1. Surface Mulching
Surface mulching is a highly effective technique for peatland restoration, and at Treeclear UK, we use low ground pressure mulching to ensure minimal disruption to the fragile peatland environment. This technique involves spreading organic material, such as shredded vegetation, over the surface of degraded peatlands. The low ground pressure mulching equipment ensures that the land remains undisturbed while efficiently applying the mulch.
The layer of organic material helps protect exposed peat from erosion and retains moisture, creating a more stable environment. This encourages the growth of native mosses and plants, which are crucial for peatland regeneration. Additionally, mulching helps regulate surface temperatures, preventing excessive drying and the oxidation of peat, which can release harmful greenhouse gases.
2. Stump Grinding & Stump Augering
In some peatland areas, tree removal may be necessary, and at TreeClear UK, we use stump grinding and stump augering to effectively manage leftover stumps.
Stump grinding involves mechanically breaking down tree stumps into small pieces, which creates a suitable environment for native peatland vegetation to regenerate. This method helps clear the area and prevents tree remnants from hindering the natural growth of peat-forming plants. On the other hand, stump augering removes stumps using a specialized drilling technique, which minimises soil disturbance and ensures that the surrounding peat remains undisturbed.
3. Ditch Blocking and Peat Dams
Many degraded peatlands have been altered by drainage through ditches, which disrupts their natural state and hinders peat formation. To restore these areas, ditch blocking is a critical technique used to re-establish water levels and allow natural processes to resume. At TreeClear UK, we use peat dams and other materials, such as wood or plastic piling, to block these drainage channels effectively.
Peat dams, created from excavated peat, are particularly effective at restoring the water table to its natural level. These dams act as barriers to prevent further water loss, allowing the peatland to retain moisture and enabling the process of peat formation to continue.
4. Reprofiling and Bunding
In areas where peatland has been severely impacted by erosion, reprofiling is essential to reshape the terrain and restore its natural stability. Reprofiling involves smoothing out steep gullies and reshaping the landscape to create more gradual slopes. This reduces the risk of further erosion and helps create a stable environment where peat can regenerate and thrive.
Bunding, another key aspect of the restoration process, involves constructing low ridges, known as bunds, which slow water flow and help retain moisture in targeted areas. These structures are strategically placed to direct water and encourage the rewetting of the peatland.
5. Re-wetting Works
Perhaps the most critical aspect of peatland restoration is rewetting. Peatlands require a consistently high water table to maintain their integrity and support peat-forming vegetation. When peatlands are drained, the water table drops, and the ecosystem begins to deteriorate.Re-wetting involves the careful restoration of water levels across the peatland area.
This can be achieved through a combination of techniques, including ditch blocking, peat dams, and the installation of water management systems to ensure that the water table remains at the optimal level for peatland regeneration.
