Water Services Authority: Meath County Council. Donore Agglomeration, Donore Wastewater Treatment Plant, Stalleen, Donore, Drogheda, County Meath

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1 Water Services Authority: Meath County Council Donore Agglomeration, Donore Wastewater Treatment Plant, Stalleen, Donore, Drogheda, County Meath WASTEWATER DISCHARGE LICENCE APPLICATION APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT October, 2009, ; TOBIN 2 Pal rlck J. Tobin & Co L1 d Meath County Council County Hall Navan County Meath Tel: Fax: info@meathcoco.ie TOBIN Consulting Engineers Market Square Castle bar County Mayo Tel: Fax: castlebar@tobin.ie EPA Export :16:33:06

2 ~ TOBIN P" tll' t r Ollin!. Co LId DONORE AGGLOMERATION WASTE WATER DISCHARGE LICENCE APPLICATION APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT PROJECT: Donore Waste Water Treatment Plant & Agglomeration CLIENT: Water Services Authority Meath County Council County Hall Navan Co. Meath COMPANY: TOBIN Consulting Engineers Market Square Castlebar County Mayo Tel: Fax: castlebar@tobin.ie TOBIN 003 EPA Export :16:33:06

3 P3 Design Con tro l Form DCO 0032 Form 3.2 Revc Effective Date 14/02107 DOCUMENT AMENDMENT RECORD Client: Project: Title: Meath County Council Donore Waste Water Treatment Plant & Agglomeration PROJECT NUMBER: 5270 DOCUMENT REF: 5270 Donore B Issued to Meath Co. Co. RMeN 08/09/09 ES 22/10/09 ES 22/10/09 A Issued to Meath Co. Co. RMeN 08/09/09 ES 29/09/09 ES 29/09/09 Revision Description & Rationale Originated Date Reviewed Date Authorised Date TOBIN Consulting Engineers EPA Export :16:33:06

4 Waste Water Discharge licence Application...;; TOBIN TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTIO N APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT - LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT & METHODOLOGY LEGISLATI VE CONTEXT GUiDANCE STAGE 1 - SCREENING INTRODUCTION STEP 1 - MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE STEP 2 - DESCRIPTION OF DONORE SEWERAGE SCHEME STEP 3 - CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SiTE STEP 4 - ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE STAGE 2 -APPROPRIATE ASSESSM ENT APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT STEP ONE - INFORMATION REQUiRED APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT STEP TWO AND THREE - IMPACT PREDICTION AND MITIGATION OUTCOMES APPENDICES Appendix A Appendix B River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC - Site Description Conservation Objectives River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC ~ TOBIN (i) EPA Export :16:33:06

5 ~ TOBIN 1.0 INTRODUCTION This report is to provide the requirements of the Habitats Directive as detailed in correspondence received from Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government (DOEHLG) reference E2009/37 received by TOBIN Consulting Engineers on 06/04/09. This correspondence highlights the potential for the discharge to impact the 'Boyne and Blackwater River SAC' (site code ). Requirements for this report include: A description of existing ecology and baseline water quality; A description of existing waste water discharge quality; Proposed waste water discharge quality; An assessment of assimilative quality of the River Boyne at this location; Potential and likely impacts of the treated waste water discharge; Propose mitigation (if required). The existing waste water treatment plant 0fVWTP) in Donore Village, Co. Meath is currently being upgraded. The existing WWTP discharges the treated effuent to an unnamed stream (1st order river), a tributary of the River Boyne (Plate 1, Appendix C). The WWTP is presently being upgraded, including the construction of a new discharge pipe. The new discharge pipe will feed directly into the Boyne River (at least a Third Order River) " (Plate 2 Appendix C). Sensitive ecological receptors within the Boyne and Blackwater SAC include: Habitats: Alluvial fens and alluvial forests; Species: Atlantic Salmon (Sa/mo sa/a!'); Species: River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis); Species: Otter (Lutra /utra). The appropriate assessment considers all specific ecological features of the SAC, conservation objectives and where the potential of impacts may arise; appropriate mitigation is detailed. 1 wikiped ia. org/wiki/strah ler _ n urn ber#river _networks Page 1 EPA Export :16:33:06

