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Project Code [2020-CCRP-LS.4]
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Project title
Hydrological and sediment impacts of forestry operations in Ireland
Primary Funding Agency
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
Environmental Protection Agency
Lead Organisation
University College Dublin (UCD)
Lead Applicant
John O'Sullivan
Project Abstract
This project assesses flow changes and sediment releases from different forestry operations (afforestation, harvesting, windrowing and reforestation) and the efficacy and performance of commonly adopted sediment mitigation measures. Seven forestry sites with adjacent or nearby lotic waterbodies covering three major soil types (peats, peaty mineral soils and mineral soils) have been identified for study. The study sites have been specifically chosen to reflect the significant role of private forest operators in meeting our national target of 18% forestry land cover by 2046 and where mineral soils as opposed to traditional peats (often in upland catchment fractions) are expected to increasingly underpin the establishment of new forests. Study sites will be extensively instrumented and continuously monitored over a three-year period for rainfall, river discharge and sediment input from the forest block using a �paired-catchment� approach that will facilitate the direct assessment of changes in hydrology and sediment input from forestry activities, with potential influences from any confounding factors being kept to a minimum. Direct measurement of flow and sediment inputs at study sites will be complimented by measures and fingerprinting of deposited sediment in channel bed substratesandthe impact of changesandinputs will be related to changed biological status downstream of forest sites.
Grant Approved
�125,000.00
Research Hub
Climate Change
Research Theme
Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options
Initial Projected Completion Date
31/10/2023