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Biodiversity now features in ni4kids
For the first time in the April/May edition of ni4kids an It's in our Nature Biodiversity insert is featured.
Rose
Muir of EHS Biodiversity Unit says, "
Get out and see all the
spring wildflowers! The woods near you are now
full of lesser celandine and the verges are brimming with primroses. Bluebells have also started
to appear under the trees. Soon they will be blanketing the forest floor. Listen out for all the
birds singing getting prepared to build their
nests and raise their young. Download an id sheet from the Woodland
Trust’s Nature Detectives site http://www.naturedetectives.org.uk/find/spot/flowers.htm
where you will find all sorts of interesting things to go out and look
for near where you live. You can download species
recording cards from www.habitas.org.uk/cedar/survey. They specially
want you to let them know if you are lucky enough to hear a cuckoo
calling Look out for the first butterflies and bumble bees, you can
also help by logging on to the nature detective sight and record the
things you see.
They are looking for first sightings of flowering hawthorn right now. You can read there how all your records of sightings can assist scientists in their research into how the climate is changing. You may be interested to know that on the week commencing the 20th April, Gordon Buchanan, the BBC wildlife cameraman, will be travelling around Northern Ireland and could be coming to your area. He’s on the lookout for weird and wonderful ‘Wild Things’ to make a series of short films for this years Springwatch. So what amazing wildlife wonder do you see everyday on your local patch or in your garden or even on your way to work or school? Log on to the BBC Springwatch site www.bbc.co.uk/springwatch where you can register your interest. Throughout Northern Ireland there are people called Biodiversity Officers. They are working for biodiversity in your local area. They are constantly running events and working on projects that you may be able to get involved with.
The May/June edition of ni4kids
Wake up to Nature at Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre
As part of the National Trust’s Wake Up to Nature Castle Ward
Biodiversity event on the 3rd and 4th May 2008,Environment &
Heritage Service Biodiversity themed activities at The Strangford
Lough Wildlife Centre which is situated in the grounds of Castle Ward,
Strangford. Have you ever imagined what it would be like to wade
around in the muddy shores of Strangford Lough searching for your
food…..how would you find it? What would it feel like? What would
your food be? Come on down to the Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre at
Castle Ward and find out the answers to all of that and more, without
getting muddy!
Pretend to be a bird for a
while by wearing one of the bird hand puppets of the lough such as
Curlew, Ringed Plover or Shelduck and probing your beak down into
different depths of the ‘mud’ to find the cockle or lugworm on
which these birds feed.
Children, take your parents to Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre chat with
one of the wardens and beat them at a special game of Snakes and
Ladders – be careful to avoid those snakes - which tell you all
about the threats and challenges of the lough. Take on your brother or
sister at a true or false quiz to find out how the plants and animals of our
Lough and sea shore survive when they are washed by the tides.
Do
you know how barnacles feed when the tide is in? How does a limpet
hang onto a rock when the waves are crashing on top of them? Why
don’t anemones dry out when the tide is out? Endless questions to
tease your brain cells! The answers are all in the quiz. The Wildlife
Centre also has a live CCTV a Blue Tit nesting in a box on a tree in
the garden, with pictures on a TV screen for you to watch activities
in the nest, without having to climb a tree or disturb the birds!
Have
you ever wondered what it is like to touch a baby seal or an otter?
Come and find out at Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre.
Find
out how far the birds of the lough travel to other far off countries.
Find out more about the biodiversity of the lough, by rummaging
through a ‘touch feely’ table in which you can pick up strange and
wonderful items such as bones and skulls, claws and shells.
If
after all of that Mummy and Daddy are still behaving themselves, you
can take them out into the garden around the Wildlife Centre where you
can find out how to create a garden which is a haven for biodiversity,
such as growing a shrub called buddleia, which attracts lots of
butterflies. Your parents can enjoy a rest and you can have a picnic
whilst admiring the sculpture of a seal which was made by a local Ards
sculptor during the weekend. 
You
can come to Strangford Lough Wildlife Centre on between June and
August
any day of the week between days 1-6pm and then at weekends in
September 1-6pm. The centre then closes until March 2009.
The telephone number is
028 4488 1411.
