County Armagh Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs)
County Armagh is home to a diverse array of landscapes that hold significant scientific value. To protect these unique environments, specific locations are designated as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs). These designations ensure that the most valuable biological, geological, and historical sites are preserved for future study and conservation.
What is an ASSI?
An Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) is a conservation designation used in Northern Ireland to protect sites of high scientific importance. The body responsible for designating these areas is the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, which operates as a division of the Department of Environment (DoE).
While similar to Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) found in other parts of the United Kingdom, ASSIs in Northern Ireland have a broader scope. They encompass not only natural environments but also man-made structures. A site may be designated based on its fauna (animal life), flora (plant life), or specific geological and physiographical features. Additionally, man-made structures are included if they meet criteria regarding rarity, recorded history, or intrinsic appeal.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Governing Body: The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (Department of Environment).
- Scope: Includes both natural landscapes and man-made structures.
- Criteria: Based on biological, geological, physiographical, historical, or rarity factors.
- Documentation: Detailed citation sheets for each site are available via the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's website.
Designated ASSIs in County Armagh
County Armagh features a wide variety of protected sites, ranging from expansive loughs and bogs to specialized meadows and quarries. These sites are monitored to maintain their scientific integrity and ecological health.
| Site Name | Biological Interest | Geological Interest | Historical/Cultural Interest | Area (Hectares) | Area (Acres) | Council | Year Declared |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annacramph Meadows | Yes | No | No | 1.01 | 2.5 | Armagh | 1992 |
| Brackagh Bog | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Caledon and Tynan | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Cam Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Camlough Quarry | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Carlingford Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Carrickastickan | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Cashel Loughs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Cloghinny | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Crossbane Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Derryvore | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Drumcarn | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Drumlougher Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Fathom Upper | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Glendesha | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Kiltubbrid Loughs | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Lislea | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Levallymore | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Lough Gullion | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Lough Neagh | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Loughaveely | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Lurgan Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Moyrourkan Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Mullaghbane | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Peatlands Park | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Selshion | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Slieve Gullion | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Straghans Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Tullyard | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Tullybrick Lough | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for designating ASSIs in Northern Ireland?
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency, which is a division of the Department of Environment (DoE), is the body responsible for the designation of these sites.
What is the difference between an ASSI and an SSSI?
Unlike SSSIs, ASSIs in Northern Ireland can include both natural environments and man-made structures, provided they meet specific criteria such as rarity or historical significance.
What criteria are used to designate an ASSI?
Sites are designated based on their fauna, flora, geological or physiographical features. For man-made structures, criteria include rarity, recorded history, and intrinsic appeal.
Where can I find detailed information about a specific ASSI?
Detailed information is available on the Northern Ireland Environment Agency's website in the form of citation sheets for each individual site.