6 Dromore Agg lomeration 2.0 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY..;. TOBIN LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT & 2.1 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora - 'The Habitats Directive', has been transposed into Irish law by The European Community (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 (S.1. No. 94/1997). The 1997 Regulations were updated in 1998 by The European Communities (Natural Habitats) (Amendment) Regulations 1998 (S.1. No. 233/1998) to include Council Directive 97/62/EC which served to update Council Directive 92/43/EEC, adapting it to technical and scientific progress made in the intervening years. The 1997 Regulations were again updated in 2005, by The European Communities (Natural Habitats) (Amendment) Regulations 2005 (S.1. No. 378/2005). This amendment served to consolidate the main nature conservation legislation enacted in Ireland, meaning The Wildlife Act 1976, The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, The European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997, The European Communities (Natural Habitats) (Amendment) Regulations 1998, and to draw direct reference upon Council Directive 79/409/EC on the conservation of wild birds - 'The Birds Directive'. The Birds Directive seeks to protect birds of special importance by the designation of Special Protection Areas (SPAs) whereas the Habitats Directive does the same for habitats and other species groups with Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). It lists certain rare habitats (Annex I) and species (Annex II) whose conservation is of community interest. It is the responsibility of each member state to designate SPAs and SACs, both of which will form part of Natura 2000, a network of protected areas throughout the European Community. Article 6, paragraphs 3 and 4 of the Habitats Directive state that: 6(3) Any plan or project not direclly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives. In the light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concemed and, if appropriate, after having obtained the opinion of the general public. If, in spite of a negative assessment of the implications for the site and in the absence of alternative solutions, a plan or project must nevertheless be carried out for imperative reasons of overriding public interest, including those of a social or economic nature, the Member State shall take all compensatory measures necessary to ensure that the overall coherence of Natura 2000 is protected. It shall inforrn the Commission of the compensatory measures adopted. 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 Page 2

7 ~ TOBIN environment or, further to an opinion from the Commission, to other imperative reasons of overriding public interest 2.2 GUIDANCE This has been carried out using the following guidance: EPA Ireland guidelines 2 (Main reference); Managing Natura 2000 Sites: the provisions of Article 6 of the 'Habitats' Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg (EC 2000); Assessment of Plans and Projects Significantly Affecting Natura 2000 Sites: Methodological guidance on the provisions of Article 6(3) and (4) of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg (EC 2001);. Guidance document on Article 6(4) of the 'Habitats Directive' 92/43/EEC - Clarification of the concepts of: alternative solutions, imperative reasons of overriding public interest, compensatory measures, overall coherence, opinion of the commission. Office for Official Publications of the European Communities, Luxembourg (EC 2007). The format of this report is mainly structured based on EPA guidelines. Based on these documents, the assessment procedure as detailed in the guidelines is a four stage approach consisting of the following stages which are summarised in Figure 1. Stage One: Screening / Test of Significance - the process which identifies the likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site of a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and considers whether these impacts are likely to be significant; Stage Two: - the consideration of the impact of the project or plan on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, with respect to the site's structure and function and its conservation objectives. Additionally, where there are adverse impacts, an assessment of the potential mitigation of those impacts; Stage Three: Assessment of Alternative Solutions - the process which examines alternative ways of achieving the objectives of the project or plan that avoid adverse impacts on the integrity of the Natura 2000 site; and 2 Page 3

8 -..;; TOB,IN Stage Four: Assessment Where Adverse Impacts Remain - an assessment of compensatory measures where, in the light of an assessment of Imperative Reasons of Overriding Public Interest (IROPI), it is deemed that the project or plan should proceed. ~ TO,B.!N Page4

9 ..; TOBIN FloI'! chart of th e Article 6(3) and (4) procedure (frorn t.\n2000) ill relation to th e SL1gCS of the guid ance CO lisideratlon OF A PLAN Oil PROJECT (PP) AffECTIN G A NATU RA 2000 SITE h tht rp 6ir tcuy COfln~dEo j "iui or ntc.. ~ ~ r 7 t(' th., sit..:- m~ l wj~rne11t for tu tur..,o n ~r" a tiun? I 110 L y " I h th., FP ti ~.. ly to h a~.: ~ i9ni fi (ant ""ff.. cu Con lilt site? ~. i r ;:\ ::!~ ~'- l: J I y" ~ L llo AHe!S implications fur s it ~ s Win t h ~ pp ad... HH!Y affe-: t cc.n!~ r "3 ti c.n ol>jtcti.. t1 thi' inl-!'gri t;t of the- sitr.' R,duft the- PP I I y" 110 I Af~ thtre- athl1lali.'''''!.ooiution51 I y" No I 1 I OO~ lh,.. sit.. hly.>t.i priority lubitat Of s ~~c i.: ~ ' I ". Yi!!:' I I 1 1 Ale Ul ~le- in lp'=rlti'l';' relsoill A r ~ th oo fe- human h... lth or s il ff ~ cons;de-litions of o'l'elfidll19 f(lbtic intm st1 or impoiliint E-n ~ironm " nbl btn..,fils? I I I I 110 y" No y" j 1 j J,at bjf.j ct-i~l,'! r.li,lrt 1:0: ~ Al!rhon S<.i Mn...'0' boi o;:"'l tid Ad.'l"risati;J1J,'t:\'!I' C.. Autoon s..1ti... 1 ~ fcl ;ter! tor attlt! i m ll t r <l th' ~ ~Hom of 9 1C'ltfl.7 r;oc,. fje oh'friding ~(f b li c inih-?st. (ornpen,a tion ~:C. ' l t~ foucw... jng comuttatiofl... jl ll l1u; m t<r ~ UI H.ilrt t il ~~n Commission Ihi' Comrnissio ll h ( " RI~ fl'l.ilti o n mtj ~ U/ t ~ hlvt tl) infulmi d t.~ h ~.;n I' H :, Figure 1: Flowchart Outlining the Process (Extracted from Assessment of Plans and Projects - EC 2001 ). ~ TOB.!N Page 5