Thursday 22nd May 2008
"Our Nature with Aggregates" -
Quarry Products launch their Biodiversity and Geodiversity Plan
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At the 'Our Nature with Aggregates' event held in
Stormont on International Day for Biodiversity (22 May 08), Arlene
Foster, Minister for the Environment, launched a Biodiversity and
Geodiversity Strategy for Northern Ireland's Quarrying and Aggregates
Industry.
It was fitting that on International Day for
Biodiversity the industry celebrated their commitment to the
conservation and enhancement of our rich Biodiversity and Geodiversity.
QPANI has taken the lead role by being the first industry sector in
Launching the strategy The Minister said: “Today, I
am pleased to say, I find myself launching a biodiversity and
geodiversity strategy produced by a major
The event, hosted by
MLA's David Ford, Tommy Gallagher and Jim Wells was attended by quarry
industry representatives, nature conservation bodies, academics,
government officials and
MLAs
29 February, 2008:
Action plan to protect Omagh's biodiversity to be launched
Joe Mahon, from ‘Lesser Spotted Ulster’ helped Omagh District Council launch a new action plan to protect and promote Omagh’s biodiversity on Tuesday, 26 February 2008 at Strule Arts Centre.
Biodiversity simply means the whole variety of life found on earth on both land and at sea, from humans to fish and from trees to fungi. The new action plan aims to increase awareness of biodiversity at a local level and is part of a wider initiative by the Environment and Heritage Service’s “It’s in our Nature” campaign to promote awareness and understanding of biodiversity in Northern Ireland
Guest speaker, Joe Mahon joined Omagh District Council Chairman, Cllr Bert Wilson and Chairman of the Ulster Wildlife Trust, Pat Broaden in introducing the plan as a ‘promising initiative that will lead the way in biodiversity conservation in the Omagh District area’.
In commending the Omagh Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) the Chairman of Omagh District Council, Cllr Bert Wilson said: “Omagh District Council is delighted to be leading the way in biodiversity conservation for this area. This plan highlights the wonderful biodiversity that exists in Omagh and the strong level of partnership working achieved through the Omagh LBAP steering group.
He continued: “For the plan to be a success, we must continue to work together to achieve its goals, for the benefit of wildlife and the community alike. I therefore appeal to you, the people of Omagh to get involved and help do your bit for Omagh’s biodiversity.”
The plan highlights the diverse habitats and species found within the Omagh District, identifies local priorities for action and proposes measures that will contribute to their future protection and enhancement. Oakwoods, hedgerows, lakes and ponds, blanket bog and upland heath are just some of the habitats selected for action, together with nine local priority species including the curlew, otter, Irish damselfly and Daubenton’s bat.
Julie Farrell, Omagh Biodiversity Officer added: “Now that we have identified the key habitats and species in Omagh that need our immediate help, we need to get action on the ground. I am therefore keen for anyone with good project ideas to get in touch, whether it is a community group wishing to set up a project, an individual simply seeking advice on land management or a budding wildlife enthusiast interested in helping survey under-recorded species such as moths!
“All of us have an important part to play and it is important that we do so - even small steps can make a difference. Simple things like putting up nest-boxes, feeding the birds, gardening for wildlife, growing native plants and composting kitchen waste are just some of the ways you can take action. We have a beautiful environment and it’s important we protect it for future generations,” she added.
If you want to find out more about Omagh District’s biodiversity, how you can be involved or obtain a copy of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan contact Julie Farrell, Omagh Biodiversity Officer on 02882256202 or email julie.farrell@ulsterwildlifetrust.org. To find out more about biodiversity and the ‘It’s in our Nature’ campaign visit www.biodiversityni.com and follow the links.
Omagh District Council, in partnership with the Ulster Wildlife Trust, has been developing the Omagh Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) since 2006. The LBAP is supported by the Environment and Heritage Service and the Landfill Communities Fund.
25 February, 2008:
BBC Springwatch’s Kate Humble helps to launch Lough Neagh Wetlands’ Local Biodiversity Action Plan
BBC Springwatch presenter, Kate Humble, today launched the Lough Neagh Wetlands Local Biodiversity Action Plan (Lough Neagh Wetlands LBAP), which has been developed to highlight what can be done to help biodiversity in the locality.
