i I 1 Flora and Fauna Survey and

Ecological Impact Assessment of Proposed Sewage Treatment Plant

Development at New Ross, Co. Wexford.

Professor 1.H. Collins, Oepartment of microbiology, Uniuersitq College Cork GNU

Richard ITIundy, Oepartment of Zoologq and Animal Ecology. Uniueraitq College Cork

November 2000.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Report on Proposed New Ross, Co. Wexford Sewage Treatment Work

BY

Professor I.H. Collins. Oepartment of Fnicrobiologq, University College Cork and

Richard ITIundq, Oepartment of Zoolugq and flnimal Ecologq, University College Cork

The proposed site is located just to the south of the town of New Ross, Co. Wexford, on the flood plain of the river Barrow at grid reference S708260. It consists of flat grazing pasture, bisected by a network of slow-flowing drainage ditches. It is undesirable and now generally unacceptable to release untreated effluent and in particular that containing human sewage into receiving waters. This has a major negative impact on the natural flora and fauna and is particularly a problem when such waters are sources for eventual domestic agricultural or industrial use. The disposal of untreated human sewage into potential recreational waters renders them a health hazard for such recreational purposes. Human sewage containing effluent poses a specific health risk to humans as it actually or potentially contains enteric bacteria, enteric viruses and other microorganisms which can cause a spectrum of diseases ranging from mild gastroenteritis t paralytic and even to a fatal outcome. Such effluent must be disposed of after suitable treatment to maximally protect human health, natural flora and fauna and the environment in its broader definition. Sewage treatment works ideally are located at sites removed from densely populated areas and particularly removed from sensitive industries such as pharmaceutical and food industries.

Proposed Site: Marshmeadows, New Ross, Co. Wexford. A sewage treatment works (encompassing primary, secondary and possibly tertiary treatment) must be designed located and operated to benefit the community as a whole, the local environment and particularly the river/estuarine/marine environment when used as terminal receiving waters.

a) Location of treatment works site.

b) Impact of construction on local environment - traffic, resident population, flora and fauna

c) Design of treatment process for projected effluent type with built in appropriate capacity for future demands.

d) Quality of final effluent.

e) Appropriate receiving waters

f) Sludge treatment and disposal i

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g) Nuisance mitigation (aerosols, odours, noise, traffic) eos

h) Construction and landscaping to minimise visual awareness and hence impact

The site is a polder, i.e. an area of land which has been reclaimed from the original course of the rivedestuary. A high embankment to the seaward protects the reclaimed area from the flooding tide which means in turn that the site of the proposed development lies below MHWM.

Ecologically speaking therefore this is a man-made habitat and its existing flora and fauna must be evaluated in this important context. In addition the site has been at least partially mineralised (through the use of fertilizers) and the drainage ditches contain an emphemeral flora through the requirement of periodic excavation to remove silt and the prevention of flooding.

The Marshmeadows site is essentially a lgth century polder which now comprises an extensive area of rough pasture bordered on two sides by drainage ditches, one of which to the seaward is inundated at high tide and is therefore essentially estuarine. The terrestrial habitats include poor quality pasture, some hedges and areas of regeneration scrub vegetation.

The site is bordered to the east by the R733 road from New Ross to Fethard, beyond which is an area of broad-leaved woodland, dominated by Oak (Quercus spp.), Beech (Fagus sylvatica), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Holly (Ilex aquifolium). To the west, the site is bordered by a bank, approximately 5 metres high, beyond which lies the river Barrow. North of the site there is an industrial development (chemical storage and transshipment facilities) and to the south there is heavily grazed, wet, pasture. There is a petrol station, with associated garages, domestic dwellings, outbuildings and yards, between the road and the southern portion of the site (see figure 1).

@ Marshmeadows Site Flora and Fauna (July Assessment)

Flora

The pasture itself consists of grasses, ragwort, thistle and some patches of rushes. Scurvy Grass (Cochleria officinalis), Wild Celery (Apium graveolens), Buttercup (Ranunculus sp) and Self heal (Prunella vulgaris) are also present. The grasslands are periodically grazed and disturbance due to the activities of cattle is evident. Regenerating scrub is to be found at various locations dominated by clumps of Bramble (Rubus fructicosis) and some gorse (Ulex europeus). Bank and hedgerow vegetation is composed of Bramble, Holly (Ilex aquisolium), Hawthorn (Cretagus monogyna), Elder (Sambucus nigra), Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) and Cleavers (Galium aparine).