10 Dromore Agg lomeration --.; TOBIN 3.0 STAGE 1 - SCREENING 3.1 INTRODUCTION This stage of the process identifies the likely impacts upon a Natura 2000 site from a project or plan, either alone or in combination with other projects or plans, and considers whether these impacts are likely to be significant. The screening phase was progressed in the following steps, as per EPA guidelines: Step 1 - Management of the Site; Step 2 - Description of the Plan or Project; Step 3 - Characteristics ofthe Site; Step 4 - Assessment of Significance. 3.2 STEP 1 - MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE Conservation sites in the vicinity of the existing and proposed Donore WWTPs and existing and proposed discharge of treated effluent include River Boyne and Blackwater SAC (site code ). A full description of the River Boyne and Blackwater SAC is detailed in Appendix A. The existing and proposed treated waste water discharges are not connected or necessary for the management of this site. Downstream of the site is the Boyne Coast and Estuary SAC (Site code ) and Boyne Coast SPA (site code 4080). These latter 2 sites will not be impacted by the existing or proposed WWTP/treated effluent discharge and are not considered further. 3.3 STEP 2 - DESCRIPTION OF DONORE SEWERAGE SCHEME Meath County Council is at present constructing a new WWTP to serve Donore Agglomeration. The new Donore WWTP is being constructed on an extended site adjacent to the existing works (Grid Reference E, N). The proposed scheme is being constructed to meet the requirements of the planned development of the area up to year The upgraded Donore WWTP will utilise biological processes in conjunction with physical settlement, and nutrient removal to provide treatment to incoming waste water for compliance with the relevant legislative effluent treatment standards The waste water discharge pipe has been constructed through which it is proposed to discharge treated material directly to the River Boyne. Page 6

11 -.;;; TOBIN 3.4 STE P 3 - CH ARACTERISTICS OF THE SITE Ongoing potential risks to current water quality status may arise within the River Boyne from the existing discharge of treated effluent, the proposed discharge of treated effluent and downstream of these. Discharges have the potential to impact water quality through eutrophication impacts, which may impact sensitive aquatic receptors including salmon, which demand highly oxygenated water. Also excessive siltation/algae which can potentially arise from eutrophication can smother breeding sites (gravel beds). 3.5 STEP 4 - ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Water quality at the proposed new discharge location (River Boyne) is considered "At risk of not achieving good status" (Transitional Water Framework Directive Status). The new proposed discharge limits correspond to an improvement on existing levels, while the existing discharges are in existence for some time and do not appear to be having a measurable negative effect on the water quality/ ecology in the River Boyne. It is therefore not expected that the discharges are having any negative affect on sensitive aquatic receptors. The proposed new discharges will originate from the new WWTP that will treat the effluent to an even greater standard, with consequential improvements in the quality of the effluent discharged. The EPA carries out biological water quality monitoring in the River Boyne at stations upstream and downstream of the Donore Agglomeration. The closest EPA station upstream of the agglomeration has a most recent Q-Value rating of Q3-4 (= slightly polluted) as does the closest EPA station downstream of the agglomeration. This methodology while basic will pick up longer term diffuse impacts including, when assimilation capacity is reduced, e.g. during low summer flows and high temperatures. This indicates that the levels of pollutant in the discharge are effectively assimilated and not significantly impacting water quality. Thus it is unlikely that the existing or proposed discharge limits will be contrary to requirements of legislation including the Water Framework Directive and EC (Quality of Salmonid Waters) Regulations, 1988 (S /1988). Current water quality impacts associated with the Donore plant are therefore not deemed a significant additional impact to conservation objectives of the SAC (including salmonid populations). For completeness, an stage (site visit - ecological assessment and recommendations) is detailed below. A probable programme of measure requirements will be required as part of any draft Water Framework Directive Boyne Catchment Management Plan to attain a "good" overall status on the River Boyne. This will include appropriate mitigation / recommendations for improving water quality which may require future consideration in the current/future upgrades to the Donore plant design; and operational management. Page 7

