To predict the effects of peatland rewetting, we set up an experimental study in Uppland (Sweden) with the help of local stakeholders. Our monitoring includes the study of hydrological, ecological and biogeochemical variables in near-natural, drained and restored peatlands.
The BACI Framework
In evironmental monitoring BACI stands for Before- and After- Control Impact. Our paired design allows us to compare hydro-ecological dynamics occurring in near-natural, drained and restored peatlands, and to examine how these develop over time in relation to pre- and post-rewetting periods.
Field Campaigns, Instrumentation and Data Collection
Between fall 2023 and spring 2024 we scouted around Uppland to find study sites sharing comparable hydro-ecological characteristics, adhering to restoration policies, and placed within a reasonable distance radius from each other.
The main field instrumentation took place during ice-free seasons between fall 2023 and fall 2025. Over 2 years we installed about 100 groundwater wells for continuous monitoring and manual measurements, built 4 weirs for streamflow and water quality assessment, conducted multiple vegetation and soil core samplings, and started an intensive study of soil pore water quality across sites.
The field equipment was installed by the main team with valuable help from the students who chose Sweden and PredPeat for their internship. Parallelly to field campaigns, we started data collection and their analysis with the support of our interns.
Photo by Sahra Gibson
Photo by Sara Camiolo
Groundwater monitoring well.
Photo by Sara Camiolo
Peatland Rewetting
The activities to restore peatlands through rewetting will be performed by Skogstyrelsen (The Swedish Forest Agency) during autumn 2025. Updates will follow on this page as the work progresses.