Bain, C.

Clough, J.

Clutterbuck, B.

Goodyer, E.

Lindsay, R.

UEL Research Repository at University of East London

Long Term Monitoring Network for UK PeatlandsWHAT?Eyes on the Bog provides a scientifically robust, repeatable, low tech, long-term monitoring initiative. Once set up, data can be easily and sustainably collected by volunteers or staff.  The standardised methodology enables individual peatland sites to be consistently monitored across the UK, creating a network of comparable sites. Eyes on the Bog sites can be recognised by symbolic, totem-like markers designed and created locally to be in keeping with the bog. These totemic markers not only provide a quality assurance of the monitoring set-up, they can also be used to inspire and engage the wider community with peatlands.  WHY?Existing peatland monitoring is happening around the UK. There is, however, a desire for a simple, repeatable set of guidelines setting out how to collect the basic information needed for effectively informing management interventions, refining metrics for the Peatland Code, helping to test long term climate predictions and informing assumptions about the condition and function of UK peatlands. Low cost equipment and data collection techniques have been designed to keep Eyes on the Bog running for as long as possible - to build a long-term dataset of reliable peatland monitoring without causing damage to the bog. Creating a network of monitoring plots with easily recognisable, totemic markers highlighting their presence on a bog, will help engage the wider public with peatlands - raising awareness of What’s So Special About Peatlands. WHERE?Eyes on the Bog sites can include damaged peatlands, peatlands under restoration or peatlands in good condition. Having sites at different condition stages can help us understand how they change along a restoration trajectory. The methodology is suitable for peat bogs and small-sedge fens. It is not currently suitable for tall-sedge fen peatlands and sedge-fen swamps.  Monitoring sites are to be established at the crown of the bog or at the nearest point to the crown approached by any fixed boardwalk. HOW?Full details of the Eyes on the Bog methodology including the equipment required is available here: www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/get-involved/eyes-bogLand owner permission, consent from the relevant statutory body (e.g. for SSSI consent) & / or planning permission may be required. The peatland project establishing the site will be best placed to assess the need for and apply for required permissions. However, should you need advice please contact info@iucn.org.uk. Any project establishing an Eyes on the Bog site is very welcome, indeed is encouraged, to design its own totemic marker incorporating the Eyes on the Bog symbol once necessary permissions have been granted (see above). To register a site as an Eyes on the Bog location and for use of the Eyes on the Bog logo & design specifications please contact info@iucn.org.uk WHO?Peatland partnerships and projects are best placed to select local locations, apply for necessary permissions and guide the design of the Eyes on the Bog totems. Individuals or independent groups interested in getting involved can look for their nearest Peatland Project here: www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/projects-map Eyes on the Bog sites must be set up following the exact methodology described in the manual. A minimum of one of each monitoring tool, with the exception of historical aerial photography, must be established for a site to be officially recognised as an Eyes on the Bog site. If sites are not set up in a standardised manner, the data collected will be less reliable and not comparable with other sites in the network. Additional monitoring can however be added. Depending on your objectives, expertise and resources, alternative monitoring methods are available beyond this initiative. Example of an installed rust-rod & surface-level markerAN ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE... An Eyes on the Bog site must have a minimum of one of each monitoring tool shown above.  Monitoring frequency: Meaningful measurements can be collected from Eyes on the Bog site   by visiting as often as once a year or less.  Indicative costs: Equipment to install an Eyes on the Bog site can be bought for                     approximately £70 including Noxyde paint which will be sufficient for multiple sites.  For more information or to download the Guidelines: www.iucn-uk-peatlandprogramme.org/get-involved/eyes-bog

Eyes on the Bog: Long-term monitoring network for UK peatlands

https://repository.uel.ac.uk/download/b5aeca9ec98e999aeabb4f97acd256dec3802019353d091af4545397724be26c/2286345/Eyes%20on%20the%20Bog%20Leaflet.pdf

Eyes on the Bog: Long-term monitoring network for UK peatlands

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UEL Research Repository at University of East London