12 ..; TOBIN 4.0 STAGE 2 - APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT The phase was progressed in the following steps as per EPA guidelines: Step 1 - Information Required; Step 2 and 3 - Impact Prediction and Conservation Objectives; Step 4 - Mitigation. 4.1 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT STEP ONE -INFORMATION REQUIRED Details of Project Affecting the River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC Details on the existing waste water discharge concentrations and water quality, the proposed waste water discharge concentrations, assimilative capacity of the Boyne downstream of the proposed discharge and a baseline ecological study conducted are detailed below Existing Waste Water Treatment & Discharge Standards The design discharge concentrations (prior to new development) are detailed as follows: Existing Donore Wastewater Treatment Plant- Design Discharge Concentrations Parameter Design Discharge Concentration (mg/l) BOD 20.0 COD no concentration specified Total Suspended Solids 30.0 Total Nitrogen (as N) no concentration specified Ammonia (as N) no concentration specified Total Phosphorus (as P) no concentration specified Proposed Waste Water Treatment & Discharge Standards The proposed new WWTTP is designed to meet the following effluent quality standards: Pro[:>osed Donore Wastewater Treatment Plant- Design Discharge Concentrations Parameter Design Discharge Concentration (mg/l) BOD 25.0 COD Total Suspended Solids 35.0 Total Nitrogen (as N) 20.0 Ammonia (as N) no concentration specified Total Phosphorus (as P) 1.0 PageS

13 :..; TOBIN Transitional Water Framework Directive Status: This water quality at the proposed discharge point is considered "At risk of not achieving good status". Q value (Environmental Protection Agency) Water Quality Assessment: The EPA most up to date biological water quality data for the River Boyne at the proposed discharge point is "Moderate Status" Q 3 to 4. Assimilative Capacity Boyne River The proposed new discharges will originate from the new WWTP that will treat the effluent to an even greater standard, with consequential improvements in the quality of the effluent discharged. The EPA carries out biological water quality monitoring in the River Boyne at stations upstream and downstream of the Donore Agglomeration. The closest EPA station upstream of the agglomeration has a most recent Q-Value rating of Q3-4 (= moderate water quality, slightly polluted) as does the closest EPA station downstream of the agglomeration. This methodology while basic will pick up longer term diffuse impacts including, when assimilation capacity is reduced, e.g. during low summer flows and high temperatures. This indicates that the levels of pollutant in the discharge are effectively assimilated and not significantly impacting water quality. Regarding assimilation capacity the new discharge point on the River Boyne (Stream order 7) will be a significant improvement compared to the current discharge point (stream order 1) which is a minor stream (refer to Appendix 3) Description of Habitats and Wildlife in the Affected Area of the SAC A site visit was conducted by an experienced ecologist from TOBIN Consulting Engineers on August Methods: A baseline ecological survey was conducted within the new WWTP, currently under construction, including: The new pipe works area; The construction site of the new sewage treatment plant; and The river bank in the vicinity of the new pipe discharge point location and downstream of here. Surveys were implemented for habitats, protected flora and otter. The biological water quality (Q value) was also checked in the stream draining the works area, which is the existing discharge point for the Donore effluent. This stream drains into the main River Boyne channel where the new plant will discharge. Due to high flow levels and safety concern, no Q value testing was carried out in the Boyne Page 9

14 ~ TOBIN River. An appraisal was thus conducted of fisheries potential and general habitat description, bearing in mind potential habitat I aquatic receptors of ecological significance. A habitat assessment was conducted within the area of the proposed development and adjacent areas downstream of here. The Heritage Council's Draft methodology, A Standard Methodology for Habitat Swvey and Mapping in Ireland (Natura Environmental Consultants, 2002)3 and habitats were classified according to The Heritage Council's A Guide to Habitats in Ireland (Fossitt, 2000)4. The possibility of Invasive species such as Japanese Knotweed and Himalayan Balsam was also considered during the site visit. A general bird survey was conducted for the site. Species were noted particularly any of conservation concern (Lynas et al., 2007)5 and possible kingfisher breeding sites specifically. The stream was walked as far as possible and signs of nest sites on the bank side checked for. Protected mammal surveys of otter were conducted on site and adjacent areas close to the development. An assessment was carried out of the suitability of bank side trees and any bridges, for roosting bats. A general water quality assessment based broadly on the Q - value system (Toner et al., 2005)6 was conducted within a stream draining the current works footprint. Dominant macro invertebrates families identified and stream characteristics were noted. Any evidence of white clawed crayfish such as shell casts and presence under stones were noted. Fish were noted and identified where possible, if seen. Given high water levels an appraisal of the fisheries value of river downstream of the discharge point was conducted. The assessment of impacts from the proposed development was determined based on NRA guidelines 7 Findings The main site works have already been carried out for the new sewage plant upgrade and pipe installation including the new discharge point to the River Boyne. 3 Natura Environmental Consultants A Standard Methodology for Habitat Survey and Mapping in Ireland. The Heritage Council. Draft. 4 FosSitt, JA A Guide to Habitats in Ireland. The Heritage Council, Kilkenny, Ireland. 5 Lynas P., Newton S.F. & Robinson J.A The status of birds in Ireland: an analysis of conservation concern Irish Birds 8 : , Toner at al Water Quality in Ireland: ' Appendix 1 :'Biological and Physico-Chemical Surveillance and Water Quality Assessment of Rivers. EPA. Page 10

