Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023 - Actions for biodiversity in Ballyfarnon
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Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns
Biodiversity Action Plan
2019-2023
Actions for biodiversity in Ballyfarnon
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
Ballyfarnon Community
Biodiversity Plan
This plan has been compiled to the guide the work of Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns for
the next 3 years. The plan was drawn up following consultation with members of
the Tidy Towns group through a number of workshops and meetings held during
the summer of 2019.
The plan does not set out to include all of the excellent work carried out by
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Group but rather, to provide direction for the group over
the next number of years. The first section of the plan is a general introduction to
this Roscommon LEADER Partnership funded project and some general
biodiversity basics. Next, an outline of some of the identified Key Biodiversity
Projects is provided. Finally, there is a schedule of projects that we suggest that
the group would undertake over the next three years, the timeframe of this plan.
Ballyfarnon Main Street
Acknowledgements
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns would like to This Community Biodiversity Action
thank all of their members and Plan was created by Seán Meehan for
volunteers for their tireless work in Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns. Seán would
helping to promote biodiversity, like to thank the members of the group
sustainable living and an attractive for their participation and enthusiasm
environment in Ballyfarnon . throughout this project.
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
1. INTRODUCTION:
The Roscommon Biodiversity Training Project
About this biodiversity been completed and this phase
project now looks to build on this
knowledge by providing a plan for
Ecologists Deborah D’Arcy, Seán biodiversity in each of the
Meehan and Billy Flynn were participating communities. As
commissioned by Roscommon well as including detailed
LEADER Partnership to work information on how to carry out
with communities in County projects, the plans will also be
Roscommon to provide useful in raising awareness of how
biodiversity training and to biodiversity is considered in these
facilitate the development of local communities. This statement of
biodiversity plans. The principal best practice for biodiversity will
aim of this LEADER initiative also be useful to groups seeking
was to increase awareness of the financial or material support for
importance of biodiversity to future projects.
communities but also to empower
individuals and groups to make This biodiversity plan was drawn
positive contributions for the do in their localities. This project up following a series of
benefit of both wildlife and will help groups to incorporate workshops in each of the
people. biodiversity matters into their participating communities which
present and future projects, included field trips, review of
It is to the credit of the participant past, present and proposed
maximising the benefits for
communities that biodiversity has community projects and meetings
wildlife as well as people. The
become such a part of what they with the organising committees.
training element of the project has
What is Biodiversity? destination, a place to live and do business depends to
a large extent on the rich biodiversity of the county.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth. It Our country’s natural heritage contributes to the
includes all living things (organisms) that make up the attractiveness of landscapes, villages and urban
natural world (including humans). Biodiversity also centres.
refers to the places where animals and plants live
(habitats) and the complex interactions between living What's the Local Biodiversity
things and their environment which we call Action Plan For?
ecosystems.
The purpose of a Local Biodiversity Action Plan
Why is Biodiversity Important? (LBAP) is to set out appropriate locally based actions
for the conservation, management and/or
Humans are a component of biodiversity and we are
enhancement of habitats for the benefit of native
dependent on biodiversity to provide a range of
species. This local biodiversity action plan:
ecosystem services. Human activities such as
agriculture, forestry and fishing depend on services • Makes recommendations for the conservation of
provided by biodiversity. We rely on biodiversity for biodiversity through appropriate actions for the
the provision of clean air and water, food and protection, management or appreciation of an area of
medicines, natural landscapes, flood control, noise high ecological value.
pollution control and much more A healthy
environment is important for human health and well- • Identifies actions to improve or enhance local areas
being. Biodiversity provides us with natural amenities so as to increase their value as habitats for species.
to enjoy, parks and green spaces, wildlife and • Encourages actions to raise awareness of the
landscapes to admire and thus improves our quality of importance of biodiversity and its conservation.
life. The attractiveness of our country as a tourist
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
2. Key actions for biodiversity
In this Section, we set out some of the actions that will be common to all of the participating groups and indeed
all community groups interested in biodiversity. We also outline some of the guidelines that are accepted as best
practice for biodiversity at local or wider levels.
2.1 habitat creation and management
Habitat creation is one way to the build-up of nutrients in the
increase the diversity of habitats soil. Wildflowers flourish in a
and enhance an area for nutrient poor soil where they can
biodiversity. Examples of small- compete successfully with the
scale habitat creation that may be more competitive grasses.
appropriate and practical for Gradually over the years the
community groups, schools and number and diversity of
residents to undertake include wildflowers within the meadow
managing an area as meadow Hedgerows are wildlife corridors will increase. It may take several
grassland or wildflower lawn, years before you see an increase.
