Heath cudweed

Gnaphalium sylvaticum

Key Species Actions

• A sample of historic sites in Counties Tyrone and Derry re-surveyed, with Quarry Products Association Northern Ireland (QPANI) staff and Tyrone county botanists.
• Liaison with BSBI's Threatened Plant Project (TPP) Co-ordinator (see Actions by others) and submission of records to TPP.

Benefits for the Species

• Updated information on plant status and distribution - gaps in knowledge highlighted.
• Increased understanding of plant habitat requirements and main threats.

Actions by Others

• QPANI - inclusion of the species in the Biodiversity Action Plan, recognising the quarry industry's potential to contribute to conservation of the species; provision of information to quarry managers at heath cudweed sites.
• BSBI - contribution to recording of the species, particularly in Co. Tyrone, and targeted plant searches at a UK level through the TPP.

Recommended Next Steps

• Conduct a formal heath cudweed survey, using TPP recording system, prioritising sites in Counties Tyrone and Derry.
• Report on plant losses from sites and suspected causes.
• Map past and present species distribution, in relation to current quarrying activity, to highlight potential new colonisation sites.
• Involve the local community in protecting and managing heath cudweed sites in the Cookstown area.
• Produce and circulate written guidelines, geared towards the quarry industry, for conservation of heath cudweed and other associated indicator species.
• Develop a Plant Targeting map and set of management prescriptions for use by DARD Countryside Management Branch; Use this mechanism to provide advice to farmers within the plant's range on AES options which benefit the species.
• Encourage wider recording by provision of information on the plant to Environmental Consultants, NIEA's Habitat Survey Team, Biodiversity Officers, amateur botanists etc.