Biodiversity simply means the whole variety of life found on earth on both land and at sea, from humans to fish and from trees to fungi. The drive to increase awareness of biodiversity at a local level is also part of a wider initiative by the Environment and Heritage Service’s “It’s in our Nature” campaign to promote awareness and understanding of biodiversity in Northern Ireland
Kate Humble said: “I know the Lough Neagh area well through my work with local people on the Lough Neagh Wetlands Whooper Swan project, so it’s great to come here and see the level of community support there is for this Local Biodiversity Action plan. Its success depends on local people working to benefit local biodiversity. Today, I’ve seen some great examples of work that is already being done as a result of this plan and this will only increase.”
Seamus Burns, Biodiversity Officer for the Lough Neagh Wetlands, said: “This new Local Biodiversity Action Plan is already achieving results as actions are being implemented by local people on the ground and local biodiversity is improving. We hope the plan will also encourage people to learn more about the local species and habitats in this area and persuade them to take steps to help protect them.”
The Lough Neagh Wetlands plan seeks to focus local resources on helping protect the species and habitats that make up the Wetland’s unique biodiversity such as barn owls, lapwings, common terns, Irish damselflies, Irish hares, tree sparrows, whooper swans, rivers, streams, hedgerows, bogs, wet woodlands, reedbeds, wet grasslands and meadows.
Kate visited one project that has come about as a result of the plan. At Sperrin Integrated College in Magherafelt, school children are working on a wetland project to help restore the Coppies River – a tributary of the River Moyola – as a brown trout habitat.
Seamus Burns added “We are looking to the future where local people can live in a well managed natural environment that brings with it health benefits for all. We hope that everyone locally will find some way to help us achieve the aims set out in this plan”.
Anyone who is interested in learning more about the Lough Neagh LBAP or who wishes to get involved in local projects should log on to www.loughneagh.com to download a copy of the plan or for further contact information. To find out more about biodiversity and the ‘It’s in our Nature’ campaign visit www.biodiversityni.com and follow the links.
The Lough Neagh Wetlands Local Biodiversity Action Plan has been produced by the Lough Neagh Advisory Committee. Funding has been provided by Environment & Heritage Service and by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development under the European Union Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity to the Lough Neagh Strategic Fund (LNSF). The LNSF is administered by the Lough Neagh Partnership.
25 February, 2008:
F is for February, Frogs and Frogspawn
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| Image © Mike Hartwell | Image © Mike Hartwell | Image © Ulster Wildlife Trust |
David Attenborough’s latest TV series “Life In Cold Blood” has highlighted how amphibians – cold blooded creatures that spend their lives in water and on land - are under threat across the world with many species heading for extinction.
Thankfully here in Northern Ireland our most common amphibian, the frog, is still found in healthy numbers throughout the Province.
Frogspawn is therefore still a familiar sight to many people in Northern Ireland. At this time of year, the spawn is found widely in garden ponds, lakesides , canals pools and even puddles.
Often tens or even hundreds of frogs can be seen on the warmer spring days with their heads sticking out of the water surface and croaking in a loud chorus.
Peter Cush of EHS’s Biodiversity Unit explains: “Seeing frogs in big numbers is fascinating and the scene can look primordial. Passing on their genes is the name of the game as the male frogs croak loudly and fight and jostle among themselves trying to attract females.”
Encouraging people to get out and about and watch out for frogs is part of the ongoing ‘It’s in our Nature’ campaign developed by the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) and other conservation bodies. The campaign seeks to raise awareness of biodiversity, which is the whole variety of life on earth.
Peter Cush continues: “With milder spring days frogs are appearing earlier and earlier. This year on the 7th February I saw a large female frog on the Lagan towpath.”
Peter Cush advises: “If you get out and about in Northern Ireland in February and March, you can watch out for frogs and frogspawn in water bodies. Enjoy the spectacle but please leave the spawn to develop into tadpoles and young frogs. Don’t collect it and bring it to your home or classroom. It will have a far better chance of surviving if you leave it in its own habitat.”
If you are keen to get involved in helping frogs:
- Make a garden pond with shallow sides so that frogs can get in and out easily.. Your pond can also be a place to hunt for stunning dragonflies, a bath or place to drink for raucous groups of birds or a home to other underwater creatures, such as Newts, Diving Beetles or Water Boatmen.
- Provide hibernating sites for frogs and other pond animals in the garden by having a log pile, compost heap, pile of stones or autumn leaves near your pond.
