Summerhill Lough ASSI

This area is of special scientific interest because of its physiography and associated wetland flora and fauna. It includes the open waters of the lough and the surrounding marginal vegetation lying within County Fermanagh.

Physiographical interest of this largely spring-fed lough is related to the presence of calcium carbonate deposits, or marl, which are precipitated out of the calcium-rich water to produce a marl lake. This is a relatively rare lake type in Northern Ireland. Biological interest is related to the presence of vegetation communities which reflect these calcareous conditions, including a limited Stonewort Charophyte community.