planting hedgerows, treelines or Meadow grasslands and Avoid using commercially
groves of trees or creating a pond. wildflower lawns available wildflower mixes to
enhance your meadow. These
Habitat creation should only be The traditional hay meadows once mixes often contain species that
attempted in an area that is widespread in Ireland are now are not native to Ireland and are
currently of low biodiversity very scarce due to changes in really only suitable for gardening
value such as amenity grassland. farming practices. Meadows are a and not for creating natural
Introducing a habitat uncommon haven for wildlife in summer, habitats such as meadows. In
in an area such as a pond may be being rich in wildflowers and the addition, some species in these
of more benefit than planting insects, birds and bats that depend mixes are plants of disturbed
more trees in an area that already on them. Managing little used ground or arable fields and are
has good tree cover. Creating a grassland areas as a meadow is unlikely to thrive in a meadow
small complex of habitats such as one way to increase the resources grassland.
a small woodland or grove of trees available to wildlife. This allows
along with some meadow the growth of wildflowers which Pollinator Friendly Planting
grassland around the edges to provide essential pollen for our
create a collection of semi-natural pollinating insects. Long grass Much is spoken about the
habitats will be of more benefit to also hosts a variety of other importance of pollinators these
biodiversity as it will provide insects and invertebrates and days, and rightly so. These are
resources for a greater number of produce seed, both important food hugely important species for not
species. sources for birds. Bat species will only our wildflowers and trees but
forage over a meadow grassland also for many of the plants on
Tree and Hedgerow Planting rich in insect life. Long grass also which we depend for food. Any
provides cover and nesting habitat biodiversity plan should have a
Planting native hedgerows, trees strong focus on plants for
and woodlands provide food, for birds and small mammals.
pollinators.
shelter and niche habitats for a Making Meadows: Where and
range of plant and animal life and How to Encourage Wildflowers While native plants are best for
is one of the easiest ways of Naturally wildlife and should only be
increasing the biodiversity value planted in wild areas, there are a
of an area. Native trees and shrubs Meadow grassland can be wide range of both native and
are best for wildlife. These species established in parkland areas or non-native garden plants which
colonised Ireland naturally and along grass verges. In general provide food for pollinating
have adapted to the environmental areas of meadow grassland or insects which can be used in
conditions here and other plant long grassy verges should be cut gardens and formal plantings.
and animal life have adapted to once a year in autumn and the However, some garden plants are
co-exist with them. cuttings removed. Removing the not suitable for pollinators.
cuttings is important to prevent Planting a range of pollinator
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
friendly plants which flower at waysides or wild areas. Grass any earth banks or stony banks to
different times throughout year cuttings disposed of in waysides provide nest sites for solitary
will provide an important source and other wild places smothers bees. Scrape back to bare soil
of pollen and nectar for wildflowers. Beside watercourses, annually during October to
pollinating insects throughout the grass cuttings can pollute water February to create bare ground for
spring, summer and autumn. and even kill fish. Garden plants solitary bees to burrow into.
which are disposed of outside
Plants for Pollinators: garden areas can take root and Cavity nesting bees make their
Naturally Native spread. Some garden plants can nests in south/east facing
become very invasive and spread stonewalls, masonry, cavities in
Here are some common (and wood or dead plant stems. Visit
sometimes overlooked) plants that to wild areas outcompeting our
native plants and can lead to such areas on a sunny evening
are native to Ireland and County from May -September. If bees are
Roscommon and are of great damage of our natural habitats.
Japanese knotweed, Fallopia seen, protect these areas from
benefit for our insect pollinators: disturbance and, in particular,
japonica, is one such plant, and
Dandelion, Daisy, Bluebell, the dumping of garden cuttings ensure that there is no herbicides
Bugle, Red & White Clover, Ivy, along roadsides has aided its or pesticides used near these
Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Forget- spread throughout Ireland. areas. Additional nest sites can be
me-not, Heather, Bramble, provided by drilling holes in fence
Primrose, Foxglove, Rowan,
Spindle
Plants for Pollinators: Non-
native but beautifully beneficial
Here are some widely available
plants that are good for pollinators
but also look great in any planting
scheme:
Nepeta, Rudbeckia, Aubretia,
Cotoneaster, Berberis, Ribes
(currants), Buddleia, Hydrangea,
Lavenders, Privet, Dogwood,
Hebe, Cranesbills, Achillea,
Campanulas
Composting Bee nesting habitat posts (10 cm deep and 4-8mm in
Compost your garden and food diameter).
Honeybees live in hives and are
waste in a designated composting looked after by beekeepers. Our Herbicides and pesticides
area. Composting reduces the wild bees do not enjoy such
amount of waste going to landfill protection and must find a suitable We would recommend that you
and provides a source of nutrient place to nest. Bumblebee colonies avoid the use of herbicides and
rich compost for gardening. This make their nest on the ground pesticides as they cause harm to
reduces the need to purchase often amongst long grass or other wildlife directly and indirectly.
garden compost often sourced vegetation. Cut such long grassy For example, using slug killer
from peat bogs contributing to the verges between September and might result in fewer thrushes,
loss of these treasured habitats. March so as to avoid disturbing hedgehogs and other slug-eating
Your compost heap also becomes bumble bee nests. wildlife. Using herbicides to
a habitat! Worms, beetles, slugs control ‘weeds’ along grassy
and even hedgehogs will make Solitary mining bees make their verges and around trees kills
themselves at home in a well- nest in tiny burrows in south/east wildflowers which wildlife
managed composting area. facing banks of bare soil, sand, or depend on for food and seeds.
