Ash Ecology

Ecological Consultant Waterford

Expert ecological and environmental assessments for planning applications in Waterford. CIEEM Registered Practice with fast turnaround.

Ecological Assessments in Waterford

Waterford's ecology is defined by its river systems — the Suir, Blackwater, and their tributaries — and its coastline. Dungarvan and Tramore harbours support important intertidal habitats. The Comeragh Mountains provide upland habitats including corrie lakes. The Blackwater Valley contains significant areas of semi-natural woodland.

Natura 2000 Sites in Waterford

Key Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) in Waterford include Blackwater River SAC, River Suir SAC, Comeragh Mountains SAC, Helvick Head SAC, and Glendine Wood SAC.

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) include Dungarvan Harbour SPA, Blackwater Estuary SPA, Tramore Back Strand SPA, and Mid-Waterford Coast SPA.

Protected Species

The Blackwater and Suir support Atlantic Salmon, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, and Otter. Coastal SPAs are important for wintering waterbirds including Brent Goose and Black-tailed Godwit. Bat species utilise the county's extensive network of older buildings and woodland.

Planning in Waterford: Waterford City and County Council routinely requests ecological reports. The combined influence of the Suir and Blackwater SACs means most developments require AA Screening at minimum.

Services in Waterford

AA Screening is standard for developments within the Suir and Blackwater catchments, which cover most of the county. Bat surveys are frequently needed for residential and commercial projects. NIS is required for developments near estuarine areas.

Need a Flood Risk Assessment in Waterford?

We also provide Stage 1, 2 & 3 Flood Risk Assessments for planning through our dedicated service. Proper OPW methodology with fast turnaround.

Visit floodriskreport.ie →

Working with Waterford City and County Council

We have extensive experience preparing ecological reports for Waterford City and County Council. Our reports are thorough, clearly structured, and address the specific requirements of local planning officers. We regularly handle Further Information responses within tight timeframes.

Facing an FI deadline in Waterford? We regularly turn around Further Information responses within tight timeframes. Call us directly on 089 499 1181.

Get a Quote

Send your project details — we'll respond with a fixed-price quote, typically within 24 hours.

Prefer to talk?

089 499 1181