Peatland restoration

Peatland restoration repairs degraded or drained peatlands by recovering waterlogged conditions, peat-forming vegetation, and ecological processes. It can reduce carbon emissions, restore habitat, and improve water regulation.

Rewetting: The deliberate raising or stabilization of water levels in drained wetlands or organic soils. Blocking drains or raising water tables reduces peat oxidation and supports wetland vegetation.
Peatland carbon cycle: The movement and storage of carbon in peatland vegetation, soils, and the atmosphere. Restoring wet conditions can slow carbon losses from exposed peat.
Great North Bog: A landscape-scale initiative to restore peatlands across northern England. It coordinates restoration across a large area of blanket bog.
Peat extraction: The removal of accumulated peat for use as fuel, horticultural material, or other products. Extraction removes the material and habitat that restoration seeks to conserve or rebuild.
Ditch blocking: A restoration technique that obstructs drainage channels to retain water in peat soils. Peatland projects often use dams in drainage ditches to slow water loss.
Greenhouse gas emissions from peatlands: Emissions of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide from peatland ecosystems. Restoration changes emissions, although rewetting can increase methane in some settings.
Flow Country: A vast expanse of blanket bog in northern Scotland, recognized for its global ecological significance. Its conservation and restoration illustrate management of extensive, damaged blanket bog.
Agricultural drainage: The removal of excess water from land to make it suitable for farming. Drainage lowers water tables and can undermine the wet conditions restoration requires.
Sphagnum moss: A genus of mosses that can hold large amounts of water and contribute to peat formation. Re-establishing Sphagnum helps rebuild the vegetation and conditions associated with active peat growth.
Peatland biodiversity: The variety of organisms and ecological communities associated with peatland habitats. Restored hydrology and vegetation can recover habitat for peatland-dependent species.

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