Biodiversity
Habitat creation
Derry City Council as the lead partner in the Derry District Biodiversity Partnership, has been actively implementing the Derry~Londonderry Local Biodiversity Action Plan. Over the past year we have been focusing on creating habitats for priority species, for example, the installation of bat boxes as part of the Derry City Centre Public Realm initiative. Also, we have commissioned a number of bat surveys within local parks, to obtain a baseline to monitor, protect and enhance this priority species.
In partnership with the Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland and the Western Health and Social Services Trust, a woodland was planted at Gransha, as part of the Guinness World Record ‘Tree O’Clock’ event. A total of 26,422 native tree species were planted, securing the new world record for the greatest number of trees planted in one hour. This woodland will create a habitat for a range of species and will be utilised in a few years by the Trust’s patients, staff and public as a recreational resource.
Invasive species
Derry City Council in partnership with Loughs Agency, have been mapping invasive species throughout the city, raising awareness and producing an Invasive Species Action Plan. Japanese knotweed is an invasive species, which spreads quickly along the River Foyle and Faughan River, outcompeting native species. A pilot Japanese knotweed control project has been implemented at Culmore Landfill Site, which aims to eradicate the species from the site, prior to its restoration as a recreational park. This control project will assist with the creation of Japanese knotweed management plans and the eradication of the species at other key sites throughout the city. By mapping and managing invasive species, we have been reducing the local threat to biodiversity.
Nature Reserves
Following last year’s success in securing the city’s first Local Nature Reserve (LNR) at Bay Road Park, Woodland Trust and Derry District Biodiversity Partnership were successful in securing the designation of Prehen, Oaks and Killaloo Woods as LNRs, for their access, community involvement, educational potential and biodiversity. Also, Ness and Ervey Woods were designated as National Nature Reserves for their flora, fauna and geological features.
Biodiversity Awareness Survey
Derry City Council conducted a biodiversity awareness survey in June 2010, to assess local people’s understanding of biodiversity, their perception of how it relates to their lifestyle, willing to do one thing for nature, awareness of local green spaces and events. The results showed that the majority of people understood the term biodiversity, how it relates to their lifestyle and frequently visit local parks and / or organised events. The survey highlighted the effectiveness of raising awareness of biodiversity and encouraging people to assist in conserving and enhancing our local biodiversity
For more information on Derry - Londonderry's Local Biodiversity Action Plan click here