Water rewetting is an effective way to improve the condition of peatlands degraded by drainage.
The project aims to increase awareness and accelerate the broader adoption of water rewetting on private lands.
Background
Water rewetting—redirecting drainage water into surface flow over dried peatlands—is a cost-effective method to improve water protection in forestry and restore peatland habitats. Since 2022, water rewetting has been included in Finland’s national forest management recommendations, and it is one potential tool for implementing the goals of the EU’s Nature Restoration Regulation. Water rewetting holds great potential because, in principle, it does not cause waterlogging damage to the forests surrounding the peatland.
In Northern Ostrobothnia, there are hundreds of thousands of hectares of drained and dried peatlands that are unsuitable for forest growth, yet suitable for receiving drainage water through surface flow. Peatlands can retain suspended solids and nutrients from drained areas, preventing them from entering water bodies and degrading the habitats of migratory fish.
However, the method is still not widely known, and planning water rewetting projects requires specific expertise. At the same time, advisory services available to forest owners are declining. The need for effective water protection measures is significant, as many peatland forests in the region are approaching final harvesting age. Logging, soil preparation, and ditch maintenance increase nutrient runoff from peat soils and pose a threat to already burdened water ecosystems.
Objectives
The primary objective of the project is to gather knowledge and deepen understanding of the challenges involved in implementing water rewetting. It also aims to strengthen the capacity of forestry professionals and experts to plan and execute rewetting projects in Northern Ostrobothnia, particularly in the Iijoki river basin. The idea is that through knowledge and practical experience, water rewetting will become more common and eventually established as part of the water protection and biodiversity toolkit for forestry operators—especially in the aapa mire zone.
Secondary objectives include increasing general awareness and interest in water rewetting, as well as identifying potential development needs.
Activities
The project will gather data, interview stakeholders, and assess information needs. Rewetting sites that provide water protection and biodiversity benefits will be selected within the Iijoki river basin, and discussions will be held with landowners about possible implementations. Interest from municipalities, joint forests, and companies will also be investigated. Implementation plans will be prepared for two selected sites. Project outputs—such as a roadmap for forest owners regarding rewetting—will be shared within networks, and a training day will be organized for forestry professionals.
Contact
Project Manager Riikka Heikkilä
Tel. +358 50 513 3240
[email protected]
In cooperation
The project is carried out in collaboration with the John Nurminen Foundation.
