its extent and integrity, the blanket bog on Arroo is highly rated nationally and the 

heath flora is also well-developed. It forms a natural extension with and is of higher quality than 

the blanket bog on nearby Ben Bulben. The wet heath at this site is diverse in type and structure 

and has good moss cover. It is generally undisturbed and is mostly intact. 

Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Golden Plover, Hen Harrier and Chough; all Annex I Birds Directive 

species, are found at Arroo. 

Because of its relative isolation, parts of this site are relatively undisturbed by humans. The quality 

and range of habitats and the variety of rare species within the site makes it of high scientific 

interest. Along with Ben Bulben, Arroo has been termed the botanically richest mountain in 

Ireland and is one of the best examples of an upland community with arctic-alpine species (which 

occur very rarely elsewhere in the country). The interesting geomorphological and hydrological 

facets add greatly to the ecological and educational value of the site as well as being of great 

aesthetic value. 

Dept. of Environment, Heritage and Local Government 1 CS Version 1.01 2009

2 Conservation Statement Arroo Mountain cSAC — Site Code 1403 

Description of Arroo Mountain cSAC 

This is a large mountain complex composed of a number of habitat types which have developed on 

the sides and the summit of an undulating plateau of Carboniferous limestone overlain by shale. 

Habitats include blanket bog, wet and dry heath, humid and dry calcareous grasslands, flushes, 

streams, small lakes, wooded ravines, limestone gorges, limestone scree, limestone pavement, 

swallow holes and steep limestone cliffs. Post-glacial slippage of sections of cliff has formed an 

interesting geomorphological feature at the northern end of the site. These cliffs and the slips 

below them are very important for the rich plant and moss communities that they support. A 

number of species that occur in the site have no other known occurrence in the country. 

On the summit of the plateau lies an extensive, almost intact, wet heath and blanket bog mosaic. 

This has been rated very highly on a national basis because of its intactness and size. Because the 

cSAC is developed on limestone, there are also several unusual geomorphological features and the 

hydrology of the plateau area of Arroo is interesting. Many streams and flushes have developed at 

the base of limestone cliffs that have an enriched calcicole element in the flora. 

Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Golden Plover, Hen harrier and Chough; all species listed in Annex I 

Bird Directive, are recorded at the site. 

Most of the site is held in commonage. 

Main Conservation Objectives 

• To maintain the Annex I habitats for which the cSAC has been selected at favourable 

conservation status; Blanket bogs (active) (18% area of site), Petrifying springs with tufa 

formation (Cratoneurion) (

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Summary .......................................................................................................................................................1 

Reader’s Guide .......................................................................................................................................................5 

Legal Background....................................................................................................................................................6 

Nature Conservation Legislation .........................................................................................................................6 

Roles of Government Departments and Agencies..............................................................................................7 

Implications of Site Designation for Landowners and other Site Users ..............................................................8 

Nature Conservation Value of Arroo Mountain cSAC .............................................................................................9 

Reason for Designation of Arroo Mountain cSAC...............................................................................................9 

Conservation Value of Arroo Mountain cSAC...................................................................................................10 

Conservation Objectives ...................................................................................................................................11 

Site Description .....................................................................................................................................................12 

Location Including Site Boundaries...................................................................................................................12 

Legal Status.......................................................................................................................................................13 

Physical Features..............................................................................................................................................13 

Biological Features............................................................................................................................................15 

Land Use ...........................................................................................................................................................23 

Management Issues ..........................................................................................................................................25 

Scientific Monitoring & Inspection..........................................................................................................................26 


4 Conservation Statement for Arroo Mountain cSAC — Site Code 1403 

APPENDICES 

Appendix I: Glossary..............................................................................................................................................27 

Appendix II: Reference Material ............................................................................................................................33 

Appendix III: Climate..............................................................................................................................................35 

Appendix IV: Water Quality....................................................................................................................................36 

Appendix V: Compensation Procedures................................................................................................................37 

Appendix VI: Notifiable Actions..............................................................................................................................38 

Appendix VII: Farming Conditions under REPS....................................................................................................63 

Appendix VIII: National Parks and Wildlife Contact Details...................................................................................66 

MAPS 

Map 1 Location and Boundary Map (Ver. 1.02) 

Map 2 Commonage Map 

Map 3 Indicative Habitat Map 

Dept. of Environment, Heritage and Local Government CS Version 1.01 2009

READER’S GUIDE 

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of the Environment, Heritage 

and Local Government (DEHLG) has produced this document to provide ecological information 

about Arroo Mountain cSAC and to outline the main objectives for the conservation of the special 

features of the site. 

The Legal background section outlines the legislative and policy drivers for the site’s designation 

and identifies the relevant authorities with responsibilities in relation to the site. 

The Nature Conservation Value section describes the reasons for the site designation and lists 

the site specific Consevation Objectives. 

The Site Description section contains general information on the site’s boundaries and ownership 

and on the statutory bodies with responsibility for its conservation. It also contains sections on the 

physical aspects of the site such as the geology and hydrology as well as the biological features, 

in particular, the habitats and species found there. Land use and cultural features are also 

described. 

The Scientific Monitoring and Inspection section outlines the methodologies used for monitoring 

the conservation status of the site and identifying any changes that occur. 

The appendices include a glossary where scientific and technical terms are explained, reference 

material consulted in the preparation of the statement and a list of notifiable actions relevant to 

each habitat within the site. 


LEGAL BACKGROUND 

Nature Conservation Legislation 

The legal basis for selection and designation of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) is the EU 

Habitats Directive, which was adopted in 1992. Focusing on the conservation of natural and seminatural 

habitats and species of flora and fauna, the Habitats Directive seeks to establish “Natura 

2000”, a network of protected areas throughout the European Community. The Habitats Directive 

includes a list of habitats that require SAC designation and specific conservation measures. This 

list is known as Annex I and the habitats are referred to as Annex I habitats. On this list, habitats 

that require special attention because they are in danger of disappearance, are termed ‘priority 

habitats’. A second list, Annex II in the Habitats Directive comprises species that must be afforded 

special protection. 

In Ireland, the habitats and species that must be afforded protection under the Habitats Directive 

include: 

16 Annex I priority habitats that require particular attention – including raised bogs, active blanket 

bogs, turloughs and machair, 

45 other Annex I habitats – such as certain types of heaths, lakes and woodlands, 

25 Annex II species – including Otter, Freshwater Pearl Mussel and Killarney Fern. 

It is the responsibility of each member state to designate SACs to protect the Annex I habitats and 

Annex II species. These sites, together with the Special Protection Areas (SPAs) designated under 

the EU Birds Directive (1979), form the European “Natura 2000” network. 

The Birds Directive contains annexes, which are lists of birds that require particular conservation 

measures (Annex I), and also species that may be hunted, and species that may be sold. There are 

28 Annex I species regularly occurring in Ireland including Whooper Swan, Greenland Whitefronted 

Goose, Peregrine Falcon, Corncrake and Terns. Member states are also required to protect 

wetlands and their associated water birds and sites that are important for migratory species such as 

ducks, geese and waders 

The Habitats Directive was transposed into Irish law through the European Communities 

(Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997. The Wildlife Act 1976 is the main statute governing the 

protection of wildlife in Ireland and was amended in 2000 to take account of European law, 

particularly the Habitats and Birds Directives. The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 also makes 

legal provision for the designation and protection of a national network of Natural Heritage Areas 

(NHAs). Over 1,100 proposed NHAs were published in 1995 and almost 400 of these are also 

selected as candidate SACs. 


Legal Background 

The European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 include the following points: 

The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government must transmit a candidate list 

of sites to the European Commission for consideration. 

Following adoption of this list by the Commission, the Minister will formally designate the sites as 

SACs. 

Sites are legally protected once they are publicly advertised. 

Landowners and other users with a legal entitlement should be notified of designation, and the 

Minister must make all reasonable efforts to do so. Notification also includes a list of activities 

that may alter, damage, destroy or interfere with the integrity of the site. A person who illegally 

damages a site may be prosecuted or required to repair damage. 

Landowners and other users with a legal entitlement may appeal the designation of lands on 

scientific grounds, within three months of the designation notification. 

Landowners and other users with a legal entitlement will be compensated for actual loss of 

income arising from restrictions imposed as a result of designation. 

Roles of Government Departments and 

Agencies 

Department of the 

Environment, Heritage and 

Local Government 

(DEHLG) 

National Parks & Wildlife 

Service (NPWS) 

DEHLG is the government department with responsibility for the 

designation and protection of wildlife habitats, species and areas of 

conservation interest. As part of their responsibility in relation to 

biodiversity and wildlife under the Wildlife Acts (1976 and 2000), the 

Minister’s brief extends far beyond the habitats and species listed in the 

annexes of the Habitats and Birds Directives. 

NPWS is the section of the DEHLG responsible for maintaining the 

nature conservation value of the site. Periodic inspection of the site is 

carried out by the local Conservation Ranger. 

Regional staff also participate in research and survey projects by 

collecting data on the site, provide advice to planning authorities on the 

impacts of development applications and provide an education and 

advisory service to the public. See Appendix VIII for NPWS contact 

details. 

Leitrim County Council Leitrim County Council is the planning authority for the site. As such it is 

obliged to ensure appropriate assessment of the implications of 

developments requiring planning permission that may have an impact, 

either individually or in combination with other developments on the 

designated area. 

Environmental Protection 

Agency (EPA) 

The EPA is an independent state sponsored body with a wide range of 

statutory duties including monitoring environmental quality and 

overseeing the performance by local authorities of their statutory 

environmental protection functions. 

Dept. of Environment, Heritage and Local Government CS Version 1.01 2009 

7


Department of Agriculture, 

Fisheries and Food (DAFF) 

DAFF is the government department responsible for the development and 

regulation of agriculture, fisheries, forestry and the food industry, 

including the administration of schemes such as the Rural Environment 

Protection Scheme (REPS), the Native Woodland Scheme (NWS), and 

Commonage Framework Plans (CFPs). In 2007 the Department assumed 

the additional responsibility for sea fisheries, aquaculture, marine 

research, marine engineering and pier and harbour development (non 

commercial) and associated agencies such as Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) 

and the Marine Institute. 

Under Regulation 31 of the EC (Natural Habitats) Regulations, DAFF 

have responsibility for ensuring that activities it regulates do not 

adversely affect cSACs. Monitoring functions are carried out by 

individual divisions or executive agencies of the department. 

Local Authority Policy in Relation to the Site 

The Leitrim Development Plan 2009-2015 (Section 2) states in Policy 2.7a; It is the policy of the 

Council to protect and conserve Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas 

including; “Candidate” and “Proposed” areas. 

In relation to development in or near a cSAC (subsection 2.07.03); Planning applications in such 

designated areas will need to satisfy to the Planning Authority that the development proposal will 

not adversely affect the integrity of the area. This applies to all development proposals likely to 

have a significant impact on the designated area, irrespective of whether they are actually located 

within the area or not. 

Subsection 2.07.02a; Where the site concerned hosts a priority natural habitat type and/or a 

priority species, the only considerations which may be raised are those relating to human health or 

public safety, to beneficial consequences of primary importance for the environment or, further to 

an opinion from the European Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public 

interest. 

Subsection 2.07.03; Planning applications located within these protected sites will be referred to 

the Heritage Council, An Taisce and the Development applications unit of the DoEHLG – National 

Parks and Wildlife Services Section. The Council will generally be guided by their comments in 

reaching a decision. 

Implications of Site Designation for 

Landowners and other Site Users 

In most areas designated as cSACs, current practices will not have to change significantly. 

