Upland Peatland Project
The Upland Peatland Project restores damaged bogs and upland paths, protecting carbon stores, wildlife and water for the future.
Restoring a vital landscape
The Upland Peatland Project is working to repair and restore peat bogs across the high ground of Bannau Brycheiniog. Peatlands are one of the most important habitats in the Park, storing huge amounts of carbon, regulating water and supporting rare plants and animals. Centuries of drainage, grazing and footpath erosion have left many areas damaged, but this project is helping to bring them back to life.
Why peatlands matter
Healthy peatlands act like natural sponges, holding water in the landscape and releasing it slowly to reduce flooding downstream. They also lock away carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere, playing a crucial role in tackling climate change. In the uplands, they provide habitat for wildlife such as snipe, curlew and dragonflies, while shaping the distinctive look and feel of the Park’s ridges and plateaus.
What the project does
The project combines habitat restoration with careful path management. Drainage ditches are blocked to re-wet bogs, bare peat is re-vegetated, and fragile areas are stabilised to allow mosses and wetland plants to return. At the same time, heavily eroded footpaths are repaired using stone and materials that blend with the landscape, reducing the impact of walkers while keeping routes safe and accessible. By balancing access and conservation, the project protects both nature and the visitor experience.
Working together for the uplands
The Upland Peatland Project is delivered in partnership with landowners, farmers, volunteers and conservation organisations. Everyone involved plays a role, whether it is monitoring species, repairing paths, or helping restore vegetation. The work is also linked to the wider Nature Recovery Action Plan (NRAP), ensuring that peatland restoration contributes to national and global goals for climate and biodiversity.
Learn more about our NRAP