peat. Keep vegetation sparse on
Avoid tipping garden waste into
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
KEY ACTIONS FOR BIODIVERSITY (continued)
2.2 Protecting Biodiversity
Conserving and protecting Hedgerows should be cut to an ‘A’
biodiversity is sometimes as shape which allows sunlight to
simple as getting the time right. reach the bottom of the hedge,
Scheduling management actions promoting a full and dense
to avoid or minimise disturbance growth. The top of the hedge
to wildlife is crucially important. should be left uncut to leave some
fruit and seeds through the
Without management, hedgerows autumn and winter months for
can become ‘gappy’, reducing about every 3 years in rotation. birds to feed on.
their value to wildlife and their This means that not all the
stock-proofing function. Under hedgerows are cut in any one year, Similarly delaying the annual
the Wildlife Act 1976, as allowing some to be left uncut to garden clean-up normally carried
amended, it is illegal to cut hedges provide resources for wildlife. out in autumn until early spring
between 1st March and 31st Hedgerows can be cut between provides some additional shelter
August in order to protect nesting September and March but cutting for wildlife. Dead plant stems and
birds unless there are clear traffic hedgerows later in the autumn, in fallen leaves provide places for
health and safety reasons to do so. November or December is less invertebrates and other small
disruptive to pollinating insects. wildlife to shelter and hibernate
Hedgerows should be cut back during the winter months.
2.3 RAISING AWARENESS
Community groups such as Tidy Towns groups and such as best wildlife-friendly estate, best garden for
Resident’s Associations play a really important role. wildlife or a wildlife photography competition. Better
Raising awareness of biodiversity and encouraging or still is providing opportunities for people to volunteer
facilitating people to engage with and appreciate on a project, such as invasive plant species removal,
wildlife is an important tool in biodiversity tree planting or encouraging people to get involved in
conservation. Providing opportunities for people to citizen science projects. It is often the social benefits
experience biodiversity is useful to draw peoples’ of such events that will attract people to get involved.
attention. Even more effective, however, is increasing
the amount of time people spend outdoors connecting When residents understand more about wildlife in
with nature. Furthermore, the health benefit of their local area, this can instil respect, remind them of
spending time with nature is widely recognised with the value of nature and lead to more effective
known benefits for both physical and mental conservation. Where appropriate, interpretative
wellbeing. signage highlighting the biodiversity present in an
area or promoting a particular biodiversity project can
Raising awareness of biodiversity can be facilitated be useful means to get people involved in Citizen
by organising wildlife-themed walks, bat walks, Science.
wildflower walks and bird watching or competitions,
2.4 Citizen Science: We can all be Environmental Scientists
Citizen science engages the public is a great way to get people used in research, policy formation
to participate in recording involved in biodiversity and contributes greatly to our
wildlife. Keeping records of conservation, improve skills in knowledge of biodiversity and its
wildlife species and submitting wildlife identification and foster a conservation. The NBDC runs
these records to the National personal appreciation of nature. annual one-day wildlife
Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) All records are valuable, even of identification training courses.
(www.biodiversityireland.ie) or common species seen every day.
other dedicated recording scheme Such data is very important and is
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
3. KEY PROJECTS FOR BIODIVERSITY IN BALLYFARNON
Ballyfarnon and environs with the closest designated site lagopus scotica and Irish hare
being Kilronan Mountain Bog Lepus timidus hibernicus. The
Ballyfarnon (Béal Átha Fearnáin NHA, NPWS site code 000617. nearby woodlands at Kilronan
‘ford mouth of the alders’), is a An NHA or National Heritage Castle also provide additional
village located in the north of Area is a site designated for the biodiversity value to the
County Roscommon, close to the conservation of a particular surrounding landscape.
County Sligo border. The village habitat or species. Kilronan Bog is
is located along the River Feorish an example of an area of relatively Three key biodiversity projects, in
close to the foothills of Arigna intact upland blanket bog. Species addition to a number of smaller
Mountain. Nearby lakes include of conservation concern found ones, have been identified and are
Lough Skean and Lough Meelagh here include red grouse Lagopus detailed below
KEY PROJECT 1
BALLYFARNON BIODIVERSITY WALKING TRAIL
Map showing proposed walkway between Ballyfarnon and Kilronan Castle. Inset, view of River Feorish from Ballyfarnon Bridge
Roscommon LEADER to observe and experience many feasibility study to examine a
Partnership Funding has been aspects of Irish biodiversity. This walk between Ballyfarnon Bridge
secured to carry out a feasibility walkway could be enhanced with and Crossna Road Bridge. A copy
study into the creation of a the planting of native fruit trees of that report accompanies this
walkway from Ballyfarnon along its length, taking on an application. That report
Village, along the River Feorish to ‘Edible landscape’ role. highlighted a number of specific
join with the existing Miner’s ecological surveys required, such
Way route in Coillte forest, at Although the exact route has not as bat and otter surveys along the
Kilronan. With a significant been identified at this stage, it is route. As this proposed walkway
section of this proposed route expected that the walkway would is longer in length than that
planned to run alongside the River be approximately 3km in length. assessed in 2018 , additional
Feorish, the walkway would be The feasibility study would ecological assessment is required.
