Predator proof fences at 2 sites in Co Donegal

Tender description

BirdWatch Ireland intends to erect two predator proof fences at separate sites in Co Donegal to protect populations of breeding waders from foxes during the months of April- July This habitat management work is part of the larger Halting Environmental Loss Project (HELP) where BirdWatch Ireland is working in partnership with RSPB Northern Ireland and RSPB Scotland to improve conditions for farmland birds. HELP is funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the INTERREG IVA Programme which is managed locally by the Special European Union Programmes Body. Predator fences at the two sites, Magheragallon and Sheskinmore will protect the important populations of wading birds, principally Lapwing. The designations themselves have an impact on the way that land management can be carried out and the timing of these works. The timing is therefore of great importance, with the work having to be carried out in late July/August. One fence is approximately 1.6km in length and the other 2km. • High-tensile fencing wire (1220mm Tornado horse fencing or equivalent) – specification HT13/122/8 The lowest 3 squares of wire at the bottom to be buried. • Chicken wire to be attached to the horse fencing and buried as above (to be confirmed). This is to ensure that mink cannot breach the fence. • High tensile electrified straight 2.5mm wire Three strands connected to a single circuit, placed above fence at heights of 5cm, then at 10cm gap intervals so they are 15cm and 25cm above main fence. Total fence height = 1.22 meters. The first wire (5cm above) to be offset to the outside by circa 4cm • Treated wooden posts (ca 1.8 meters) every 3 meters and strainers (2.4 meters) every 60 meters - incorporated into the existing fence • Access gates Approximate one to three galvanised gates per site (4 meter width plus furnishings); all overlain with small diameter mesh guard with an overhang to the gate