Gardens throughout Dublin are to be surveyed in order to establish the variety of plants and animals that live in the city.
Dublin City Council is planning to appoint consultants to survey the biodiversity value of gardens, which account for 25 per cent of the land space in the capital. Tenders were sought this week for the €20,000 project.
"Gardens are a huge resource that we know very little about," said Charles Duggan, the council's assistant heritage officer. "When we think about Dublin, we tend to talk about its architectural or literary heritage, yet its natural heritage is very important too. Gardens play a vital role as a green lung and for sustaining habitats."
The survey will record the presence of lakes, trees, lawn and other surfaces as well as the level of engagement by landowners in garden biodiversity. A variety of gardens will be sampled, ranging from inner city yards and roof gardens to housing from different periods.
The project also aims to raise awareness of the diverse species of plants and animals in urban areas and the fact that biodiversity is threatened.
Michael Starrett, chief executive of the Heritage Council, said householders could make a big difference to biodiversity by planting trees and plants. In particular, he said, planting native species of trees encouraged a much greater range of bird and insect life.
"Biodiversity in general is falling off, but we could make a big difference just by planting native species such as oaks and birches rather than, say, leylandia."
The council also plans to survey the number and variety of trees in residential areas and to identify significant stands of trees on private and public land. Mr Duggan said that trees also supported species of significant ecological value, such as birds and bats. "They also contribute to air quality . . . and are a significant part of the city's character by contributing to streetscapes and vistas." However, urban trees are afforded little protection and their felling does not require a licence.
