Natural Heritage

Natural Heritage

County Waterford   has a variety of landscapes and is characterised by mountain ranges in the northwest and centre of the county, several south-flowing river systems and a rugged coastline with many coves and beaches. The diversity of landscapes and natural heritage within the county enables views and prospects of areas of natural beauty from many public roads.

There are a number of diverse habitats found in County Waterford. Some habitats are of national importance and are recognised through designation as Natural Heritage Areas or proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs). Other habitats are of European Importance and are designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for their habitat or plant/animal species value or Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for birdlife. In addition to designated sites there are many other important sites for wildlife such as wetlands, peatlands, woodlands, and hedgerows.  A number of wetland species protected under European legislation occur in Waterford   rivers. These include Freshwater Pearl Mussel and White-Clawed Crayfish.