In cases where users with a legal entitlement are required to change practices or restrict activities to 

protect the wildlife interest of the site, compensation will be payable based on actual loss of 

income. See Appendix V for further details. 

If a user with a legal entitlement wishes to carry out certain activities, not covered by licence or 

consent from another statutory body, within the designated area, they must consult with, and get 

consent from, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. These activities 

are listed as “Notifiable Actions” for each habitat (see Appendix VI). 


NATURE CONSERVATION VALUE 

OF ARROO MOUNTAIN CSAC 

Reason for Designation of Arroo Mountain 

cSAC 

This section outlines the habitats and species occurring within the site that are the basis for the 

designation of the site because of their relative importance, both at a national and Community 

level. 

HABITATS LISTED IN ANNEX I OF 

THE EU HABITATS DIRECTIVE 

• *Blanket bog (active) (EU Habitat 

Code 7130) 

• *Petrifying springs with tufa 

formation (Cratoneurion) (EU 

Habitat Code 7220) 

• Northern Atlantic wet heaths with 

Erica tetralix (EU Habitat Code 4010) 

• Calcareous rocky slopes with 

chasmophytic vegetation (EU 


• Calcareous and calcshist screes of 

the montane to alpine levels 

(Thlaspietea rotundifolii) (EU 


* Denotes ‘Priority’ habitat 



Conservation Value of Arroo Mountain cSAC 

Arroo Mountain is a large mountain complex comprising a variety of habitats including blanket 

bog, heath, wooded ravines, limestone gorges, limestone pavement, and steep mountain cliffs. 

The steep cliffs and the talus screes on the north face of Arroo are of particular botanical interest 

and contain an exceptional diversity of ferns. Active erosion has created several interesting 

geomorphological features at their base, including sharp pinnacles and large rock slides. They have 

a distinctive flora which occurs rarely in the rest of the country including a very rich assemblage of 

calcareous mosses including some species of national importance. For some of these species it is 

their only recorded location within Ireland. 

The hydrology of the plateau is interesting and a number of unusual geomorphological features 

reflect the underlying limestone. Many streams and flushes drain into sinkholes and several large 

flushes found at the base of limestone cliffs have an enriched calcicole element in the flora. 

Springs, some of which have tufa formations, are also an interesting feature. These springs occur 

in association with calcareous habitats in the site and Stonewort species are abundant as are 

mosses, one of which is rare. This habitat is generally undisturbed and is in a natural state. 

Because of its extent and integrity, the blanket bog on Arroo is highly rated nationally and the 

heath flora is also well-developed. It forms a natural extension with and is of higher quality than 

the blanket bog on nearby Ben Bulben. 

The wet heath at this site is diverse in type and structure and has good moss cover. It is generally 

undisturbed and is mostly intact. 

Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, Golden Plover, Hen Harrier and Chough; all Annex I Birds Directive 

species, are found at Arroo. 

Because of its relative isolation, parts of this site are relatively undisturbed by humans. The quality 

and range of habitats and the variety of rare species within the site makes it of high scientific 

interest. Along with Ben Bulben, Arroo has been termed the botanically richest mountain in 

Ireland and is one of the best examples of an upland community with arctic-alpine species (which 

occur very rarely elsewhere in the country). The interesting geomorphological and hydrological 

facets add greatly to the ecological and educational value of the site as well as being of great 

aesthetic value. 

North-west view of Arroo Mountain cSAC at Agharoosky (M. Farrell, 2006). 


Nature Conservation Value of Arroo Mountain cSAC 

Conservation Objectives 

European and national legislation places a collective obligation on Ireland and its citizens to 

maintain at favourable conservation status areas designated as candidate Special Areas of 

Conservation. The Government and its agencies are responsible for the implementation and 

enforcement of regulations that will ensure the ecological integrity of these sites. 

According to the EU Habitats Directive, favourable conservation status of a habitat is achieved 

when: 

• its natural range, and area it covers within that range, is stable or increasing, and 

• the ecological factors that are necessary for its long-term maintenance exist and are likely to 

continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and 

• the conservation status of its typical species is favourable as defined below. 

The favourable conservation status of a species is achieved when: 

• population data on the species concerned indicate that it is maintaining itself, and 

• the natural range of the species is neither being reduced or likely to be reduced for the 

foreseeable future, and 

• there is, and will probably continue to be, a sufficiently large habitat to maintain its populations 

on a long-term basis. 

Objective 1: To maintain the Annex I habitats for which the cSAC has been selected at 

favourable conservation status; Blanket bogs (active) (18% area of site), 

Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion) (

SITE DESCRIPTION 

Location Including Site Boundaries 

This is the most north-easterly of the Ben Bulben range of mountains, located 3 km south-west of 

Kinlough, Co. Leitrim close to the Sligo border. 

Grid Ref.: G 850 490 

Latitude: N 54º23’06” 

Longitude: W 08º13’45” 

Area: 3977 ha 

Altitude Range: 107 m to 525 m 

Townlands: Aghaderrard East, Aghadunvane, Aghalateeve, Aghanlish, Aghavoghil, 

Aghnahaha, Aghnahoo, Arroo, Carrowrevagh, Cloghmeen, Conwal 

South, Corlea, Cornagillagh, Cullionboy, Erriff, Fallacarra, 

Gorteenachurry, Gorteendarragh, Gortnacrieve, Gortnasillagh, Gubinea, 

Keeloges, Kinkillew, Largydonnell, Leckanarainey, Loughmuirran, 

Meenagraun, Rassaun East, Rassaun West and Sracleighreen. 

Site Boundaries 

The boundary of the site follows physical features where present such as ditches, embankments and 

walls. Elsewhere, the boundary follows unmarked features on the ground such as townland 

boundaries or contour lines. 

Site Infrastructure 

A number of bog roads and forestry roads extend up the sides of the mountain, some onto the site 

itself (see Map 3) but most of these are accessible only to four-wheel drive vehicles. Despite these 

roads, the site is relatively isolated and remote, with much of the interior of the site remaining 

relatively unaffected by human disturbance. Water is abstracted for both private and group water 

schemes at two points in the south of the site (Kinlough/Tullaghan and Erriff). 


Site Description 

Legal Status 

Ownership 

2948 hectares are under commonage and the remainder of the site is non-commonage private land 

(See Map 2). 

Designations of the Site 

candidate Special 

Area of Conservation 

proposed Natural 

Heritage Area 

Sitecode IE0001403 Published on March 1 st , 1997 

Sitecode 1403 Published in 1995 

Past Status and Designation of the Site 

Parts of the site were listed as Areas of Scientific Interest (ASI) by An Foras Forbatha in 1973. 

Rights Pertaining to the Site 

Rights of way A number of rights of way occur through the site to access turf plots. 

These are mapped as tracks in Map 3. 

Physical Features 

Climate 

The closest synoptic weather station to the site is the Claremorris station and the 30-year average 

information for this station was obtained from the Met Éireann website. The full details are 

presented in Appendix III. In summary, the mean daily air temperature at the station is 8.9 o C, 

ranging from an average low of 1.4 o C in January to an average high of 18.4 o C in July. The 

average annual rainfall is 1143 mm and the average daily duration of sunshine is 3.05 hours. The 

average wind speed is 8.8 knots. There is an annual average of 24.1 days with snow or sleet 

recorded for the Claremorris station, with 6.3 days when snow was still lying on the ground by 

9am. 

Geology & Geomorphology 

This is an upland site of Carboniferous limestone overlain by shale. It is the most north-easterly 

part of the Ben Bulben complex and forms an undulating limestone plateau with steep cliffs to the 

north. Erosion has created several interesting geomorphological features at the base of the cliffs 

including sharp pinnacles and large rock slides. 


13

14 Conservation Plan for Arroo Mountain cSAC — Site Code 1403 

Sharp pinnacles and outcrops at north face of Arroo Mountains cSAC (M. Farrell, 2006). 

Soils & Soil Processes 

Soils are peaty gleys and peat on limestone. Some areas of peat are up to 3 m deep on the plateau, 

but other areas are extremely shallow and eroded to the bedrock. 

Hydrology & Water Quality 

Many streams and flushes have developed at the base of limestone cliffs that have an enriched 

calcicole element in the flora. Numerous small rivers and streams rise in the site e.g. tributaries of 

the Glenaniff and Duff Rivers and Aghavoghil Stream and there are a number of lakes such as 

Lough Adunny and Lough Nabrack. EPA data for the Rivers Duff and Glenaniff in 2003 show 

very good water quality (Appendix IV). 


Biological Features 

Habitats and Vegetation 

Note: Throughout the conservation statement, habitats are named and described under two 

different systems: the Annex I habitats are as listed in the EU Habitats Interpretation Manual 

Version EUR 27 (2007), while all other habitats are as listed according to the classification 

system of ‘A Guide to Habitats in Ireland’ (Fossitt, 2000). 

The following table lists the habitats within the site. The Annex I habitats of the Habitats Directive 

for which the site was selected are listed, with the relevant Guide to Habitats category also shown. 

Annex I priority habitats are denoted by an asterisk (*). The Indicative Habitat map for the site is 

presented in Map 3. The percentage area presented for each habitat type is based on the 

approximate geographic area of each habitat, as shown in Map 3. 

Habitats Found within Arroo Mountain cSAC 

ANNEX I HABITAT TYPE HABITAT CATEGORY % AREA 

Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica 

tetralix (4010) 

Wet heath (HH3) 

*Blanket bogs (active) (7130) Upland blanket bog (PB2) 

Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic 

vegetation (8210) Exposed calcareous rock (ER2) 

Calcareous and calcshist screes of the 

montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea 

rotundifolii) (8120) 

*Petrifying springs with tufa formation 

(Cratoneurion) (7220) 

Calcareous scree and loose rock 

(ER4) 

40 

(in mosaic with 7130/ HH2) 

18 

(in mosaic with 4010/HH2) 


Annex I Habitats: 

Northern Atlantic wet 

heaths with Erica 

tetralix (4010) (40% of 

total site area or 1590 

ha) 

Blanket bogs (active) 

(7130) (18% of total 

site area or 716 ha) 

Most of the heath in this site is on top of the plateau and is found in 

mosaic with blanket bog and dry heath habitats. The wet heath is quite 

diverse in type and structure, occurring as it does on the sloping edges of 

the plateau, on gently sloping ground between blanket bog and areas of 

dry heath found on higher ground of the plateau. It has also developed in 

many areas where blanket bog has been eroded away to leave a thin 

covering of peat. The driest areas are on top of the plateau, while wetter 

heath areas with Cross-leaved Heath (Erica tetralix) have developed on 

the slopes. The dominant plant found here is Ling Heather (Calluna 

vulgaris) with Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Crowberry (Empetrum 

nigrum) and Bell Heather (Erica cinerea). The habitat is not heavily 

grazed for the most part and is in good condition. 

The blanket bog on the site is found in three main areas, in the south at 

Cloghmeen Bog, in the north-east of the site Carrowrevagh and as small 

pockets scattered over the plateau. It occurs in mosaic with wet and dry 

heath areas. The bog is very intact on the plateau though erosion is 

occurring on the highest peaks where bare peat and bedrock are exposed. 

Because of its large size and integrity, the blanket bog on this site was 

ranked very highly in a national survey (Douglas et. al., 1986). It forms a 

natural extension with and is of higher quality than the blanket bog on 

Ben Bulben. 

