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EAST LOTHIAN COUNCIL LANDSCAPE AND COUNTRYSIDE JOHN MUIR COUNTRY PARK Annual Report 2009 Page 1 of 27 1. 2009 ANNUAL REPORT 1.1 This is the thirty third Annual Report for John Muir Country Park covering the period of 1st April 2009 to 31st March 2010 and charts the progress made in relation to the Objectives set out in the Prescriptive Management Plan. 1.2 The Countryside Commission for Scotland registered the Country Park in 1976. The Country Park currently extends to 713.5 hectares and comprises of a variety of habitats. The majority of the Country Park is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, with original designations that pre-date the Country Park status by some twenty-four years. These were designed to help protect the biological, geological and geomorphological features found within this environment. Two further, more recent, nature conservation designations have been put in place. The site is now incorporated into the Firth of Forth Special Protection Area and has also been notified as a Ramsar Site. (Ramsar Convention on Wetland of International Importance as a Waterfowl Habitat, 1982. Under this convention Scotland has agreed to promote the conservation of these habitats with specific regard to their ornithological importance). All of the above are designed to give protection to special aspects of the natural environment and the creatures living within or relying upon it in some way. 1.3 According to the Countryside (Scotland) Act 1967, (the enabling act for the creation of the Country Park), a country park is “a park or pleasure ground in the countryside which by reason of its position in relation to major concentrations of population affords convenient opportunities to the public for enjoyment of the countryside or open-air recreation”. The landscape features, especially the vast expanses of sand, exposed when the tide recedes, have made this area a favourite location for a wide variety of recreational pursuits. Through the years since its establishment, visitor numbers have risen steadily, though poor summers in both 2007 and 2008 resulted in slight declines from the peak record returned in 2006. 1.4 The diversity of habitats within the Country Park is one reason why this area has proven such a focus for public recreation. There has always been a realisation that the interface between the visitor and the natural environment needs to be managed. Since its inception, the Country Park has had a Management Plan, which continues to evolve by taking into account everchanging opportunities and pressures. Page 2 of 27 2. THE MANAGEMENT PLAN 2.1 The overall management aim is: To manage public recreation and conserve the geomorphology, geology and landscape, and sustain the biodiversity of the Country Park. 2.2 In order to make this aim achievable the management plan strives towards the following seven objectives through a series of specific prescriptions and actions; Objective 1 To provide those recreational facilities which will enhance visitors' enjoyment of the Country Park consistent with the Aim Objective 2 To maintain and enhance the role of the estuary as a feeding and roosting area for wildfowl and waders Objective 3 To conserve the mosaic of geomorphological features within the Country Park Objective 4 To conserve habitats, communities and species and in particular those that are deemed special in relation to agreed criteria Objective 5 To conserve the geological integrity of the Country Park Objective 6 To maintain and enhance the Country Park as a suitable breeding area for birds and in particular those deemed to be special in relation to defined criteria Objective 7 To conserve the landscape and character of the Country Park 2.3 The Landscape and Countryside Division of the Department of Community Services manages the Country Park. An Advisory Group comprised of external agencies, landowners and community organisations provides advice. Management, on a day-to-day basis is through the Countryside Ranger Service. 2.4 The Countryside Ranger Service operates over the whole of East Lothian and receives operational funding from Scottish Government. In order to meet its targets the Countryside Ranger Service has four main areas of remit. The Country Park’s objectives are encapsulated within the Countryside Ranger Service area of remit and therefore allow the report to be written in a generic format. Page 3 of 27 3. SUMMARY OF THE YEAR Monitoring of flora and fauna continued this year in line with the prescriptive management plan Control of invasive species was undertaken at the Biel Burn, Seafield Pond area, and Spike Island with giant hogweed removed to ensure visitor safety. Within Whitberry Point and Spike Island pine sapling and sea buckthorn control was carried out to protect these habitats. Pirri-pirri bur was dug out from a path within Hedderwick plantation Travelling people set up a camp (four vehicles) at Shore Road for two weeks in August 2009. One van parked in the bus turning area for four days during September Car park improvements and installation of directional signs for crossing the salt marsh were completed at Linkfield. Bridges were trialled over the creeks of the “horse” path over the salt marsh to redirect traffic over this sensitive habitat Site maintenance work was completed as required Monitoring of user groups and their interactions was regularly undertaken to gauge use of the site The Advisory Group would like to thank all those groups of individuals who volunteered their time during the year, to work on management projects within the Country Park 4. PROVIDING A WELCOME FOR VISITORS Public contact and all it entails forms a very large proportion of the work at the Park mainly by patrolling and liaising with the visitor, listening and responding to complaints or inquiries. Maintaining open paths, undertaking minor repairs, strimming, painting and ensuring a clean and tidy site are all aspects of providing a positive visitor experience. 4.1 Improvements to the surface of the car park at Linkfield were undertaken to provide more hard standing area for parking and to encourage people to the eastern end of the car park for access to the beach over the salt marsh. 4.2 Work along the “horse path” crossing the salt marsh was completed (using volunteers) to bridge the creeks to provide a safer and drier route for horses and pedestrians alike. These bridges proved successful in encouraging horse riders to cross in the correct place. However, the bridges did not withstand the high autumn tides and are being replaced with more robust structures. One of these bridges has been in place since November (again as a trial) and has survived strong storms and tides with no damage. 