Prolusk ASSI

Prolusk has been declared as an ASSI because of its species-rich wet grassland, wet heath, fen and significant colony of Irish Lady’s Tresses orchid. Species-rich wet grasslands and wet heaths tend to occur only where traditional farming practices have been maintained. Such habitats are now a rare and scarce resource in Northern Ireland.

Prolusk is situated within a series of raised basalt plateaux, where through a combination of impeded drainage and flushing of base-rich waters derived from the underlying basalts, a very complex mosaic of grasslands, heathlands and fens has developed. The area constitutes four discrete blocks of semi-natural habitat which exhibit similar vegetative characteristics.

Correct management is essential for special places like Prolusk. If for example, grazing was to cease, the field parcels would quickly become rank and scrub would invade. This would cause a reduction in the numbers of grasses and wildflowers found here. Traditional agricultural practices will ensure the survival of the rich range of plants and animals at Prolusk.