There is good bog moss cover in places with Sphagnum cuspidatum and 

S. auriculatum found in pools and S. capillifollium, S. tenellum, S. 

subnitens on hummocks. Grey Bearded Moss (Racomitrium 

languinosum) is found on top of larger hummocks. Clubmoss (Huperzia 

selago) has been recorded. The rich variety of mosses and liverworts is 

seen by the presence of Camplyopus atrovirens, C. brevipus, Bryum sp., 

Rhytidiadelphus lorreus, Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozia purpurea and 

species indicative of base enrichment such as Drepanocladus revolvens, 

Aulacomium palustre, Scorpidium scorpioides and Bruetelia chrysocoma. 

There are many swallow holes scattered throughout the blanket bog areas. 

These range both in size and depth. Running water can be heard at the 

bottom of many of these and species such as Willow (Salix spp.), Holly 

(Ilex aquifolium) and Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) are found in these areas. 

These swallow holes are also usually colonised by Bog Moss (Sphagnum 

palustre, S. recurvum and S. papillosum). 

There is a good diversity of species occurring throughout the blanket bog 

habitat including Marsh Speedwell (Veronica scutellata), Water 

Crowfoot (Ranunculus aquatilis), Bog Asphodel (Narthecium 

ossifragum), Crowberry, Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), Cross-leaved 

Heath, Ladies Smock (Cardamime pratensis), Lesser Spearwort 

(Ranunculus flammula), Hare’s Tail Cottongrass (Eriophorum vaginatum, 

Common Cottongrass (E. angustipholium), Common Butterwort 

(Pinguicula vulgaris) Deer Grass (Trichophorum caespitosum), Bulbous 

Rush (Juncus bulbosus) and sedges; Black Sedge (Carex nigra), 

Carnation Sedge (C. panicea), Common Yellow Sedge (C. demissa), 

Common Sedge (C. nigra) and Long-stalked Yellow Sedge (C. 

lepidocarpa). 

Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) colonises large pools and Bog 

Pondweed (Potamogeton polygonifolius) is found in open channels. 



Calcareous rocky 

slopes with 

chasmophytic 

vegetation (8210) 

(


Calcareous and 

calcshist screes of the 

montane to alpine 

levels (Thlaspietea 

rotundifolii) (8120) 

(


Eroding/upland rivers 

(FW1) 

Lowland grassland at Arroo Mountains cSAC (M. Farrell, 2006) 

Numerous small rivers and streams rise in the site. These often disappear 

down swallow holes. Those on the east and north east of the site run 

down towards Lough Melvin, while those on the west of the site 

eventually reach either the Bonet or Duff rivers. The Ballagh River has 

its source at Sandy Lough in the south-east of the site. Tributaries of the 

Glenaniff and Duff rivers also run through the site. The mosses Fontalis 

anti-pyretica and Climacium dendroides frequently occur on river banks. 

Yellow Pimpernel (Lysimachia nemorum) also occurs on the banks. 

Water Star-wort (Callitriche stagnalis), the liverwort Conocephalum 

conicum and Golden Saxifrage are recorded in a stream in the west of the 

site. 

Streams in the north of the site have calcareous sediment (calcete) 

actively deposited on their edges. The banks are rich in herbaceous 

species such as Bitter Vetch (Lathyrus montanus), Meadowsweet 

(Filipendula ulmaria), Primrose, Marsh Horsetail (Equisetum palustre), 

Water Mint (Mentha aquatica), Plantain (Plantago major) and Creeping 

Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia). Chara hispida, a charaphyte species, 

also occurs. 


19


Exposed calcareous 

rock (ER2) 

A number of areas of limestone pavement occur in the townlands of 

Aghanahaha, and Corlea. These support species such as Bog Pimpernel 

(Anagallis tenella), Golden Saxifrage, Wood Sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), 

Mossy Saxifrage and Meadowsweet, Field Wood-rush (Luzula 

campestris), Primrose (Primula vulgaris) and Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium 

verum), Tormentil (Potentilla erecta), Dog Violet (Viola riviniana) and 

Daisy (Bellis perennis). Ferns such as Wall Rue (Aplenium rutamuraria), 

Maidenhair Spleenwort (Asplenium trichomanes), and Harts 

Tonuge (Phyllitis scolopendrium) also occur. 

Abundant fossils occur on the limestone pavement which are covered in 

lichens. Numerous swallow holes occur in this area also. 

Limestone pavement habitat near Corlea in Arroo Mountain cSAC (F. Farrell, 2008). 

Scrub (WS1) Areas of scrub are mostly associated with deep gorges through which 

rivers and streams run. Species that occur include Blackthorn (Prunus 

spinosa), Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Holly, Gorse (Ulex 

europeaus), Willow (Salix aurita), Ash, Hazel (Corylus avellana) and 

Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris). White Birch (Betula pubescens) and Silver 

Birch (Betula pendula) sometimes occur. The ground flora is diverse and 

features Anemone (Anemone nemorosa), Meadow Vetchling (Lathyrus 

pratensis), Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum), Honeysuckle (Lonicera 

pericylmenum) and Common Dog Violet. Fern species recorded include 

Hard Fern (Blechnum spicant) and Common Polypody (Polypodium 

vulgare). The moss Thuidium tamariscinum occurs in large quantities on 

the drier banks. 

Golden Saxifrage and Ladies Mantle are recorded in a streamside scrub in 

the north of the site. 



Oak-ash-hazel 

woodland (WN2) 

This woodland type occurs in a number of locations in ravines within the 

site and predominantly comprises Goat Willow (Salix caprea), Ash 

(Fraxinus excelsior), Hazel, Holly and White and Silver Birch. The 

woodland floor tends to be wet and the stream sides and banks support a 

diverse fern flora including Hard Fern and Common Polypody. The main 

herbaceous species are Golden Saxifrage, Sanicle (Sanicula europea) and 

Lady’s Mantle. 

Wet grassland (GS4) Wetter areas of lowland grassland occur in the north west of the site and 

contain patches of Compact Rush (Juncus conglomeratus), Heath Rush 

(Juncus squarrosus) with some Bog moss species. Grasses that are found 

here include Sweet Vernal Grass and Wavy-hair Grass (Deschampsia 

flexuosa). 

Stone walls and other 

stonework (BL1) 

(not mapped) 

Spoil and bare ground 

(ED2) 

Notable Flora: 

Lower Plants 

Old stone walls and some remains of houses are found in the site. These 

are generally in a poor state of repair, with very little remaining of the 

houses. In addition there are stone circles in a number of parts of the site 

which may have been used as sheep holding pens in the past. 

A number of tracks and paths allow access to turf plots in the site. These 

are mapped as Tracks on Map 3. 

There are a number of rare bryophytes found on the site. Dicranella grevillea, Seligeria oelandia 

and Seligeria trifaria are listed as being of bryological interest in the Red Data book of European 

bryophytes (Averis and Stewart, 1995). Other bryophytes of interest (Natura 2000 form) are 

Barbula maximus, Gymnostomium insigne, Mnium thomsonii and Orthecium rufescens. The 

liverwort Pedinophyllum interruptem is of interest (Natura 2000 form). 

Higher Plants 

The following species are listed in the Irish Red Data Book of vascular plants: 

Northern Rock Cress is also listed on the 1999 Flora Protection Order. It is restricted to only two 

areas in Ireland; Glenade and Arroo Cliffs in Co. Leitrim and the Galtee Mountains in Co. 

Tipperary (Curtis and McGeogh, 1988, Webb et al., 1996). 

Purple Saxifrage has only seven known stations in the whole country. This plant is categorised as 

rare (Curtis and McGeogh, 1988, Webb et al., 1996). 

Hoary Whitlowgrass is mainly found in the north west of the country and is rare (Webb et al., 

1996). It has recently only been found in 9 sites in the Republic of Ireland (Curtis and McGeogh, 

1988). 

Moss Campion is only found in the mountains in the north-west of the country and is rare (Curtis 

and McGeogh, 1988, Webb et al., 1996). 

Yellow Mountain Saxifrage is confined to the mountains of the north west of Ireland. Its 

distribution here is scattered but locally abundant. It is categorised as rare (Curtis and McGeogh, 

1988, Webb et al., 1996). 

Tea-leaved Willow is only found on mountain cliffs and rocky ground in the north and west of 

Ireland and is rare (Curtis and McGeogh, 1988, Webb et al., 1996). 


21


Fauna: 

Amphibians 

Common Frog (Rana temporaria) a species listed on Annex V of the Habitats Directive, is found in 

the site. 

Birds 

Five bird species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive are recorded at the site; Peregrine Falcon 

(Falco peregrinus), Merlin (Falco columbarius), Golden Plover (Pluvialis apricaria), Hen harrier 

(Circus cyaneus) and Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax). There is at least one pair of Peregrine 

Falcon breeding in the site. 

Golden Plover overwinter in the site. A flock of nineteen individuals has been recorded. 

Chough have been noted in the site. It is suspected that they breed here as there is plenty of 

suitable habitat. 

2 pairs of Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus hibernicus) have been recorded in the site and Grouse 

droppings have also been noted. There is no information on breeding status of Red Grouse in the 

site. 

Other bird species recorded in site include Hooded Crow (Corvus corone ssp. cornix), Kestrel 

(Falco tinnunculus), Meadow Pipit (Anthus pratensis), Raven (Corvus corax), Skylark (Alauda 

arvensis), Snipe (Gallinago gallinago) and Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola). 

Mammals 

Golden Plover (R. Mills). 

There are many signs of Badger (Meles meles) (Internationally Important Species in Irish Red Data 

Book) all over the site. Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are plentiful on the slopes below the cliffs 

on the North face of the mountain. Other species that occur on the site include Fox (Vulpes 

vulpes), Irish Hare (Lepus timidus hibernicus) (listed on Annex V of the Habitats Directive and 

rated as Internationally Important Species in Irish Red Data Book) and Otter (Lutra lutra) (rated as 

Internationally Important Species in Irish Red Data Book and listed on Annex II of the Habitats 

Directive). 



Land Use 

Land use on the site 

Agriculture 74% of the site is under commonage (Map 2). The impacts of grazing on 

the commonage areas of this site have been assessed by the Commonage 

Framework Project. Relevant commonage agricultural units are LE1-D1, 

LE-1-E1, LE-1-F1, LE-1-U, LE-3-A, LE-3-B, LE-3-E and LE-3-F. 

Sheep are grazed all over the site cattle graze on the gentler slopes to the 

north of the site. 

Turf cutting Turf cutting is carried out at about four locations within the site. Cutting 

is carried out by sausage machine and is thought to be for commercial 

use. Turf cutting activity has dramatically declined in the site in recent 

years with only these few areas remaining. These are situated near the 

boundary of the site and are easily accessed by trackways. 

Current turf cutting at Largydonnell in Arroo Mountains cSAC (M. Farrell, 2006). 

Water abstraction Water is abstracted at two points within the site. At Erriff in the west, 

1300 m 3 of water is abstracted per day from a mountain spring for a 

private water scheme. At Kinlough/Tullaghan which is just north-west of 

Erriff, water is abstracted from a mountain stream, also for a private 

water scheme. Again, 1300 m 3 is abstracted per day at 

Kinlough/Tullaghan. These figures are lowest summer figures (Leitrim 

County Council pers. comm., 2006). 

Recreation The Arroo Mountains are used for recreational purposes by hillwalkers. 

There are no official walking routes and there is little impact by this 

activity on the site. 


23


Land use adjacent to the site 

Agriculture Sheep grazing is carried out adjacent to the site 

Afforestation A number of plantations are situated adjacent to the site boundary in the 

north. 

