The pre-arranged visit was to focus on Molinia and the research by Dr Ben Roberts UKCEH and Richard Lindsay, University of East London. 

Dr Ben Roberts explained that the Penglaneinon site is important for both science and policy and is perhaps unique for Molinia dominated peatlands in the amount of research undertaken. It links past research on grazing and vegetation structure with current monitoring of hydrology, peat motion and greenhouse gases, while also providing a real-world case study for translating evidence into practical guidance. Its combination of mapped peat condition, active restoration, Molinia dominance and long-term monitoring makes it a strong demonstrator site for understanding how Molinia-dominated peatlands function and how future assessment and management approaches can be made more targeted and evidence-based.

Sadly, between the planning and the site visit, Elan Valley suffered an immensely damaging wildfire spread across the landscape which also came close to properties. See the farmer Sorcha Lewis’s account and her appreciation of peatland restoration. The timing however allowed the WPA Evidence Group not only to gain insight into the current research, but to see for themselves the impressive delineation between the restored site and the boundary of the burnt areas. 

For further information about Elan Valley’s restoration work: esther@elanvalley.org.uk.

For further information about the Penglaneinion research project: ben.roberts@ceh.ac.uk.