Sites Of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs encompasses two statutory Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and considered to be of national ecological value. Lisvane Reservoir SSSI is designated for its overwintering wildfowl and Llanishen and Lisvane Reservoir Embankments SSSI is of special interest for its diverse assemblage of grassland fungi including up to 25 species of waxcap.
Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC)
Llanishen Reservoir is designated because of its large population of common toads and presence of locally rare water plants. The stone pitching around the reservoir margin is known to support locally important populations of lichens, and several locally uncommon mosses.
The grassland and scrub around Llanishen Reservoir is designated mainly because of its populations of grass snakes and glow worms.
Also designated, the woodland to the south comprises marshy alder carr whilst those to the west are mostly oak, alder and birch, all supporting a rich array of wildlife.
Dogs At Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs
Dogs are restricted to the visitor centre and car park only and are not permitted anywhere else on the site, including the paths.
We know that this will be disappointing news to many nearby residents who would like to walk their dogs at Lisvane & Llanishen Reservoirs but we have to take seriously any threat to its designation as a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) for the rare waxcap fungi.
Natural Resources Wales has advised that the risk from dogs to the fungi is too great. Waxcaps are very sensitive to changes in habitat such as fluctuations in soil moisture, temperature and nitrate levels which can reduce the production of fruiting bodies. In particular, sudden changes to nitrate levels on the site – from dog urine specifically – can have a detrimental effect on the fungi.
Please note that the restrictions are not applicable to assistance dogs.