15 -...;. TOBIN No habitats listed as conservation objectives for the site exist within the works area, see conservation Objective 1. discharges. These habitats will not be impacted by the development or proposed waste water Habitats noted include: The Boyne River - Depositing Lowland River (FW2); Disturbed ground where the pipe was installed - Re-colonising Bare ground (ED3); Wet grassland (GS4); Other habitats close to the works area were avoided by the development including, hedgerows and trees, semi natural deciduous woodlands and structures which potentially may support bat roosts and otter holts. The works area is unsuitable for nesting kingfisher though the general river area has high potential for this species. The river at the discharge point is readily accessible and utilised by anglers. It has a natural geomorphology with no signs of arterial drainage such as steep banks and piles of material. The river flows naturally and is bound by Iris spp. dominated wet grasslands and mature semi natural wooded sections. No invasive plant species were noted. The general area provides excellent bat foraging habitat and numerous potential roost sites were noted including old buildings, bridges and possibly mature riparian trees. Species listed under Objective 2 of the draft conservation plan which use the river where the discharge is proposed include:.. River lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis);.. Atlantic Salmon (Sa/mo sa/al'); and.. Otter (Lutra /utra). The river consists of riffles and pools and is not influenced by tides at this point. This stretch of the Boyne River is an excellent Salmon (grilse and spring fish), sea trout and brown trout fishery (0 Reilly 2004)8 7 NRA Guidelines for Assessment of Ecological Impacts of National Road Schemes. Revision 1, 1~ March ~ TOB.IN Page 11

16 -..;; TOBIN Lamprey populations and their habitats at this location are considered to be well above favourable conservation status 0 Connor et a/., (2006)" The fact that this area of the river was not subjected to drainage works in the 1980s has ensured a wide availability of nursery habitats. However, populations are currently threatened by diffuse pollution problems, which appear to be worsening. Q values biological water quality ratings assessed for the stream draining the site works area were Q3 (Moderately Polluted). Indicator macro invertebrate species noted included abundant Simulium spp, Asellus aquaticus and the mayfly Baetis modani. A smell associated with treated waste water was obvious. This stream water quality is currently being impacted by the current discharge point. This impact will be removed once the new plant discharge pipe becomes operational. Surveys conducted found no sign of otter or white clawed crayfish. These species potentially use this area as habitat is suitable. The works area of the new pipe has been levelled off adequately and vegetation has re grown. 4.2 APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT STEP TWO AND THREE - IMPACT PREDICTION AND MITIGATION Conservation Objectives of the site Consultation was conducted with the National Parks and Wildlife (NPWS) designations department regarding conservation objectives for the River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC. No specific 'Conservation Management Plan' has been published for the site to date. A 'Draft Management Plan' as detailed in Appendix B is available. This 'Draft Management Plan' details the following including conservation objectives for the site: 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; B a Reilly P (2004) Rivers of Ireland. Merlin Unwin Books. 9 O'Connor W. (2006) A survey of juvenile lamprey populations in the Boyne Catchment. Irish Wildlife Manuals, No. 24 National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Dublin, Ireland. Page 12

17 ~ TOBIN 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; The natural range of the species is neither being reduced or likely to be reduced for the foreseeable future, 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: Alkaline fens; Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae). Objective 2: To maintain the Annex II species for which the csac has been selected at favourable conservation status: Lampetra fluviatilis, Salmo salar, Lutra lutra. Objective 3: To maintain the extent, species richness and biodiversity of the entire site. Objective 4: To establish effective liaison and co-operation with landowners, legal users and relevant authorities Predicted Impacts on the Qualifying Interests of River Boyne and River Blackwater SAC Based on conservation objectives for the site impact, predicted direct, indirect, short and long term, isolated, interactive and cumulative impacts are detailed. Habitats noted in the vicinity of the outflow or which may be potentially impacted are considered (on table overleaf). Species which may be indirectly impacted by poor water quality are considered (on table overleaf x2). Page 13

18 Habitats Description Survey Findings Predicted Impacts Cumulative Impacts Mitigation Depositing lowland river No habitats listed under conservation objectives No additional impacts likely Waste Water Discharge Licenses are being sought for a number of plants in Co Meath. A no. will require an. The only impact relevant regarding the Donore plant is water quality and as detailed the new system and monitoring will be an improvement on the current discharge system. Ongoing monitoring of water quality. Water discharge to be of a quality standard which can be effectively assimilated while maintainingl improving existing water quality in the River Boyne downstream of the proposed discharge point. Water quality discharge standards to be upgraded to requirements of the Water framework Directive standards if required. Page 14

