Peatscapes

Peatscapes is a collaborative project that aims to conserve and enhance the internationally important peatland resource within the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and to promote peatland conservation at the local, national and international level

The objectives of Peatscapes are:

  • Restoration Supporting restoration and management work through the promotion of existing agri-environment and wildlife enhancement grants and through sourcing new additional funds
  • Celebration   Raising the level of understanding and appreciation of the significance of the resource to those living in, working in and visiting the area
  • Promoting best practice   Supporting the provision of management advice on upland peatland to form the basis of practical management works
  • Research  Supporting and disseminating new and existing research into peatland processes, ecology and management.
Why is Peat Important?

The North Pennines contains 27% of England's blanket bog resource. Blanket Bog is important because it:

1) It is an internationally designated habitat for wildlife;

2) Plays an important role in maintaining drinking water quality;

3) Has a role in flood control at some scales;

4) Is a significant store of carbon, which if lost, will increase the severity of climate change:

5) Contains a record of the historic environment since the last ice age;

6) Supports local employment through farming, shooting and conservation jobs.

For further information about Peatscapes contact:

Paul Leadbitter - Project Manager (paulpeatscapes@northpenninesaonb.org.uk)

Nick Mason - Field Officer (nick@northpenninesaonb.org.uk)

Andy Lloyd - Research Officer (andypeatscapes@northpenninesaonb.org.uk)