promoted as a biodiversity trail as establish a preferred route. In
the riparian habitats and the 2018, Ballyfarnon Community Project Period: 2019-2022
unspoilt nature of the landscape Enterprise Group Ltd
provide opportunities for walkers commissioned an ecological
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
PROJECT 2
BALLYFARNON COMMUNITY ORCHARD
An area of ground, along the River concept of wild food in the community.
Feorish and formerly used as Japanese knotweed Fallopia japonica
community allotments, has been occurs on the riverbank beside this
identified as a location for a location and needs to be treated prior to
community orchard. The species of orchard works commencing, see Key
apple trees will be a native Irish Project 3.
variety. This project will help promote
biodiversity and ties in with the Project Period: 2019-2021
Area along the River Feorish,
identified as a site for a community
PROJECT 3
REMOVAL OF JAPANESE KNOTWEED FROM THE FEORISH RIVERBANK
Japanese knotweed was the plant could spread, via
previously treated the river, further
unsuccessfully at this downstream and infest other
location . The plant has now areas. The planned
re-established. It is ecological surveys as part of
important that all members the feasibility study into the
of the Tidy Towns group and riverside walkway will need
local residents are made to scope in the possibility of
aware of its presence and stands of this plant
that no one attempts to treat occurring. Only an expert
it. Roscommon County trained in knotweed control
Council must be informed, should treat this or other
and advice sought. As it is stands of this plant.
Stand of previously treated Japanese knotweed by River located along the river
Feorish beside the site of the planned community orchard Feorish, there is a risk that Project Period: 2019-2021
PROJECT 4
CREATION OF WILDFLOWER MEADOW IN FIELD BESIDE O'CAROLAN DRIVE
This field is located to the be carried out in the late spring (no
immediate north of O’Carolan later than the end of April) to restrict
Drive and has the potential to be the likely lush growth of grass. The
managed as a wildflower meadow. main cut should be carried out in
The sward has not been grazed early August, by which time
recently and has become quite rank wildflowers have time to seed.
in places however a diversity of Further cuts can be carried out in the
suitable species was noted, late summer and autumn, depending
indicating that management as a on the rate of grass growth. Cuttings
meadow is likely to be successful. must be removed every time. It may
The current sward requires a tight require a number of seasons for this
cutting and the removal (bailing) of meadow to reach its full potential.
Field by O’Carolan Drive identified as a the cut grass. A further cut , to a
possible site for a wildflower meadow
height of 3 inches (7.5 cm) should Project Period 2019 - 2021
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
4. BALLYFARNON TIDY TOWNS
BIODIVERSITY PROJECT SCHEDULE
No. Project Milestones Project
Period
1 Ballyfarnon • Scoping brief of project completed 2019-2022
Biodiversity • Funding streams identified
Walking Trail • Consultations with Roscommon County
Council, Inland Fisheries, LEADER etc
carried out
• Site surveys carried out
• Desktop survey and research
• Materials completed
• Walkway infrastructure in place
• Walkway goes ‘live’
2 Ballyfarnon • Treat and cordon off the area of 2019 - 2022
Community Japanese knotweed
Orchard • Consult with Roscommon County Council
and residents
• Prepare the ground
• Source native Irish apple varieties
• Erect information signage
3 Removal of • Notify Roscommon County Council 2019 -
Japanese • Raise awareness about the presence of ongoing
knotweed this plant
Fallopia • Treatment commences
japonica from • Cordon area off and avoid any works that
the Feorish would disturb the area until the plant
riverbank has been successfully eradicated
• Monitor the area and along the Feorish
for further stands
4 Creation of a • Establish ownership of the land and sort 2019 -
wildflower out access issues and rights etc ongoing
meadow in a • Notify Roscommon County Council about
field beside the planned project
O’Carolan Drive • Stakeholder consultation carried out
• Seek funding
• Undertake meadow management
• Continue with annual maintenance of the
meadow
5 Further • Install bat and bird boxes on suitable 2019 - 2020
enhancements trees in the garden
at the Memorial • Continue planting pollinator friendly
Garden plants
Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
No. Project Milestones Project
Period
6 Roadside Verge • Identify additional areas for 2020-
Maintenance for implementing a roadside verge ongoing
Pollinators management plan
• Agreement by committee on
management regime to be implemented
• Consultation/communication with
Roscommon County Council
7 Composting • Formalise a composting facility and 2020 -
Project encourage residents to use it ongoing
• Promote the value of compost and
reducing food waste
• Promote the non-use of peat-based
compost in gardens
8 Citizen Science • Participate in a national citizen science 2020 - 2022
scheme such as butterfly monitoring.