4.3 New signage was installed to encourage and inform users of the improved path. 4.4 Following an encampment of travelling people in November, extensive clearing up of the site by contractors was required, coupled with Page 4 of 27 repairs to the access gate to Linkfield car park and the wooden barriers around the horse parking area. 4.5 Work continued on replacing the seaward fence at Shore Road. 4.6 The dog bag dispenser at Linkfield car park continues to be well used and the Countryside Ranger fills this on a regular basis. However, the practice of irresponsible dog owners lifting their dog faeces only to then incorrectly dispose of the bag continues to be a problem. 4.7 The Countryside Ranger continues to approach members of the public when she sees them letting their dogs foul and gives them poop scoops. 4.8 During the summer months there were several complaints about the smell from some of the rubbish bins following the disposal of dog bags. The Countryside Ranger empties the bins on a regular basis (on occasion twice a day,) however the smell can still be a problem. The larger dog-fouling bin put in place at Linkfield is being well used and a further rubbish bin was sited next to it. This has helped with the problem of the dog-fouling bin overflowing, especially at weekends. The bin is currently emptied twice a week on a Monday and Thursday. The Countryside Ranger obtained stickers to put on the lids of the other bins on site stating that dog waste can be disposed on in these bins. 4.9 The dispensers for both paper litterbags and leaflets also continue to be well used but in November were destroyed by vandals. The remains were removed from site and repairs carried out. 4.10 Repairs to site furniture were undertaken over the year including fences, marker posts, gates, bridges and benches. 4.11 Removal of several undercut trees along the estuary edge of the plantation was required over the winter following high tides and winds. 5. INTERPRETATION AND FACILITIES 5.1 For the sixteenth consecutive year Belhaven Bay was awarded the Seaside Award (Keep Scotland Beautiful), in the Rural Beach Award category. During the bathing water season, however, periods of heavy rain resulted in a number of low water quality results recorded Belhaven Bay, with, on a number of occasions, large amounts of sewage related debris being recorded along the tide line. The Countryside Ranger liaised with Scottish Water and SEPA to ensure that this problem was addressed as quickly as possible, with Scottish Water sending out a cleansing squad to remove the debris. 5.2 The barbecue site was booked on 15 occasions. Before the arrival of each group a stock of firewood was left beside the fire-pit and the grills and site were checked to ensure they were clean and tidy. The banks around the BBQ site were frequently strimmed and the vegetation cut to ensure that it was maintained in a safe and presentable condition. The drop in number of BBQ bookings may be due to the band on alcohol consumption in public places (which includes JMCP). The local area office reported that on several Page 5 of 27 occasions before booking members of the public had asked if alcohol was allowed. Once they were told no they did not book the site. 5.3 Tide tables were posted monthly on the metal bridge at Shore Road to inform the public of the times the bridge would not be accessible during high water. There is also a warning notice to this effect at the information board at Shore Road car park. 6.0 SITE MONITORING 6.1 Due to a breakdown in the car counter retrieval equipment, it has been impossible to assess accurately visitor numbers for the three car parks (Tyninghame Links, Linkfield, Shore Road). A replacement monitoring system has been identified as a priority purchase for 2009-10, in order to continue to monitor annual visitor number fluctuations. 6.2 Appendix 1 shows the historical data for visitor numbers. 6.3 The pressure pad pedestrian counter located on the estuary footpath recorded a total of 6171 passes over the period of January to November 2009. Due to the cold weather in December a reading was not be taken as the ground is frozen. 7. VOLUNTARY GROUPS 7.1 Nine groups / individuals volunteered their services during the course of the year. In addition people serving on the Community Service for Offenders Programme completed several tasks equating to c.65 hours work. Tasks included litter picking, strimming and cutting back vegetation. 7.2 Belhaven beach was adopted by the Belhaven Surf Club, (as part of the Marine Conservation Society’s ‘Adopt-a-Beach’ campaign), in an effort to increase the cleanliness of the area. They undertook extensive litter picks during May and September 2009. This was of great help to the Countryside Ranger as they were able to carry back large items from the shoreline. 7.3 Details of all volunteer work can be found in Appendix 4. This work contributed greatly to the successful completion of a number of management tasks. 8. ENVIRONMENTAL INTERPRETATION Our aim is to provide an experience and promote a greater understanding of the countryside through environmental interpretation. This is aimed not just at the local community but to the wider audience of visitors from around the globe. 8.1 SUMMER EVENTS AND VISITING GROUPS 8.1.1 The Countryside Ranger led four events from the Summer Events Programme. Following the success of linking events with the John Muir Birthplace in previous years this was repeated. Unfortunately, due to the wet summer the events were not as well attended as would have been predicted. Page 6 of 27 8.1.2 The addition of drop-in events where people could come along for a short period of time was very successful, helping to make people aware of what the Countryside Ranger Service does and at getting across the message of responsible access while targeting regular users of the site and daytrippers. 8.2 SCHOOL GROUPS 8.2.1 39 groups visited the park as part of formal education. The Countryside Ranger was involved with 35 of these groups. Further information on the schools, the topics studied and the numbers involved can be found in Appendix 2. A number of school classes visit the Park under the guidance of their teachers. The Countryside Ranger Service is often unaware of these visits and they therefore go unrecorded. 