Threats to Raised Bogs:
Raised bogs are wetlands, and so the main threats to their welfare arise from any actions that drain water from the bog and dry them out. The main threats to be addressed by this project, listed below, are those associated with the afforestation of raised bogs:
- Reduction in bog vegetation as a result of the growth of densely-shading conifer trees – which also have a draining effect on the bog
- Drainage of raised bog habitat
- Spread of invasive tree and shrub species (e.g. Rhododendron and laurel)
- Spread of fires
- Animal trespass
- Undervalued public appreciation of raised bog habit
Project Actions:
- To fell and remove non-native tree species
- To block drains using peat or plastic dams
- To remove regenerating non-native tree and shrub species
- To create and maintain firebreaks
- To fence project sites where necessary
- To monitor vegetation change and water levels
- To produce promotional material informing people about the project
Expected Results
- During the lifetime of the project (2011 – 2015), a significant improvement in the quality of raised bog habitat is expected.
- The aim is to create the conditions which will allow raised bog habitat regeneration in future years.