Forestry planted right up to site boundary at northern side of Arroo Mountains cSAC (M. Farrell, 2006) 

Turf cutting Peat extraction is for both commercial and domestic purposes. The most 

commonly used method is Sausage Machine, although some handcutting 

is ongoing. Turf cutting activity is occurring in small areas on all slopes 

leading up to the site. 

Past human use 

Little is known about the recent past human use on this site. It is probable that sheep have grazed 

on the mountain for a long time although stock levels are not known. Remains of stone walls are 

found up the mountain slopes and also a number of old dwelling houses lower down in the valleys. 

Stone extraction was carried out in the past. Limestone for house building had been removed from 

the southern end of the site. This extraction was carried out on a small scale by individuals who 

removed the stone using an ass and cart. 

Archaeology 

Monuments scheduled for inclusion in the Record of Monuments and Places as established under 

the section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act (1994). 

MONUMENT 

NO. 

DESCRIPTION 

LE002-028 Archaeological Complex Gorteendarragh 

LE004-001 Megalithic Tomb Largydonnell 

LE004-002 Cairn (Possible) Arroo 

LE004-008 Standing Stone Erriff 

LE004-025 Cairn Gorteenachurry 

LE004-031 Enclosure Aghnahoo 

LE004-034 Enclosure Aghnahaha 

LE007-003 Childrens Burial Ground Leckanarainey 

TOWNLAND 



Management Issues 

The following issues have been identified for this site. They are listed in alphabetical order. 

• Forestry 

• Grazing 

• Turf cutting 

Forestry 

Drainage for forestry plantations outside of the site, but downslope of blanket bog may be 

damaging to areas of blanket bog within the site. This forestry is owned by Coillte and is adjacent 

to the northern site boundary at four locations. The plantations span the townlands of 

Gorteendarragh, Aghaderrard East, Aghavoghil, Meenagraun and Gorteenachurry. 

Grazing 

Grazing occurs throughout the site and parts of this are heavily grazed. The impact of grazing on 

the commonage areas of the site has been assessed by the Commonage Framework Planning 

Project (CFPP). These plans recommend de-stocking rates in areas that have been damaged by 

over-grazing. The Commonage Plans (CPs) produced for Agricultural Units LE-1-D1, LE-1-E1, 

and LE-1-U and CP LE-3-E and LE-3-B recommend destocking between 0 and 5.5%. CP for 

Agricultural Units LE-F-1, LE-3-A and LE-3-F were assessed as requiring destocking over 10%. 

These rates will be incorporated into REPS plans and /or NPWS farm plans for each farm and must 

be achieved within an agreed timescale from the beginning of the REPS/farm planning period. 

The CPs describe the area as ‘a large plateau dominated by blanket bog/wet heath…area grazed by 

sheep…is overall reasonably good, however southern boundary areas are damaged’. The objectives 

for these plans include ‘recovery of the moderate and severely damaged areas to prior undamaged 

status'. 

Recommended specific actions include the discontinuation of overwintering of all cattle, no 

application of organic or inorganic fertilisers or lime, no drainage, reclamation, reseeding or 

planting of identified areas. 

Turf cutting 

Recent peat cutting (within the last 5 years) has taken place using sausage machines on 4 sites 

within the SAC. However, turf cutting activity has scaled down within the site in the last 2 years. 

Most of the areas being cut are not extensive, with the exception of a new area of peat cutting at 

Aghavoghil townland, which has been estimated to have been worked in 2007. Each of the peat 

cutting areas is easily accessed from the road encircling the site. 


25

SCIENTIFIC MONITORING & 

INSPECTION 

The inspection and monitoring regime for the site will comprise: 

Water quality 

monitoring 

Water quality is monitored at regular intervals by the EPA (see Appendix 

IV for water quality data for Duff and Glenaniff Rivers that have 

tributaries within the site). 

Under the Water Framework Directive local authorities are obliged to 

establish River Basin District plans covering all inland and coastal waters 

that will lead to the identification and implementation of effective 

measures for improved water management. 

NPWS will liaise with the EPA, the local authorities and other relevant 

statutory agencies and research organisations to: 

• determine the quality and quantity of waters associated with water 

dependent habitats 

• establish reference conditions necessary for monitoring the status of 

the habitats and species and to 

• ensure that the sampling regime is adequate to detect changes in their 

conservation status 

Scientific monitoring Monitoring of the conservation status of the Annex I habitats will be 

done by, or on behalf of, the staff of the Monitoring Section of the NPWS 

or staff working to NPWS in accordance with the procedures laid down 

by that section. 

Protocols for monitoring Arroo Mountain cSAC will be developed, in 

consultation with other agencies where appropriate, to determine if the 

site is being maintained at favourable conservation status. 

Site surveillance Regular inspection of the site by the NPWS staff, with special attention to 

the Annex I habitats will identify any major changes, damaging 

operations, or threats should they arise. 


APPENDIX I: GLOSSARY 

ABSTRACTION - The process of taking water from a river, stream, spring, pond, lake or ground 

water. This process is “abstracting” water or making an “abstraction”. 

ACIDIC - When applied to soils, refers to soils which are of a low pH i.e. below 7. The term is 

often used in relation to the plant communities that an acid soil may support e.g. acidic grassland. 

AFFORESTATION - The planting of trees (usually conifers) over an area of previously unplanted 

ground. 

ALTITUDE - Vertical height above sea level. 

AMPHIBIANS – A vertebrate group whose members spend part of their life cycle in water and 

part on land e.g. Frog. 

ANNEX I - of the EU Birds Directive, lists birds that are strictly protected so that they cannot be 

killed, captured, disturbed or traded. 

ANNEX I - of the EU Habitats Directive, lists habitats including priority habitats for which SACs 

have to be designated. 

ANNEX II - of the EU Habitats Directive is a list of species for which SACs have to be designated. 

ASIs - Areas of Scientific Interest. Areas that were identified in the 1970s as being of conservation 

interest. The NHA designation developed from ASIs. 

ASSEMBLAGE - A collection of organisms. 

BIODIVERSITY – A general term used to describe all aspects of biological diversity, including: 

the number of species present in a given environment; the genetic diversity present within a 

species; the number of different ecosystems present within a given environment. 

BIRDS DIRECTIVE (Council Directive 79/ 409/ 2nd April 1979) - Under this Directive Ireland is 

required to conserve the habitats of two categories of wild birds: 1) Listed rare and vulnerable 

species and 2) Regularly occurring migratory species. The Directive also obliges Ireland to 

conserve wetlands, especially those of international importance and regulates the hunting and 

trading of wildbirds. It was transposed into Irish legislation by the EU (Natural Habitats) 

Regulations, 1997. 

BLANKET BOG - Bogs which carpet the landscape, following the underlying topography. They 

can cover extensive areas along the west coast and on uplands throughout the country. 

BRYOPHYTES - A group of simple non-vascular spore-bearing green plants comprising the 

mosses, liverworts and hornworts. 

CALCAREOUS - Made of or containing calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and therefore alkaline- 

limestone for example. 

CALCICOLE – A plant or other organism that is limited to, or more abundant on, calcareous soils 

or in waters of high calcium status. Such soils are usually alkaline in nature. 

CANOPY LAYER - The tallest tree layer in a wood. 

CENSUS - An official periodic count of a population. 



CHASMOPHYTIC VEGETATION - Consists of plant communities that colonise the cracks and 

fissures of rock faces. The type of plant community that develops is largely determined by the 

base-status of the rock face. Calcareous sub-types develop on lime-rich rocks such as limestone and 

calcareous schists, whereas siliceous communities develop on acid rocks. 

COMMONAGE – An area of land which is undivided but owned by more than one person / or the 

rights to use the land are owned by more than one person. 

COMMUNITY - a well-defined assemblage of plants and/or animals, clearly distinguishable from 

other such assemblages. 

CONSERVATION STATUS - The sum of the influences acting on a habitat and its typical species 

that may affect its long term distribution, structure and functions. Also refers to the long-term 

survival of its typical species within the European territory of the Member States. 

CUTOVER BOG – Areas of bog which have been previously cut, although not down to the marl 

layer or bedrock. Cut-over areas are normally a mosaic of cut areas, face banks, pools, drainage 

ditches, uncut areas of peat, scrub, grassland etc. 

DAF – The Department of Agriculture and Food. 

DEHLG - Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government 

DEVELOPMENT PLANS - Local Authorities (Co. Councils & Corporations) are obliged under 

statute to produce a document which sets out the planned development of their areas for a given 

number of years. In the future Local Authorities will be asked to incorporate designated NHAs, 

SACs and SPAs classifications into their development plans. 

DIVERSITY - see biodiversity. 

DOMESTIC PURPOSES - Used in relation to the cutting of peat. Peat that is cut for domestic 

purposes is not for commercial sale and is cut at the rate of one year’s supply for a household per 

year. 

DCMNR – Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources 

ECOLOGY - The study of the interactions between organisms, and their physical, chemical and 

biological environment. 

ELEVATION - The height of something above a given place, usually above sea level. 

ENVIRONMENT – The biological and physical conditions in which an organism lives. 

EPA – Environmental Protection Agency 

EROSION - The processes whereby the materials of the Earth’s crust are dissolved, or worn away 

and simultaneously moved from one place to another by natural agencies which include 

weathering, solution, corrosion and transportation. 

EUROPEAN BIRDS DIRECTIVE (79/ 409/ 2nd April 1979) - See Birds Directive. 

EVALUATION - A considered or measured assessment of available information leading to a 

ranking or valuing. 

FAVOURABLE CONSERVATION STATUS - The conservation status of a natural habitat will be 

taken as “favourable” when: its natural range and areas it covers within that range are stable or 

increasing, and the specific structure and functions which are necessary for its long term 

maintenance exist and are likely to continue to exist for the foreseeable future, and the conservation 

status of its typical species is favourable. 

FLORA - Plant life. 

FLORA PROTECTION ORDER - under the 1976 Wildlife Act, particular plants can be protected 

under a Flora Protection Order. Under such an order it is an offence to cut, uproot or damage these 

plants unless under licence from the Minister. The same order prohibits damage to the habitats of 

these species. 


Appendix I: Glossary 

FORMATION – A geological term for a body of rocks having easily recognised boundaries that 

can be traced in the field, and large enough to be represented on a geological map as a practical and 

convenient unit for mapping and description. 

GEOMORPHOLOGY – The study of the form and structure of the landscape, which is shaped by 

the underlying geology. 

GLEY – Sticky blueish subsurface layer of clay found in some waterlogged soils. 

HABITAT - Refers to the environment defined by specific abiotic and biotic factors, in which a 

species lives at any stage of its biological cycle. In general terms it is a species home. In the 

Habitats Directive this term is used more loosely to mean plant communities and areas to be given 

protection. 

HABITATS DIRECTIVE - (Council Directive 92/43/EEC). The Directive on the conservation of 

Natural Habitats and of Wild Flora and Fauna. This Directive seeks to legally protect wildlife and 

its habitats. It was transposed into Irish legislation by the EU (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997. 

HAND CUTTING OF PEAT - Refers to traditional cutting of peat using a slean or spade. 

HERBACEOUS - Seed plants with non-woody green stems. 

HERBICIDE - A chemical or biological preparation which kills plants. 

HYDROLOGY - The movement of water through a catchment area including freshwater and 

seawater inputs, water level changes and drainage mechanisms which are all influenced by the 

underlying geology. 

LATITUDE – The angular distance measured in degrees north or south of the equator. 