8.3 RESEARCH APPLICATIONS The list of research projects undertaken within JMCP, are outlined in Appendix 5, several of these projects have come to an end and the Countryside Section is awaiting information prior to issuing any extensions. It is unfortunate that we do not always get copies of these final reports. The knowledge generated by these individuals is likely to be useful in the review and production process of each new 5-year Management Plan. 9. SURVEY AND MONITORING Increasingly important in the decision making process is the need to collect data, which, over a time frame, can show trends or fluctuations in the presence or absence of species. Changes in the natural environment are equally as important and an indication of their cause and effect allows management to take place in a sustainable manner since each part of our environment interacts with each other. 9.1 WILDFOWL AND WADERS 9.1.1. Twelve high water wader and wildfowl counts were carried out on a monthly cycle to monitor the fluctuating pattern of water bird life on the estuary. These counts are submitted to the national count database of the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS). Counts of the birds on the Tyne estuary have been carried out since 1969 and form the longest running species dataset for the Park. Results for the Annual Report year are shown in Appendix 6. In addition, as part of a 5-yearly survey of the Outer Forth region, four low-water counts were conducted on a monthly basis between November 2009February 2010. The results are presented in Appendix 6 and will be similarly submitted to the Wetlands Birds Survey team for analysis. 9.1.2 Once a fortnight, counts were completed of birds on Seafield Pond. During the wildfowling season water bird counts were carried out on the River Tyne upstream of the Park boundary. These counts supplement the WeBS data, and are important when analysing the bag returns submitted by those individuals who hold permits that allow them to shoot at the Country Park. Page 7 of 27 9.1.3 Over the years it has been noted that there is a sizeable passage flock of ringed plover present within the Park. On the 11 May 223 birds were recorded. 9.2 VEGETATION MONITORING 9.2.1 Targeted plant species were scheduled for monitoring this year in-line with the requirements of the management plan. The steep gradient and very overgrown condition of the banking, made it particularly difficult this season to monitor the cowslip (Primula veris) population. The cutting of these bankings is outlined as a prescription within in the management plan however, due to health and safety implications this prescription is no longer being undertaken. 9.2.2 Primrose (Primula vulgaris), common twayblade (Listera ovata), and early purple orchid (Orchis mascula,) which are all found on the semi-natural grassland bankings surrounding Winterfield Golf Course Clubhouse, were monitored. Once again the overgrown nature of the banking made accurate counts difficult. In addition, eel grass (Zostera spp), hairy violet (Viola hirta) and rush-leaved fescue (Festuca arenaria) were also monitored in line with the recommendations of a botanical consultant (Ben Averis) who reported on the monitoring of undertook a study of vascular plant species within the Park. 9.2.3 Over the five-year period of the current management plan (2004-2009), 17 of the 19 species recommended in the above report have been monitored. The presence and distribution of several of these species has in turn been recorded in map format, albeit hand-drawn. It is hoped that these can be digitised in time to make the information more available. 9.2.4 Two species, however, fern-grass (Catapodium rigidum) and leafy rush (Juncus foliosus) could not be located at previously identified localities. The Countryside Ranger will continue to check for these species, and, should they re-appear, undertake monitoring of them as per the overall botanical monitoring strategy. Summary of vegetation monitoring during the 2004-2009 five year Management Plan: Species Comments Bog pimpernel (Anagallis tenella) New species for this management plan. This species was mapped within the undulating wet habitat at Hedderwick plantation. There were two small patches present within the area. Ad-hoc recoding showed throughout the last four years this species is still present. To be monitored once every 5 years. Saltmarsh flat-sedge (Blysmus rufus) New species for this management plan. This species has a healthy population within the salt marsh on the landward side of Spike Island and was mapped for the first time during this management plan period. Healthy population at present. To be monitored once every 5 years Sea bindweed (Calystegia This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. It is found in one location in the Page 8 of 27 soldanella) marram grass of Spike Island. The area of cover is expanding slowly. To be monitored once every 5 years Grey hair-grass (Corynephorus canescens) This species was monitored by SNH in the past. It is located in Young’s Knowe. The individual number of plants was recorded. There is a healthy population of this species, which is expanding slowly. A second location on the salt marsh/sand dune margin was found in 2007 however, this has not been seen again since. This may be due to the area now holding water for longer, which is not suitable for this species. To be monitored once every 5 years Rush-leaved fescue (Festuca arenaria) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. It covers an extensive area of Spike Island and continues to have a healthy population within the dune system. To be monitored once every 5 years Scots lovage (Ligusticum scoticum) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. It is found on the seaward margin of Whitberry Point. Flowering Spikes area counted to establish the size of the population – this species is increasing in both the number plants and the area it covers. To be monitored once every 5 years Sea hard-grass (Parapholis strigosa) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. This plant occurs within the Belhaven Bay salt marsh. There has been an increase in the area covered by this species. This may be due to the salt marsh lying wetter - possibly due to wet summer over the last few years - therefore becoming a more suitable habitat. To be monitored once every 5 years Sea wormwood (Seriphidium maritinum) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. The area covered and abundance of this species has increased since this species was first recorded on the site and is now wide spread on both sides