19 February, 2008:
Biodiversity - 'It's in our Nature' Survey Reveals
Northern Ireland people are increasingly aware of their local biodiversity and are concerned about the threats to species and the loss of habitat, a new survey has found.
The research was carried out in support of the Environment and Heritage Service’s “It’s in our Nature” campaign which is designed to increase awareness and understanding of biodiversity in Northern Ireland. Biodiversity simply means the whole variety of life found on earth on both land and at sea, from humans to fish and from trees to fungi.
Nearly two thirds of adults (59%) are concerned about the decline of native plant, animal and other species in Northern Ireland.
Almost half (47%) said they were concerned by the loss of habitat and four in ten spoke of excessive building development.
And six out of ten people questioned said they were worried about the effects of global warming.
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Image © Laurie Campbell |
The Millward Brown Omnibus Survey, conducted monthly, involves 1,000 interviews with a representative sample of the adult population.
Rose Muir of EHS Biodiversity Unit said: “Not so long ago the popular conception was that environmental issues were not a priority for people in Northern Ireland. Now, things have changed significantly. For example, almost a third of people are now aware of the term biodiversity. We have also found that many others, whether they understand the actual term or not, are concerned about threats to species and habitats and the issues of global warming.
“This concern is being translated into action – ranging from feeding birds to planting native trees or supporting local conservation bodies.
“But while many people are active in one way or another, the survey shows that 47% are not and we will continue to encourage them both to get out and enjoy the biodiversity of Northern Ireland and, where they can, to contribute to preserving our species and habitats.
“A number species in Northern Ireland have suffered major declines – birds such as the chough, a member of the crow family that lives in coastal areas, and of course our native red squirrel.
“Northern Ireland boasts a unique and varied landscape that includes freshwater loughs, mountains, bogs, woodland, grassland and a varied coastline which we need to protect and care for. It is not simply the intrinsic value of these areas – they are also a key component of our tourism product and have an economic importance.”
8 February, 2008:
Northern Ireland schoolchildren get down to earth at Loughry Campus Discovering the magic of trees with the Woodland Trust
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Over 400 children from 18 primary schools joined forces at Loughry Campus, Cookstown this week (4 to 8 February) for a unique, week-long children’s conference. Run by the Woodland Trust, the mission was to promote an appreciation and understanding of trees and woodland, and to harness the enthusiasm of our younger generation - our future woodland custodians.
The conference, aptly entitled the ‘Magic of Trees’, was part of the Woodland Trust’s Tree For All campaign - an ambitious UK-wide initiative which aims to inspire young people with
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a passion for nature. The Magic of Trees marked a milestone - the completion of the first three years of Tree For All, funded by Environment and Heritage Service. And while similar conferences have taken place in England and Wales, this was a first for Northern Ireland and unrivalled in the number of children taking part.
The Woodland Trust offered an exciting programme to include creative and informative workshops. Over a dozen professional artists worked alongside the children to encourage an appreciation of trees and woods through poetry, storytelling, creative writing, photography and music. Outdoor action included woodland walks and tree planting.
Experts from a number of organisations worked together to ensure a truly magical experience. RSPB, the Ulster Wildlife Trust, and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council were some of the partners who led the voyage of woodland discovery. Tree identification, woodland creatures, and threats to forests world-wide were all on a brimming agenda.
“The children’s conference offered an exceptional opportunity for hundreds of schoolchildren – a chance for our young people to learn about woodland and the wider environment. The idea was that creative media, such as music, would make the whole learning experience fun and memorable”, said Patrick Cregg, the Woodland Trust’s director. He continued: “The conference has fitted in well with Breathing Places2; a partnership between the BBC and conservation organisations which aims to connect people, including schoolchildren, with nature.”
Environment Minister Arlene Foster joined the conference today (Friday) to experience the results of the children’s creative efforts. The Minister made her own personal, lasting contribution by planting a tree.
The Magic of Trees was made possible thanks to funding from Environment and Heritage Service and delivered with a helping hand from Loughry Campus CAFRE. To find out more visit www.naturedetectives.org.uk/magic
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24 January, 2008:
Northern Ireland schoolchildren get down to earth at Loughry Campus
Discovering the magic of trees with the Woodland Trust
Over 400 children from 17 primary schools1 will join forces at Loughry Campus, Cookstown this week (4 to 8 February) for a unique, week-long children’s conference. Run by the Woodland Trust, the mission is to promote an appreciation and understanding of trees and woodland, and to harness the enthusiasm of our younger generation - our future woodland custodians.
