Characteristics of peat properties from extracted peatlands in the context of sustainable management

Abstract

The degradation level and re-cultivation possibilities of extracted peat fields have usually been evaluated using data from vegetation studies, and partly from hydrological measurements. Very little attention has been paid to the remaining peat layer properties; however, this is important for the planning and choice of scenario for re-cultivation. The aim of this study has been to investigate the properties of the remaining peat section with special attention to the top layer. This research project included the following laboratory methods: loss – on ignition method, pH, degree of peat decomposition botanical composition and natural peat density analysis. The results of this study point to those peat properties that are changing due to extraction processes. The obtained results suggest that peat properties in the studied affected peatlands vary differently. The top layers of the peat section have a higher natural density and increased amount of mineral matter. The main changes observed were in the peat natural moisture, pH, mineral content, degradation rates, and ash content, which in the extracted peat field were associated with hydrological regime modification.