LIAISON COMMITTEE - This is a special group set up to discuss the contents of a conservation 

management plan and the implementation of the plan. The committee includes representation of 

landowners, right-holders and other interest groups. It is the function of the committee to advise 

NPWS managers on the interaction between site conservation management and local interests. The 

Liaison Committee nominates a member to the official Appeals Board which considers appeals 

against site designation and other issues. The Liaison Committee is independent from the NPWS. 

LIMESTONE - Sedimentary rock composed predominantly of calcium carbonate, often containing 

fossils. 

LOCAL – A term used in ecology which is applied to distribution of species when assessed on a 

national grid reference system. The assessment is made on the basis of the number of occupied 10 

km National Grid squares. Local applies to 26-75, 10 km squares in this context. 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS - The Wildlife Act, 1976, enables DEHLG to enter into 

voluntary management agreements with private landowners. Under these agreements landowners 

will manage their lands to ensure that desirable wildlife habitats and species are protected. Payment 

for such responsible management may be agreed. However, the number and type of such 

agreements will vary depending on the resources available to the National Parks and Wildlife 

Service at the time. 

MECHANICAL PEAT EXTRACTION - Refers to the use of machinery to cut peat. This includes 

extrusion cutting such as by sausage machine (e.g. Difco) or any other type of mechanical cutter 

(e.g. Hopper). 

MONITORING – A repeat or repeats of a survey using the same methodology. Designed to look 

for or measure specific changes and the rate or extent of change. Used to check the “health” 

quantity or quality of a habitat or species. 

MOSAIC - Used to describe habitats that occur together and cannot easily be mapped separately. 

MULTIPLE PRIVATE OWNERSHIP- Lands that are divided into areas which are privately 

owned. There must be more than one private landowner under this heading. (lands in commonage 

are not described under this heading). 


29


NATIONAL PARKS AND WILDLIFE SERVICE – NPWS is part of the Department of the 

Environment, Heritage & Local Government (DEHLG) that manages the Irish State's nature 

conservation responsibilities under National and European law. 

NATURA 2000 - A network of sites across the European Community, selected for the purpose of 

conserving natural habitats and species of plants and animals which are rare, endangered or 

vulnerable in the European Community. SACs and SPAs form the Natura 2000 network. 

NATURAL HERITAGE AREA – Designated areas that are important for wildlife conservation. 

Some of these sites are small, such as roosting areas for rare bats; others can be large such as a 

blanket bog or a sand dune system. 

NGO - Non-Governmental Organisation. 

NHA - Natural Heritage Area. 

NOTIFIABLE ACTIONS - Actions specified under the SAC regulations and are listed in the 

appendices of a conservation plan. These are actions which could cause damage to the site, and for 

which prior approval is required before they can be carried out. 

NPWS - National Parks and Wildlife Service 

OLIGO – Prefix denoting few or little 

OLIGOTROPHIC - Applied to waters that are relatively low in nutrients, as in lakes which are low 

in dissolved minerals and which can only support limited plant growth. 

ORGANISM - Any living thing. 

OS – Ordnance Survey. 

PEAT CUTTING BY HAND - See hand cutting of peat. 

PEAT CUTTING BY MACHINE - See mechanical peat extraction. 

pH - A quantitative expression for the acidity or alkalinity of a solution or soil. The scale ranges 

from 0-14: pH 7 is neutral, less than 7 is acidic and greater than 7 is alkaline. 

PLATEAU - A wide, mainly level area of elevated land. 

PRECIPITATION - Water moving from the atmosphere to the ground in the form of rain, fog, 

mist, snow or hail. 

PRIORITY HABITAT - A subset of the habitats listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive. 

These are habitats which are in danger of disappearance and whose natural range mainly falls 

within the territory of the European Union. These habitats are of the highest conservation status and 

require measures to ensure that their favourable conservation status is maintained. 

PRIVATE OWNERSHIP - Land which is owned by one private landowner. 

QUALIFYING INTERESTS – The habitat(s) and/or species for which an SAC or SPA is 

designated. 

Q-VALUE – A biological index of river water quality ranging from Q5 (good water quality) to Q1 

(bad water quality). 

RARE - An ecological term applied to distribution of species when assessed on a national grid 

reference system. The assessment is made on the basis of the number of occupied 10 km National 

Grid squares. A species is described as rare if has been recorded in to 3-10, 10 km squares. 

RED DATA BOOK – A register of threatened species that includes definitions of degrees of threat. 

RED DATA BOOK (lower plants) - This Red Data Book deals with Stoneworts which are 

recognised as a separate class, Characea, of the Green Algae Chlorophyta). Many of these species 

are threatened by loss of habitat or pollution. 


Appendix I: Glossary 

RED DATA BOOK 1 (vascular plants) This Red Data Book deals with rare and threatened 

flowering plants and ferns of Ireland with an account of their present distributions and conservation 

status. 

RED DATA BOOK 2 (mammals, birds, amphibians and fish) - identifies those species threatened 

in Ireland or those species whose populations are considered to be of international importance, 

though not necessarily threatened in Ireland. It details the current state of Irish vertebrates and 

provides a concise summary of the various legislation for each species. 

REPS - Rural Environment Protection Scheme. This is an Agri-Environmental programme which 

seeks to draw up agreements with farmers, according to the type of farming, landscape and features 

on the land. The overall objectives of REPS are to achieve: the use of farming practices which 

reduce the polluting effects of agriculture by minimising nutrient loss- an environmentally 

favourable extensification of crop farming, and sheep farming and cattle farming; - ways of using 

agricultural land which are compatible with protection and improvement of the environment, the 

countryside, the landscape, natural resources the soil and genetic diversity; - long-term set-aside of 

agricultural land for reasons connected with the environment; - land management for public 

access;- education and training for farmers in types of farming compatible with the requirements of 

environmental protection and upkeep of the countryside. 

SAC – Special Area of Conservation 

SCIENTIFIC MONITORING - this is carried out by the monitoring section of the NPWS, whose 

function here is to ensure that the favourable conservation status of the site is maintained and where 

possible improved. 

SCRAGH - a floating mat of vegetation. 

SPA- Special Protection Area 

SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION – Areas designated for nature conservation at a European 

level. SACs have been selected from the prime examples of wildlife conservation areas in Ireland. 

Their legal basis from which selection is derived is The Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC of the 21st 

May 1992). 

SPECIAL PROTECTION AREA - Areas which have been designated to ensure the conservation 

of certain categories of wild bird under the European Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/ 409/ 

2nd April 1979). 

SPECIES - the lowest unit of classification normally used for plants and animals. 

STRATEGY - A course of action or a broad approach towards achieving an objective . It is the 

general thrust of management towards achieving an objective. It is a description of how the 

objective is to be achieved. 

SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING - The practice of providing livestock with additional food, usually 

carried out in winter. This term is most often used when hay, silage or other foods are brought into 

a site to supply cattle or sheep with food during times when growing conditions are poor. 

SURVEY - a) Study/visit to produce an inventory of what is present / record a situation.- b) 

Establishing a baseline (study). 

SUSTAINABLE - The highest rate at which a renewable resource can be used without reducing its 

supply (without causing damage to the resource). 

TERRESTRIAL - A term used to refer to living on land. The opposite of aquatic. 

TOPOGRAPHY - the study or detailed description of the surface features of a region. 

TRADITIONAL MANAGEMENT PRACTICES Land management practices which were carried 

out prior to the 1950s. These practices were often less intensified than today’s management 

practices. In REPS prescriptions traditional means an activity which has been carried out for a 

specified number of years on a site (usually 10 years). 


31


TUFA - A calcium carbonate (CaCO3) deposit that forms by chemical precipitation from bodies of 

water with a high dissolved calcium content. 

TURBARY – Refers to the right to harvest turf. 

UNDERSTOREY - The plant layer below the tree canopy in a woodland. 

VERTEBRATES - Animals with backbones. 


APPENDIX II: REFERENCE 

MATERIAL 

Map References: 

O.S. 1/2 inch (1:126,720) map: 7 

Databases: 

O.S. Discovery (1:50,000) map: 16 

O.S. 6 inch (1: 10,560) map: LM 002, 003, 004, 005, 007 

NHA database, NPWS, The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 7 Ely 

Place, Dublin 2. 

Natura 2000 database, NPWS, The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 7 

Ely Place, Dublin 2. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ENVision interactive environmental data map 

viewer: http://maps.epa.ie/InternetMapViewer/MapViewer.aspx 

Photographic Coverage: 

Aerial photo no. 7033 and 7034 Flight line 20. Date 26/06/95 

Aerial photo no. 7142, 7143, 7144, 7145 and 7146. Flight line 18. Date 26/06/95 

Aerial photo no. 824, 825, 826, 827 and 828 Flight Line 18. Date: 05/05/00. NPWS, The 

Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 7 Ely Place, Dublin 2. 

Relevant Legislation: 

S.I. No. 39 of 1976: Wildlife Act 1976 

S.I. No. 38 of 2000: Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 

S.I. No. 94/1997: European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997. 

Local Government (Planning and Development) Acts 1963-2002. 

Bibliography: 

Averis, A.B.G. and Stewart, N.F. 1995. Important areas for bryophyte diversity in Ireland. Red 

Data Book of European bryophytes, European Committee for Conservation of Bryophytes. 

Trondheim. 

Curtis, T.G.F. & Mc Gough, H.N. 1988. The Irish Red Data Book - 1 Vascular Plants. Wildlife 

Service, Dublin. 

Department of Agriculture and Food. 2004. The Rural Environmental Protection Scheme (REPS) – 

Specification for REPS Planners in the Preparation of REPS 3 Plans. 

http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/areasofi/reps3/reps3planner_spec_30june.doc 

Barrington, R. M. and Vowell, R. P. 1985. Report on the flora of Ben Bulben and the adjoining 

mountain range in Sligo and Leitrim. Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy. 2nd Series. 4: 

493-517. 



Douglas, C., Dunnells, D., Scally, L. and Wyse Jackson, M. 1990. Survey of Mountain Blanket 

Bogs in counties Donegal, Cavan, Leitrim and Roscommon. Unpublished report to the National 

Parks and Wildlife Service, Dublin. 

European Commission. 2007. Interpretation Manual of European Habitats EUR 27. 

Fossitt, J.A. 2000. A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny. 

Goodwillie, R.N. 1978. Areas of Scientific Interest in County Leitrim. Unpublished report to 

Leitrim County Council. An Foras Forbatha, Dublin. 

Leitrim County Council. 2009. Leitrim County Development Plan 2009-2015. 

National Monuments and Historic Properties Service. 1995. Recorded Monuments, County 

Leitrim. Archaeological Survey of Ireland. OPW. Issued by the Commissioners of Public Works 

in Ireland. 

Newton, S., Donaghy, A., Allen, D., Gibbons, D. 1999. Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland, 

Irish Birds, 6 (3): 333-344, BirdWatch Ireland. 

Rohan P. K. 1986. The Climate of Ireland. Meteorological Office, Dublin. 

Scannell, M.J.P. & Synnott, D.M. 1987. Census Catalogue of the Flora of Ireland. Government 

Publications Office, Dublin. 

Stelfox, A.W. 1965. Salix hibernica Rechinger F. Irish Naturalists Journal, 15: 25-29. 

Synott, D.M. 1984. Notes on Salix Phylicifolia L. and related Irish willows. Glasra, 7 : 1-10. 

Toner, P., Bowman, J., Clabby, K., Lucey, J., McGarrigle, M., Concannon, C., Clenaghan, C., 

Cunningham, P., Delaney, J., O’Boyle, S., MacCárthaigh, M., Craig, M. and Quinn, R. 2005. 

