Pölkky starts new restoration partnership to promote peatland biodiversityand protect water systems – an ideal solution especially for drained peatlands with low timber production value.
Peatlands are a valuable part of Finland’s northern nature. To support the well-being of these important ecosystems, Pölkky Oy is starting a collaboration with the peatland restoration company Hiilipörssi Oy. The goal of the partnership is to create a link between landowners and the restoration company, Hiilipörssi. Pölkky Oy aims to promote the positive effects of peatland restoration on biodiversity, and Hiilipörssi was selected as a suitable partner to support this mission. For Hiilipörssi, the collaboration opens up new connections in Kainuu, Northern Ostrobothnia, and Lapland—regions with a high number of potential restoration sites. By pooling their resources, both parties can achieve greater benefits than they could alone.
This cooperation offers landowners the opportunity to enhance peatland biodiversity and reduce the environmental impacts that drained peatlands can have on water bodies. At the same time, landowners may benefit financially from timber revenues related to the restoration and from the compensation paid for restoration.
Restoring peatlands to their natural state also brings joy to nature enthusiasts as bird and berry populations on restored peatlands increase.
When to Restore?
There are an estimated one million hectares of drained but poorly productive peatland in Finland. Due to poor tree growth, owners of these areas often need to consider alternative uses. Drained peatlands with low productivity may not be subject to the legal obligation for forest regeneration. However, landowners also gain little economic benefit from timber production on such sites, while ditch network maintenance is costly and may cause significant harm to nearby water bodies. Restoration, on the other hand, can give these areas a new life—supporting biodiversity and the health of water systems.
Restoration of drained peatland is a good option, especially when tree growth is poor.
Benefits of Restoration
Economy:
If trees are harvested as part of the restoration process, the landowner receives the timber revenue. The cost of restoration is not deducted from the landowner’s pocket through these revenues. Additionally, the landowner is entitled to a one-time compensation from Hiilipörssi, which is determined based on the size and forest density of the area.
Biodiversity:
Peatlands are unique habitats that support thousands of specialized species. However, over half of Finland’s peatland habitat types are endangered. Restoration helps combat biodiversity loss by improving the quality and quantity of peatland habitats. Water retention on restored peatlands allows peatland vegetation and associated species to return.
Water Systems:
Peatlands act as natural water filters by retaining nutrients and solids, preventing them from running into downstream water bodies. Undrained peatlands also store large volumes of water, helping to reduce local flood peaks.
Recreational Value:
A restored peatland provides habitats for many species, such as the willow grouse and wading birds. Restored areas also produce more berries, such as cloudberries and cranberries, enhancing opportunities for outdoor recreation.
How?
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Landowner expresses interest – Pölkky’s staff assists in identifying suitable sites and contacting Hiilipörssi. The landowner expresses interest by filling out the Landowner Contact Form.
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Assessment and planning – Restoration experts assess the site and prepare a restoration plan along with a compensation estimate. A direct agreement for restoration implementation is made between Hiilipörssi and the landowner.
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Logging and preparations – Tree harvesting is carried out according to the restoration plan. The landowner can organize competitive bidding for the logging, as usual. Pölkky Oy can also assist in the harvesting process.
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Restoration – Hiilipörssi plans, implements, and finances the restoration. The restored peatland is protected permanently.
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Compensation – Hiilipörssi pays the landowner a one-time compensation once the restoration and protection of the area are confirmed. Ownership of the peatland remains with the landowner.
Want to know if your peatland could be a suitable restoration site?
Restoration offers forest owners a new option for managing drained peatlands and provides concrete solutions for promoting peatland biodiversity.
Do you own a drained peatland and are interested in restoration? Fill out the application form to receive Hiilipörssi Oy’s assessment of your property’s suitability for restoration and a compensation offer.
