The techniques used for restoration can vary in intensity.

They can involve just pulling over grass to using diggers to block drains and gullies.

© Copyright SNH, Peatland Action, Andrew McBride

Degraded peatlands cannot be restored overnight.

It might take serval decades for total recovery, but improvements in carbon emissions, water quality and wildlife will already be evident after 3 to 5 years.

By removing dangerous ditches and restoring vegetation cover peatland restoration may even enhance the potential of land that would otherwise be in poor condition for grazing and sporting.