The conference, aptly entitled the ‘Magic of Trees’, is part of the Woodland Trust’s Tree For All campaign - an ambitious UK-wide initiative which aims to inspire young people with a passion for nature. The Magic of Trees marks a milestone - the completion of the first three years of Tree For All, funded by Environment and Heritage Service. And while similar conferences have taken place in England and Wales, this is a first for Northern Ireland and unrivalled in the number of children taking part.
The Woodland Trust is offering an exciting programme to include creative and informative workshops. Over a dozen professional artists will work alongside the children to encourage an appreciation of trees and woods through poetry, storytelling, creative writing, photography and music. Outdoor action will include woodland walks and tree planting.
Experts from a number of organisations will come together to ensure a truly magical experience. RSPB, the Ulster Wildlife Trust, and Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council are some of the partners who will lead the voyage of woodland discovery. Tree identification, woodland creatures, and threats to forests world-wide are all on a brimming agenda.
Patrick Cregg, the Trust’s operations director says: “The children’s conference offers an exceptional opportunity for hundreds of schoolchildren. Here’s a chance for our young people to learn about woodland and the wider environment. The idea is that creative media, such as music, will make the whole learning experience fun and memorable.”
The conference is made possible thanks to funding from Environment and Heritage Service and delivered with a helping hand from Loughry Campus CAFRE. The Woodland Trust has expressed its thanks for the support given by partner organisations and Woodland Trust volunteers.
24 January, 2008:
Peatlands and Cuilcagh Mountain
Bobbie Hamill, Habitat Survey Team, EHS.
Peatland covers about 170,000 hectares of Northern Ireland and some 85% of this is blanket bog. Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) recognise their importance and have declared 22 lowland raised bogs and 12 blanket bogs as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs). They are important for their biodiversity features and they provide a ‘living’ record of our past through pollen records and archaeology.
Did you know that peatlands are a store for carbon? The plants absorb Carbon Dioxide from the atmosphere to make food and as part of this process Carbon is locked into the plant. When the plant decomposes (usually due to being waterlogged) peat is formed and the locked in carbon can be stored within the plant material for thousands and thousands of years. So by protecting our peatlands in Northern Ireland we not only preserve this special habitat we also help slow down climate change as the problem carbon is stored deep within our peat deposits.
Unfortunately peat bogs are under threat and in Northern Ireland and only 15 % of our blanket bogs and 8% of our lowland raised bogs remain undamaged. There are various reasons for this but unfortunately the resulting damaged bog surfaces begin to dry and as the peat decomposes it releases the stored carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, thus bringing about increased global temperatures and resulting climate change.
Western Fermanagh is special for having the largest proportion of healthy peatlands and their remoteness coupled with high rainfall and poor soils ensures they are preserved as relatively unspoilt. Cuilcagh Mountain, visible against the Fermanagh skyline, is the second largest expanse of undamaged blanket bog in Northern Ireland. Cuilcagh provides an excellent example of a once widespread resource, it is of international importance and a crucial component of the local landscape and cultural heritage.
A number of specialised plants have adapted to the harsh conditions of acidity and permanent water logging such as the Round-leaved Sundew. These plants derive their nutrients from insects which are fooled into thinking that the long, red, gland-tipped hairs are good for nectar but they become trapped and the hairs and leaves encase the insect and digest it by secreting special enzymes.
Cuilcagh supports a good selection of fauna and bird life varying from the more common Meadow Pipit and Skylark to the more specialist species like the Golden Plover. The peatland habitat is important for nesting and feeding their young. Red Grouse are also found in this habitat and the cuckoo announces its presence by its distinctive call in spring.
Animals like the fox, badger and Irish Hare range over most of the landscape and the ponds and pools are important breeding sites for frogs and newts. In addition Ireland’s only breeding reptile, the Common Lizard which unlike most of the reptile family gives
birth to live young, can be found on the heathy sections of the mountain. This reptile is uncommon in Ireland and sightings are infrequent.
