Since March 2025, there have been over 30 moorland fires in the Peak District and South Pennines, with a particular focus on recovering the peatland from recent fires in the Goyt Valley near Buxton. The Goyt Valley fire in April/May 2025 had a significant impact, affecting 1,738,391 m2 of peatland near Buxton.

How can planting sphagnum moss plugs help?

Planting sphagnum moss plugs plays a crucial role in the restoration of peatland habitats. Here are some key benefits:

1. Combating Biodiversity Decline

By planting sphagnum moss plugs, the habitat can support a diverse range of plant and animal species, helping to combat biodiversity decline in the area.

2. Promoting Healthy Blanket Bog Functionality

Sphagnum moss plays a vital role in maintaining the health of blanket bogs by retaining water and creating a suitable environment for other plant species to thrive.

3. Slowing Water Runoff and Soil Erosion

The presence of sphagnum moss helps to slow down water runoff, reducing soil erosion and improving the overall stability of the peatland habitat.

4. Increasing Resilience to Wildfires

Peatlands restored with sphagnum moss are more resilient to wildfires, as the moss acts as a natural fire retardant and helps to prevent the spread of fires.

5. Protecting and Enhancing Long-Term Carbon Sequestration

Healthy peatlands are essential for long-term carbon sequestration, as they store large amounts of carbon. By restoring peatland habitats with sphagnum moss, we can protect and enhance this important carbon sink.

The Moors for the Future Partnership has been working diligently for 22 years to protect and re-wet the uplands of the Peak District and South Pennines. Through their efforts, they have transformed some of the most degraded peatland areas into thriving habitats that support a wide range of plant and animal species.

Peatland restoration in the UK - Ecologi Plant a Tree Project