Nature in peatlands
Peatlands are potential habitats for a large variety of plant and animal species, and thus a source of biodiversity. In peatlands that have been drained and excavated in the past, plant species that drive peat initiation and accumulation can be restored. This can also be done in stream valleys, where peat formation also benefits water retention.
Wetlands in peat meadows are an important habitat for meadow birds. Meadow bird populations have been deteriorating already for decades. Large-scale rewetting of peat meadows offers opportunities to develop suitable habitats for meadow birds. These birds need grassland areas. This requires careful planning of agricultural management.
Wageningen University & Research examines the development of ecosystems in peatlands and opportunities for the restoration of nature reserves in wetlands, mires and stream valleys. We investigate impacts of land use and restoration measures on ecological processes in the short term, and climate change effects on peatland ecosystems in the long term.