This year’s Peatland Restoration work is underway in the Elan Valley!
The aim is to stabilise the bare peat, slow the flow of water off the bog and raise the overall water table, which is vital for the health of the peatland.
The work is important to us for a number of reasons, some of which are:
To reduce the emissions released by the peat oxidising through exposure, erosion and drying.
To reduce peat sediment washing downstream, which requires water treatment and is a clear loss of stored carbon.
To recreate conditions for further peat formation, which include being waterlogged and vegetated with the appropriate species.
To increase habitat connectivity and biodiversity.
To help it act as a fire break in the instance of wildfire.
To increase the climate resilience: to future proof it from extreme weathers that would worsen the damage.
See the work in action
With the peat stabilised and the water table restored, the vegetation will start to recolonise these areas and the peat can start building again. Below shows a site 3 years following restoration work.
When the peatland is in a healthy condition, it sequesters and stores carbon indefinitely. It also offers a home to a lot of wildlife.