• Encourage the submission of records into
the NBDC (National Biodiversity
Datacentre)
9 Public events to • Hold an annual public biodiversity 2020 -
engage the themed event in Ballyfarnon. One ongoing
community example is a bat watching evening by the
Feorish in Ballyfarnon village would bring
a biodiversity focus to the village.Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
5. PROJECT RESOURCES
The following online resources are available to help Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns to promote biodiversity in
their locality:
• Wildflower meadow information: https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-
content/uploads/Pollinator-How-to-Guide-4-wildflower-FINAL.pdf
• Advice on Japanese knotweed http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/projects/invasive-species/japanese-
knotweed/
• Native Irish plants and seed http://www.irishseedsavers.ie/
• Community actions for pollinators: https://pollinators.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Local-
Communities_actions-to-help-pollinators-2018-WEB.pdf
• Pollination related signage: https://pollinators.ie/resources/
• Citizen Science record submission: http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/record-biodiversity/
• Bumblebee Identification guides: https://pollinators.ie/record-pollinators/id-guides/
• Butterfly identification: http://www.biodiversityireland.ie/record-biodiversity/butterfly-monitoring-
scheme/about/how-to-identify-butterflies/
• Composting information: https://stopfoodwaste.ie/
This Local Biodiversity Action Plan was written for Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns by Seán Meehan, Ecological
Consultant. Thanks to all the volunteers and supporters of this biodiversity plan
Photographs are by the author.
September 2019Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX A
1.1 Guidelines for Planting a Native Hedgerow
Which species? Hedgerow Species Trees
• The best guide is to look at These species survive routine These trees are suitable in
hedgerows growing locally and trimming as a hedgerow while hedgerows, provided they are
plant the same native species. individual stems can be allowed to allowed to grow up and mature and
grow up and mature into trees. are not topped when trimming the
• Plant native species which are hedgerow.
adapted to Irish conditions and • Hawthorn (Crataegus
benefit wildlife more. monogyna): Predominant • Alder (Alnus glutinosa): useful
hedgerow species. Hardy, fast- for very wet sites and river banks.
• Locally grown plants, tolerant of growing and tolerates most soils Adapted to most soils. Ideal nurse
local conditions, are likely to except very wet. species as shelters new hedgerows
thrive. and fixes nitrogen.
• Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa)
• Plants grown from locally suits most soils except very wet. • Crab apple (Malus sylvestris):
collected seed conserves local Suits exposed and coastal sites. thrives in all fertile and heavy soils.
provenance. Spreads by suckers, good for
gapping up. • Downy birch (Betula pubescens):
• Thorny species such as hawthorn suits poorly drained peat.
or blackthorn are essential for a • Holly (Ilex aquifolium): slow
stock proof hedgerow. growing evergreen. Tolerates • Silver birch (Betula pendula):
exposed sites and shade. Suitable needs good drainage and sunny site.
• A variety of species provides a
varied food supply throughout the under trees. Male and female • Willows (Salix spp.): useful for
year for more wildlife. Include plants required for berries. wet sites and stabilising river banks.
another hedgerow species or • Spindle (Euonymus europaeus): Tolerate flooding. Fast growing.
climber approximately every metre prefers alkaline, but tolerates a
for stock proof hedgerows. • Wild cherry (Prunus avium):
wide range of soils. Open, infertile prefers fertile soils. Wet soils
• If stock proofing is not a site better for fruit production. unsuitable. Shallow rooting.
consideration plant 4 or 5 different • Guelder rose (Viburnum opulus): Tolerates some shade. Susceptible
species for a species-rich prefers alkaline, fertile, clay soils to bacterial canker.
hedgerow. and neutral wet soils. Acid soils • Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia):
• Include a tree species at irregular unsuitable. Competitive in new grows in poor thin acid soils. Suits
intervals, provided it will be hedgerows. exposed sites. More fruit in open
allowed to grow up and is NOT • Hazel (Corylus avellana): prefers infertile sites.
topped when routinely trimming heavier, fertile soils. Tolerates
the hedgerow. • Wych elm (Ulmus glabra):
some shade. Understory species. Suitable for sandy, loamy and clay
• Avoid non-native trees that cast soils but prefers well drained soil.
dense shade, such as sycamore, Climbers Suits acid, neutral and basic soils.
beech and chestnut. Climbers colonise hedgerows, but • Pedunculate oak (Quercus
• If native varieties are not can be planted. robur): prefers clay soils and damp
available, do not use ornamental • Dog rose (Rosa canina): tolerates lowlands. Poorly drained infertile
garden varieties as they crowd out wide range of soils. Provides rose soils unsuitable.
the desired plants and are not so hips.
good for biodiversity. • Ash* (Fraxinus excelsior):
• Honeysuckle (Lonicera prefers well drained neutral to
pericyclamen): prefers neutral to alkaline soils. Tolerates exposed or
light acid soils. Notable scented coastal areas. Shallow rooting
flowers. system doesn’t suit tillage fields.
