From bare peat desert to nature reserve within ten years: a review of restoration practice on Little Woolden Moss, Manchester, UK

Osborne, Andrew W, Keightley, Anna Theresa, Ingleby, Elspeth, Longden, Michael, Rogers, Tony, Steel, Dave and Davies, Malcolm (2021) From bare peat desert to nature reserve within ten years: a review of restoration practice on Little Woolden Moss, Manchester, UK. North West Geography, 21 (1). pp. 31-48. ISSN 1476-1580

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Abstract

Peat-harvesting results in significant carbon emissions and complete eradication of specialised flora and fauna on lowland peatlands; recovery can be lengthy, difficult and not always successful. This review documents the techniques and procedures used to transform a bare peat-milled site into a functioning nature reserve within a decade. Site preparation, planting regimes, and methods of measuring progress are discussed, and evaluation of the site’s natural capital include three descriptive essays from an initial project officer, an experienced species recorder and a long-term volunteer. The aim of the review is both to celebrate the success of the venture and to offer experience gained to other lowland bog restoration managers.