Water quality in Ireland 2001-2003. Environment Protection Agency. 

Whilde, A. 1993. The Irish Red Data Book 2-Vertebrates. Belfast HMSO. 


APPENDIX III: CLIMATE 

CLAREMORRIS 

monthly and annual mean and extreme values 

1961-1990 

TEMPERATURE (degrees Celsius) jan feb mar apr may jun jul aug sep oct nov dec year 

mean daily max. 7.2 7.6 9.6 12 14.5 17 18.4 18.2 16.1 13.2 9.5 7.9 12.6 

mean daily min. 1.4 1.3 2.3 3.3 5.5 8.2 10.2 9.8 8.1 6.3 3 2.3 5.1 

mean 4.3 4.5 5.9 7.6 10 12.6 14.3 14 12.1 9.8 6.2 5.1 8.9 

absolute max. 13.1 13.3 20.1 22.3 25.1 29.8 30.5 27.2 23.3 19.9 15.4 14.3 30.5 

absolute min. -11.7 -17.1 -8 -5.5 -3.1 -0.4 0.6 1.1 -1.2 -4 -5.3 -8.3 -17 

mean no. of days with air frost 9.7 8.9 6.8 3.9 0.8 0 0 0 0 1.1 6.1 8.3 45.6 

mean no. of days with ground frost 16 14.9 13.2 11.5 5.9 1 0.2 0.3 2 4.4 13.1 14.5 97 

RELATIVE HUMIDITY (%) 

mean at 0900UTC 91 91 88 84 80 81 84 87 89 92 92 92 88 

mean at 1500UTC 86 79 74 69 68 72 73 75 77 81 85 88 77 

SUNSHINE (hours) 

mean daily duration 1.45 2.11 2.87 4.4 5.08 4.64 3.79 3.81 3.1 2.39 1.81 1.11 3.05 

greatest daily duration 7.8 9.2 11.7 13.7 15.1 15.6 14.8 13.7 12.3 10.1 8.6 7 15.6 

mean no. of days with no sun 11 8 6 3 2 2 3 3 4 6 9 12 69 

RAINFALL (mm) 

mean monthly total 120.8 83.2 95.5 62.3 77.9 71.1 63.8 96.6 104.3 124.6 118.8 124.1 1143 

greatest daily total 33.1 27.9 27.5 19.8 42 74.6 38.8 55 41.6 59.5 49.2 41 74.6 

mean no. of days with >= 0.2mm 22 17 21 17 18 16 17 19 19 22 21 22 230 



WIND (knots) 

mean monthly speed 10 10 10.2 8.7 8.3 7.9 7.5 7.3 8 9 8.7 9.7 8.8 

max. gust 96 85 74 57 62 54 66 54 91 70 70 79 96 

max. mean 10-minute speed 59 48 45 36 41 36 39 33 60 46 40 51 60 

mean no. of days with gales 1.2 0.9 1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0 0 0.2 0.4 0.5 0.7 5.2 

WEATHER (mean no. of days with..) 

snow or sleet 6.5 5.4 4.7 1.9 0.3 0 0 0 0 0.1 1.7 3.5 24.1 

snow lying at 0900UTC 2.6 1.4 0.7 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.3 1.1 6.3 

hail 4.2 3.3 5.7 3.6 1.9 0.4 0 0 0.7 1 3 2.7 26.5 

thunder 0.4 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.5 0.9 0.9 0.4 0.2 0.4 0.3 0.5 5.1 

fog 4.4 2.7 1.9 2.4 1.7 2.3 2.3 4.1 4.1 4.6 3.6 3.7 37.9 

Source: Met Éireann 


APPENDIX IV: WATER QUALITY 

Taken from Toner et al. 2005. Water quality in Ireland 2001-2003. Environment 

Protection Agency. 

These locations are downstream of Arroo Mountain cSAC. 

River OS 

Catchment 

No. 

Location Grid 

Reference 

*Q Value 

for Year 

2000 

Duff 120 Br. E of 

Cloontyprughlish 

G476789 5 5 

Duff 120 Br. S of Largydonnell G793512 4-5 4-5 

Duff 120 Br. S of 

Derreenavoggy 

G763528 4-5 4 

Duff 120 Bunduff Bridge G754569 4-5 4 

Glenaniff 114 Ford u/s Easky River 

conf. 

5 4-5 

Q Value 

for Year 

2003 

* Q-VALUE – A biological index of river water quality ranging from Q5 (good water quality) to 

Q1 (bad water quality). 


APPENDIX V: COMPENSATION 

PROCEDURES 

The Government is committed, as part of the social partnership process, to the payment of a fair 

and proper level of compensation to landowners who have lands proposed as part of an SAC or 

SPA and to other users who have a legal entitlement in the site. 

A landowner or user with a legal entitlement may seek compensation for actual losses incurred due 

to restrictions imposed as a result of designation. Eligible persons should submit to NPWS details 

of the losses incurred as a result of the inclusion of lands in an SAC/SPA and outlining the basis for 

the calculations. Documentary evidence of past earnings and the activities that produced these 

should be included with the claim. Should the applicant be dissatisfied with a compensation offer, 

the case may be referred to an independent arbitrator who will review the matter and make a final 

decision. 

Where a landowner or user with a legal entitlement is restricted in carrying out an activity on their 

land or licensed area, the compensation due will exclude any payments that have been attracted 

under grant schemes. 

For farmers, there are two options available for receiving compensation for possible restrictions to 

their farming practices. Farmers may also receive payments for carrying out actions that enhance a 

nature conservation area. 

Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS) 

Lands within SACs, SPAs, NHAs or commonages are defined as ‘Target Areas’ under this scheme. 

A REPS plan usually covers an entire farm, but a farmer with land in a target area receives a higher 

payment for that area. Farmers with small areas of land in a designated area can get REPS 

payments for that part of their farm. In either case, the farmer is subject to certain conditions 

regarding farming and land use practices, set out in the REPS plan for the farm. REPS is 

administered by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. 

NPWS Farm Plan Scheme 

Where a farmer chooses not to participate in REPS, and NPWS seeks to change the farm operation 

in some way or to restrict a particular activity, NPWS will pay for preparation of a farm plan. This 

scheme also applies to land within SACs, SPAs, NHAs and commonages. 

An NPWS farm plan will normally be confined just to the designated land and will address the 

conservation requirements, as well as any costs arising. Payment may also be made for work 

carried out that enhances the nature conservation value of the designated area. The farmer will have 

a substantial input into the plan. 

A list of trained and approved farm planners is available for farmers to choose from. For further 

information, contact NPWS. 


APPENDIX VI: NOTIFIABLE 

ACTIONS 

The notifiable actions relating to the habitats that occur within the site are listed below: 

• Notifiable Action 2.1 Upland grasslands, scree, inland cliff 

• Notifiable Action 2.2 Dry lowland grasslands 

• Notifiable Action 2.3 Wet lowland grasslands 

• Notifiable Action 2.4 Limestone pavements 

• Notifiable Action 3.1 Blanket bog 

• Notifiable Action 3.2 Heath (including juniper scrub) 

• Notifiable Action 4.1 Raised bog, cutaway bog, bog woodland 

• Notifiable Action 4.2 Fens, transition mires, petrifying springs 

• Notifiable Action 5.2 Scrub 

• Notifiable Action 6.1 Rivers or streams. 

• Notifiable Action 6.2 Lakes, ponds, canals, 

• Notifiable Action 7.1 Ditches, hedges, cereals and intensive grasslands, walls, buildings, 

waste ground, bare soil, parkland grassland, bracken 


Appendix VI: Notifiable Actions 

HABITAT TYPE 2.1 

UPLAND GRASSLAND, SCREE, AND INLAND CLIFF 

Under STATUTORY INSTRUMENT 94 of 1997, made under the EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES 

ACT 1972 and in accordance with the obligations inherent in the COUNCIL DIRECTIVE 

92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992 (the Habitats Directive) on the conservation of the natural habitats and 

species of wild fauna and flora, all persons must obtain the written consent, (in circumstances 

prescribed at section A and B below) of the Minister for The Environment, Heritage and Local 

Government before performing any of the operations on, or affecting, the following habitats where 

they occur on lands / waters within the candidate Special Area of Conservation. 

Please note that where a landowner has a current approved plan under the Rural Environment 

Protection Scheme or any scheme which the Minister considers to be equivalent s/he need only 

notify the Minister of activities not covered in the plan. 

SECTION A 

Please note that the activities listed in Section A 

overleaf are required to be notified to the Minister 

for The Environment, Heritage and Local 

Government and should not be undertaken before 

consent. 

SECTION B 

Please note that the activities listed in Section B 

overleaf may, and in most cases do, require a 

licence or consent from another statutory authority 

(e.g. the local planning authority, the Minister for 

the Marine and Natural Resources, or the Minister 

for Agriculture and Food). 

If so, these notifiable actions do not apply. 

However, if such activities are not regulated by 

another statutory authority, the said activities are 

required to be notified to the Minister for The 

Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 


39

40 NPWS Conservation Statement Arroo Mountain cSAC — Site Code 1403 


UPLAND GRASSLAND, SCREE, AND INLAND CLIFF 

Section A 

THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, 

HERITAGE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT IS 

REQUIRED TO BE NOTIFIED IN RELATION 

TO THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES AND 

SUCH ACTIVITIES SHOULD NOT PROCEED 

WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT 

grazing of livestock above a sustainable density (as 

defined in approved farm plans)/grazing by 

livestock treated within the previous week with a 

pesticide which leaves persistent residues in the 

dung 

changing of traditional use from hay meadow (to 

either grazing or silage making), or from grazing to 

silage cutting/adding lime 

adding fertiliser of any sort to areas not previously 

fertilised applying fertiliser which would increase 

the level of nitrogen in the soil/ 

applying fertiliser which would increase the level 

of phosphorous in the soil applying phosphorous to 

soils which already have in excess of the REPS 

index 2 levels 

using fertiliser on slopes over 25 degrees 

creation of new tracks or paths 

burning of vegetation 

reclamation, infilling, ploughing or land drainage 

reseeding, planting of trees or any other species 

rock removal/use of any pesticide or herbicide 

dumping, burning or storing any materials 

alteration of the banks, bed or flow of 

watercourses 

operation of commercial recreation facilities (e.g. 

pony trekking)/ introduction (or re-introduction) 

into the wild of plants or animals of species not 

currently found in the area 

any other activity of which notice may be given by 

the Minister from time to time 

Section B 

(NO REQUIREMENT TO NOTIFY IF 

ALREADY LICENSED BY ANOTHER 

MINISTER/BODY) 

developing leisure facilities including golf courses, 

sports pitches, caravan or camping facilities. 

removal of soil, mud, gravel, sand or minerals 

developing roads or car parks 

construction of fences, buildings or embankments 

afforestation 

commercial turf cutting 

erecting or operating a windfarm 

In a very limited number of cases it may be necessary for the Minister for The Environment, 

Heritage and Local Government to restrict existing activities. In these cases compensation will be 

payable for actual losses arising out of any such restriction. In the event of restrictions being 

imposed by the Minister for The Environment, Heritage and Local Government, an appropriate 

appeals procedure will be put in place. 