Casts shade.
*Note: Due to the spread of ash dieback disease (Chalara fraxinea) planting large numbers of ash trees is not recommended and planting ash is not grant aided.Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX A
1.1 Guidelines for Planting a Native Hedgerow (continued)
Hedgerow Planting On-going
Planting • Prepare the ground and ensure management
that plant roots do not dry out. This
When? can be done by keeping them in
• Water in dry weather
Hedgerow planting should be done their bag in a cool place until • Control competing vegetation to
during the tree planting season planting or dig them into a prevent smothering and allow
between November and February. temporary trench. During planting, lower branches develop, giving a
To make planting easier, cover the avoid exposing the plants to air. dense base.
ground with black polythene at • Dig a trench and plant to the same • Manual weeding
least 6 months before hand to depth as previously planted in the
supress existing vegetation. • Mulching immediately after
nursery.
planting helps weed control.
Spacing • Hawthorn, blackthorn and dog- Mulch such as wood chippings,
rose should be cut back to 100mm paper or cardboard must extend
• It is recommended to plant 150mm outside the plants.
7plants/metre in a double (4’’) from ground level to promote
staggered row. This means a shoots at this level. Leave a few
• Fence off livestock using
spacing of 300mm (1’) between hawthorns un-pruned, placing tree
temporary fencing. Consider
plants in each row and at least shelters on them to identify and
livestock reach and future access
300mm (1’) between the two rows. protect as single stemmed mature
for machine trimming, when
Of the 7 plants in every metre, at trees.
positioning the fence. Rabbit proof
least 6 should be hawthorn for a • Identify a few other species for fencing may be needed to protect
stock proof hedgerow. retention as single stemmed trees. from rabbits or hares.
• The other plant in every metre Trees such as pedunculate oak, ash
• Replace plants which fail to grow.
should come from the list above and rowan are also suitable.
which tolerate routine trimming. • For the first few years after
• Retain approximately ten single
planting, cut hawthorn back to
• If stock proofing is not a stemmed small trees per 300 m;
75mm (not other species) above
consideration then a more species too many make hedge cutting
previous level of cut, gradually
rich hedge can be planted choosing difficult and cast shade on the
shaping into a triangular profile.
up to four species from the list hedgerow.
above.
Bibliography:
Teagasc (2009). Countryside Management Series 4 New Farm Hedgerows.
Tree Council of Ireland. www.treecouncil.ieBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX B
The following table provides a list of some pollinator friendly plants. The list is not exhaustive
and your local nursery can advise on other pollinator friendly plants.
Important: In towns and villages non-native horticultural or ornamental plants can be an
important additional food source for pollinators. It is important to choose species that are good
sources of nectar and pollen. However, you should not plant these in natural or semi-natural
habitats. They should also not be planted in farmland (outside of farm gardens).
SOME POLLINATOR FRIENDLY PLANTS
SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN/
WINTER
TREES AND
SHRUBS Apple (Malus sp.) Rock Rose Hebe
Field maple (Acer Horse chestnut Ivy
campestre) (Aesculus)
Willow (Salix sp.) Deutzia Honeysuckle (Lonicera
sp.)
Crab apple (Malus Firethorn Tree ivy
sylvestris) (Pyracanth a sp.)
Wild Cherry (Prunus Laburnum Barberry (Mahonia)
avium)*
Rowan (Sorbus Viburnum Musk willow
acuparia)* (Salix aegyptiaca)
Broom (Cystisus sp.) Foxglove tree Sweet box
(Paulownia tomentosa) (Sarcococca confusa)
Forsythia Blackcurrant (Ribes Sweet box(Sarcococca
nigrum) hookeriana)
Viburnum sp. Redcurrant (Ribes
rubrum)
Bird cherry (Prunus
padus)*
Hawthorn
(Crataegus monogyna)*
Juneberry Tree
Amelanchier xBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
SOME POLLINATOR FRIENDLY PLANTS
SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN/
WINTER
PLANTS AND Hellebores (Helleborus Columbine (Aquilegia) Heathers
HERBS sp.)