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The flora of these sub-habitats is not exceptional and is typical of the polder- type vegetation extensively distributed throughout the area particularly in those sections which have not been affected by intensified agriculture.

Fauna

Mammals

While no direct evidence of mammals was noted during the survey it may be assumed that a variety of species periodically utilize the site especially Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Hare (Depus timidus hibernicus) and others (Lufra lufra).

Birds

As would be expected in a polder site the dominant species within the avifauna are ground nesting forms together with those that habitually breed in low scrub. Meadow Pipits (Afhus prafensis) are numerous but Skylarks (Alauda arvensius) are scarce. Stonechats (Saxicola forquafa) are also numerous. Other species include those typically associated with hedgerows i.e. Blackbird ( Turdus rnerula), Robin (Erifhacus rubicula), Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) and Hedge Sparrow (Prunella modularis). Wet meadow species include Reed Bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) and Mallard (Anas platyrhiznchus). Avifauna observed are listed in Appendix 1.

Insecta

Three butterfly species were found viz. Orange tip, green veined, white and small tortoise shell, each of which are common.

Site Visits and Methods

The site was visited on numerous occasions. The flora and fauna assessments were made during the months of July (Summer) and November (Winter): to assess the ecological importance of the species and habitat types present and to assess the potential ecological impacts of the proposed development.

The site was surveyed on foot. All areas of the site were visited, the different habitat types present were examined and mapped. Plant species and communities were identified all birds seen or heard were noted and all evidence of mammal activity was recorded.

The context of the site and its immediate surroundings within a broader area was assessed by walking and driving the road to the east of the site, stopping regularly and scanning with binoculars.

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Habitats (Flora and Fauna assessment - November)

For the purposes of the November assessment the proposed site was divided into four areas.

Figure 1 shows the location of four, broadly defined, habitat types identified at the site.

Area A:- The two fields in the southern portion of the site, through which the access road is to be built are similar to one another in character, consisting of fairly wet, improved grassland, dominated by Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) and perennial rye-grass (Lolium perenne) with a small proportion of common herbs such as creeping buttercup (Rannunculus repens), red clover (Trifolium prafense), broad-leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius), marsh thistle (Cirsium palustre), spear thistle (Cirsium vulgare) and common chickweed ( Stellaria media). The area provides feeding habitat for a number of bird species, however, unless it remains ungrazed and undisturbed (not the case) throughout the summer, it is unlikely that any bird species breed. Eleven Meadow Pipits and two Reed Buntings were present. The habitat is also suitable for Snipe (and perhaps other waders such as Golden Plover and Lapwing), Skylark and finches such as Linnet.

@ This plant community is of little conservation value.

Area 6:- The large field in the north of the site, where the main development will be placed has been recently modified, with evidence of widespread heavy vehicle activity (caterpillar tracks). As a result, much of the topsoil has been either removed, or mixed with sand and silt. Much of the area is devoid of vegetation, and what little there is consists of ruderal species such as annual meadow-grass, (Poa annua), creeping thistle, (Cirsium arvense) and some hard rush (Juncus efusus). There are also small pools of standing water. This area held a number of wading birds; a roost of 300 Lapwing and 2 Snipe, which were probably feeding.

Area C:- There are several drainage ditches running across the site, flowing from east to west, towards the river Barrow, and north-south, parallel to the river. These hold a typical lowland ditch plant community, with Canadian waterweed (Elodia canadensis), fools water-cress (Apium nodiflorum), reed sweet-grass (Glyceria maxima), floating sweet-grass (Glyceria fluitans), sedges (Carex spp.), common water starwort (Callifriche stagnalis), rushes (Juncus spp.), common water-plantain (Alisma plantago-aquafica) and common reed (Phragmites communis) the dominant species. Occasional grey willows (Salix cinerea) are present on the banks. The ditches along the southern and western borders of the site appear clean, and probable provide habitat for