of the estuary. To be monitored once every five years Strawberry clover (Trifolium fragiferum) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. There has been an steady increase in the range of this species within the salt marsh at Belhaven Bay, this species is now wide spread within the salt marsh and can be seen to be concentrated in areas adjacent to paths crossing the salt marsh. To be monitored once every five years Hairy violet (Viola hirta) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. This species is no longer found at two of the locations it was recorded in the past – Ravensheugh dunes and Sandy Hirst - this may be due to these areas being overgrown with marram grass at Page 9 of 27 Ravensheugh and sea buckthorn and other scrub species at Sandy Hirst. Both of these locations only had small populations of this species. The remaining site is along the northern margin at Hedderwick Plantation. This is still a healthy population that is slowly increasing in extent within this area. To be monitored once every five years. Narrow-leaved Eelgrass (Zostera angustifolia) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. This species is located to the seaward side of Sandy Hirst. There are some areas of very dense growth and others of sparse growth – this is expected due the habitat it is located within having some areas of more suitable substrate. The population is healthy and appears to remain stable with some increase in area covered to the eastern end of Sandy Hirst. To be monitored once every five years. Dwarf eelgrass (Zostera noltei) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP. This species is located in the inner estuary towards the southern edge of the mud flats. Again this is a healthy population with some dense patches. The overall extent of cover is also increasing. To be monitored once every five years. Common twayblade (Listera ovata) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP and is currently monitored annually. Located on the semi-natural grasslands at Winterfield golf course this species appears to be remaining stable in population. Early-purple orchid (Orchis mascula) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP and is currently monitored annually. Located on the semi-natural grasslands at Winterfield golf course this species in the past has shown fluctuations in number of flowering spikes year on year with the population never remaining stable. Over the last five years there has been a drop in the number of plants present, with NONE recorded for 2009. This is most likely due to the banking no longer being strimmed over winter due to health and safety implications. The lack of cutting has resulted in a change in the vegetation structure causing over-shading and greater competition for this species. This is the only location within JMCP that this species has been recorded. Cowslip (Primula veris) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP and is currently monitored annually. Located on the semi natural grasslands at Winterfield golf course this species has shown a decrease in the number of flowering spikes. Again this is most likely due to the bank no longer getting cut and therefore becoming overgrown. The overgrown nature of this very steep bank has also made it very difficult to monitor this Page 10 of 27 species. Primrose (Primula vulgaris) This species has been part of the long term monitoring programme within JMCP and is currently monitored annually. Located on the semi natural grasslands at Winterfield golf course this species has shown a decrease in the total area covered. Again this is most likely due to the bank no longer getting cut and therefore becoming overgrown. Reflexed salt marsh grass (Puccinellia distans) New species for this management plan. This plant is located around the margin of Seafield Pond and was monitored for the first time in 2008. The population appears to be healthy. To be monitored once every five years. Fern-grass (Catapodium rigidum) NOT monitored there were records for this species at Seafield Pond however they could not be located. Leafy rush (Juncus foliosus) NOT monitored there were records for this species at Seafield Pond however they could not be located. 9.3 MONITORING TARGETED ANIMAL SPECIES - BIRDS 9.3.1 Sand martin colonies at the Country Park were monitored on a regular basis. On 16 June a nest count was made at Winterfield and at Hedderwick Sands. Unfortunately, following the successful re-colonisation at Winterfield in 2005, no nests were recorded in this area. At Hedderwick Sands, 18 active nests were recorded which is the highest number in the last five years. The following graph shows that the nest count for this species fluctuates yearly. This is often due to weather conditions during their migration. Local factors, such as erosion of the sandy cliff front that they nest in at Hedderwick, may also be a factor. Total number of nests Number of Sand martin (Riparia riparia) nests 2005-2009 at Hedderwick 20 15 10 5 0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Year 9.3.2 The annual kittiwake nest count was carried out on June 5th. Appendix 10 shows the number and distribution of nests at the colony. The Page 11 of 27 count of 933 nests represented an overall drop in nest numbers of 62 nests from 2008. Prolonged wet and windy weather at the beginning of the nesting season may explain the reduction in nesting pairs. The following graph illustrates the total number of nests over time at the colony. Sporadic data is available from 1979 to 1985. Since 1986 annual counts have been undertaken. The data shows a steady increase in numbers, with a peak in 2000. Since then, the number has fluctuated in the region of 900-1100 nests. 20 09 20 07 20 05 20 03 20 01 19 99 19 97 19 95 19 93 19 91 19 89 19 87 19 85 19 83 19 81 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 19 79 Number of Nests Total Number of Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) nests at Dunbar Castle 1979-2009 Year The kittiwake colony is of interest since it is one of the few accessible, mainland colonies. The birds are confiding and have lent themselves to close academic study. A productivity-monitoring plot has been long established, conducted by the Countryside Ranger Service. In addition, a long-term monitoring programme is in place, and on the 18 July the annual ringing was undertaken. Due to the cool and wet weather only adults were ringed this season with the young being left in the nests. Over the summer period dead birds found beneath the nests were collected by the Countryside Ranger with any rings being removed and the birds disposed of. This year, the mortality rate of chicks was very low and a large proportion of the chicks appeared to reach fledgling size. It was also noted that feeding also seemed better this year with large shoals of sand eels often being seen in the harbour. An examination of nests during the ringing programme revealed very few pipe fish carcasses. 