Rosemary (Rosemarinus Yarrow (Achillea) Lavender (Lavandula)
officinalis)
Castor Oil plant (Fatsia Bistort (Persicaria Asters
japonicai) bistorta)
Bugle* (Ajuga reptans) Angelica (Angelica) Catmint (Nepeta)
Aubrieta Bell flowers Raspberry (Rubus)
(Campanula)
Wallflower (Erysimum) Chives (Allium) Eupatorium
Cranesbills (Geranium) Comfrey (Symphytum) Scabious
(Knautia, Scabiosa)
Blueberry (Vaccinium) Foxglove (Digitalis) Snapdragon (Antihirrhums)
Skimmia (Skimmia Hebe Sunflowers (Helianthus)
japonica)
Pasque flower Lupin (Lupinus) Ivy (Hedera helix)
(Pulsatilla vulgaris)
Spurges (Euphorbia sp.) Monkshood (Aconitum) Chrysanthemums
Lungwort (Pulmonaria sp). Sage ( Salvia) Borage (Borago)
Perennial candytuft Thyme (Thymes) Majoram (Origanum)
(Iberis sempervirens )
Elephant ear Coneflower Knapweed (Centaurea)
(Bergenia sp.) (Echinacea purpurea)
Leopard’s bane Bell Heather Larkspur (Delphinium)
(Doronicum × excelsum (Erica cinerea)*
Green alkanet Red Turtlehead Dahlia species &
(Pentaglottis (Chelone obliqua) hybrids (Dahlia)
Bugbane Salvia species (Sage -
(Actaea simplex) autumn-flowering)
Bee Balm (Monarda) Aconitum carmichaelii
(Carmichael’s monk’s
Oxeye sunflowers Helianthus × laetiflorus
(Heliopsis sp.) (Perennial sunflower)
Black-eyed Susan Leucanthemella serotina
(Rudbeckia) (Autumn ox-eye)
Wallich Mil Parsley Majoram (Origanum)
(Selinum wallichranum)Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
SOME POLLINATOR FRIENDLY PLANTS
SPRING SUMMER AUTUMN/
WINTER
BULBS Winter aconite Onion (Allium species Colchicum species
(Aconitum) ornamental and edibles) (Autumn crocus)
Bluebell*(Hyancinthoides Russian Sage
non-scripta)
Crocus Winter aconite
(Eranthis hyemalis)
Grape hyacinth Snowdrop
(Muscari armeniacum) (Galanthus sp.)
Single flowered dahliaBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX C
Constructing Bird Boxes and selecting their location
1.
CONSTRUCTION
Use a plank of wood about 150
mm wide and 15 mm thick. Cut
out pieces to the dimensions
opposite. The bottom of the
entrance hole must be 125 mm
from the floor. The inside wall
below the entrance hole should be
rough to help the young birds to
clamber up when it's time for
them to leave.
2.
When assembling the box use
screws or galvanised nails.
3.
Attach the lid with a brass or a
plastic hinge that will not rust, or
hinge it with a strip of leather or
rubber (an old piece of bicycle
inner tube will do). Fasten it down
with a good catch. Do not nail
down the lid, since you will need
to clean out the box in the autumn
4.
By altering the size of the hole
you can make a box to suit
different species. 25 - 35mm
diameter
hole
• Blue tit and coal tits~25 mm
• Tree sparrow~28 mm
• House sparrow~32 mm
5.
It is best to use hardwood and
leave the wood untreated.
Softwood boxes can be treated
with selected water-based Make the same box with the upper
preservatives, which are known to half taken away altogether for
be safe for animals, such as Robin, Pied Wagtail and Wren.
Sadolin.Ballyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
LOCATION SELCTION
Put your nest box up before the Nest box care
start of the breeding season in
February. If you put the box up in If birds take up residence in your
winter and put a small handful of nest box, avoid going near the box
wood shavings inside, birds may or disturbing the nest as this may
roost in it for warmth. result in the parent birds
abandoning their young. Observe
Don’t use straw as this will and admire the activity from afar,
become damp and mouldy over preferably from inside looking
the winter. The box should be through a window.
located at least 2 m from the
ground (preferably 3-5 m) so cats, The box can be opened from the
other predators and curious end of October and cleaned out.
people (especially children) don’t Empty out old nest material and
disturb the nesting birds. any unhatched eggs and clean the
inside of the box with boiling
Choose a location that is situated water to kill off any parasites that
away from bird tables and feeders may be still in the box.
as nesting birds are territorial and
may feel threatened by other birds
feeding nearby. Unless there are
trees or buildings which shade the
box during the day, face the box
between north and south-east,
thus avoiding strong sunlight and
the wettest winds. Make sure that
the birds have a clear flight path to
the nest box without any
obstructing vegetation directly in
front of the entrance. Tilt the box
forward slightly so that any
driving rain will hit the roof and
bounce clear.
Use a wire strap to attach the box
to a tree to avoid damaging the
tree and check annually to ensure
the wire is not cutting into the tree
trunk.
Open-fronted boxes for robins
and wrens need to be situated low
down, below 2 m, well hidden in
vegetation such as dense bramble
thickets.
Adapted from www.rspb.org and www.birdwatchireland.ieBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX D
Constructing BAT Boxes and selecting their location
Bats are social animals and often that keep the bats warm. The bat • Pre-drill the holes to prevent the
congregate in large numbers. box described below is for wood splitting.
Providing bat boxes offer bats summer occupancy since it lacks
additional roosting areas, or can the required insulating properties • Box should be made from
often help to replace lost or to make it suitable for a untreated rough sawn timbers.
degraded roosting sites such as hibernation site. • Timber should be about 20 mm
demolition of old buildings. thick.
