Treeclear UK was commissioned to deliver a peatland restoration project at Blea Moor, a degraded Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Client: The Yorkshire Dales National Park
Location: Blea Moor
Size: 35 Hectares
Status: Degraded SSSi
About The Site / Project
The primary objectives were:
- To mulch regenerating Sitka spruce from a previously clear-felled area
- To protect the peat layer by minimising surface disturbance
- To restore the landscape to native moorland habitat as naturally as possible
This approach emphasises ecological sensitivity, aiming to reverse past forestry impacts while supporting the long-term recovery of the peatland ecosystem.
The project focused on mulching regenerating trees on a former clear-fell site located on sensitive moorland terrain. The area is peatland-based with highly undulating and challenging ground conditions. To minimise impact, we employed low ground pressure excavators capable of maneuvering through existing stumps left from earlier felling operations.
Wherever possible, stumps were left in situ to preserve the integrity of the site, with removals limited strictly to essential access routes.
Every effort was made to protect the moorland surface and avoid unnecessary disturbance to the peat layer.
A key goal for the client was to encourage rapid natural regeneration, particularly the recovery of native species such as heather and cotton grass, following the completion of the mulching process.