9.3.2 The annual count of non-breeding swans, completed 11 April 2009, recorded 44 individuals. A separate count of the moult flocks of mute swans was undertaken on the 25 July 2009, with 5 individuals recorded. The estuary is a safe habitat for both the moult flock from predation and the nonbreeding flock from competition from breeding pairs. 9.3.3 Three autumn goose counts were undertaken on behalf of the Wildfowl and Wetland Trust as part of their national monitoring scheme. This data is used to under taken assessments of data in relation to wildfowling on site. 9.3.4 Once a year the foreshore between the Peffer Burn and Dunbar harbour is searched for dead birds. The information is forwarded to the Royal Page 12 of 27 Society for the Protection of Birds who collate the data and produce a digest of national statistics. On the 27th February 2010 one whooper sawn carcass was found in addition to the wings and legs of one black headed gull and one herring gull. 9.4 INFORMAL OBSERVATIONS 9.4.1 Casual records were also made of any other wildlife. These include several badger sightings in Tyninghame woods; barn owls and tawny owls at Lime-tree Walk (early mornings and dusk while checking wildfowlers); foxes and otters at Moss House point and Seafield Pond and roe deer at several localities. A pod of 8 bottle nosed dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) were seen off Whitberry point and two Orca (Orcinus orca) at Belhaven Bay. 9.5 BUTTERFLIES 9.5.1 A weekly butterfly transect is conducted during April – September. Due to wet weather at the beginning of the season only 15 of the usual 28 transects were possible to complete. The transect data is entered into the Butterfly conservation database so that it can be compared to national data. 9.5.2 The methodology follows that devised by the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology for their national butterfly-monitoring scheme. This provides a standardised means of recording the yearly flight dates of the butterflies within the Park. 9.5.3 One comma butterfly (Polygonia c-album) was recorded at Tyninghame Links, and one speckled wood (Pararge aegeria) was recorded at Hedderwick plantation. Uncommonly high numbers of common blues (Polyommatus icarus) were also recoded over a period of warmer weather in July. In addition large numbers of six-spot burnet moths (Zygaena filipendulae) were also recorded in July with 95 being counted on one transect in July. 9.6 CONTROL OF INVASIVE SPECIES 9.6.1 Spraying of giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) was undertaken along the Beil burn and around Seafield Pond. The Countryside Ranger dug out three additional plants from Spike Island. Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), now established below ( thought to be garden escape) the glebe on the cliff top trail, was also controlled. 9.6.2 The pirri-pirri bur (Acaena ovalifolia) found in 2007 within Hedderwick plantation was monitored on a regular basis and removed by hand pulling to try and prevent the spread of the small (approximately 1m x 2m) patch. 9.6.3 Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) seedling removal continued on Spike Island and Whitberry Point with help from Secondary School work placement students. The removal of these self-generating pines is undertaken to preserve the natural succession of Spike Island and the coastal heath at Whitberry point. No rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum) control was required on Whitberry Point this year. 9.6.4 Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamoides) was cut down on Whitberry Point to open up the paths. This was done with help from Secondary School work placements, volunteers and Countryside Rangers. Page 13 of 27 9.6.5 The large sea buckthorn stand on Spike Island mechanically removed in February 2007/8 continues to be monitored. Further removal of the small plants around the perimeter of the original stand was carried out using volunteers. 10. MONITORING GEOMORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES 10.1 The extensive blow-out at Ravensheugh dune has remained in much the same state as the previous year possibly due to the dune being eroded far enough to be held in place by the vegetation at the back. 10.2 The Countryside Ranger continues to monitor changes along Sandy Hirst where the sea, during high tides and storms, is breeching the landward end of the spit on a more frequent basis. At present there does not appear to be any detrimental effect from this increased inundation of the salt marsh of Heckies Hole with salt water. Following a visit from Scottish Natural Heritage it was recommended that no action was needed as this represented a natural process. 10.3 The condition of the salt marsh between Linkfield and Spike Island has become a cause for concern. Extensive tracking across desire lines have produced braided paths across the feature, which, in turn have become stripped of vegetation cover. In other areas damage from horses has resulted in yet further erosion of the vegetation. Anecdotal evidence suggests the feature is changing, developing more of a vertical profile, with the consequence that certain areas are now holding water for prolonged periods, whilst others may be drying out. The installation of a recommended path (at the eastern end of the marsh) supported by advisory signage is anticipated to reduce the damage cause by the tracking. Monitoring will continue. 11. MONITOR/ENFORCING WILDFOWLING SYSTEMS 2008/2009 Wildfowling Season Summary: 11.1 233 permits were issued with a total of 564 visits being made to the estuary. This is the lowest recorded number of visits for John Muir Country Park (JMCP) since the permit system was first established in 1982. 11.2 Details of distribution of the permits issued can be found in Appendix 8 with the breakdown of the number of birds shot through the season appearing in Appendix 9. 