Cuilcagh Mountain, Marble Arch Caves – Geology and Landform
Ian Enlander, Earth Heritage Officer, EHS
Cuilcagh Mountain is made of sedimentary rocks dating from the Carboniferous period, and some of these rocks are some 330million years old. They are very important to geologists as they are one of the best examples found anywhere else in Ireland. They include limestone formed in shallow sub-tropical seas, sandstone formed within the deltas of great river systems as they approached the coast and mudstone formed as deposits on ancient beaches. The variety of rock explains the diversity of landforms seen in the Cuilcagh area, an example of this is the steeper gradients on Cuilcagh which relate to the position of more resistant sandstones.
Those limestones which developed as mud reefs, now define the high rocky knolls seen commonly throughout the Marlbank e.g. Crossmurrin. The jointing in these same limestones have acted as natural zones for groundwater to drain through, dissolving the limestone progressively until cave systems such as Marble Arch result. In places, sinking streams show the position of these caves while the streams that feed the Marble Arch caves disappear very dramatically e.g. at Monastir Gorge. The land surface also shows evidence of this process, with collapse holes showing the position of possible underground caves whose roof has given way. Glaciation has laid bare the limestone in places to form limestone pavement, a very attractive landform of great importance to plants.
The influence of ice has also resulted in some unusual features such as at Legacurragh where vast quantities of water, formed by the melting of a local glacier, eroded out the dry gorge we see today.
Environmentally Sensitive Area Scheme protecting Cuilcagh Mountain
John V. Courtney, Senior Countryside Management Adviser, DARD.
The landscape of Fermanagh is dominated by Cuilcagh Mountain in the west of the County, and is a welcoming sight for visitors and locals alike. Without farmers in this area actively farming and protecting this diverse region, the view could be very different. Currently some 1300ha (3200 acres) of Cuilcagh Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) is positively managed under DARDs Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Scheme by thirteen farmers.
Gordon Burleigh, an ESA participant is a suckler cow and sheep farmer on the slopes of Cuilcagh and Benaughlin. His enterprises include 320 breeding ewes and a herd of Limousin cross suckler cows run with Limousin and Charolais bulls. The calves are sold as weanlings. Farming in this challenging and sensitive environment encouraged Gordon to enter the ESA Scheme over 12 years ago. The Scheme prescriptions protect the range of habitats present, with the bonus of financial aid.
The Burleigh family farm has numerous habitats with some 189 hectares of blanket bog present on the slopes of the mountain. This is designated as an ASSI and has also merited Special Protection Area (SPA). Gordon is aware that the management practices on the ASSI blanket bog under his ESA scheme had to be agreed with Environment and Heritage Service (EHS). One major change in his farming practice was the exclusion of cattle grazing on the blanket bog.
Gordon has an innate interest in the environment where he and many previous generations of his family have lived. He understands the importance of protecting this unique habitat and the requirement to seek permission from the EHS to carry out certain activities such as fencing within the ASSI area.
The long term sustainability of the moorland habitat on Cuilcagh is in the hands of its landowners. Achieving the correct balance between agricultural activities and the environment is the key to success. The new Rural Development Plan will promote all inclusive working between farmers, EHS and DARD to ensure that Fermanagh’s precious landscape is preserved and protected and agriculture continues to be sustainable.
For further information on the management of moorland, contact your Countryside Management Branch staff at your local DARD office.
Protecting Areas of Special Scientific Interest
Maire Donnelly, Compliance Team, EHS
Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) is an agency within the Department of the Environment (DOE) dealing with environmental issues
Areas of Special Scientific Interest
Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs) are areas of land that have been identified by scientific survey as being of important scientific interest and conservation value. Much of ASSI land is in private ownership. In EHS we try to achieve conservation and protection of these special sites by co-operation with the farmer/landowner. EHS fully recognises and appreciates the important part played by the farmer/landowner in maintaining these sites.
Legal Protection
It is important to note that all ASSIs are afforded legal protection and EHS has a statutory duty to protect these sites. When an ASSI is declared, the farmers/landowners receive information on the important nature conservation interests of the site. They must therefore notify EHS before carrying out any work on ASSI land. This process ensures that EHS can work with the farmer/landowner to prevent any possible damage to the conservation interests of the site.
A vast majority of farmers/landowners manage their land in ways which are beneficial to wildlife conservation. However, on occasions some detrimental management practices are noted and all reports are investigated by the Compliance Section within EHS who routinely monitor ASSI land for any unwelcome deterioration.
