Chapter 12 Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure
12.5.3 County Kildare Biodiversity Action Plan 2009-2014 The Council adopted its first Biodiversity Action Plan in April 2009 in accordance with the National Biodiversity Plan. The County Biodiversity Plan provides a framework for conserving biodiversity and natural heritage at a local level. It complements the Kildare Heritage Plan by including detailed actions to deliver positive outcomes focused on species and habitats. A key focus of the plan is gathering information on and managing the biodiversity resource, education, awareness raising and the promotion of effective cooperation between stakeholders. The County Kildare Biodiversity Plan will be reviewed during the lifetime of this plan. A new County Kildare Biodiversity Action Plan will be published by 2024
Reason; a central Kildare resource containing biodiversity aims, objectives and initiatives is essential. This document will illustrate the large reach, responsibility and accountability of the Council and partner organisations for biodiversity and the protection of nature. This new enhanced objective to reach 27% of land for nature (see ch 13) should provide the cornerstone of the Plan with milestones for the achievement of this target. A published document will help inform the public, ensure implementation and form a tool to keep track of progress
Section 12.10 Inland Waters: Lakes, Rivers, Streams and Groundwater
Main Request:
This section needs to recognize the importance of floodplains as set out in the detailed Green Infrastructure Map. The floodplain of the Barrow SAC along the Figile River west of Umeras Bog is a critical biodiversity area for breeding curlew and one of the Conservation Action areas identified by the NPWS. The area has been recognized by Birdwatch Ireland as one of the most important bird areas in the county with nationally-important flocks of Golden Plover (3000+ birds), Lapwings (200+ birds), Whooper Swans (300+ birds), and other red-listed species including snipe, kestrel, etc. breeding in this area.
Main Reason:
The biodiversity strategy needs to recognize that many threatened species exist in important floodplain areas and these areas should be protected.
Main Request:
The biodiversity strategy also needs to recognize the importance of Coillte forests to create new biodiversity areas. There are opportunities to manage Coillte forests for biodiversity and this should be highlighted in the County Development Plan.
12.14.6.8
12.14.6.8 Ummeras Bog This area is proposed for a Peatlands National Park, which is supported by the Council
Amendment: Ummeras Bog This area is proposed for a Peatlands National Park which is supported by the Council and will form part of the National Peatlands Park.,