The 2020/21 Bog Squad season is currently having to juggle around various Covid travel restrictions and lockdowns. But we did manage to fit in one work party in December at Wester Moss, Fallin, near Stirling, when restrictions were temporarily eased.
Being outside on expansive bogs, we are able to socially distance a good two metres (plus) away from each other. The best way to do this is by focusing on the removal of birch saplings from the moss. Ideally we pull the whole sapling up, roots and all. That way they are less likely to re-grow and need pulling up again.
Being outside on expansive bogs, we are able to socially distance a good two metres (plus) away from each other. The best way to do this is by focusing on the removal of birch saplings from the moss. Ideally we pull the whole sapling up, roots and all. That way they are less likely to re-grow and need pulling up again.
If left unchecked the birch would grow, removing precious water from the bog and from the peat-forming mosses that need it for their survival. This water removal contributes to peatlands drying out, which causes peat erosion, unstable bogs, a reduction in biodiversity and the eventual release of carbon into the atmosphere, which is currently stored in the peat soils. As peatlands are such important carbon stores, we need to make sure they remain wet to remain healthy and functioning.
So, our small band of volunteers earnestly got going with the job at hand and managed to clear a good area of birch encroachment. The day was pretty kind to us and afforded us sightings of hovering kestrel, snipe and skeins of pink-footed geese. One observant volunteer also managed to find a failed drinker moth cocoon; pale and torpedo-like in shape, with small flecks of black hairs (originally from the hairy caterpillar itself) running through it.
Having gone back into lockdown now our work parties are again unfortunately on hold. However, we hope before too long that the restrictions will ease and the bog squad will be out again, helping to keep our lowland raised bogs healthy. Do get in touch if you are interested to volunteer with the Bog Squad when restrictions ease.
We are very grateful that this important work continues to be supported by Peatland Action
Having gone back into lockdown now our work parties are again unfortunately on hold. However, we hope before too long that the restrictions will ease and the bog squad will be out again, helping to keep our lowland raised bogs healthy. Do get in touch if you are interested to volunteer with the Bog Squad when restrictions ease.
We are very grateful that this important work continues to be supported by Peatland Action