Appendix 7.4 Ecology: National Vegetation Classification ...

Appendix 7.4 – Ecology: National Vegetation Classification and Hedgerow Survey

Environmental Statement Ellel Holiday Village, Lancaster

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Contact Gordon Haycock: 10 Boroughgate, Otley, West Yorkshire LS21 3AL

Tel: 01943 850276

Mobile: 07814 447122 Email: [email protected]

Company registered in England No. 7119787

Registered Office: Haycock and Jay Associates Ltd., 14 Beech Hill, Otley LS21 3AX

December 2018 MCI001

Ellel Garden Village, Ellel, Lancaster,

Lancashire

National Vegetation Classification and Hedgerow Survey

Submitted to:

Ellel Garden Village LLP

76 Church Street

Lancaster

LA1 1ET

mailto:[email protected]

Ellel Garden Village NVC Survey Report - i - MCI001

Ellel Garden Village LLP December 2018

Haycock and Jay Associates

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE

1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 2

2.0 METHOD ..................................................................................................... 3

2.1 National Vegetation Classification Survey .............................................. 3

2.2 Hedgerow Survey ................................................................................... 4

3.0 WOODLAND NVC RESULTS .................................................................... 6

3.1 Flat Wood............................................................................................... 6

3.2 Carter Wood ......................................................................................... 10

3.3 Quarry Wood ........................................................................................ 14

3.4 Home Farm Wood ................................................................................ 19

3.5 Plantation 1 .......................................................................................... 24

3.6 Plantation 2 .......................................................................................... 25

4.0 WETLAND NVC RESULTS ...................................................................... 27

4.1 Introduction .......................................................................................... 27

4.2 S7 Carex acutiformis swamp ................................................................ 27

4.3 M23a Juncus acutiflorus – Galium palustre rush-pasture Juncus

acutiflorus sub-community ............................................................................... 28

4.4 W5 Alnus glutinosa – Carex paniculata woodland ................................ 30

4.5 Pond vegetation ................................................................................... 32

4.6 Lowland Dry Acid Grassland ................................................................ 33

5.0 HEDGEROW ASSESSMENT ................................................................... 33

6.0 CONCLUSIONS ........................................................................................ 37

6.1 Priority Habitats .................................................................................... 37

6.2 Hedgerows ........................................................................................... 37

7.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY ....................................................................................... 38

FIGURES

Figure 1 Priority Habitats and Hedgerows

Figure 2 Flat Wood NVC

Figure 3 Carter Wood NVC

Figure 4 Quarry Wood NVC

Figure 5 Home Farm Wood NVC

Figure 6 Wetland Complex

Ellel Garden Village NVC Survey Report 2 MCI001



1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Haycock and Jay Associates Ltd were commissioned in January 2018 by Ellel Garden

Village LLP to undertake hedgerow survey and National Vegetation Classification

(NVC) survey of broad-leaved semi-natural woodland, mixed semi-natural woodland

and swamp at Ellel Garden Village, Ellel, Lancaster.

1.2 The survey was conducted on the following habitats which have vegetation considered

to be of enhanced ecological value within the Ellel Garden Village site as shown in

Figure 1.

Ecological Feature Recommended survey

Broad-leaved Semi-natural Woodland: Carter Wood, Flat Wood and Home Farm Wood.

National Vegetation Classification survey

Mixed Semi-natural woodland National Vegetation Classification survey

Hedgerows Hedgerow survey – assess species richness and consider against criteria for ‘Important Hedgerows’

Swamp National Vegetation Classification survey

1.3 NVC survey for each defined habitat included;

• Full species list for the site;

• Indication of abundance using the DAFOR scale;

• Quadrat survey to allow reference to National Vegetation

Classification (NVC) grassland communities and sub-communities;

and

• Report to include method, description of plant communities and

species list of species encountered during the survey.

1.4 For each community a description is offered followed by quadrat data gathered during

the survey. A species list for all plants encountered in the grassland during the survey

is at Appendix 1.

1.5 In addition hedgerows were surveyed to assess whether each one is likely to by

considered ‘Important’ as defined by the Hedgerows Regulations 1997.




2.0 METHOD

2.1 National Vegetation Classification Survey

2.1.1 National Vegetation Classification (NVC) survey and hedgerow survey was carried

out at the Ellel Garden Village site by Principal Ecologist Gordon Haycock BSc (Hons)

MSc CEcol CEnv MCIEEM. Woodlands were surveyed on 16th May 2018, and

hedgerows, grassland and swamp habitat surveyed on 5th June 2018.

2.1.2 The method used for survey follows the approach for NVC survey as described by

Rodwell et al (1992) and Rodwell (2006). The data presented here allows the

vegetation communities identified to be classified in accordance with the accounts

published in British Plant Communities (Rodwell et al 1991 et seq).

2.1.3 Habitat areas surveyed are shown on Figure 1.

2.1.4 Within each quadrat / sample, all species of vascular plant and bryophytes (mosses

and liverworts) were identified and for each species the percentage cover of the

quadrat was estimated using the Domin scale (see below). In addition, a full species

list for each community was made including species not featuring in the quadrats, and

an indication of abundance throughout the site recorded using the DAFOR scale.

Each species was classified as either Dominant, Abundant, Frequent, Occasional or

Rare for the community.

2.1.5 The figure for percentage cover for each species in each quadrat was recorded as a

Domin value. Domin values are as follows;

Cover (%) Domin

91 -100 10

76-90 9

51-75 8

34-50 7

26-33 6

11-25 5

4-10 4

<4 with many individuals 3

<4 with several individuals 2

<4 with few individuals 1




2.1.6 Following field survey and for the purposes of relating the community to community

descriptions in the NVC, the frequency of each species in each area was calculated

where;

I = 1-20% of quadrats

II = 21-40%

III = 41-60%

IV = 61-80%

V = 81-100%

2.1.7 The NVC community type was determined by comparing the results of the field

survey, using both keys and the experience of the field surveyor, with reference to the

published accounts and floristic tables in British Plant Communities (Rodwell et al

1991 et seq).

2.1.8 The community description indicates how the floristic features compare to the

standard vegetation community descriptions.

2.2 Hedgerow Survey

2.2.1 Each hedgerow was assessed using the methodology set out in the Hedgerow

Survey Handbook (Defra 2007). The approach used is summarised below.

2.2.2 All hedgerows identified during the Phase 1 habitat survey were assessed and

recorded using the codes allocated at Phase 1 to ensure consistency. For each

hedgerow 30m section(s) were selected objectively and woody species and woodland

groundflora species as defined in the Hedgerow Survey Handbook recorded.

2.2.3 The number of 30m sections assessed depends on the length of the hedge. Where

the hedge is less than 30m in length then the whole hedge is surveyed, if the hedge is

30-100m long then survey is carried out on the central 30m. Where hedges are 100-

200m long, then the hedge is divided in two and the central 30m of each section

surveyed. Hedges greater than 200m in length are divided in to three sections and

survey carried out in the central 30m of each of the thirds.

2.2.4 Within each section qualifying woodland groundflora and woody species were

recorded (as listed in Schedules 2 and 3 of the Hedgerows Regulations).

2.2.5 Additional features listed in Paragraph Four were also recorded in the field as follows;

• A wall or bank along half or more of the length;

• A ditch along half or more of the length;

• An average of one standard tree or more per 50m of hedgerow;




• Gaps which do not add up to more than 10% of the hedge;

• A parallel hedge within 15m; and

• Connections scoring four points where connections to a hedge

scores one point and connections to a pond or wood score two

points.

