Craigs ASSI
| Site No | ASSI 372 |
|---|---|
| Area | 13.46 (ha) |
| Declared Date | 16/03/2011 |
| Confirmed Date | |
| County | Antrim |
| Council(s) | Ballymoney BC |
| Keywords | Species rich grassland |
Craigs has been declared as an ASSI because of its species-rich wet grassland. Species-rich grassland tends to occur only where traditional farming practices have been maintained. Such species-rich grassland is now a rare habitat in Northern Ireland.
Craigs ASSI is situated 3 kilometers west of Dunloy. Variations in soils and topography have resulted in subtle differences in grassland type, with species denoting both the wet and dry conditions occurring.
A special type of species-rich wet grassland known as Purple Moor-grass and rush pasture occurs over much of the site. This results in the occurrence of species adapted to water movement and wetter conditions. Plants characteristic of this community include Sharp-flowered Rush, Autumn Hawkbit, Devil’s-bit Scabious and Carnation Sedge and the mosses Glittering Wood-moss and Neat Feather-moss. In addition to the grassland itself, Craigs is also an important site for Lesser Butterfly-orchid, a declining species in Northern Ireland.
At the base of the slope, water movement is much reduced. Species typical of wetter conditions are found alongside the rush pasture vegetation in these areas. Plants associated with this area include Common Butterwort, Marsh Hawk’s-beard, Marsh Arrowgrass and Bogbean.
Many of these plants are only found in grasslands where traditional forms of land management are used. The use of artificial fertilisers, herbicides or the application of manure or slurry would cause a reduction in plant numbers on the site. When soils become more fertile, grasses tend to thrive, growing faster and taller. Smaller plants such as orchids are not able to compete with the tougher grasses and as a result are lost.
Correct management is essential for special places like Craigs. If, for example, grazing was to cease, the field parcels would quickly become rank and scrub would invade. This would cause a reduction in the numbers of grasses and wildflowers found here. Traditional agricultural practices will ensure the survival of the rich range of plants at Craigs.