DRY LOWLAND GRASSLANDS 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













41



DRY LOWLAND GRASSLANDS 

Section A 











dung 



silage cutting 

adding lime/adding fertiliser of any sort to areas not 

previously fertilised/ applying fertiliser which 

would increase the level of nitrogen in the 

soil/applying fertiliser which would increase the 

level of phosphorous in the soil/ applying 

phosphorous to soils which already have in excess 

of the REPS index 2 levels mowing grass before 

the 30th June (Note; if you have been notified that 

your lands hold breeding corncrakes, or certain 

rare meadows, special provisions will apply) 

burning of vegetation /ploughing or cultivation of 

lands which have not been so managed for the last 

20 years 

reclamation, infilling, or land drainage/ reseeding, 

planting of trees or any other species use of any 

pesticide or herbicide 


alteration of the banks, bed or low of watercourses 


pony trekking)/introduction (or re-introduction) 





Section B 








construction of fences, buildings or 

embankments 

afforestation 









WET LOWLAND GRASSLANDS 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













43



WET LOWLAND GRASSLANDS 

Section A 











dung 



silage cutting 

adding lime/adding fertiliser of any sort to areas not 

previously fertilised/ applying fertiliser which 

would increase the level of nitrogen in the 

soil/applying fertiliser which would increase the 

level of phosphorous in the soil/ applying 

phosphorous to soils which already have in excess 

of the REPS index 2 levels mowing grass before 

the 30th June (Note; if you have been notified that 

your lands hold breeding corncrakes, or certain 


burning of vegetation 

reclamation, infilling, ploughing or land drainage/ 

reseeding, planting of trees or any other species use 

of any pesticide or herbicide 









Section B 









embankments 

afforestation 









LIMESTONE PAVEMENT 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













45



LIMESTONE PAVEMENT 

Section A 







rock removal or blasting of rock 





dung 

grazing of stock from 1st April to 31st October, 

except as defined in REPS guidelines 



silage cutting/ supplementary feeding of stock, 

except as defined in REPS guidelines 

removal of scrub by bulldozer or similar machinery 

(cutting scrub is permitted)/grazing by sheep 

adding lime/adding fertiliser or organic material of 

any sort/ creation of new tracks or paths/ 

burning of vegetation/ reclamation, importing of 

soil, infilling, ploughing or land drainage/ 

reseeding, planting of trees or any other species/ 

use of any pesticide or herbicide 









Section B 









embankments 

afforestation 










BLANKET BOG 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













47



BLANKET BOG 

Section A 







grazing of livestock above a sustainable density or 

type of stock (as defined in approved farm plans) 

grazing by livestock treated within the previous 

week with a pesticide which leaves persistent 

residues in the dung 

supplementary feeding of stock, except as defined 

in REPS guidelines/ introduction of stock to 

formerly ungrazed areas 

adding lime/adding fertiliser of any sort 

creation of new tracks or paths/burning of 

vegetation/ reclamation, infilling, ploughing or land 

drainage 


rock removal/cutting turf except from existing 

banks; no cutting from intact (uncut) areas 

commercial peat moss or turf extraction 

use of any pesticide or herbicide, including sheep 

dip/ dumping, burning or storing any materials 

alteration of the banks, bed or flow of watercourses 


pony trekking) 

introduction (or re-introduction) into the wild of 

plants or animals of species not currently found in 

the area 



Section B 









embankments 

afforestation 










HEATH (INCLUDING JUNIPER SCRUB) 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













49



HEATH (INCLUDING JUNIPER SCRUB) 

Section A 







grazing of livestock above a sustainable density or 

type of stock (as defined in approved farm 

plans)/grazing by livestock treated within the 

previous week with a pesticide which leaves 

persistent residues in the dung 

supplementary feeding of stock, except as defined 

in REPS guidelines 

introduction of stock to formerly ungrazed areas 

adding lime/ adding fertiliser of any sort 

Creation of new tracks or paths 

burning areas of vegetation over 5 ha, or burning 

any area more often than once every 15 years 



rock removal/cutting turf except from existing 

banks; no cutting from intact (uncut) areas 

commercial peat moss or turf extraction 


dip 




pony trekking) 



the area/any other activity of which notice may be 

given by the Minister from time to time 

Section B 









embankments 

afforestation 










RAISED BOG, CUTAWAY BOG AND BOG WOODLAND 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













51



RAISED BOG, CUTAWAY BOG AND BOG WOODLAND 

Section A 







grazing of livestock/grazing by livestock treated 

within the previous week with a pesticide which 

leaves persistent residues in the dung 

adding lime/adding fertiliser of any sort 

creation of new tracks or paths 

burning areas of vegetation reclamation, infilling, 

or ploughing /reseeding, planting of trees or any 

other species/cutting trees or removing timber 

drainage works on the bog or within the local water 

catchment area 

cutting turf or peat moss extraction 


dip 




botanical tours) 



the area 



Section B 









embankments 

afforestation 










FENS, TRANSITION MIRES, PETRIFYING SPRINGS 











SECTION A 


beloware required to be notified to the Minister for 

The Environment, Heritage and Local Government 

and should not be undertaken before consent. 

SECTION B 













53



FENS, TRANSITION MIRES, PETRIFYING SPRINGS 

Section A 

THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, HERITAGE 

AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT IS REQUIRED TO BE 

NOTIFIED IN RELATION TO THE FOLLOWING 

ACTIVITIES AND SUCH ACTIVITIES SHOULD NOT 

PROCEED WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT 

grazing of livestock above a sustainable density (as defined in 

approved farm plans) 

grazing by livestock treated within the previous week with a 

pesticide which leaves persistent residues in the dung 

changing of traditional use from hay meadow (to either 

grazing or silage making), or from grazing to silage cutting 

adding lime within 50m of the fen or a water course running 

into it 

adding fertiliser of any sort within 50m or a water course 

running into it 

extracting water for irrigation or other purposes 

mowing grass before the 30th June (Note; if you have been 

notified that your lands hold breeding corncrakes, or certain 


supplementary feeding of stock 

operation of boat angling or shore angling business 

restocking with fish. 

reclamation, infilling, ploughing or land drainage within 50m 

of the fen 

reseeding, planting of trees or any other species within 50m of 

the fen 

use of any pesticide or herbicide within 50m of fen 

dumping, burning or storing any materials within 50m of the 

fen 

alteration of the banks, bed or flow of watercourses within the 

fen or running into or out of it 

harvesting reed or willow 

operation of commercial recreation facilities (e.g. bird 

watching tours) 

introduction (or re-introduction) into the wild of plants or 

animals of species not currently found in the area any other 

activity of which notice may be given by the Minister from 

time to time 

Section B 






any activity which might cause pollution of the fen 




afforestation 









SCRUB 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













55



SCRUB 

Section A 











dung 

supplementary feeding of stock (as defined in 

approved farm plans) 

adding lime /adding fertiliser of any sort 

reclaiming land covered by scrub; if scrub is cut it 

must be allowed to regrow 



felling of trees, removal of timber 

removal of foliage, moss or other materials 

killing ivy 

use of any pesticide or herbicide /dumping, burning 

or storing any Materials 



walking tours) 



the area 



Section B 






any activity which may cause pollution of the site 




embankments 

felling trees or reafforestation 









RIVERS OR STREAMS 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













57



RIVERS OR STREAMS 

Section A 







grazing of livestock above a sustainable density 

(as defined in approved farm plans) within 30m of 

the river or stream/grazing by livestock treated 

within the previous week with a pesticide which 

leaves persistent residues in the dung within 30m of 

the river or stream 

supplementary feeding of stock within 30m of the 

river or stream/adding lime within 30m of the river 

or stream/adding fertiliser of any sort within 30m 

of the river or stream 


operation of boat angling or shore angling business/ 

restocking with fish 


within 30m of the river or stream/ reseeding, 

planting of trees or any other species within 30m of 

the river or stream/ removal of trees or any aquatic 

vegetation within 30m of the river/stream/ use of 

any pesticide or herbicide in the river or stream or 

within 30m of the river or stream 

dumping rubbish or other materials or disposing of 

any chemicals or wastes in streams/rivers or into 

water-courses running into them 

dumping, burning or storing any materials within 

30m of the river/stream including the land 

spreading of used pesticides (e.g. sheep 

dip)./alteration of the banks, channel, bed or flow 

of the river or stream 

harvesting or burning of reed or willow. 

causing siltation/ operation of commercial 

recreation facilities (e.g. bird watching tours) 



the area 



Section B 






any activity which might cause pollution of the 

river or stream 




construction or operation of an aquaculture facility. 

fishing for eels or salmon 

bank maintenance and grading 

creation of weirs and dams 









LAKES, PONDS AND CANALS 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













59



LAKES, PONDS AND CANALS 

Section A 

THE MINISTER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, HERITAGE 

AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT IS REQUIRED TO BE 

NOTIFIED IN RELATION TO THE FOLLOWING 

ACTIVITIES AND SUCH ACTIVITIES SHOULD NOT 

PROCEED WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT 

grazing of livestock above a sustainable density as defined in 

approved farm plans) within 50m of the lake, pond or canal 

grazing by livestock treated within the previous week with a 

pesticide which leaves persistent residues in the dung 

supplementary feeding of stock within 50m of the lake, pond 

or canal 

adding lime within 50m of the lake, pond or canal /adding 

fertiliser of any sort within 50m of the lake, pond or canal 


operation of boat angling or shore angling business/ restocking 

with fish. 

within 50m of the lake, pond or canal: reclamation, infilling, 

ploughing or land drainage 

reseeding, planting of trees or any other species /removal of 

trees or any aquatic vegetation/use of any pesticide or 

herbicide in the lake, pond or canal or within 50m of the lake, 

pond or canal 

dumping rubbish or other materials or disposing of any 

chemicals or wastes in streams/rivers or into water-courses 

running into them. 

dumping, burning or storing any materials within 50m of the 

lake pond or canal including the land spreading of used 

pesticides (e.g. sheep dip). 

alteration of the banks, channel, bed or flow of the lake, pond 

or canal or of watercourses running into or out of it 

harvesting or burning of reed or willow. 

causing siltation 

operation of commercial recreation facilities 

(e.g. bird watching tours) 

introduction (or re-introduction) into the wild of plants or 

animals of species not currently found in the area 

any other activity of which notice may be given by the 

Minister from time to time 

Section B 






any activity which might cause pollution of the 

lake, pond or canal 




construction or operation of an aquaculture Facility. 

fishing for eels or salmon 

bank maintenance and grading 

creation of weirs and dams 









DITCHES, HEDGES, CEREALS AND INTENSIVE GRASSLANDS, WALLS, 

BUILDINGS, WASTE GROUND, BARE SOIL, PARKLAND GRASSLAND, BRACKEN, 

CAVES, OR QUARRIES 











SECTION A 





consent. 

SECTION B 













61



DITCHES, HEDGES, CEREALS AND INTENSIVE GRASSLANDS, WALLS, 

BUILDINGS, WASTE GROUND, BARE SOIL, PARKLAND GRASSLAND, BRACKEN, 

CAVES, OR QUARRIES 

Section A 







disturbance of bats 


bird watching tours) 



the area 



Section B 




developing leisure facilities including sports 

pitches, caravan or camping facilities. 


construction of fences, buildings and embankments 

afforestation 







APPENDIX VII: FARMING 

CONDITIONS UNDER REPS 

These are the agreed Farming Conditions under REPS (The Rural Environment Protection Scheme 

(REPS) – Specification for REPS planners in the preparation of REPS 4 plans, Department of 

Agriculture and Food, 2007). 

