NatureScot Research Report 1259 - A risk-based approach to peatland restoration and peat instability.
Abstract
This report outlines a risk-based approach to assessing the potential impacts of peatland restoration activities on peat stability. It introduces an interactive tool designed for Peatland ACTION officers to evaluate the risks of peat instability before undertaking restoration work. The tool helps to identify sites with a history of instability, those naturally prone to instability, or areas where restoration may increase instability. The report includes an overview of peat properties, peat landslides, and the mechanical effects of restoration techniques, informed by case studies. It presents a three-stage process to assess risks, including evaluating natural and modified landslide likelihood and calculating risk based on potential impacts to various receptors. While peat instability is rare in Scotland, the report emphasizes the importance of evaluating site-specific conditions and restoration impacts to prevent peat landslides and associated carbon losses. It focuses specifically on large-scale peat instability, excluding other geomorphological responses such as erosion, which are addressed in separate guidance.