2.2.6 In addition Ordnance Survey maps were used to record whether the hedgerow is

adjacent to a footpath, bridleway or byway open to all traffic (BOAT).




3.0 WOODLAND NVC RESULTS

3.1 Flat Wood

3.1.1 Flat Wood is in the west of the site centred on NGR SD 4737 5391. As the name

suggests the topography is level and exists on the flood plain of a tributary of the

River Conder which forms the south-western boundary of the wood.

3.1.2 The woodland is a mature mixed plantation with semi-natural characteristics and a

canopy featuring English oak Quercus robur, sycamore Acer pseudoplatanus, ash

Fraxinus excelsior, beech Fagus sylvatica, wych elm Ulmus glabra and larch Larix sp.

3.1.3 The woodland is currently unfenced to the north and is heavily used by cattle,

evidenced by poaching, dunging and the presence of cattle. There is some evidence

of natural regeneration by hawthorn Crataegus monogyna and sycamore Acer

pseudoplatanus. Deadwood both standing and resting is abundant, in part due to

death of elm due to Dutch elm disease.

3.1.4 Figure 2 indicates the distribution of NVC communities in the woodland. The majority

of the woodland is well drained and on fertile, clay and alluvial soils and has most

affinity with W10a Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum – Rubus fruticosus woodland

Typical sub-community. Here the groundflora is dominated by bluebell Hyacinthoides

non-scripta with lesser celandine Ficaria verna and wood speedwell Veronica

montana. There area a number of agricultural weed species reflecting eutrophication

and introduction of seed due to use of the woodland by cattle. Bramble Rubus

fruticosus agg. is rare, perhaps as the young shoots are palatable to cattle. The

relatively species poor groundflora dominated by bluebell (an unpalatable species) is

considered likely to be influenced by stock grazing. Canopy in this part of the wood is

dominated by English oak, with a patchy understorey of sycamore and beech.

3.1.5 In the south-west of the woodland along the watercourse soils are damper and more

nutrient rich allowing development of W8f Fraxinus excelsior – Acer campestre –

Mercurialis perennis woodland Allium ursinum sub-community. The groundflora is

more varied and features ramsons Allium ursinum, lesser celandine and dog’s

mercury Mercurialis perennis. Species frequent in this community include enchanter’s

nightshade Circaea lutetiana and herb Robert Geranium robertianum, with lords-and-

ladies Arum maculatum, red campion Silene dioica and wood avens Geum urbanum

also present. There are signs of eutrophication with patches of common nettle Urtica

dioica present. The canopy is dominated by ash and sycamore, with some common

Alnus glutinosa by the watercourse. Elder Sambucus nigra is frequent in the

understorey. There is a veteran ash located at SD47305387.

3.1.6 The following data for W10a at Flat Wood was collected using the standard structured

quadrat survey method.




Species Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Freq Abun-dance

Quadrat location - OS Grid SD 4734 5388

4735 5390

4738 5390

4740 5393

4745 5393

Hyacinthoides non-scripta 9 10 10 9 10 V (9-10)

Galium aparine 3 2 1 2 IV (1-3)

Poa trivialis 2 1 II (1-2)

Acer pseudoplatanus seedling 1 1 II (1_)

Stellaria media 1 1 II (1_)

Crataegus monogyna seedling 1 1 II (1_)

Veronica montana 3 I (3_)

Ficaria verna 2 I (2_)

Rumex obtusifolius 2 I (2_)

Circaea lutetiana 2 I (2_)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 2 I (2_)

Arrhenatherum elatius 1 I (1_)

Hedera helix 1 I (1_)

3.1.7 The following DAFOR data for W10a at Flat Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Quercus robur A

Acer pseudoplatanus F

Fraxinus excelsior O

Fagus sylvatica O

Pinus sylvestris R

Ulmus glabra R

Larix spp. R

Alnus glutinosa R

Aesculus hippocastanum R

Understorey

Acer pseudoplatanus O

Fagus sylvatica O

Crataegus monogyna R

Ilex aquifolium R

Groundflora

Hyacinthoides non-scripta D

Galium aparine F

Poa trivialis F

Acer pseudoplatanus seedling O

Circaea lutetiana O

Crataegus monogyna seedling O

Fraxinus excelsior seedling O

Kindbergia praelonga O

Stellaria media O




Species DAFOR

Urtica dioica O

Veronica montana O

Arrhenatherum elatius R

Ficaria verna R

Geranium robertianum R

Hedera helix R

Isothecium myosuroides R

Mnium hornum R

Poa annua R

Rubus fruticosus agg R

Rumex obtusifolius R

3.1.8 The following data for W8f at Flat Wood was collected using the standard structured


Species Q1 Q2 Q3 Freq Abun-dance

Quadrat location - OS Grid SD

4730 5388

4730 5387

4732 5385

Ficaria verna 6 4 7 V (4-7)

Kindbergia praelonga 4 5 3 V (3-5)

Circaea lutetiana 4 4 3 V (3-4)

Poa trivialis 3 3 2 V (2-3)

Urtica dioica 5 5 1 V (1-5)

Hyacinthoides non-scripta 2 1 4 V (1-4)

Galium aparine 1 3 1 V (1-3)

Rumex obtusifolius 2 1 2 V (1-2)

Carex remota 2 2 1 V (1-2)

Allium ursinum 5 5 III (5_)

Veronica montana 4 4 III (4_)

Brachythecium rivulare 4 II (4_)

Anemone nemorosa 3 II (3_)

Arrhenatherum elatius 2 II (2_)

Hedera helix 2 II (2_)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 2 II (2_)

Ranunculus repens 2 II (2_)

Heracleum sphondylium 2 II (2_)

Geranium robertianum 1 II (1_)

Scrophularia nodosa 1 II (1_)

Carex sylvatica 1 II (1_)

Brachypodium sylvaticum 1 II (1_)

3.1.9 The following DAFOR data for W8f at Flat Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Fraxinus excelsior A




Species DAFOR


Quercus robur O

Alnus glutinosa R

Understorey

Sambucus nigra F

Crataegus monogyna O

Acer pseudoplatanus R

Fraxinus excelsior R

Groundflora

Urtica dioica A

Allium ursinum LA

Ficaria verna LA / F

Brachythecium rivulare F

Carex remota F

Circaea lutetiana F

Galium aparine F

Geranium robertianum F

Kindbergia praelonga F

Poa trivialis F

Ranunculus repens F

Veronica montana F

Mercurialis perennis VLF

Alliaria petiolata O

Anemone nemorosa O

Arum maculatum O

Carex sylvatica O


Geum urbanum O

Heracleum sphondylium O

Hyacinthoides non-scripta O

Rumex obtusifolius O

Silene dioica O

Stachys sylvatica O


Atrichum undulatum R

Brachypodium sylvaticum R

Crataegus monogyna R

Hedera helix R

Poa annua R

Scrophularia nodosa R

Taraxacum agg R




3.2 Carter Wood

3.2.1 Carter Wood is in the north of the site centred on NGR SD 4778 5433. The woodland

is bordered to the north by the Lancaster Canal has a varied topography suggesting

quarrying of the woodland, or borrow pit excavations.

3.2.2 The canopy is locally dominated by sycamore with English oak prominent in the

canopy. An excavated area now flooded is present and woodland to the east of this

has a canopy dominated by English oak and more grassy groundflora. This variance

is considered likely to be an expression of past utilisation of the woodland where the

eastern portion appears to have less disturbed soils and was possibly used as wood

pasture until relatively recently, whereas the western portion has well-developed

groundflora synonymous with a long-established wood. Borrow pits and excavations

create damp areas within the woodland where wet woodland is present.

