An overview of biodiversity features in Dublin city urban parklands

Abstract

This study was commissioned in 1999 by the South Dublin County Council Parks Department in order to survey and compile a comprehensive inventory of the flora and fauna and provide a detailed map of the wildlife habitats in selected parks. The ecological assets of each park were described and specific management recommendations to enhance biodiversity were provided, such as set aside areas of wildflower or hay meadows and the planting of native woodland species. Rare species and areas of conservation interest were highlighted and mapped. The information has been used by the local authority for management direction and educational purposes. The surveys also provide a baseline data‐set which will allow monitoring of future change; this is particularly important for the most recently developed parklands and for the municipal golf course which has signed up to the European Committed to Green programme.