19 ~ TOB.IN Species Species Otter River lamprey (Lampetra f/uviatilis Atlantic Salmon (Salmo sa/ar), White clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pal/ipes) Survey Findings No signs noted. Fish (prey) population present. Extensive suitable breeding and forage habitat present in the area. No permanent impacts to holts or dispersal effectiveness by development. River habitat supports a resident lamprey population. No additional impacts likely. Note current discharge point is a feeder stream of Boyne with relatively poor assimilative capacity (compared to p'roposed discharge point). Water quality in feeder stream "moderate". River habitat supports migrating and probably spawning salmon populations. No measurable additional impacts likely. Note current discharge point is a feeder stream of Boyne with relatively poor assimilative capacity (compared to proposed discharge point). Water quality in feeder stream "moderate" None noted Predicted Cumulative Impacts Mitigation Impacts No No additional impacts will arise New facility represents an improved system to the impacts which may indirectly or directly former WWTP with significantly improved assimilative likely impact this species from this plant capacity as it is discharged to the main Boyne discharges, providing effective channel. The new system has been designed to monitoring and implementation of comply with the River Boyne Water Quality water quality licensing requirements are carried out. No No additional impacts will arise See Above impacts which may indirectly or directly likely impact this species from this plant discharges. No No additional impacts will arise See Above impacts which may indirectly or directly likely impact this species from this plant discharges No No additional impacts will arise See Above impacts which may indirectly or directly likely impact this species from this plant discharges Management Plan. Ongoing monitoring of water quality to be maintained to existing water quality standards upgraded to requirements of the Water framework Directive standards as required. Page 15

20 -...; TOBIN Mitigation / Recommendations No specific recommendations are required currently except to continue monitoring and maintain I improve (where possible) current discharge levels. The Water Framework Directive requires that a mid to long term strategy be implemented for the entire Boyne River Catchment. A programme of measures which detail the actions to be taken will be detailed in order to achieve compliance with this legislation. It will require action by all potential pollution sourcesl managers to achieve a discharge quality which overall achieves a high water quality status. Where this status exists it is to be maintained and no deterioration in status should occur. All waters must achieve at least Good Status by This is relevant to the Boyne catchment where current water quality status does not satisfy these requirements. Any upgrade to good status will indirectly benefit sensitive aquatic receptors of the River Boyne and Blackwater SAC and satisfy the requirements of the Habitats Directive. Recommendations for the Donore WWTP management will be informed by the requirements of the Draft Water Framework Directive Management Plan OUTCOMES As detailed in the 'Part VIII Planning Report' for the new WWTP (attached to the Waste Water Discharge Licence Application), the upgraded sewage works will "improve the quality of discharge to the River Boyne SAC" No additional impacts will arise which may indirectly or directly impact conservation objectives (sensitive ecological receptors described) from this plant discharges, providing effective monitoring and implementation of water quality licensing requirements are carried out. Therefore no additional measurable impacts should arise from the proposed treated sewage outfall. Indeed water quality would be expected to improve. It is considered therefore that there is no requirement for stage 3 and 4 of the appropriate assessment. 10 Eastern Regional Fisheries Board: A Draft River Basin Management Plan has been prepared and was published in December It is at the consultation stage. Page 16

21 -..;. TOBIN Signed off by: ~ k"~~,,,,-,---_ Mr. Roger McNaughton? Senior Ecologist ~~ Dr. Emma sweene~- Senior Environmental Scientist ;: TO~.IN Page 17

22 APPENDIX A SITE SYNOPSIS SITE NAME: RIVER BOYNE AND RIVER BLACKWATER SAC SITE CODE: This site comprises the freshwater element of the River Boyne as far as the Boyne Aqueduct, the Blackwater as far as Lough Ramor and the Boyne tributaries including the Deel, Stoneyford and Tremblestown Rivers. These riverine stretches drain a considerable area of Meath and Westmeath and smaller areas of Cavan and Louth. The underlying geology is Carboniferous Limestone for the most part with areas of Upper, Lower and Middle well represented. In the vicinity of Kells Silurian Quartzite is present while close to Trim are Carboniferous Shales and Sandstones. There are many large towns adjacent to but not within the site. Towns both small and large, include Slane, Navan, Kells, Trim, Athboy and Ballivor. The site is a candidate SAC selected for alkaline fen and alluvial woodlands, both habitats listed on Annex I of the E.U. Habitats Directive. The site is also selected for the following species listed on Annex II of the same directive - Atlantic Salmon, Otter and River Lamprey. The main areas of alkaline fen are concentrated in the vicinity of Lough Shesk, Freehan Lough and Newtown Lough. The hummocky nature of the local terrain produces frequent springs and seepages which are rich in lime. A series of base-rich marshes have developed in the poorly-drained hollows, generally linked with these three lakes. Open water is usually fringed by Bulrush (Typha /atifo/ia), Common Club-rush (Scirpus /acustris) or Common Reed (Phragmites australis) and this last species also extends shorewards where a dense stand of Great Fen Sedge or Saw Sedge (C/adium mariscus) frequently occurs. This in turn grades into a sedge and grass community (Carex spp., Molinia caeru/ea) or one dominated by the Black Bogrush (Schoenus nigricans). An alternative direction for the aquatic/terrestrial transition to take is through a floating layer of vegetation. This is normally based on Bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata) and Marsh cinquefoil (Potentilla pa/ustris). Other species gradually becorne established on this cover, especially plants tolerant of low nutrient status e.g. bog mosses (Sphagnum spp.). Diversity of plant and animal life is high in the fen and the flora, includes many rarities. The plants of interest include Narrow-leaved Marsh Orchid (Dacty/omiza traunsteinen), Fen Bedstraw (GaJium ujiginosum), Cowbane (Cicuta virosa), Frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) and Least Bur-reed (Sparganium minimum). These species tend to be restricted in their distribution in Ireland. Also notable is the abundance of aquatic Stoneworts (Chara spp.), which are characteristic of calcareous wetlands. The rare plant, Round-leaved Wintergreen (Pyro/a rotundifojia) occurs around Newtown Lough. This species is listed in the Red EPA Export :16:33:08