3.2.3 The woodland is fenced against livestock and natural regeneration is abundant

dominated by ash. Feeding of pheasant takes place in the wood. Overall the

woodland is well structured, although the deadwood resource is somewhat lacking.

The generally north facing aspect and damp areas created through excavation or

simply the proximity of the canal create a humid environment favourable for ferns.

3.2.4 Figure 3 indicates the distribution of NVC communities in the woodland. The majority

of the woodland has most affinity with W10e Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum –

Rubus fruticosus woodland Acer pseudoplatanus – Oxalis acetosella sub-community.

The groundflora is dominated by bluebell with much bramble, wood speedwell and

wood sorrel Oxalis acetosella. The groundflora is diverse with bracken Pteridium

aquilinum and sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum frequent in the east and

ramsons abundant in damper spots by the canal and lock. Wood anemone Anemone

nemorosa, broad-buckler fern Dryopteris dilatata and greater stitchwort Stellaria

holostea are locally frequent. Seedlings of ash and hawthorn are frequent, and

English oak and hazel seedlings were also recorded. There is a veteran wild cherry

Prunus avium present at SD 4782 5435 which has suckered over a wide area.

3.2.5 Three areas of wet woodland which are considered to have most affinity with W7a

Alnus glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemorum woodland Urtica dioica

sub-community were recorded where common alder is more prominent in the canopy,

and groundflora features remote sedge Carex remota, wild angelica Angelica

sylvestris and marsh marigold Caltha palustris.

3.2.6 The flooded excavation at SD 4780 5433 is well vegetated and features watermint

Mentha aquatica, creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens, water forget-me-not

Myosotis scorpioides, wavy bittercress Cardamine flexuosa and bittersweet Solanum




dulcamara with bryophytes Rhizomnium punctatum, Plagiomnium undulatum and

Brachythecium rivulare.

3.2.7 The following data for W10e at Carter Wood was collected using the standard

structured quadrat survey method.



4785 5437

4782 5435

4780 5433

4778 5432

4773 5428


Rubus fruticosus agg. 5 1 1 8 7 V (1-8)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 2 1 3 1 2 V (1-3)

Kindbergia praelonga 4 6 6 8 IV (4-8)

Oxalis acetosella 4 3 3 3 IV (3-4)

Plagiomnium undulatum 2 2 3 III (2-3)

Crataegus monogyna seedling 1 3 2 III (1-3)

Mnium hornum 3 3 II (3_)

Holcus mollis 3 2 II (3_)

Anthoxanthum odoratum 2 5 II (2-5)

Veronica montana 2 2 II (2_)

Ficaria verna 2 2 II (2_)

Stellaria holostea 2 1 II (1-2)

Quercus robur seedling 1 1 II (1_)

Pteridium aquilinum 4 I (4_)

Anemone nemorosa 4 I (4_)

Eurhynchium striatum 3 I (3_)


Poa trivialis 2 I (2_)

Rumex sanguineus 2 I (2_)

Silene dioica 2 I (2_)

Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus 2 I (2_)

Arrhenatherum elatius 2 I (2_)

Geranium robertianum 2 I (2_)

Dactylis glomerata 2 I (2_)

Ilex aquifolium seedling 1 I (1_)

Prunus avium seedling 1 I (1_)

3.2.8 The following DAFOR data for W10e at Carter Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Acer pseudoplatanus LD / F

Quercus robur LF

Prunus avium LF

Fagus sylvatica O


Corylus avellana O




Species DAFOR

Ilex aquifolium O

Alnus glutinosa R

Pinus sylvestris R

Ulmus glabra R

Understorey

Fraxinus excelsior LA / F

Crataegus monogyna (e) F


Crataegus monogyna (m) O

Ulmus glabra R

Ilex aquifolium (e) R

Corylus avellana (e) R

Ilex aquifolium (m) R

Lonicera periclymenum R

Groundflora

Hyacinthoides non-scripta A

Kindbergia praelonga LA / F

Rubus fruticosus agg LA / F

Brachythecium rutabulum F

Crataegus monogyna seedling F

Ficaria verna F

Fraxinus excelsior seedling F

Mnium hornum F

Oxalis acetosella F

Plagiomnium undulatum F

Veronica montana F

Anemone nemorosa LF

Anthoxanthum odoratum LF

Dryopteris dilatata LF

Holcus mollis LF

Pteridium aquilinum LF

Stellaria holostea LF

Silene dioica LF / O

Bromopsis ramosa O

Dryopteris affinis agg O

Eurhynchium striatum O

Galium aparine O

Hedera helix O

Hypnum cupressiforme O

Poa trivialis O

Quercus robur seedling O

Rumex sanguineus O

Stachys sylvatica O



Corylus avellana seedling R

Dactylis glomerata R

Deschampsia cespitosa R




Species DAFOR

Fagus sylvatica seedling R


Geum urbanum R

Ilex aquifolium seedling R

Prunus avium seedling R

Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus R


Taraxacum agg R

3.2.9 The following data for W7a at Carter Wood was collected using the standard


Species Q1 Q2 Freq Abun-dance


4786 5435

4775 5430

Ficaria verna 7 3 V (3-7)

Veronica montana 2 2 V (2_)

Brachythecium rivulare 2 8 V (2-8)

Ranunculus repens 9 III (9_)

Agrostis stolonifera 6 III (6_)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 4 III (4_)

Circaea lutetiana 4 III (4_)

Kindbergia praelonga 2 III (2_)

Urtica dioica 2 III (2_)

Fissidens taxifolius 2 III (2_)

Glyceria notata 2 III (2_)

Hedera helix 1 III (1_)

Heracleum sphondylium 1 III (1_)

Rumex obtusifolius 1 III (1_)

Bromopsis ramosa 1 III (1_)

3.2.10 The following DAFOR data for W7a at Carter Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Ranunculus repens A

Angelica sylvestris F


Dactylis glomerata F

Ficaria verna F

Scrophularia nodosa F

Agrostis stolonifera LF

Glyceria notata LF

Kindbergia praelonga LF

Phalaris arundinacea LF

Carex remota O

Circaea lutetiana O




Species DAFOR

Fissidens taxifolius O


Hedera helix O

Urtica dioica O

Veronica montana O

Alnus glutinosa R

Bromopsis ramosa R

Caltha palustris R

Crataegus monogyna seedling R

Heracleum sphondylium R

Quercus cerris seedling R


3.3 Quarry Wood

3.3.1 Quarry Wood is in the eastern portion of the site centred on NGR SD 4829 5414. The

woodland is bordered to the west by the Lancaster Canal has a varied topography

and rock exposure due to historic quarrying operations.

3.3.2 The canopy is very variable reflecting the woodland’s history of use featuring mature

Scot’s pine Pinus sylvestris and high canopy of ash and English oak. Mature beech

and sycamore also occur. Natural regeneration is good, with much ash and rowan,

however, Turkey oak Quercus cerris is also very much in evidence. There were many

fallen and damaged trees at the time of the survey presenting a good resource of

deadwood, both standing and resting. There appears to be a spring at the base of the

quarry face which creates a substantial area of wet woodland and feeds a small beck

with associated riparian habitat which flows down to the canal. The groundflora is

species rich and features an abundance of moschatel Adoxa moschatellina.

3.3.3 Whilst the woodland is fenced against livestock, there is evidence of fertiliser drift into

the northern part of the woodland which is causing eutrophication and growth of tall

ruderal species.

