Partnership surveyed nearly 4000 hectares in 2024.Restoration efforts aim to reverse damage and protect peatlands for future.
In 2024, they surveyed almost 4,000 hectares, nearly double the size of Kielder Water. Peatlands are important because they store a lot of carbon.
Peatlands, though only 3% of the world’s land, form the largest land-based carbon store. Damaged peatlands cannot store carbon well, and they also fail to regulate water. Many species cannot live there when damaged.
The partnership wants to fix things by reversing past damage. They aim to protect the land, which benefits future generations.
They work with landowners, partners including the Environment Agency, and the Ministry of Defence. The partnership also collaborates with local groups and schools.
Blocking drains helps restore peat by raising the water table level. This reduces carbon emissions and restores natural water flow. Sphagnum mosses especially benefit from this.
Two peatland sites need fixing directly, and landowners cooperate with the project. Restoration started at Whitelee Moor in September, and work at The Wou, located in Thirlwall, starts this month.
In 2025, the team plans to keep working, ensuring partners and communities stay involved. They want to raise awareness, secure funds, and expand restoration.
The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation funds the partnership, and Natural England also supports projects through their scheme that helps with peatlands and climate. The Environment Agency, the Ministry of Defence, and Northumbrian Water also give support.
The partnership also gets money in other ways, including donations from philanthropic and charitable sources.