If you want any further information or advice on ASSI’s please telephone the Conservation Designations and Protection team on 02890 569564
Environmentally Sensitive Farming on Cuilcagh Mountain
Diane Stevenson, Assistant Director Natural Heritage, EHS
The McNultys have farmed on Cuilcagh since 1883 when the current owner John’s grandfather purchased the mountain farm. The farm was developed and in the 1950’s a small herd of Shorthorn cows, sheep and hens secured the family a living on the thriving farm. John James recalls the early start to the day with the milk and eggs being transported by donkey and cart to the shop in Florencecourt.
Much has changed since those days but also much has remained the same. The mountain landscape still bears the rugged outline of Cuilcagh but farming practices have changed much since the 1950’s. In the 80’s and 90’s due to the transformations brought about by EU policies and changing farming practices, stocking rates increased and grants enabled access to the high hills. Sheep housing which enabled larger numbers of stock to be overwintered greatly improved the winter environment for both man and beast.
Today this mountain farm has undergone yet more change as Cuilcagh Plateau has been designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and European Special Area of Conservation (SAC). This has rekindled the emphasis on the environmental management of this special habitat resulting in John adopting a more sensitive farming regime. This has been made possible by policy changes with EU payments, which have de-coupled the relationship between subsidy payments and stock numbers. Instead the determination of subsidy payments is aligned with historical stocking rates with cross-compliance to environmentally sensitive farming.
John has gone one step further to ensure the sustainability of this precious landscape by entering into a management agreement with the Environment and Heritage Service. This agreement contains a plan which is formed using the detail gained from EHS scientific assessment of the area, including a detailed 5 year management programme for John’s farm.
The management agreement is based on a prescribed habitat improvement scheme which will enhance and develop the essential features of the site. By joining an EHS management agreement John substantially reduced the stocking rate on the blanket bog and wet heath on the mountain allowing the heather to regenerate. John comments,
“I see a noticeable increase in the plants and insects on the mountain; the area stands out for miles from other parts because I don’t graze it so tightly”
Killykeeghan
Haidee Chamberlain, Regional Operations Staff, EHS
Did you know that sandwiched between Cuilcagh Mountain and the Macnean Valley Lowlands lies one of the most extensive areas of Limestone grassland in Northern Ireland and it is open to the public all year round? Visitors can take a stroll and get pleasure from the splendid views of this unique habitat with its wildlife and familiarise themselves with the archaeological history at Killykeeghan National Nature Reserve (NNR).
Killykeeghan NNR is situated on the Marlbank Scenic Loop approximately 1 mile from the Marble Arch Caves laneway. Environment & Heritage Service (EHS), an agency within the DoE, purchased the reserve back in 1991 and subsequently designated it as a NNR. Nature Reserves (NR) are important places where some of the best examples of a specific habitat or landscape are conserved through specialised management and because they are in public ownership many have public access for all to enjoy.
Killykeeghan is one of 14 NRs in Fermanagh & Tyrone managed by the local EHS team based at Castle Archdale Country Park near Irvinestown. This habitat only occurs where limestone rock is exposed and visitors to it can walk across a unique limestone
grassland habitat that is quite rare in Northern Ireland. The thin calcareous soils support many grasses and flowers such as the
Blue Moor Grass, fragrant pink Thyme, blue Harebell and yellow Birds Foot Trefoil. These typical plants provide important food andbreeding sites for insects like the Common Blue Butterfly. Other less frequent species include Kidney Vetch and Mountain Everlasting, also known as Mountain Cudweed.
This unique habitat requires careful monitoring and management to maintain its native wildlife and biodiversity. The 
grasslandneeds to be carefully grazed to maintain its speciesdiversity, too little grazing allows tall grasses to dominate and too much grazing opens up the sward so that undesirable weeds grow and dominate the habitat and alter the delicate balance. By working in partnership with local graziers EHS ensure that the stocking rates are refined to keep just the right balance.
Of course there is much more to Killykeeghan than the rare grassland. The reserve also has examples from a rich archaeological history such as a Bronze Age decorated stone, an early Christian cashel and enclosures along with centuries old stone walls which provide valuable shelter for small mammals.
Whilst visitors can access the reserve all year round there is a small traditional stone cottage, known locally as McGrath’s Cottage, which is open daily from May to September and weekends only from October to April. Visitors can take a rest here and enjoy a small interpretative display about bygone country days in the Marlbank area. EHS recently erected a stone built toilet block and improved disabled access to the cottage. EHS celebrated Halloween here with over 60 people by telling spooky children’s stories by the hearth fire, playing games and other activities.