3.3.4 Figure 4 indicates the distribution of NVC communities in the woodland. The eastern

part of the woodland appears to have thinner, less fertile soil and supports woodland

which has most affinity with W10e Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum – Rubus

fruticosus woodland Acer pseudoplatanus – Oxalis acetosella sub-community. The

groundflora is dominated in part by bluebell with much creeping soft-grass Holcus

mollis, broad-buckler fern and the moss Kindbergia praelonga. Bramble and bracken

also occur along with a variety of seedlings including ash, holly Ilex aquifolium,

English oak and hawthorn.




3.3.5 The western half of the wood appears to have deeper, more fertile soils and supports

a woodland community best described in terms of W8e Fraxinus excelsior – Acer

campestre – Mercurialis perennis woodland Geranium robertianum sub-community.

The moist, mossy groundflora is characterised by an abundance of dog’s mercury

with bluebells, goose-grass Galium aparine, common nettle and herb Robert.

Moschatel and wood avens are also present in quantity.

3.3.6 Wet woodland is species-rich and is considered to have most affinity with W7b Alnus

glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemorum woodland Carex remota –

Cirsium palustre sub-community. Wavy bittercress, water horsetail Equisetum

fluviatile, flag iris Iris pseudacorus and gypsywort Lycopus europaeus occur along

with a rich array of species which occur less frequently such as primrose Primula

vulgaris, marsh thistle Cirsium palustre, meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria and lady

fern Athyrium filix-femina.

3.3.7 The following data for W10e at Quarry Wood was collected using the standard




4830 5412

4829 5418

4830 5419

4832 5419

4834 5411


Holcus mollis 8 2 3 9 IV (2-9)

Dryopteris dilatata 4 4 2 4 IV (2-4)

Kindbergia praelonga 4 7 4 III (4-7)

Crataegus monogyna seedling 1 1 1 III (1_)

Rubus fruticosus agg. 5 2 1 III (1-5)

Galium aparine 1 1 2 III (1-2)

Silene dioica 2 2 II (2_)

Quercus robur seedling 1 1 II (1_)

Acer pseudoplatanus 2 1 II (1-2)

Veronica montana 6 I (6_)

Ficaria verna 4 I (4_)

Poa trivialis 4 I (4_)

Brachythecium rutabulum 3 I (3_)

Hypnum cupressiforme 3 I (3_)


Adoxa moschatellina 2 I (2_)

Stellaria media 2 I (2_)

Pseudotaxiphyllum elegans 2 I (2_)


Ilex aquifolium seedling 1 I (1_)

Rumex sanguineus 1 I (1_)

Fagus sylvatica seedling 1 I (1_)

Geum urbanum 1 I (1_)

Acer platanoides 1 I (1_)

Arum maculatum 1 I (1_)




3.3.8 The following DAFOR data for W10e at Quarry Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Quercus robur A

Acer pseudoplatanus LA / F

Pinus sylvestris F

Fraxinus excelsior LF

Fagus sylvatica O

Aesculus hippocastanum O

Sorbus aucuparia R

Understorey


Sorbus aucuparia R

Quercus cerris R

Groundflora

Holcus mollis A

Hyacinthoides non-scripta LA / F


Dryopteris affinis agg. F

Dryopteris dilatata F

Ilex aquifolium seedling F


Mnium hornum F

Rubus fruticosus agg F

Hypnum cupressiforme LF

Pteridium aquilinum LF

Veronica montana LF


Adoxa moschatellina O

Circaea lutetiana O


Ficaria verna O


Galium aparine O

Glechoma hederacea O

Poa trivialis O

Pseudotaxiphyllum elegans O


Silene dioica O

Acer platanoides R

Arum maculatum R

Conopodium majus R

Geum urbanum R

Hedera helix R

Juncus effusus R




Species DAFOR

Lonicera periclymenum R

Poa annua R

Rumex acetosa R

Rumex sanguineus R

Stellaria media R


3.3.9 The following data for W8e at Quarry Wood was collected using the standard




4826 5413

4826 5415

4825 5416

4826 5416

4827 5417

Kindbergia praelonga 4 7 7 6 6 V (4-7)

Ficaria verna 3 3 3 3 7 V (3-7)

Plagiomnium undulatum 3 3 4 3 3 V (3-4)


Galium aparine 3 3 3 4 4 V (3-4)

Veronica montana 3 4 3 3 IV (3-4)

Silene dioica 2 2 4 5 IV (2-5)

Poa trivialis 2 2 2 4 IV (2-4)

Urtica dioica 2 4 5 5 IV (2-5)

Geranium robertianum 2 2 2 3 IV (2-3)

Rumex sanguineus 2 1 1 2 IV (1-2)

Heracleum sphondylium 5 5 2 1 IV (1-5)

Mercurialis perennis 7 9 7 III (7-9)

Geum urbanum 2 3 2 III (2-3)

Adoxa moschatellina 2 3 2 III (2-3)

Brachythecium rutabulum 3 4 II (3-4)

Rubus fruticosus agg 8 2 II (2-8)

Stachys sylvatica 2 3 II (2-3)

Anthoxanthum odoratum 4 I (4_)

Ranunculus repens 4 I (4_)

Dryopteris dilatata 1 I (1_)

Glechoma hederacea 1 I (1_)

Circaea lutetiana 1 I (1_)


3.3.10 The following DAFOR data for W8e at Quarry Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Fraxinus excelsior D

Acer pseudoplatanus A

Pinus sylvestris O

Quercus robur R




Species DAFOR

Understorey

Crataegus monogyna F

Sambucus nigra F

Alnus glutinosa R

Groundflora

Mercurialis perennis LD / A


Urtica dioica F/LA

Adoxa moschatellina F

Circaea lutetiana F

Ficaria verna F

Galium aparine F


Geum urbanum F

Heracleum sphondylium F



Rumex sanguineus F

Silene dioica F

Veronica montana F

Poa trivialis LF

Rubus fruticosus agg LF

Anthoxanthum odoratum O

Brachythecium rutabulum O



Ranunculus repens O

Stachys sylvatica O

Carex remota R

Cirsium palustre R

Dryopteris dilatata R

3.3.11 The following DAFOR data for W7b at Quarry Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Phalaris arundinacea LD

Agrostis stolonifera LA

Ranunculus repens F

Juncus effusus F

Cardamine flexuosa F

Circaea lutetiana F




Iris pseudacorus LF

Lycopus europaeus LF

Ficaria verna LF




Species DAFOR

Equisetum fluviatile LF

Athyrium filix-femina LF

Rumex sanguineus O

Mentha aquatica O

Epilobium hirsutum O

Urtica dioica O

Cirsium palustre O

Solanum dulcamara O

Filipendula ulmaria O

Ajuga reptans O

Carex remota O

Geranium robertianum O

Silene dioica O

Galium aparine O

Primula vulgaris R

Veronica montana R

Mercurialis perennis R

Geum urbanum R

Rhizomnium punctatum R

Adoxa moschatellina R

3.4 Home Farm Wood

3.4.1 Home Farm Wood is in the southern portion of the site centred on NGR SD 477 538.

The woodland occurs on a hill slope facing south west and there are a variety of

derelict structures and ruins within the wood. Home Farm Wood has been divided into

Home Farm Wood north, and south to aid description and interpretation. The extent of

each is shown on Figure 5.

3.4.2 The woodland is adjacent to Home Farm and Ellel Grange and is predominantly a

mature beech plantation with some mature sycamore and English oak with an

understorey of rhododendron Rhododendron ponticum. In the north of the wood

mature sycamore becomes the dominant canopy tree.