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dragonflies (Anisoptera), such as Hairy Dragonfly (Brachytron pratense) and Common Darter (Sympetrum striolatum), damselflies (Zygoptera), such as Blue-tailed Damselfly (lschnura elegans) and Variable Damselfly (Coenagrion pulchellum), and other aquatic invertebrates. The ditch crossing the centre of the site, from the garage area, appears less clean, with Canadian waterweed (Elodea canadensis) and cornmon reed (Phragmites communis) the only common species. There is much evidence of otter (Lutra lutra) activity along the ditches, including a heavily used path along the eastern edge of the ditch at the western boundary of the site (parallel to the river), where at least two spraint sites, both with fresh spraint, are also located. Between this ditch and the river, there is a high flood bank (approx. 5 metres high) which is heavily vegetated with common reed (Phragmites communis) and other grasses and herbs, with some tree and shrub growth, including elder (Sambucus nigra), ash (Fraxinus excelsior), hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) holly (llex aguifolium), bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and Ivy (Hedera helix). This area appears to be particularly attractive to birds, with a high density of Blackbirds and Redwings present. The areas of dense reed along the ditches provides breeding habitat for a number of bird species such as Moorhen, Sedge Warbler and Reed Bunting. The shrubs along the bank provide breeding habitat for further species such as Wren, Dunnock, Robin, Blackbird, Whitethroat, Chaffinch and others.

Area D:- The easternmost portion of the site, where the access road is to meet the existing R733, consists of rank, rough, grassland with some scrub development, dominated by creeping bent (Agrostis stolonifera) and other course grasses, with common herbs such as ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), stinging nettle (Mica dioica), red clover (Trifolium pratense), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), broad-leaved dock (Rumex obfusifolius), creeping cinqufoil (Potentilla reptans), bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.) and common gorse (Ulex europaeus). The extreme southeastern corner of the site consists of a wetter area, choked with sedges (Carex spp.), bordered by dense bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.). This rough area provides breeding habitat for a number of bird species such a6 Meadow Pipit, Wren, Dunnock and Robin. Overall observed avifauna are listed in Appendix 2.

The R733 is a major road, which already carries a large volume of traffic. Increased local traffic due to the development is highly unlikely to have a major ecological impact. Within a broader context, the site constitutes a marginal part of a more extensive wet, lowland area. The habitats present on the site are unlikely to be of significant ecological importance within this wider framework.

Summary of the ecological importance of the site and probable impacts of the development

Although the fields provide feeding habitat for a number of bird species, the ecological value of the site is limited largely to the ditches. These provide

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habitat for Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) and other freshwater invertebrates, and breeding birds. Most importantly, these ditches are heavily used by otters (Lufra lufra).

The otter is listed under annexes II (priority species) and IV of the EU Habitats Directive (94/43/EEC), to which Ireland is a signatory. As an Annex I I priority species, the otter is classified as “endangered”. Under the provisions of the directive, (Article 12, 1 (d)) “Member States shall take the requisite measures to establish a strict protection for the animal species listed in Annex IV (a) in their natural range, prohibiting deterioration of breeding sites or resting places”. Although no holts appear to be located on the site itself, the raised bank which runs along the western edge of the site appears to be a suitable location for a holt and it is possible that one may exist very close to the site. Some level of disturbance to otters is likely during the construction phase and perhaps also during the ongoing operation of the plant. However, it is most likely that the otters would successfully move away from the site during the development phase. There is a habitat area available down-stream of the proposed site to accommodate same.

The bushes and small trees along the riverbank at the western margin of the site provide good cover for birds, particularly migrants, which may be following the course of the river. The attractiveness of this area to birds, and probably also to mammals, is enhanced by the fact that it is difficult for people to access and is therefore little disturbed.

Mitigation measures and Recommendations

Discharges of organic matter and other pollutants into the ditches should be avoided, both during the construction phase and during the on-going operation of the plant.

A strip of grassland (2-3 metres in width) could be left intact between the ditch and the new access road.

Direct run-off into ditches from the road (which may be contaminated with oil) could be avoided by appropriate cambering and installation of drains.

The Trees and small shrubs along the riverbank should be retained wherever possible, and the undisturbed nature of the riverbank should also be maintained, if possible.

A number of other mitigation measures could be implemented, which would minimise the ecological impact of the development and increase the long term ecological value of the area.

During the construction phase of the development, disturbance to plant communities and wildlife habitats should be minimised by provision of a

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minimal number of access roads, avoidance of unnecessary off-road activity, avoidance of waste dumping, etc.