11.3 Comparison of the number of visits against the number of birds shot gives an indication of wildfowling success against effort expended, but does not necessarily reflect the presence or absence of quarry species, or their numbers. On a month-by-month basis, November proved to be the most productive, with an average of 0.86 birds shot per visit, followed by September and December with averages of 0.73 and 0.72 respectively. January and February were the least successful with averages of 0.61 and 0.62. There has been a steady drop in the return for effort expended calculation since the 2003/04 season when it was averaging very nearly one bird per visit. Page 14 of 27 11.4 Geese were shot in each month of the season. The total number of geese shot was 130 (50 Pink-foot, 72 Greylag, 8 Canada), which equates to the highest geese bag ever recorded. 11.5 Wigeon returns were lower than the 2007/08 season with 122 birds shot. This is the lowest recoded wigeon bag for JMCP. Teal returns were also lower than last season with 51 individuals being shot in comparison to 91 and is on the third lowest bag return. Mallard numbers fell from 86 for 2007/08 to 66 individuals for this season which is the second lowest bag return for mallard. The woodpigeon bag of only 20 birds being represents the lowest return since the permit system came into force. 2009/2010 Wildfowling Season adverse weather: 11.6 Following fourteen consecutive days below freezing in late December 2009 early January 2010 a compulsory fourteen day ban of shooting was imposed on wildfowling. During this period notices were put up on site to inform both the wildfowlers and general public. No incidents of shooting were recorded in this time. 12. TERN BREEDING MEASURES 12.1 Sadly, no little terns nested within the Country Park. Following the decision made in 2003 the tern fence was not erected. During the time where the terns would normally have started to nest on Spike Island the Countryside Ranger closely monitored the site for any activity and to assess whether protection measures are required. A pair of arctic terns nested at the tip of Spike Island laying 2 eggs though the nest was washed away prior to hatching. 12.2 12th June one pair Arctic tern found nesting on the sands beyond the tip of Spike Island nest contained two eggs. Unfortunately nest failed due to inundation by subsequent high tide. 13. SITE SAFETY 13.1 An adequate level of water at Seafield Pond ensured successful breeding by swans, moorhen, mallard and coot. However, the heavy rainfall on occasion and large amount of snow in December 2009 and January 2010 resulted in a temporary pump once again being required to prevent flooding of the caravan park. The water level was significantly reduced to allow for the melt water. 13.2 Throughout the year, monthly water samples were taken and submitted to the Public Analyst’s Office in Edinburgh for routine analysis for water quality. In general the water samples returned unsatisfactory levels of faecal coliforms (origin unknown) and the pond was closed to water sports for most of the year. An enhanced sampling regime has been put in place in order to ascertain underlying causes. 13.3 From October - mid November the Pond was found to have another outbreak of blue-green algae. Notices were erected to warn the public and once again the Pond was closed to water sports. Page 15 of 27 13.4 The emergency throw lines located at Shore Road, Belhaven Bay and Seafield pond were unravelled on several occasions. To ensure the throw lines were in place and in good condition the Countryside Ranger checked these twice a week. 13.5 The emergency phone was checked on a weekly basis. 13.6 Tide tables were put up regularly on the metal bridge at Shore Road, to inform members of the public when the bridge is likely to get cut-off due to high water. 13.7 Following heavy winds, several trees within Hedderwick plantation blew over. The council forestry team cleared fallen / hung-up trees when required. 13.8 On the 4th June there was a fire at the eastern end of Spike Island the fire brigade was called and successfully extinguished it. An area of approximately 50m by 20m was damaged. In the centre of the fire area were two disposable BBQ’s, which are thought to have been the source of the incident. The area is, however, regenerating well, with the first flush of rosebay willow herb being seen within weeks, marram grass has successfully re-colonised the area. 13.9 Unfortunately, over the year the Coastguard and RNLI have been called to four incidents within JMCP. Two bodies were recovered; one from Belhaven Bay and one from beneath the Cliff top Trail. In addition, a kitesurfer had to be rescued after ditching his kite in the water. The RNLI inshore lifeboat also overturned during a training exercise in Belhaven Bay. No injuries were sustained, however, the boat was damaged and had to be recovered from the beach. In addition to these recorded incidents the Countryside Ranger has been informed of further instances of surfers getting into trouble in the water and one getting struck by their board. Other surfers assisted the casualties. 13.10 There were also reports of several surfers being stung by weaver fish. Weaver fish have always been present at Belhaven Bay with reports in the past. However, the larger number of surfers now in the water may have resulted in more incidents being reported. 13.11 On a regular patrol the Countryside Ranger assisted one visitor who had been stung by a lion’s main jellyfish. 14. MONITORING HORSE USE 14.1 Monitoring horse use within the Country Park is ongoing, with the Countryside Ranger talking to riders, explaining the background to the new panels and leaflet and collecting details of any riders who are not on the new list. When the riders were not available to talk to, vehicle registrations were checked against the master list of riders for the Country Park. Holding an upto-date list of email addresses has meant that horse riders are able to be informed of any relevant issues in a quick manner. 14.2 The board at the horse parking area enabled the Countryside Ranger to display tide tables to inform riders of suitable times for accessing the Page 16 of 27 foreshore. Unfortunately, the practice of not keeping to preferred routes to cross the salt marsh continued, despite the best efforts of the Countryside Ranger to talk to riders and provide them with information. 15. USER GROUP INTERACTIONS The Belhaven Bay User Group met on one occasion to discuss any issues on site. Discussions about the increased number of surfers using the site sparked interest in working towards ensuring that access across the salt marsh is responsible and sustainable. 