3.4.3 Home Farm Wood south is a mature beech plantation with rhododendron dominated

understorey. Part of the southern portion of the wood appears to have been an

artificial lake in the past and a boat house is present. Now drained this forms wet

woodland which appears to be seasonally flooded and there are a number of dead

and dying sycamore as a result. Where rhododendron dominates the groundflora is

impoverished, but otherwise the groundflora is diverse reflecting the usage of the

woodland over time. The woodland is fenced against livestock.

3.4.4 Home Farm Wood north has a canopy dominated by mature sycamore with beech

and a small Norway spruce Picea abies plantation is also present. The lower slopes

are clothed in rhododendron, however, upper slopes have a diverse groundflora




indicating base-enrichment. Eutrophication is apparent with several large patches of

common nettle, and a large apple tree Malus sp is present suggesting past use as an

orchard or garden. Wet woodland occurs in the south of the wood, and there are

other occurrences of wet woodland associated with springs and defunct drainage

serving the Farm and associated buildings. The woodland is fenced against livestock.

There is little deadwood.

3.4.5 In the north of Home Farm Wood north there is a significant flushed area supporting

wet woodland which appears to be relatively recently formed as large sycamore and

ash in this area are dying due to water logging whilst common alder (including some

mature specimens) is thriving.

3.4.6 The dry part of Home Farm Wood south supports woodland which has most affinity

with W10e Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum – Rubus fruticosus woodland Acer

pseudoplatanus – Oxalis acetosella sub-community. The groundflora is dominated in

part by bluebell with much creeping soft-grass Holcus mollis, broad-buckler fern and

the mosses Kindbergia praelonga and Mnium hornum. Greater stitchwort is also

locally frequent.

3.4.7 Wet woodland is present in the south west of the woodland and has a rather open

canopy. The groundflora is species-rich and is considered to have most affinity with

W7b Alnus glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemorum woodland Carex

remota – Cirsium palustre sub-community. Remote sedge, flag iris, opposite-leaved

golden-saxifrage Chrysosplenium oppositifolium, lady fern, large bittercress

Cardamine amara, wood anemone and meadowsweet are all present along with other

wet woodland indicators.

3.4.8 Home Farm Wood north has an area at the base of the slope where rhododendron

dominates as an impenetrable thicket and there is little groundflora. The open, drier

parts of the slope support woodland on damp, base-rich soil which is considered to

have most affinity with W8b Fraxinus excelsior – Acer campestre – Mercurialis

perennis woodland Anemone nemorosa sub-community. W8 community constants

dog’s-mercury and the moss Kindbergia praelonga are very much in evidence, whilst

the sub-community is characterised by an abundance of lesser celandine and the

occurrence of wood anemone and wood-dock Rumex sanguineus. Ramsons are

present in damper areas, and bluebells are ubiquitous throughout the wood. Ruins

and rocks form a focus for ferns including hart’s-tongue fern Asplenium

scolopendrium. Eutrophication is apparent with significant stands of common nettle in

place. Elder forms a dense understorey in the east of the wood.

3.4.9 Wet woodland in Home Farm Wood north is represented in the south where a spring

emerges and creates a small patch of W7b woodland featuring large bittercress, flag

iris and opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage. In the north a significant flushed area

supports W7a Alnus glutinosa – Fraxinus excelsior – Lysimachia nemorum woodland




Urtica dioica sub-community with much creeping buttercup Ranunculus repens,

opposite-leaved golden-saxifrage and common nettle.

3.4.10 The following DAFOR data for W10e at Home Farm Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Fagus sylvatica D


Quercus robur O

Understory

Rhododendron ponticum D


Sambucus nigra O

Ilex aquifolium R

Groundflora


Holcus mollis LA / F


Mnium hornum F

Dryopteris dilatata F

Silene dioica F

Rubus fruticosus agg LF

Stellaria holostea LF

Pseudotaxiphyllum elegans LF

Urtica dioica O

Galium aparine O


Arum maculatum R

Corylus avellana seedling R


Rumex sanguineus R

Oxalis acetosella R

3.4.11 The following DAFOR data for W7b at Home Farm Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Holcus mollis A

Iris pseudacorus LA

Rumex sanguineus F

Carex remota F

Ranunculus repens F

Athyrium filix-femina F

Filipendula ulmaria F

Ficaria verna F

Cardamine amara F

Chrysosplenium oppositifolium F




Species DAFOR

Anemone nemorosa LF

Juncus effusus O

Galium aparine O

Dryopteris dilatata O

Circaea lutetiana O

Urtica dioica O


Veronica hederifolia O

Dryopteris affinis R

Rhizomnium punctatum R

3.4.12 The following data for W8b at Home Farm Wood was collected using the standard


Species Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Freq Abun-dance


4781 5386

4782 5383

4783 5380

4786 5376

4789 5373

4789 5387

Kindbergia praelonga 7 6 6 4 4 4 V (4-7)

Ficaria verna 3 5 5 4 6 V (3-6)


Veronica hederifolia 3 3 3 4 1 V (1-4)

Silene dioica 3 2 3 4 IV (2-4)

Veronica montana 3 2 2 3 IV (2-3)

Galium aparine 2 3 2 2 IV (2-3)

Geum urbanum 2 2 3 2 IV (2-3)

Circaea lutetiana 2 3 2 2 IV (2-3)

Urtica dioica 1 6 1 2 IV (1-6)

Mercurialis perennis 9 7 8 III (7-9)

Allium ursinum 5 2 7 III (2-7)

Poa trivialis 2 5 II (2-5)

Athyrium filix-femina 2 4 II (2-4)

Rumex sanguineus 2 2 II (2_)

Rumex obtusifolius 4 1 II (1-4)

Anemone nemorosa 3 1 II (1-3)

Brachythecium rutabulum 3 1 II (1-3)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 1 2 II (1-2)

Plagiomnium undulatum 3 I (3_)

Mnium hornum 2 I (2_)

Acer pseudoplatanus 1 I (1_)

Heracleum sphondylium 1 I (1_)

3.4.13 The following DAFOR data for W8b at Home Farm Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Acer pseudoplatanus D




Species DAFOR

Fagus sylvatica LF

Quercus robur O


Tilia spp. O

Ulmus procera R

Alnus glutinosa R

Picea abies R

Malus spp. R

Understorey

Sambucus nigra LA / F


Fagus sylvatica O


Ilex aquifolium R

Rhododendron ponticum R

Ulmus procera R

Groundflora

Allium ursinum LD / F

Mercurialis perennis LD / F


Veronica hederifolia A

Ficaria verna LA / F

Urtica dioica LA / F

Athyrium filix-femina F


Circaea lutetiana F

Galium aparine F

Geum urbanum F


Mnium hornum F

Poa trivialis F

Silene dioica F

Veronica montana F

Carex remota LF

Rumex obtusifolius LF

Anemone nemorosa O

Arum maculatum O

Atrichum undulatum O

Bromopsis ramosa O



Heracleum sphondylium O

Plagiomnium undulatum O

Rubus fruticosus agg O

Rumex sanguineus O

Acer pseudoplatanus R

Asplenium scolopendrium R

Chelidonium majus R





Species DAFOR

Dryopteris dilatata R

Sambucus nigra seedling R

3.4.14 The following DAFOR data for W7a at Home Farm Wood was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Alnus glutinosa F

Salix cinerea O

Salix caprea O


Understorey

Ulmus glabra O

Salix cinerea LF

Sambucus nigra O

Groundflora

Ranunculus repens A

Chrysosplenium oppositifolium A

Holcus mollis LA

Carex remota F

Agrostis stolonifera F

Ficaria verna F

Urtica dioica F

Veronica montana LF

Rumex sanguineus O

Athyrium filix-femina O

3.5 Plantation 1

3.5.1 Plantation 1 is a recent plantation established in the open, parkland landscape north

of the access road to Ellel Grange centred on NGR SD 4840 5398. The plantation

has a canopy dominated by larch and Scot’s pine with self-seeded sycamore and

beech. Occasionally within the plantation there are mature specimens of English oak

which pre-date the planting of conifers. Many of the larch are wind thrown.