23 Data Book and is protected under the Flora Protection Order, 1999, and this site is its only occurrence in Co. Meath. Wet woodland fringes many stretches of the Boyne. The Boyne River Islands are a small chain of three islands situated 2.5 km west of Drogheda. The islands were formed by the build up of alluvial sediment in this part of the river where water movement is sluggish. All of the islands are covered by dense thickets of wet, Willow (Salix spp.) woodland, with the following species occurring: Osier (S. viminalis), Crack Willow (S. fragilis), White Willow (S. alba), Purple Willow (Salix purpurea) and Grey Willow (S. cinerea). A small area of Alder (Alnus glutinosa) woodland is found on soft ground at the edge of the canal in the north-western section of the islands. Along other stretches of the rivers of the site Grey Willow scrub and pockets of wet woodland dominated by Alder have become established, particularly at the river edge of mature deciduous woodland. Ash (Fraxinus excelsiorj and Birch (Betula pubescens) are common in the latter and the ground flora is typical of wet woodland with Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), Angelica (Angelica sylvestris), Yellow Iris, Horsetail (Equisetum spp.) and occasional tussocks of Greater Tussocksedge (Carex paniculata). The dominant habitat along the edges of the river is freshwater marsh - the following plant species occur commonly here: Yellow Flag (Iris pseudacorus), Creeping Bent (Agrostis stolonifera), Canary Reed-grass (Pha/aris arundinacea), Marsh Bedstraw (Galium palustre), Water Mint (Mentha aquatica) and Water Forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides). In the wetter areas of the marsh Common Meadow-rue (Thalictrum flavum) is found. In the vicinity of Dowth, Fen Bedstraw (Galium uliginosum), a scarce species mainly confined to marshy areas in the midlands, is common in this vegetation. Swamp Meadow-grass (Poa palustris) is an introduced plant, which has spread into the wild (naturalised) along the Boyne approximately 5 km south-west of Slane. It is a rare species, which is listed in the Red Data Book and has been recorded among freshwater marsh vegetation on the banks of the Boyne in this site. The only other record for this species in the Republic is from a site in Co. Monaghan. The secondary habitat associated with the marsh is wet grassland and species such as Tall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea), Silverweed (Potentilla anserina), Creeping Buttercup (Ranunculus repens), Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) and Meadow Vetchling (LathYllls pralensis) are well represented. Strawberry Clover (Trifolium fragiferum), a plant generally restricted to coastal locations in Ireland, has been recorded from wet grassland vegetation at Trim. At Rossnaree river bank on the River Boyne, is Round-Fruited Rush (Juncus compressus) found in alluvial pasture, which is generally periodically flooded during the winter months. This rare plant is only found in three counties in Ireland. Along much of the Boyne and along tributary stretches are areas of mature deciduous woodland on the steeper slopes above the floodplain marsh or wet woodland vegetation. Many of these are planted in origin. However the steeper areas of King Williams Glen and Townley Hall wood have been left unmanaged and now have a more natural character. East of Curley Hole the woodland has a natural appearance with few conifers. Broad-leaved species include Oak (Quercus spp.), Ash (Fraxinus excelsiorj, Willows, Hazel (Corylus ave/lana), Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus), Holly (/lex aquifolium), Horse EPA Export :16:33:08