16. BAIT DIGGING Bait digging was observed on several occasions within the Park. When possible the Countryside Ranger speaks to bait diggers to encourage back filling of the holes. Bait diggers seen at Tyninghame digging in the mussel beds are of particular concern, and are encouraged to use other areas. 17. PERIWINKLE COLLECTION 17.1 During the Autumn / Winter the rocky foreshore was targeted at low water by travelling people illegally camping at countryside sites within East Lothian. They collected vast quantities of edible periwinkles (Littorina littorea). Winterfield foreshore and Whitberry Point were the main areas targeted. Access to the rocky shore from the wildfowlers’ car park is still prevented by two large tree stumps that may have helped to reduce the number of visits by vehicles onto the shore at this site. 17.2 The nature of collection followed a similar pattern to previous years. No riddling for size took place instead bags complete with small immature specimens were harvested for sale. It is believed that if this practice continues unchecked it will result in a significant change in the ecology of the shore. 17.3 Small-scale collection of periwinkles in the Winterfield area by people local to the Dunbar continues. Typically, these collectors remove only a small amount of periwinkles from the foreshore, riddling for marketable sized individuals as they go. 17.4 The Countryside Ranger continues to monitor the amount of collection within the Park, these records in turn are added to observations taken across the entire East Lothian coastline, with a view towards shaping a future policy on shellfish management. 18. ENFORCING BYELAWS/MANAGEMENT RULES 18.1 During the summer a number of disposable BBQs were used at the site. The practice of not disposing of the trays in a responsible manner continued, with people leaving them on the beach, on picnic tables and in the play park and car parks. Hot BBQs were also placed in rubbish bins in Linkfield car park causing them to catch fire. Page 17 of 27 18.2 When the Countryside Ranger deemed people to be having BBQs in inappropriate areas she encouraged users to move to the beach below the strand line. 18.3 A total of 209 incidents were recorded of occasions when discarded disposable BBQs were found on site disposed of by the rubbish bins, buried on the beach/dunes or left in the car park or on picnic tables. This total is significantly higher than last season (93 in 2008). 19. ACCESS ISSUES The ethos of the Country Park has always assumed a freedom to roam within its boundaries. On occasion there is a requirement to restrict access to control an activity, which may prejudice the success of an event or irreparably damage features within the environment. 19.1 The crossing of the salt marsh contrary to recommended routes (on display in the car park and on the horse riders riding permit), continues to be a cause for concern (see section 10.3), but is partly understandable given changes in the nature of the salt marsh itself. The recommended horse path at the eastern end of the salt marsh is no longer suitable for horses due to deep holes and widening creeks caused by tidal inundation and the ground becoming much softer. It is hoped that the continuing work to improve this path will resolve this problem. 19.2 The erection of fencing along the back of the dunes in the Ravensheugh – Peffer Burn locality has been the cause for some concern, with regards to access. It is believed the fencing is to allow for grazing and, by reducing the height of the sward in this location, could improve the habitat for ground nesting birds including Skylark and Meadow pipit. The Access Officer is currently in discussion with the landowner. Tara Sykes, John Muir Country Park Countryside Ranger Page 18 of 27 Appendix 1 – HISTORICAL CAR PARK FIGURES Count Period 1st January – 31st December 1992 1st January – 31st December 1993 1st January – 31st December 1994 1st January – 31st December 1995 1st January – 31st December 1996 1st January – 31st December 1997 1st January – 31st December 1998 1st January – 31st December 1999 1st January – 31st December 2000 1st January – 31st December 2001 1st January – 31st December 2002 1st January – 31st December 2003 1st January – 31st December 2004 1st January – 31st December 2005 1st January – 31st December 2006 1st January - 31st December 2007 FM foot and mouth Linkfield 135,513 147,998 152,640 164,549 180,159 185,164 193,303 206,964 207,142 114,172 171,559 187,438 194,057 188,801 199,242 198,455 Shore Road 102,147 112,584 115,220 118,561 121,565 117,801 122,385 116,444 116,223 122,117 133,609 143,631 145,831 142,527 149,092 128,801 Page 19 of 27 Tyninghame Links 56,765 59,323 56,796 59,837 58,768 59,252 59,392 60,295 61,564 49,343 60,926 67,540 71,515 68,577 85,847 83,487 Total 294,425 319,905 324,656 342,947 360,492 362,217 375,080 383,703 384,929 315,632 FM 336,094 398,609 411,385 399,905 434,181 410,743 Appendix 2 – VISITING GROUPS Date Group Activity Number 1 April Wallyford Primary Team building 31 2 April Wallyford Primary Team building 30 13 April am Musselburgh Burgh Beach scavenger hunt 30 13 April pm Musselburgh Burgh Beach scavenger hunt 30 14 May West Barns Primary Nature trails 20 18 May Athelstaneford Primary Birds in their habitats 23 20 May Musselburgh Burgh Beach scavenger hunt 30 27 May Green Team – Green Shoots Buckthorn clearance Spike Island 11 1 June Pathead Primary Coastal processes and management 30 2 June am Dunbar Primary History of Harbours and Castle 25 2 June pm Dunbar Primary History of Harbours and Castle 25 3 June Springfield Primary Designs for Living 30 4 June am Dunbar Primary History of Harbours and Castle 25 4 June pm Dunbar Primary History of Harbours and Castle 25 10 June Edinburgh Academy Rockpooling 55 13 June Haddington Cubs and Scouts Environmental Orienteering 35 15 June Law Primary Activity week 25 16 June Law Primary Activity week 25 17 June North Berwick High School Land management, tourism and land use 42 18 June Law Primary Activity week 25 30 June Ranger Event Ranger Box of tricks 6 July Tranent summer diversion group Team building and orienteering 8 7 July East Lothian Youth Exchange Conservation Task 12 8 July Pathhead and Kinross Youth team Nature walk 10 9 July Ranger Event Squiggly Wigglies 17 July Ranger Event Trees and Wine 1 August Ranger Event Wildlife Crime (with Police) 4 Septmeber Outdoor Education S4 Challenge 14 September Green Team – Green Shoots Buckthorn clearance Spike Island 11 1 October am West Barns Primary River dipping 25 1 October pm West Barns Primary River dipping 25 5 October Haddington Infants