3.5.2 The groundflora is assumed to have generated naturally and is dominated by

bluebells, creeping soft-grass and broad-buckler fern, Whilst rudimentary, the

groundflora suggests most affinity with W10e Quercus robur – Pteridium aquilinum –

Rubus fruticosus woodland Acer pseudoplatanus – Oxalis acetosella sub-community.




3.5.3 The plantation is fenced against livestock and natural regeneration is abundant, there

is also much deadwood due to the presence of wind thrown conifers.

3.5.4 The following DAFOR data for W10e at Plantation 1 was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Larix spp. A

Pinus sylvestris F

Acer pseudoplatanus LF

Quercus robur O

Fagus sylvatica R

Understorey

Sambucus nigra F

Ilex aquifolium LF

Acer pseudoplatanus LF


Sorbus aucuparia R

Groundflora

Hyacinthoides non-scripta LD / A

Holcus mollis LD / A

Dryopteris dilatata A

Rubus fruticosus agg LA / F



Urtica dioica LF

Digitalis purpurea LF

Poa trivialis LF


Acer pseudoplatanus seedling O

Silene dioica O

Juncus effusus O

Cirsium palustre O



Fraxinus excelsior seedling R

Ranunculus repens R

Atrichum undulatum R

3.6 Plantation 2

3.6.1 Plantation 2 is a mature broad-leaved plantation bordered to the south by the access

road to Ellel Grange centred on NGR SD 4838 5380. The plantation has a canopy

dominated by large beech and black pine Pinus nigra with ash and small-leaved lime

Tilia cordata. Sycamore regeneration is well established and forms a portion of the

canopy.




3.6.2 The groundflora features dog’s mercury and an abundance of bramble with common

nettle, herb Robert, goosegrass, red campion and enchanter’s suggesting affinity with

W8e Fraxinus excelsior – Acer campestre – Mercurialis perennis woodland Geranium

robertianum sub-community.

3.6.3 The plantation is fenced against livestock and natural regeneration is abundant

dominated by ash. There is some well rotted deadwood.

3.6.4 The following DAFOR data for W8e at Plantation 2 was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Canopy

Fagus sylvatica A

Pinus nigra A

Quercus robur F


Tilia cordata R

Understorey

Ilex aquifolium F


Rhododendron ponticum LF

Fagus sylvatica O

Sambucus nigra O

Quercus robur R

Groundflora


Ficaria verna A

Fraxinus excelsior seedling F

Rubus fruticosus agg F

Mnium hornum F

Galium aparine F

Hedera helix F


Silene dioica F

Circaea lutetiana F

Veronica montana LF

Ranunculus repens LF

Mercurialis perennis LF

Fagus sylvatica seedling O

Dryopteris dilatata O

Urtica dioica O

Poa trivialis O



Holcus mollis O

Rumex sanguineus O

Stachys sylvatica O

Acer platanoides seedling R




Species DAFOR

Anthriscus sylvestris R

Silene latifolia R

4.0 WETLAND NVC RESULTS

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 A wetland complex centred on NGR SD 4820 5403 exists on low lying ground

immediately to the west of Lancaster Canal (see Figure 6). The wetland is dominated

by S7 Carex acutiformis swamp which has been colonised by young common alder in

the south to form an area of W5 Alnus glutinosa – Carex paniculata woodland. The

wetland is fringed to the south, west and north by M23a Juncus acutiflorus – Galium

palustre rush-pasture. Each of these three communities has been described below.

4.2 S7 Carex acutiformis swamp

4.2.1 S7 Carex acutiformis swamp forms the majority of the wetland complex and appears

to occupy the lower lying ground. There is a dense thatch of leaf litter indicating that

the swamp has not been grazed or otherwise disturbed for some time.

4.2.2 The sward is overwhelmingly dominated by lesser pond-sedge Carex acutiformis with

water horsetail Equisetum fluviatile and hemp agrimony Eupatorium cannabinum

thinly distributed throughout. No bryophytes were recorded.

4.2.3 A ditch runs through the swamp which allows growth of water hemlock Oenanthe

crocata and common nettle and goosegrass which are perhaps associated with

dredging of the ditch.

4.2.4 The following data for S7 was collected using the standard structured quadrat survey

method.



4818 5415

4818 5412

4819 5406

4820 5401

4822 5397

Juncus acutiflorus 10 10 9 9 10 V (9-10)

Eupatorium cannabinum 2 1 4 3 2 V (1-4)

Equisetum fluviatile 2 2 3 II (2-3)

4.2.5 The following DAFOR data for S7 was recorded

Species DAFOR




Species DAFOR

Carex acutiformis D

Equisetum fluviatile F

Eupatorium cannabinum F

Epilobium hirsutum O

Solanum dulcamara O

Angelica sylvestris R

Oenanthe crocata R

Galium aparine R

Urtica dioica R

Caltha palustris R

Dryopteris affinis agg R

4.3 M23a Juncus acutiflorus – Galium palustre rush-pasture Juncus

acutiflorus sub-community

4.3.1 M23a is a species-rich rush-pasture which forms a transition between grazed pasture

fields and swamp vegetation. The community thrives on grazing and associated

disturbance which allows a number of varied micro-niches to exist and constantly be

re-newed.

4.3.2 M23a in this location is dominated by sharp-flowered rush Juncus acutiflorus with

limited patches within the matrix dominated by brown sedge Carex disticha. The

community is herb rich with frequent ragged robin Lychnis flos-cuculi, greater bird’s-

foot-trefoil Lotus pedunculatus, cuckoo flower Cardamine pratensis and marsh

bedstraw Galium palustre. Locally reed canary-grass Phalaris arundinacea, meadow

foxtail Alopecurus pratensis and water horsetail are prominent. There is also a wide

diversity of species which were encountered in small quantity including water figwort

Scrophularia auriculata, square-stalked St John’s-wort Hypericum tetrapterum, fool’s-

watercress Apium nodiflorum and wild angelica Angelica sylvestris.

4.3.3 The following data for M23a was collected using the standard structured quadrat

survey method.



