Isle of Man

The Manx Mires Partnership project is currently surveying the depth and extent of upland peat on the Isle of Man. If funding allows, it is hoped that the depth and extent of lowland peat will also be surveyed in the future. The Isle of Man Government has recently committed to a series of peatland restoration projects as part of its plans to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Up until recently there has been little information as to the extent and depth of peat cover on the uplands of the Isle of Man. The initial survey in this project focused on measuring the extent and depth of peat cover in the uplands, with plans to continue the survey to lowland areas in the future if funding allows. The uplands of the Isle of Man are largely covered in blanket peat, which is generally fairly shallow but with deeper peat in some areas. The majority of the uplands are owned by DEFA, with sheep farming tenants. Large parts of the uplands have been drained in the past and these drainage grips have resulted in a drying out of peat-forming habitats and subsequent erosion. Areas of deep peat have also been cut for fuel.

Improved quality and increased extent of blanket bog habitat. Raised the water table. Reduced loss of peat through erosion of drainage grips and hags. Reduced carbon emissions from the peat.

A pilot area for restoration was surveyed by Manx Wildlife Trust in February 2020. This was then reprofiled and stabilised by local contractors under the guidance of the Department of the Environment, Forestry and Agriculture (DEFA). This area is to be fenced off to protect the area from damage by livestock.

This project is being run through the Manx Mires Partnership. Partners include Manx Wildlife Trust, Isle of Man Government Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) and Manx National Heritage, with support from land owners and tenant farmers. Funding has come from the Manx Lottery Trust, Manx National Heritage, Manx Wildlife Trust and DEFA.