Lowland Raised Bogs - Scrub Control

Lowland raised bogs have been forming over the last 10,000 years mainly on old lake beds and waterlogged depressions. The peat in these bogs can be up to 13m (43ft) deep in places. Over the years the majority of bogs have been damaged to some extent from drainage, peat cutting and improvement for agriculture.  Undergrazing allows scrub encroachment leading to the deterioration of lowland raised bogs.

Many lowland raised bogs are suffering from scrub encroachment which has an adverse impact on the hydrology and natural vegetation of the bog.  Scrub and trees intercept rainfall before it reaches the bog surface, and also draw water from the peat through their roots.  Drying of the bog surface encourages further scrub growth and speeds up the release of nutrients from the peat.

There is almost 5000ha (12,350 acres) of lowland raised bog being managed through DARD agri - environment schemes.  Participants are required to manage their cut -over lowland raised bogs by controlled grazing and the removal of invasive scrub consisting of birch and gorse.  Scrub should be cut and the stumps painted with glyphosate to prevent regrowth.  Wood can then be piled on the margins of the bog, providing another important habitat.  Work must be completed outside the bird nesting season and in accordance with Health and Safety Regulations.

Please note that scrub control on Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) requires written consent from DOE Environment and Heritage Service.

For more information regarding agri-environment schemes, please contact your local DARD Office.