4816 5419

4814 5412

4816 5405

4820 5395

4824 5385


Lotus pedunculatus 4 4 5 5 4 V (4-5)

Poa pratensis 5 4 4 4 3 V (3-5)

Galium palustre 2 2 2 3 3 V (2-3)

Holcus lanatus 2 1 4 3 2 V (1-4)

Brachythecium rivulare 5 3 5 5 IV (3-5)

Cirsium palustre 1 2 2 1 IV (1-2)

Rumex acetosa 3 4 4 III (3-4)





Cardamine pratensis 1 2 2 III (1-2)

Eupatorium cannabinum 3 4 II (3-4)

Alopecurus pratensis 4 2 II (2-4)

Lychnis flos-cuculi 2 3 II (2-3)

Agrostis capillaris 2 3 II (2-3)

Stellaria alsine 2 2 II (2_)

Rumex crispus 1 1 II (1_)

Equisetum fluviatile 2 1 II (1-2)

Cerastium fontanum 1 1 II (1_)

Carex disticha 5 I (5_)

Carex hirta 4 I (4_)

Carex nigra 3 I (3_)

Deschampsia cespitosa 2 I (2_)

Epilobium hirsutum 2 I (2_)

Urtica dioica 2 I (2_)

Epilobium palustre 2 I (2_)

Ranunculus acris 2 I (2_)

Myosotis secunda 2 I (2_)

Anthoxanthum odoratum 2 I (2_)

Equisetum arvense 1 I (1_)

Cirsium arvense 1 I (1_)

Ranunculus repens 1 I (1_)

4.3.4 The following DAFOR data for M23a was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Juncus acutiflorus D


Carex hirta F

Galium palustre F

Holcus lanatus F

Lotus pedunculatus F

Lychnis flos-cuculi F

Poa pratensis F

Ranunculus acris F

Rumex acetosa F

Cardamine pratensis LF

Carex disticha LF

Equisetum fluviatile LF


Alopecurus pratensis LF / O

Juncus effusus LF / O

Agrostis capillaris O

Anthoxanthum odoratum O

Carex nigra O

Cirsium palustre O

Deschampsia cespitosa O

Eupatorium cannabinum O




Species DAFOR

Rumex crispus O

Stellaria alsine O

Ajuga reptans R

Angelica sylvestris R

Apium nodiflorum R

Caltha palustris R

Cerastium fontanum R

Cirsium arvense R

Epilobium hirsutum R

Epilobium palustre R

Equisetum arvense R

Festuca rubra R

Galium aparine R

Hypericum tetrapterum R

Myosotis scorpioides R

Myosotis secunda R

Oenanthe crocata R

Ranunculus repens R


Scrophularia auriculata R

Silene dioica R

Taraxacum agg R

Urtica dioica R

Veronica beccabunga R

4.4 W5 Alnus glutinosa – Carex paniculata woodland

4.4.1 W5 is a wet woodland characterised at Home Farm by the invasion of part of the S7

swamp by young common alder and grey willow Salix cinerea, possibly as a result of

a period of under-grazing by cattle. As a result of its origin the groundflora is

dominated by lesser pond-sedge, but in the shade of common alder this sedge loses

vigour and a more open, diverse sward has developed.

4.4.2 The groundflora is relatively species-rich with bittersweet, marsh marigold, gypsywort

and watermint locally prominent. Touch-me-not balsam Impatiens noli-tangere is a

non-native plant which appears in the woodland, probably as a garden escape from

Ellel Grange.

4.4.3 The following data for W5 woodland was collected using the standard structured




4825 5393

4825 5391

4824 5391

4825 5390

4823 5390






Brachythecium rivulare 5 6 8 3 4 V (3-8)

Cardamine flexuosa 2 3 3 3 IV (2-3)

Eupatorium cannabinum 3 2 5 III (2-5)

Equisetum fluviatile 2 2 3 III (2-3)

Galium palustre 3 3 2 III (2-3)

Caltha palustris 5 3 II (3-5)

Poa trivialis 2 2 II (2_)

Rumex obtusifolius 2 1 II (1-2)

Ranunculus repens 1 1 II (1_)

Fraxinus excelsior seedling 1 1 II (1_)

Impatiens noli-tangere 5 I (5_)

Solanum dulcamara 4 I (4_)

Plagiomnium undulatum 4 I (4_)

Mentha aquatica 3 I (3_)

Galium aparine 3 I (3_)

Lycopus europaeus 2 I (2_)

Lychnis flos-cuculi 2 I (2_)

Epilobium palustre 1 I (1_)

4.4.4 The following DAFOR data for W5 woodland was recorded;

Species DAFOR

Juncus acutiflorus D


Cardamine flexuosa F

Equisetum fluviatile F

Eupatorium cannabinum F

Galium palustre F

Apium nodiflorum LF

Impatiens noli-tangere LF

Lychnis flos-cuculi LF

Lycopus europaeus LF

Mentha aquatica LF

Ranunculus repens LF

Solanum dulcamara LF

Caltha palustris LF / O

Cardamine pratensis O

Filipendula ulmaria O


Plagiomnium undulatum O

Poa trivialis O

Rumex obtusifolius O

Deschampsia cespitosa R

Epilobium palustre R

Galium aparine R


Glyceria notata R

Heracleum sphondylium R




Phalaris arundinacea R

Rubus fruticosus agg R

4.5 Pond vegetation

4.5.1 The following table records vegetation associated with ponds at Home Farm.

Waterbodies other than ponds, or dry at the time of the survey have been omitted.

The pond numbers are the same as those used in Phase 1 habitat survey and are

indicated on Figure 1;

Pond Marginal vegetation Submerged vegetation

P1 Glyceria notata

Phalaris arundinacea

None

P2 Apium nodiflorum

Cardamine pratensis

Carex hirta

Carex remota

Galium palustre

Glyceria notata

Nasturtium officinale

Oenanthe crocata

Solanum dulcamara

Sparganium erectum

Veronica beccabunga

None

P5 Athyrium filix-femina

Glyceria notata

Oenanthe crocata

Veronica beccabunga

None

P7 Glyceria notata

Nasturtium officinale

Phalaris arundinacea

Veronica beccabunga

None

P8 None None

4.5.2 In addition to recording vegetation associated with ponds, riparian vegetation along

Lancaster Canal (Priority habitat - eutrophic standing water) was recorded in a

transect from SD 4788 5439 to SD 4807 5448 on the south edge of the canal as

shown on Figure 1. The results of the canal riparian survey are offered as a DAFOR

list below;

Species DAFOR

Iris pseudacorus A




Species DAFOR

Filipendula ulmaria F

Mentha aquatica F

Nuphar lutea F

Oenanthe crocata F

Sparganium erectum F

Epilobium hirsutum F


Myosotis scorpioides LF

Glyceria notata O

Ranunculus sceleratus O

Butomus umbellatus R

4.6 Lowland Dry Acid Grassland

4.6.1 The Priority Habitat Lowland Dry Acid Grassland was recorded at two locations during

the survey on 5th June 2018. These are shown on Figure 1.

4.6.2 Area 1 is pasture on a steep, east facing slope which appears unimproved. Species

present include sweet vernal-grass Anthoxanthum odoratum, tormentil Potentilla

erecta, heath bedstraw Galium saxatile, greater bird’s-foot trefoil, common sorrel

Rumex acetosa and hairy sedge Carex hirta.

4.6.3 Area 2 is a rocky area with a number of ant-hills on the edge of an otherwise semi-

improved neutral grassland. Species present include pignut Conopodium majus,

heath bedstraw, sheep’s sorrel Rumex acetosella, heath speedwell Veronica

officinalis, lesser stitchwort Stellaria graminea and tormentil.

5.0 HEDGEROW ASSESSMENT

5.1 The results of the hedgerow assessment are tabulated below. Where enough species

were recorded in a section (or sections) and sufficient features were apparent, then the

hedgerow has been recorded as likely to be Important as defined in the Hedgerow

Regulations 1997.

Hedge

number

Woody sp on

Schedule 3 (not on

Schedule)

Woodland sp on

Schedule 2 (notable

species not on

Schedule)

Para 4 features Important

Hedge?

H1 Hawthorn, ash, elder

(Sycamore)

(Black bryony). Possibly planted in the last 30

years. N

H2

Hawthorn, rose,

blackthorn, hazel, elder

(Sycamore),

Herb Robert, (black

bryony).

