The project is aiming to restore at least 20 different mire or bog sites on over 1000ha of Exmoor’s moorland. This will be achived by blocking up drains and ditches-

So far over 50 km have been blocked in 11 SSSI units(Dec 09). The total resored mire area is now 326ha.

The end result will be restored moorlands with drainage scars stitched back together benefiting the landscape, wildlife, farmers and all visitors to the moors.

The need for action; the moorlands of Exmoor have during the last 5000 years developed a covering of blanket bog which in places is over 2 metres thick. This blanket bog has been modified by man over time as he utilised it for fuel and agriculture. Peat cutting, burning and drainage has left a lasting legacy causing drying out and degradation. If action is not taken now the peat will continue to oxidise and disappear from the moors.

Benefits
The restoration of important moorland habitat; the UK has 20% of all the Blanket bog in world and a duty to look after it for future generations. The restoration will benefit wildlife in the moorlands and the wider Exmoor area.

Mitigation against global warming; worldwide peatlands (wetlands and bogs) are huge carbon stores, but damaged areas release carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere through oxidation processes. Restoration halts oxidation and promotes active peat growth, thus increasing the
absorption of CO2 from the atmosphere. The restoration of peatlands could play a major role in mitigating against atmospheric CO2 rises.

The re-establishment of natural stream hydrology in Exmoor headwaters; encouraging water retention in upland mires will delay and weaken peak river flows and augment base flows at times of low rainfall. This will help reduce erosion and flooding.

The improvement of the ecology of the River Exe and its headwaters; restoring a natural flow regime will improve water quality for all river life including salmon and trout.

The sustainable use of moorlands; the project will develop new techniques and approaches to upland resource management. A more equitable balance in the management of land and water resources between owners, users, environmental needs and regulatory requirements will benefit everyone.