A MAJOR project to return the slopes of two Scottish mountains back to their natural peat bog state is nearing completion.
Work has been carried out to restore wetland areas to Beinn Dubh above Glen Luss and Auchtertyre, near Strathfillan, by Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.
The boglands have been recreated at a cost of £120,000, and will provide vital habitats for many species while improving Scotland's commitment to fight climate change.
Scotland's mountain bogs lock in around 1,620 million tonnes of carbon, stopping it from being released back into the atmosphere and contributing to global warming.
They are home to rare birds, plants and insects, such as dragonflies and frogs, while the mountains are the main habitat for red deer.
The areas also have economic benefits, and encourage tourism through hillwalking and countryside sports such as grouse shooting and deer stalking, while some upland peat bogs are used for farming.
The National Park Authority is working with land managers to protect the blanket bogs that form on the mountain slopes by helping them hold water and making sure there is not too much pressure from grazing sheep and deer.
New forest plantations in the National Park will be planned around the mountain bogs to avoid the deep peat.
Work to bring the wetlands back has involved supplies being flown in by helicopter and conservation workers enduring two-hour hikes in high winds and snow to reach the remote areas.
Drains have been blocked during the restoration of the top of two mountains to prevent peat from drying out and releasing carbon into the atmosphere.
The project also reduces the impact of flooding by slowing down water flow for farmers and residents downhill, while improving water quality for mountain vegetation and wildlife. Eroded areas of bare peat have also been re-planted to help stabilise the exposed sections.
The major peatland peatland restoration is expected to be completed later this month, and is one of five 'Wild Challenges' set by the park's bosses.
These also include improving woodland habitats, increasing the number of red squirrels and black grouse, and the removal of non-native invasive species.
A recent survey found of people living within one hour's drive of the national park found that 88 per cent think it is very important to protect and enhance nature, landscapes and wildlife in the area, while 90 considered believe that the area should be kept pristine.
More than half were also in favour of preserving the peat bogs.
Harriet Smith, land management adviser at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said: "Peatland restoration is incredibly important; not only to reduce the effects of climate change, but because of the far reaching additional benefits both for wildlife and people.
"We have worked closely with Luss Estates and Scotland's Rural College at Kirkton and Auchtertyre farms to make these projects a reality and are looking forward to seeing more people being able to enjoy the benefits that these iconic landscapes provide."
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