Parallel hedge within 15m of

hedgerow).

Standard ash and pedunculate

N




Hedge

number

Woody sp on

Schedule 3 (not on

Schedule)

Woodland sp on

Schedule 2 (notable

species not on

Schedule)


Hedge?

oak.

H3 Hawthorn, rose, elder,

hazel

Standard pedunculate oak. N

H4

S1: Hawthorn, rose,

hazel, blackthorn, ash.

S2: Pedunculate oak,

blackthorn, hazel,

hawthorn, elder, holly,

wych elm

Herb Robert, pignut,

dog's mercury, (greater

stitchwort), ramsons.

Standard ash, pedunculate

oak, blackthorn and hazel.

Average 6 species per 30m.

Ditch present.

Average 1 standard per 50m.

<10% gaps.

3 woodland species present.

Y

H5

Hawthorn, hazel,

blackthorn (Aspen)

Standard pedunculate oak and

aspen. N

H6

S1: Hazel, hawthorn,

ash, rose, pedunculate

oak, holly, (sycamore).

S2: Blackthorn, rose,

hawthorn, gorse.

S3: ash, (sycamore),

hawthorn, hazel, holly,

rose.

Bluebell, (honeysuckle). Standard pedunculate oak, wild

cherry, beech, gorse,

sycamore.

<10% gaps.

Average 5 species per 30m.

Ditch present.

>1 standard per 50m.


hedgerow.

Y

H7A

Not recorded.

Not enough species in 30m.

N

H7B

Rose, ash, hawthorn,

hazel, holly, apple, wild

cherry.

Bluebell, broad buckler-

fern.

Public footpath

Standard ash and pedunculate

oak. Ditch present.

>1 standard per 50m.

<10% gaps.


hedgerow.

Y

H7C

S1: Hawthorn,

blackthorn, elder, holly,

hazel.

S2: Blackthorn, grey

willow, holly, hawthorn.

Standard ash.

N

Blackthorn, rose, Bluebell. Standard sycamore. Y




Hedge

number

Woody sp on

Schedule 3 (not on

Schedule)

Woodland sp on

Schedule 2 (notable

species not on

Schedule)


Hedge?

H8

hawthorn, elder. Public footpath

Connections > 4 points (wood,

hedge, canal).

<10% gaps.

Ditch present.

H9

(Sycamore), hawthorn,

rose, ash, blackthorn,

damson.

N

H10 Elder, holly, hawthorn,

wych elm.

N

H11 Beech.

N

H12A

Hawthorn, hazel,

blackthorn, pedunculate

oak, (sycamore), ash,

rose, grey willow.

6 species in 30m.

Ditch present.

Connectivity=5. Y

H12B Hazel, hawthorn, rose,

holly, blackthorn.

Standard ash. N

H13

Hawthorn, elder. Wood avens, broad

buckler-fern.

Standard sycamore.

N

H14

Elder, hazel, hawthorn. N

H15

Hawthorn, elder,

blackthorn, hazel.

Standard alder. N

H16 Not in site. NA

H17 Not in site. NA

H18

Hawthorn, elder,

blackthorn, hazel.

N

H19 Beech. N

H20

Hawthorn, elder,

damson.

N

H21

S1: Hawthorn, hazel,

blackthorn, pedunculate

oak, elder.

S2: hawthorn, hazel,

blackthorn, elder.

Public footpath

N

H22 Hawthorn, elder, dog

rose.

N







6.0 CONCLUSIONS

6.1 Priority Habitats

6.1.1 These are mapped on Figure 1 and include eutrophic standing water (Lancaster

Canal), ponds, lowland dry acid grassland, inland rock outcrop, rush-pasture, lowland

fen and wet woodland associated with the wetland complex.

6.1.2 In addition, reference has been made to JNCC guidelines (BRIG 2008) used to

assess whether a woodland is a Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitat. The

results are tabulated below and mapped on Figure 1.

Woodland Priority Habitat status

Flat Wood Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

Carter Wood Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

Quarry Wood Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

Home Farm Wood Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

Plantation 1 Non-native plantation

Plantation 2 Lowland mixed deciduous woodland

6.2 Hedgerows

6.2.1 The hedgerow survey following the standard methodology for assessing whether

hedgerows should be regarded as Important under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997

has been undertaken and the following hedgerows are considered to meet the criteria

(as mapped on Figure 1); H4, H6, H8, H7B, H12A.

6.2.2




7.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Defra (2007) Hedgerow Survey Handbook. A standard procedure for local surveys in the UK. Defra, London

JNCC (2008) UK Biodiversity Action Plan; Priority Habitat Descriptions. BRIG (ed. Ant Maddock)

Natural England (2012) Technical Information Note 110; Assessing whether created or

restored grassland is a BAP Priority Habitat Natural England

Poland J and Clement E (2009) The Vegetative Key to the British Flora BSBI

Rodwell JS (Ed) 1991. British Plant Communities Volume 1. Woodlands and scrub.

Cambridge University Press, Cambridge

Rodwell, J. S. (Ed). 1991. British Plant Communities Volume 2: Mires and Heaths. Cambridge

University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell, J. S. (Ed). 1992. British Plant Communities Volume 3: Grasslands and montane

communities. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell, J. S. (Ed). 1995. British Plant Communities Volume 4: Aquatic communities, swamps

and tall-herb fens. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.

Rodwell JS (2006) National Vegetation Classification: User’s Handbook JNCC

Rose F (1989) Colour identification guide to the grasses, sedges and rushes of the British

Isles and north-western Europe. Viking Press

Rose F (2006) The Wild Flower Key Penguin

Stace, C. (2010) New Flora of the British Isles. Third Ed. Cambridge University Press,

Cambridge

Ellel Garden Village NVC Survey Report MCI001



FIGURE 1

Priority Habitats




Figure 2

Flat Wood NVC




Figure 3

Carter Wood NVC




Figure 4

Quarry Wood NVC




Figure 5

Home Farm Wood NVC




Figure 6

Wetland Complex

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 1:Priority Habitats and Hedgerows

Date 1:4500 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001

Haycock and Jay Associates Ltd10 Boroughgate

OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276

[email protected] www.haycockandjay.co.uk

Site boundaryhedgerowHedgerow (important)

Eutrophic standing waterPondLowland mixeddeciduous woodlandInland rock outcropLowland dry acid grasslandRush pastureLowland fenWet woodland

Pn1

Pn2

Plantation 1

C

Pn

Hn

Plantation 2

Canal survey

Pond number

Hedge number

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 2:Flat wood NVC

Date 1:1000 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001


OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276


NVC vegetationW10aW8f

W10eW7aWetlandW8eW7bRhododendron plantation(no NVC)M23aS7W5W8b

N

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 3:Carter's Wood NVC

Date 1:1000 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001


OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276




N

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 3:Quarry Wood NVC

Date 1:1000 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001


OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276




N

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 5:Home Farm Wood NVC

Date 1:2000 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001


OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276


NVC vegetationW10aW8fW10eW7aWetlandW8eW7bRhododendron plantation(no NVC)M23aS7W5W8b

N

Home Farm, Ellel

Figure 6:Wetland complex

Date 1:2000 @ A3

Scale December 2018

Job No: MCI001


OtleyWest Yorkshire

LS21 3AL

01943 850276


NVC vegetationW10aW8fW10eW7aWetlandW8eW7bRhododendron plantation(no NVC)M23aS7W5W8b

N

Appendix 7.4 Ecology: National Vegetation Classification ...

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