24 chestnut (Aesculus sp.) and the shrubs Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and Elder (Sambucus nigra). South-west of Slane and in Dowth, the addition of some more exotic tree species such as Wych Elm (Ulmus glabra), Beech (Fagus sylvatica), and occasionally Lime (Tilia cordata), are seen. Coniferous trees, Larch (Larix sp.) and Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) also occur. The woodland ground flora includes Barren Strawberry (Potentilla sterilis), Enchanter's Nightshade (Circaea lutetiana) and Ground-ivy (Glechoma hederacea), along with a range of ferns. Variation occurs in the composition of the canopy, for example, in wet patches alongside the river, White Willow and Alder form the canopy. Other habitats present along the Boyne and Blackwater include lowland dry grassland, improved grassland, reedswamp, weedy wasteground areas, scrub, hedge, drainage ditches and canal. In the vicinity of Lough Shesk, the dry slopes of the morainic hummocks support grassland vegetation which, in some places, is partially colonized by Gorse (Ulex europaeus) scrub. Those grasslands which remain unimproved for pasture are species-rich with Common Knapweed (Centaurea nigra), Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense) and Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) commonly present. Fringing the canal alongside the Boyne south-west of Slane, are Reed Sweet-grass (Glyceria maxima), Great Willowherb (Epilobium hirsutum) and Meadowsweet. The Boyne and its tributaries is one of Ireland's premier game fisheries and it offers a wide range of angling from fishing for spring salmon and grilse to seatrout fishing and extensive brown trout fishing. Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar') use the tributaries and headwaters as spawning grounds. Although this species is still fished commercially in Ireland, it is considered to be endangered or locally threatened elsewhere in Europe and is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. Atlantic Salmon run the Boyne almost every month of the year. The Boyne is most important as it represents an eastern river, which holds large three-sea-winter fish from lb. These fish generally arrive in February with smaller spring fish (10 Ib) arriving in April/May. The grilse come in July, water permitting. The river gets a further run of fish in late August and this run would appear to last well after the fishing season. The salmon fishing season lasts from 1 st March to 30th September. The Blackwater is a medium sized limestone river, which is still recovering from the effects of the arterial drainage scheme of the 70's. Salmon stocks have not recovered to the numbers pre drainage. The Deel, Riverstown, Stoneyford and Tremblestown Rivers are all spring fed with a continuous high volume of water. They are difficult to fish in that some are overgrown while others have been affected by drainage with the resulting high banks. The site is also important for the populations of two other species listed on Annex II of the E.U. Habitats Directive, namely River Lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis) which is present in the lower reaches of the Boyne River while the Otter (Lutra lutra) can be found throughout the site. In addition, the site also supports many more of the mammal species occurring in Ireland. Those which are listed in the Irish Red Data Book include Pine Marten, Badger and Irish Hare. Common Frog, another Red Data Book species, also occurs within the site. All of these animals with the addition of the Stoat and Red Squirrel, which also occur within the site, are protected under the EPA Export :16:33:08

25 Wildlife Act. Whooper Swans winter regularly at several locations along the Boyne and Blackwater Rivers. Parts of these areas are within the csac site. Known sites are at Newgrange (c. 20 in recent winters), near Slane (20+ in recent winters), Wilkinstown (several records of 100+) and River Blackwater from Kells to Navan (104 at Kells in winter 1996/97, 182 at Headfort in winter 1997/98, in winter 1999/00). The available information indicates that there is a regular wintering population of Whooper Swans based along the Boyne and Blackwater River valleys. The birds use a range of feeding sites but roosting sites are not well known. The population is substantial, certainly of national, and at times international, importance. Numbers are probably in the low hundreds. Intensive agriculture is the main land use along the site. Much of the grassland is in very large fields and is improved. Silage harvesting is carried out. The spreading of slurry and fertiliser poses a threat to the water quality of this salmonid river and to the lakes. In the more extensive agricultural areas sheep grazing is carried out. Fishing is a main tourist attraction on the Boyne and Blackwater and there are a number of Angler Associations, some with a number of beats. Fishing stands and styles have been erected in places. The Eastern Regional Fishery Board have erected fencing along selected stretches of the river as part of their salmonid enhancement programme. Parts of the river system have been arterially dredged. In 1969 an arterial dredging scheme commenced and disrupted angling for 18 years. The dredging altered the character of the river completely and resulted in many cases in leaving very high banks. The main channel from Drogheda upstream to Navan was left untouched, as were a few stretches on the Blackwater. Ongoing maintenance dredging is carried out along stretches of the river system where the gradient is low. This is extremely destructive to salmonid habitat in the area. Drainage of the adjacent river systems also impacts on the many small wetland areas throughout the site. The River Boyne is a designated Salmonid Water under the EU Freshwater Fish Directive. The site supports populations of several species listed on Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive, and habitats listed on Annex I of this directive, as well as examples of other important habitats. Although the wet woodland areas appear small there are few similar examples of this type of alluvial wet woodland remaining in the country, particularly in the north-east. The semi-natural habitats, particularly the strips of woodland which extend along the river banks and the marsh and wet grasslands, increase the overall habitat diversity and add to the ecological value of the site as does the presence of a range of Red Data Book plant and animal species and the presence of nationally rare plant species EPA Export :16:33:08

26 APPENDIX B CONSERVATION OBJECTIVES RIVER BOYNE AND RIVER BLACKWATER SAC 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: Alkaline fens; Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae). Objective 2: To maintain the Annex II species for which the csac has been selected at favourable conservation status: Lampetra fluviatilis, Sa/mo sa/ar, Lutra lutra. Objective 3: To maintain the extent, species richness and biodiversity of the entire site. Objective 4: To establish effective liaison and co-operation with landowners, legal users and relevant authorities. EPA Export :16:33:08

27 APPENDIX C PHOTO PLATES Plate 1: Currently waste water is discharged to above stream Plate 2: New discharge point (post construction) on River Boyne EPA Export :16:33:08