Disturbance from noise, particularly at night, both during construction and on-going operation of the development should be kept to a minimum.

.. Bright lighting at night should be kept to a minimum.

Provision of appropriate, ecologically sensitive, landscaping, including the planting of native tree species.

Discharges from the treatment works should conform to legal standards.

Receiving river water quality should be assessed prior to and during the operation of the plant (faecal indicator bacteria, bacterial pathogens, enteric viral pathogens). Air analysis for aerosolised faecal indicator bacteria should also be undertaken on commencement of activities . Sludge delivery from outlying treatment plants for processingAreatment should take place during daytime.

Residual Impacts of the Development

The main part of the development on the field in the north of the site will have little direct ecological impact as the area is already highly degraded and of little or no ecological value. The access road to the site will remove a portion of the two fields in the southern part of the site, however, these are also of low conservation value. The ditches bordering the site are of higher conservation value, particularly due to the presence of otters, which has been revealed by the field survey. Otters are protected under Annexes II and IV of the EU Habitats Directive, to which Ireland is a signatory state (see above). The construction phase of the development will undoubtedly cause a degree of disturbance to otters, however, the long-term impacts of the development on otters and other wildlife should be minimised if the proposed mitigation measures outlined above are implemented.

Overall Summary of Potential Impacts of Proposed Sewage Treatment Works Development on Marshmeadows Site

The construction, siting and operation of a sewage treatment works at this Marshmeadows site would not negatively impact on flora and fauna to any significant effect (with the exception of others, effects can be mitigated). This site is already ecologically degraded. It is effectively an artificial man made habitat. No ecologically sensitive birds or plants were detected.

a) The site is removed from any highly populated area. However, plant odour, aerosols and noise levels should be kept to a minimum due to

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the relatively proximity of the petrol station and residence. This would also apply to the nearby traveller’s halting site.

It is located proximal to an industrialized storage tank farm area and therefore the physical appearance of a works such as that proposed is not inconsistent with pre-existing structures. It will however be difficult to screen due to the necessity for construction at a raised level.

Accesslexit for construction and for service vehicles such as sludge tankers will not be problematic as it will not be serviced directly from the main national route.

It is adjacent to the river for ease of effluent discharge.

It is not close to any sensitive industry such as Food or Pharmaceutical manufacturers.

It is not on the main national primary route to Wexford

Location of the works at the Marshmeadows site would minimally if at all effect the designated AS1 area at Oaklands Wood.

The advantages of this site must be weighed against the huge cost of providing a support foundation at this site.

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n

Species

Meadow Pipits S kvlarks

Appendix 1: The species of birds recorded at the Marshmeadows site (July)

Density

Numerous Scarce

~~

Stonechats Blackbird Robin Wren Hedgesparrow Reed Bunting Mallard Snipe Green and Golden Plover Teal Wiaeon

N u m ero us Present Present Present Present Present Present Expected in Winter Expected in Winter Expected in Winter ExDected in Winter

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Appendix 2: (November), with details of behaviour,

The numbers of birds recorded at the Marshmeadow site

Blue Tit MaaDie

1 Present on site I Present on site

Jackdaw Rook Chaffinch Reed Buntina

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2 Flew over 8 Flew over 1 Present on site 3 Present on site

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Appendix 3: Scientific names of birds referred to in the text

Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo Moorhen Gallinula chloropus Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria C u r lew Numenius aqua fa Snipe Galinago gallinago Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Black-headed Gull Laws ribibundis Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus Wood pigeon Columba palumbus Skylark Alauda arvensis Meadow Pipit Anfhus prafensis Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea Wren Troglodyfes froglodyfes Dunnock Prunella modularis Robin Erithacus rubecula Stonechat Saxicola torquafa Blackbird Turdus merula Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Redwing Turdus iliacus Sedge Warbler Acrocaphalus schoenobaenus Whit et h roa t Sylvia communis Goldcrest Regulus regulus Blue Tit Parus cearuleus Magpie Pica pica Jackdaw Corvus monedula Rook Corvus frugilegus Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs Linnet Carduelis cannabinna Reed Bunting Emberim schoeniculus Mallard (Anas platyrhiznchus) Hedge sparrow (Prunella modularis)

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