Materials and
Bat box construction • The box should be rainproof and
construction draught-free.
• The only critical measurement is
There are many designs for bat the width of the crevices: between • Crevices can be between 15-20
boxes. Check the resources page 15-20mm. mm wide
for alternatives. Bat boxes should • Fixings may be by use of
be draught free and preferably • This kit requires approximately
1.6m of rough wood and 25 brackets, durable bands or wires
painted black with a non-toxic
paint to allow for maximum screws (8 x 1 ½ inches) to
absorption of heat during the day assembleBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
Locating your BAT Box
Bat boxes are best positioned as box is not impeded, for example How long before
high as possible but at least 4 or 5
m from the ground in a sheltered
by branches – clear away
underneath the box so the bats can
bats use the box?
and wind free position, exposed to land easily before crawling up Sometimes it may take several
the sun for part of the day (6-8 into the box. years for the bats to find the box.
hours). They can be fitted to walls, Be patient!
other flat surfaces and trees. A If fixing the box to a tree, use
clear flight line to the entrance is headless or domed nails not fully It is highly unlikely bats will shift
important. Ideally put up 2-3 hammered home to allow the tree their roost from a well-used site to
boxes in a group with varying to push the box off without a newly positioned box and there
aspects ranging from south east to splitting, or strap the box to the may be plenty of other suitable
south west, e.g. around a tree tree. Iron nails can be used on roosting sites in the area.
trunk, as bats may move between trees with no commercial value. However, at other times bats will
roosts to remain comfortable. Copper nails can be used on use the box within a few months,
conifers, but aluminium alloy and if you are extremely lucky,
Bats are nocturnal and adapted to nails are less likely to damage maybe even within a few weeks!
low light conditions. Artificial saws and chipping machinery.
light sources should not be
directed onto bat boxes or flight On buildings, place the boxes as
paths as most bat species find high as possible to reduce the How will I know if
artificial lighting very disturbing. likelihood of the bats falling prey the box has been
to cats or being disturbed by
Don’t position bat boxes in areas
humans. As with trees, the aspect
successful?
that are illuminated at night.
of the box on the building should To check if the box is being used,
Bat boxes are more likely to capture sun for part of the day. look out for droppings, urine
succeed in areas where bats are staining, listen for ‘chattering’ and
frequently found in buildings and Monitoring bat watch the box for an hour either
where there is a good mixture of boxes side of sunset to observe any bats
habitat such as trees nearby. Bat leaving to feed.
boxes may be more successful if Making and erecting bat boxes is
located close to a linear feature a great conservation action but Remember disturbance of a bat
such as a line of trees or what is more beneficial is to roost is an offence under the
hedgerow. Some bat species use establish whether they are being Wildlife Acts 1976 and 2000).
these features for navigation used, at what time of year and by Therefore, a bat box should not
between their roosting sites and which species. There are nine be opened or interfered with
feeding grounds thus avoiding species of bat found in Ireland. unless the person is licensed to
flying in open and exposed areas. do so.
Ensure the bats approach to theBallyfarnon Tidy Towns Biodiversity Action Plan 2019-2023
APPENDIX E
BIODIVERSITY RECORDING
Submitting records of species that you have observed grid reference feature” to easily find an accurate
and submitting them to the National Biodiversity Data location for your record.
Centre (NBDC) or another dedicated recording
scheme is a great and practical means to become • You can also submit records for any wildlife species
involved in biodiversity conservation. You are also using their Biodiversity Smartphone App.
improving your wildlife identification skills and The number of conservation organisations running
getting ‘back in touch with nature’. Such data is very citizen science recording projects in Ireland is
important and is used in research, policy formation continually increasing:
and contributes greatly to our knowledge of
biodiversity and its conservation. • Birdwatch Ireland run the Garden Bird Survey and
other more specialised recording schemes such as the
The NBDC collate records of all species recorded, in Countryside Bird Survey, Irish Wetlands Bird surveys
addition to running targeted recording schemes such (iWeBS). They also coordinate ‘species action
as the butterfly and bumblebee recording schemes. projects’ such as the Swift Nest Box project and Barn
Anyone can get involved and they are keen to recruit Owl Project which you may be able to get involved
new recorders. Visit www.nbdc.ie for details. with. Visit www.birdwatchireland.ie
How to store and submit • The Irish Wildlife Trust also run targeted recording
records schemes such as for smooth newt and common lizard.
Visit www.iwt.ie
The information recorded needs to be as accurate as
possible. To take an accurate record you need to: • For botanical recording contact the Botanical
Society of Britain and Ireland (BSBI). The BSBI run
• Correctly identify the species (or get help in doing several outings a year and are very encouraging to
so) new and emerging botanists and members. Visit
http://www.bsbi.org.uk/ireland.html
• Record when (the date) and where you saw it. For
the location, you need a grid reference. You can • Submit wildlife sightings and sightings of road kill
submit records to the NBDC centre through their to www.biology.ie
online records submission form. This has a “find aYou can also read
