National Survey of Limestone Pavement and Associated Habitats in Ireland

This project completed a detailed field survey of 26 limestone pavement and associated habitat monitoring sites, and 17 proposed Natural Heritage Area (pNHA) sites. Several 100m x 100m (1ha) plots were selected within each monitoring site. The habitats within each plot were mapped using a GeoExplorer handheld GPS minicomputer (Trimble GeoXT). Within each plot a detailed species list was taken and at least one 1m x 1m relevé was recorded within each habitat type encountered. Other data recorded within each plot included management practises, notable species and pressures. Indicators were derived to assess structure and functions and future prospects at each monitoring site. For pNHA surveys, site notes were recorded throughout the site; each habitat type encountered was described, features of interest, pressures, fauna and notable species were also recorded. Data recorded during the pNHA survey, and data from the Burren Life Project (Anon. 2010) and Burren Farming for Conservation Project (Anon. 2011, Anon. 2012) were used in conjunction with the monitoring survey data to assess the national conservation status of limestone pavement and associated habitats in Ireland.