Nature Trail 25 6 October Haddington Infants Nature Trail 25 7 October Haddington Infants Nature Trail 25 8 October Haddington Infants Nature Trail 25 Page 20 of 27 13 October West Barns Primary Woodland studies 25 14 October West Barns Primary Woodland studies 25 21 October Ranger Event Dunbar Delights 3 November Wallyford Primary Litter pick 12 10 November Wallyford Primary Woodland study 12 12 November Knox academy Advanced Higher Geography Sand Dune Succession 7 17 November Wallyford Primary Bird ID 12 3 December Ormiston Primary River studies 24 17 December West Barns Primary Bird Boxes and Bird feeders 54 10 January Outdoor Education Staff Training – blokarts – SELF LED 10 February Outdoor Education Schools Orienteering Appendix 3 – SPECIAL EVENTS Date Group Activity 8 March Belhaven Hill School Preparatory School cross country championships SELF LED 21 June East Lothian Orienteers Competition and BBQ SELF LED 27 June Open University Geology field trip SELF LED 17 September Belhaven Surf Club Litter Pick SELF LED 20 December Peebles Pony Club Rideout SELF LED 28 December East Lothian Orienteers Festive Frolic Appendix 4 – VOLUNTARY TASKS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE Date Group Activity All year (rain or shine!) John Lindsay SELF LED Litter picking All year Communitry service Litter picking, general maintenance, strimming 31 August Franklin Templeton Investments Seaward fence at Shore Road May and September Belhaven Surf club Adopt a beach - beach clean 19 January -23 January General tasks March Tim McKenzie General Tasks November Dilan Anderson Schools placement week - General tasks and monitoring November Jordan Curry Schools placement – General tasks and monitoring November and December Neil Mitchell Monitoring December, January, Amander Souter General maintenance tasks – hours Page 21 of 27 February 24 February for Duke of Edinburgh award Telford college field trip Page 22 of 27 John Muir award and buckthorn clearance Appendix 5 - RESEARCH APPLICATIONS Name Title Comments J Coleman Kittiwake Ringing at Dunbar Harbour Permission granted until August 2008 M Sinclair Preparation of a Coleoptra species list for John Muir Country Park Permission granted until 31 December 2008 Dr W Cresswell How Does The Risk of Death Vary Between Individuals Within a Group On Attack by a Predator? Permission granted until 1 March 2009 Dr K Heal Quantify methyl bromide emissions from different environments, in particular saltmarsh, forests and agricultural soils Permission granted until 31 December 2008 Elaine Tooth Monitoring Environmental change and ecosystem health using seabird guano chemistry Permission granted until December 2008 Page 23 of 27 Appendix 6 – MONTHLY HIGH TIDE WILDFOWL AND WADER COUNTS F Mute Swan Whooper Swan Pink-foot Goose Greylag Shelduck Wigeon Teal Mallard Eider Goldeneye Red-bmerganser Goosander Oystercatcher Ringed Plover Grey Plover Lapwing Knot Sanderling Dunlin Snipe Bar-t-godwit Whimbrel Curlew Redshank Greenshank Turnstone M 3 A 44 M 27 83 J 15 1 2009 J A 5 3 S 23 O 21 N 2 D 67 1 32 3 71 755 594 64 11 53 19 6 118 121 74 4 2 10 9 2 768 16 197 3 25 1 330 12 60 9 69 7 6 38 2 3 273 186 102 72 352 37 77 2 1 84 56 2 1 37 3 2 1 4 283 65 52 12 7 1 2 602 11 80 55 52 37 10 3 430 187 11 2 3 613 469 14 84 130 23 7 10 Pink-foot goose Greylag goose Wigeon Teal Mallard Month October August January December October Page 24 of 27 766 320 421 123 113 322 52 12 66 135 2 2 348 211 457 701 257 23 1 125 150 1 32 Appendix 7 - PEAK COUNTS OF WILDFOWL 2008/09 2008/2009 season 501 231 1036 167 71 330 340 62 38 15 6 3 27 53 3 5 302 313 753 695 905 558 7 2 10 30 3 25 62 2 14 82 28 33 118 172 165 69 26 50 102 71 216 1 10 9 12 8 4 6 68 35 63 366 123 91 235 227 594 5 72 5 169 180 43 55 3 6 14 9 40 11 2 7 34 112 6 183 64 66 2 59 2010 J F 2 2007/2008 Season 1172 222 1251 265 180 46 90 146 73 69 236 1 16 13 125 102 20 87 1 57 62 49 68 Appendix 8 - GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION OF WILDFOWLING PERMIT HOLDERS 2008/09 SEASON No of permits issued Dunbar West Barns East Linton East Lothian excluding above Edinburgh mid/west Lothian and Borders Rest of Scotland England % of total Permits returned Permits used No of visits 08/ 09 22 08/09 08/09 Am pm 9 07/ 08 20 15 13 59 25 47 49 24 43 52 23 35 40 9 94 8 92 3 40 8 91 7 79 201 197 07/ 08 25 08/ 09 22 60 233 231 Totals Shaded columns =2007/08 Season Figures Total No of visits 104 07/ 08 175 08/ 09 117 56 108 161 164 24 50 90 146 140 5 33 15 65 8 55 131 23 120 23 199 365 636 564 Appendix 9 - NUMBER OF BIRDS SHOT 2008/09 SEASON Species Pink-foot goose Greylag Goose Canada Goose Wigeon Teal Mallard Goldeneye Snipe Sept 5 3 8 17 9 22 Subtotal Woodpigeon 5 Totals 2007/08 Season Figures Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 5 13 14 11 12 12 2 16 12 17 29 12 7 1 25 11 12 2 1 29 8 16 15 9 7 7 6 2 1 2 7 4 2 0 Page 25 of 27 07/08 season 52 37 2 155 91 86 1 1 08/09 season 50 72 8 122 55 66 4 1 425 47 472 378 20 398 Appendix 10 – KITTIWAKE NEST COUNTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 Castle Inner Castle S Harbour Entrance N Harbour Entrance Magazine Leisure Johnston's Johnston's 2 Rock Sea Pool 1 Outcrop 1 Wall 96 65 33 4 222 1982 Jun-01 147 89 29 7 272 1983 Jun-01 159 81 38 8 286 1986 Jun-19 171 122 36 21 350 1979 24 7 8 9 10 11 12 Rock Outcrop 2 Johnston's 3 1987 Jun-15 TOTAL 479 1988 Jun-08 217 180 41 20 458 1989 May-31 269 174 56 60 559 1990 Jun-13 278 173 59 67 577 1991 Jun-04 337 217 73 54 681 1992 Jun-22 364 285 97 104 850 1993 Jun-07 394 223 95 84 796 1994 Jun-11 358 222 91 58 729 1995 Jun-07 484 267 115 93 6 2 6 973 1996 Jun-12 451 9 243 108 79 17 2 5 914 1997 Jun-10 418 22 227 117 123 34 3 7 951 1998 Jun-11 324 93 175 88 77 42 3 8 810 1999 Jun-11 365 130 182 77 100 82 5 8 949 2000 Jun-07 351 182 258 90 139 130 5 19 12 5 2001 Jun-13 326 168 171 86 92 68 3 11 10 0 1 3 939 2002 Jun-12 314 172 175 97 129 92 6 18 13 2 0 7 1025 2003 Jun-09 320 162 164 90 107 99 6 17 11 0 0 0 976 2004 Jun-11 319 199 193 91 142 105 8 23 12 0 0 3 1095 2005 Jun-10 311 222 167 83 152 100 3 17 18 5 0 8 1086 Page 26 of 27 1191 Appendix 10 – KITTIWAKE NEST COUNTS CONTINUED 2 1 3 4 Castle Inner Castle S Harbour Entrance N Harbour Entrance 2006 Jun-09 332 253 189 2007 June-15 318 252 292 267 2008 Jun-13 2009 Jun-05 6 5 7 9 10 8 11 12 Magazine Leisure Johnston's Rock Sea Pool 1 Johnston's 2 Outcrop 1 Wall Rock Outcrop 2 Johnston's 3 TOTAL 67 153 110 1 17 17 1 2 9 1151 177 66 160 121 2 18 20 2 9 10 1155 240 120 67 125 102 0 10 19 0 10 10 995 207 120 57 136 97 1 13 21 0 7 7 933 Page 27 of 27