Revitalisation of Peat Bogs in the Ore Mountains

Restoration of the original peat bog eco-systems as a significant part of nature in the Ore Mountains and significant improvement of the biotopes of endangered plants and animals, such as the black grouse, which is currently on the edge of extinction from the nature. These were the main objectives of the project Revitalisation of Peat Bogs in the Ore Mountains, carried out by the association Beleco (former civic association DAPHNE ČR - Institute of Applied Ecology) supported by the NET4GAS Closer to Nature programme 2009 - 2013.

Large area of peat bogs and peat-bog biotopes are characteristic for the Ore Mountains. Their creation started as early as the end of the Ice Age and from the ecological point of view they currently resemble the Nordic tundra. The primary role of these peat bogs is therefore to harbour animals and organisms.

The peat bogs find themselves in an area with short to very short summer, which is moderate cold, humid to very humid. The transition period is long, with cold spring and moderately cold autumn. Winter is very long, moderately cold and humid with long period of snow cover (120 – 140 days). The average temperature in January is -4 to -5 degrees Centigrade, in July 14 to 15 degrees Centigrade. The average precipitation in the vegetation period (April – September) is 600-700 mm, in the winter (October – March) 400-500 mm. The annual average number of days with precipitation higher than 1 mm is 140-160.

The peat bogs in the Ore Mountains are one of the most affected locations in the Czech Republic. Their name in the Czech language meaning “harsh” really express the past harsh times of the location – due to industry and subsequent acid rain as well as careless planting of unoriginal trees.

The Cinovec Ridge and the peat bog “By the Lake” (U Jezera) were chosen for the revitalization works. A 14-kilometre nature trail with eight information boards leads through the area, introducing the process of revitalization, local geology, fauna and flora.