Conditions for the conservation of blanket 

bogs, heaths and upland grasslands to be 

applied under REPS 

General Provisions 

These conditions for specific habitat types are supplementary to the agri-environmental plan 

requirements of the general REPS programmes. The conditions for the target areas under Natura 

2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply. Planners may seek a derogation from the Regional Inspector 

to vary these conditions in individual cases. All REPS plans in respect of NHAs must be approved 

and signed by the Planning Agency’s environmentalist/ecologist. 

Detailed Conditions 

The conditions applicable to Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage sites apply; the guidelines set out 

below are complementary to these conditions. 

Stocking density 

In all cases an environmentally sustainable plan must be prepared and adhered to for the total area 

of the farm. Sustainable optimum stocking rates must be set down by the REPS planner following 

careful assessment of the environmental conservation needs of the lands. 

Where the stocking levels set down by the planner require a reduction in stock this must be 

achieved within one year of the commencement of the plan. 

There can be no increase in stocking levels, no introduction of stock to new areas and no changes 

in stock type during the period of the REPS plan without the prior approval of the Department of 

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. 

The maximum number of sheep that may be kept on the farm as a whole must be set down in the 

REPS plan. The conditions set out for Natura 2000/NHA/Commonage areas must be followed. 

The following parameters apply: 

• Where there is no damage the current stocking levels are acceptable. 



• If the level of damage is moderate a stocking reduction must be prescribed by the planner at a 

level related to the damage and sufficient for the vegetation to recover. 

• If the level of damage is severe, a stocking reduction of between 70% and 100% of ewe 

numbers on the damaged area must be prescribed for a specified period. 

• At the review of the REPS plan, the conservation status of the areas will be reviewed. A change 

in the stocking levels (increase or decrease) may be appropriate depending on progress. 

Stocking levels apply to Scottish Blackface sheep or similar medium sized sheep breeds. Stocking 

levels for cattle or other stock should be at livestock unit applicable rates taking account of 

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food conversion rates for the various stock types. The 

stocking levels recommended in this document are maximum sustainable rates for year round 

grazing. If shorter periods of grazing are used the number of animals may be increased, though not 

necessarily pro rata. 

Supplementary feeding 

Supplementary feeding is permitted only on areas where it is currently practised. Locations of 

feeding points must be specified. To reduce heavy grazing, trampling, poaching and erosion 

problems, “feeding points” should be moved every 3 weeks and sited on ground with least habitat 

and wildlife value, preferably on grassland well away from stands of heather. Feeding on steep 

slopes and on peaty soils should be avoided where possible. The total amount of feed used must 

not be increased. 

Use of fertilisers and herbicides 

Neither organic nor inorganic fertilisers or lime can be applied on bogs, heaths or upland grasslands 

where they have not been used before. Fertilisers must not be used as a means of regenerating 

eroded areas. In the case of upland grasslands fertilisers can only be applied on the basis of the 

results of a soil test. Where fertilisers are being applied, the initial soil sampling should be 

relatively intensive with at least one sample per 2-4 ha. Target soil phosphate levels must not 

exceed the Index 2 level set out in this specification 

Spraying or broadcast application of herbicides must be avoided. Spot application and wipe-on 

treatments to eradicate docks, thistles, ragwort and similar noxious weeds may be used. 

Rhododendron may be removed by cutting and herbicide treatment. Bracken control may be by 

rolling, cutting and/or by controlled cattle trampling in early summer. In exceptional circumstances 

control of bracken by herbicides may be permitted. 

Water pollution 

The greatest care should be taken to observe the statutory requirements on water pollution. The 

hydrology of bogland areas is characterised by extremely nutrient poor surface waters which 

contain flora and fauna adapted to these conditions. These species would be adversely affected by 

nutrient enrichment. New sheep dip sites must be listed and located away from streams and flushes 

to reduce the possibility of water pollution and damage to flora and fauna. 

Restricted and prohibited practices 

The following practices must not be carried out on Blanket Bogs, Heaths or Upland Grasslands: 

• The areas must not be drained, ploughed, cultivated or reseeded. 

• There must be no infilling or rock removal. 

• Turf cutting on unexploited bogs is not permitted. Turf cutting for domestic use is permitted 

on existing banks. 

• Planting of trees or other crops is not permitted. 

• No new tracks or paths can be created. 


Appendix VII: Farming Conditions under REPS 

• Burning is only allowed as a planned management practice. 

• Gorse may be controlled by cutting, spot spraying or exceptionally by burning outside of the 

bird nesting season (March 1 st . to August 31 st ). 

Complementary action 

Measures to prevent damage by non REPS participants 

The Department should take measures to ensure that the environmental benefits achieved in 

degraded areas under REPS are not negated or diminished by non-participants in the Scheme. 

Evaluation and monitoring 

Monitoring and evaluating the effects of REPS on blanket bogs, heaths and upland and unimproved 

grassland is essential in determining the environmental impact of REPS on these habitats so that 

appropriate modifications can be identified and effected where necessary. The effect of the 

grazing regime on the vegetation and wildlife should be monitored to assess recovery as well as 

any damage being caused by animals. To this end the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and 

Food and the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Environment, Heritage and 

Local Government, in consultation with Teagasc and private planners, will monitor the 

environmental impact of REPS on these habitats on an ongoing basis. Progress in this regard will 

be reported to the Consultative Committee on REPS. 

Farmer education / advice 

A REPS promotional campaign will be undertaken as soon as is practicable to inform farmers of 

the conservation needs of these areas and of the provisions of REPS. This campaign will be 

undertaken by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Farming and environmental 

organisations will also be invited to assist in this promotional campaign. 

Seminars for planners 

Seminars for REPS Planners shall be held to advise on the interpretation of these conditions at 

ground level. 

Demonstration farms 

A number of REPS participant demonstration farms will be set up in selected areas. Research 

work could also be carried out at these farms to assess the ability / rate of recovery of an area under 

different stocking conditions. 

Quota rights 

Any REPS participant farmer is guaranteed that their quota rights are protected and in the event of 

a possibility of increasing numbers arising such farmers would be allowed to do so, subject to the 

environmental condition of the participant farm. 

Scheme extension 

The application of REPS in the target areas will apply for periods of five years renewable for 15 

years. 

Local co-ordination 

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food will encourage co-ordination, at local level, of 

efforts to rejuvenate damaged areas. 


65

APPENDIX VIII: NATIONAL 

PARKS AND WILDLIFE CONTACT 

DETAILS 

National Parks and Wildlife Service 

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government 

7 Ely Place, 

Dublin 2 

Phone Lo Call 1890 202021, (01) 8882000 

Fax (01) 8883272 

www.npws.ie 


SCALE : 1:40,000 

0 250 500 1,000 M eters 

¯ 

CEANTAR SPEISIALTA CAOMHNAITHE 

CANDIDATE SPECIAL AREA OF CONSERVATION 

ARROO MOUNTAIN 001403 

Boundary Version 1.02 

Date: May 2009 

The mapped boundaries are of an indicative and general nature only. Boundaries of designated 

areas are subject to revision.R eproduced from O rdnance Survey material by permission of the 

Government (Permit number E N 0059208). 

N íl sna teorainneacha ar na léarscá ileanna ach nod garshuiomhach gineará lta. 

F éadfar athbhreithnithe a déanamh ar theorainneacha na gceantar comharthaithe.M acasamhail 

d’á bhar na Suirbhéarachta O rdoná is le chead ón R ialtas (Ceadunas U imh. E N 0059208) 

UV 

O .S. halfinch sheet: sh007 

UV 

! MANORHAMILTON 

Co. Leitrim 

CARRICK-ON-SHANNON 

! 

MAP 1 

SITE LOCATION AND BOUNDARY

LE -3-F 40% 

LE -3-B 5.54% 

LE -1-F 1 10.8% 

LE -3-A 18.03% 

CE AN TAR SPE ISIALTA CAO M HN AITHE 

CAN DIDATE SPE CIAL AR E A O F CO N SE R VATIO N 

The m apped boundaries are of an indicative and general nature only. Boundaries of designated areas are subject to revision. R eproduced from O rdnance 

Survey m aterial by perm ission of the Governm ent (Perm it num ber E N 0059208). 

N íl sna teorainneacha ar na léarscá ileanna ach nod garshuiom hach gineará lta. F éadfar athbhreithnithe a déanam h ar theorainneacha na gceantar 

com harthaithe. M acasam hail d’á bhar na Suirbhéarachta O rdoná is le chead ón R ialtas (Ceadunas U im h. E N 0059208) 

ARROO MOUNTAIN 

CO U N TY LE ITR IM 

0 375 750 1,500 

Meters 

1:40,000 

¯ 

MAP 2: 

COMMONAGE 

Labels display agriculture unit and destocking rate 

M ap to be read in conjunction with N PW S Conservation Statem ent 

version 1.01 

O .S. sixinch sheets: le001, 005, 006, 008 

Legend 

Comm onage areas 

cSAC boundary 

SITE CODE 

cSAC 001403 

Version 1.02 

Date: 

May 2009

sheet 1 of 5 

sheet 2 of 5 sheet 3 of 5 

sheet 4 of 5 sheet 5 of 5 

CE AN TAR SPE ISIAL TA CAO M HN AITHE 

CAN DIDATE SPE CIAL AR E A O F CO N SE R VATIO N 

The m apped boundaries are of an indicative and general nature only. Boundaries of designated areas are subject to revision. R eproduced from O rdnance 

Survey m aterial by perm ission of the G overnm ent (Perm it num ber E N 0059208). 

N íl sna teorainneacha ar na léarscá ileanna ach nod garshuiom hach gineará lta. F éadfar athbhreithnithe a déanam h ar theorainneacha na gceantar 

com harthaithe. M acasam hail d’á bhar na Suirbhéarachta O rdoná is le chead ón R ialtas (Ceadunas U im h. E N 0059208) 

ARROO MOUNTAIN 

CO U N TY L E ITR IM 

0 500 1,000 2,000 

Meters 

Scale: 1:48,500 

Legend 

7130 / 4010 / HH2 Blanket bog (* if active bog) / Northern Atlantic wet heaths with E rica tetralix / 

Dry calcareous heath 

7220 *Petrifying springs with tufa form ation (Cratoneurion) 

8210 Calcareous rocky slopes with chasm ophytic vegetation 

8210 / E R 4 Calcareous rocky slopes with chasm ophytic vegetation / Calcareous scree and loose rock 

8210 / 8120 / E R 4 Calcareous rocky slopes with chasm ophytic vegetation / 

Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifoli) / 

Calcareous scree and loose rock 

F L 2 Acid oligotrophic lakes 

F W 1 E roding/upland rivers 

G S1 Dry calcareous and neutral grassland 

G S3 Dry-hum id acid grassland 

G S4 W et grassland 

PB4 Cutover bog 

W N 2 O ak-ash-hazel woodland 

W S1 Scrub 

E R 2 E xposed calcareous rock 

E D2 Spoil and bare ground 

E R 2 / G S1 E xposed calcareous rock / Dry calcareous and neutral grassland 

E R 4 / G S1 Calcareous scree and loose rock / Dry calcareous and neutral grassland 

E R 4 / G S3 Calcareous scree and loose rock / Dry-hum id acid grassland 

E R 4 / W S1 Calcareous scree and loose rock / Scrub 

MAP 3: 

INDICATIVE HABITAT MAP 

Overview 

M ap to be read in conjunction with N PW S Conservation Statem ent 

version 1.01 

O .S. sixinch sheets: le001, 005, 006, 008 

¯ 

SITE CODE 

cSAC 001403 

Version 1.02 

Date: 

May 2009

Arroo Mountain cSAC Site Code 1403 Co. Leitrim - National Parks ...

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