For further information about this and other reserves, please contact EHS staff at Castle Archdale Country Park on 028 68621588.
Press Releases
29/2/2008 - Action plan to protect Omagh's biodiversity to be launched Press Release [64kb .doc]
25/2/2008 - BBC Springwatch’s Kate Humble helps to launch Lough Neagh Wetlands’ Local Biodiversity Action Plan Press Release [44kb .doc]
25/2/2008 - F is for February, Frogs and Frogspawn Press Release [256kb .doc]
19/2/2008 - Biodiversity 'It's in our Nature' Survey Reveals Press Release [384kb .doc]
08/2/2008 - Northern Ireland schoolchildren get down to earth at Loughry Campus Discovering the magic of trees with the Woodland Trust Press Release [380kb .doc]
04/2/2008 - Northern Ireland schoolchildren get down to earth at Loughry Campus Press Release [384kb .doc]
24/1/2008 - Peatlands and Cuilcagh Mountain Press Release [16kb .pdf]
24/1/2008 - Cuilcagh Mountain, Marble Arch Caves – Geology and Landform Press Release [16kb .pdf]
24/1/2008 - Environmentally Sensitive Area Scheme protecting Cuilcagh Mountain Press Release [16kb .pdf]
24/1/2008 - Protecting Areas of Special Scientific Interest Press Release [16kb .pdf]
24/1/2008 - Environmentally Sensitive Farming on Cuilcagh Mountain Press Release [16kb .pdf]
24/1/2008 - Killykeeghan Press Release [16kb .pdf]
21/12/2007 - Go walking in a Winter wonderland… Press Release [128kb .doc]
29/11/2007 - Mayor launches Lough Neagh Wetlands first local nature reserve Press Release [128kb .doc]
19/11/2007 - Nature is just a click away Press Release [192kb .doc]
09/10/2007 - Chinese proverb holds key to Northern Ireland tree seed harvest Press Release [256kb .doc]
Fancy Fungi - The search for waxcap toadstools is on Press Release [64kb .doc]
26/9/2007 - Go nutty for Red Squirrel Week this Autumn Press Release [180kb .doc]
28/8/2007 - Rock pooling fun at the seaside Press Release [162kb .doc]
22/8/2007 - Bats - Robin to Reveal All! Press Release [190kb .doc]
14/8/2007 - Lough Neagh Festival Press Release [144kb .doc]
8/8/2007 - Northern Ireland Goes Wild! Press Release [256kb .doc]
25/7/2007 - Bog Snorkelling Championships Press Release [140kb .doc]
24/5/2007 - Swift Action Needed For Survival Of Birds Press Release [448kb .doc]
18/5/2007 - 'Its In Our Nature' To Celebrate Biodiversity Press Release [537kb .doc]
01/5/2007 - Have You Heard Your First Cuckoo Call Of The Spring Press Release [448kb .doc]
02/4/2007 - The Spring Has Sprung The Grass Is Ris' Press Release [448kb .doc]
12/2/2007 - Biodiversity Must Be The Business in 2007 Press Release [448kb .doc]
30/1/2007 - 'Wetlands' Tour Highlights Importance Of Wetland Biodiversity Press Release [192kb .doc]
9/10/2006 - Autumn Woodlands Celebration Press Release [64kb .pdf]
20/9/2006 - Managing For Biodiversity Press Release [20kb .pdf]
08/9/2006 - Schools Hedge & Copse Packs Press Release [300kb .doc]
21/8/2006 - Woodland's Celebration At Shane's Castle Press Release [32k .pdf]
07/8/2006 - Picnicking Is A Great Way To Discover Northern Ireland’s Biodiversity Press Release [20kb .pdf]
19/7/2006 - Beginners Guide To Biodiversity Press Release [136kb .doc]
19/7/2006 - Bog Snorkelling Championships Day Press Release [132kb .doc]
19/7/2006 - Discover Woodland At Shane's Castle Flyer [160kb pdf]
22/6/2006 - Puppet Show Dates And Locations Press Release [40kb pdf]
21/6/2006 - Download Our Campaign Launch Press Release here [63kb pdf]