Protect and Restore the Wetlands

Did you know?

Unbeknownst to many, the wetlands (ponds, swamps, marshes, bogs, mires …) form a special ecosystem home to 40% of the world’s plants and animals. They also help prevent floods and soil erosion. In the past, the wetlands have been dried up as a "solution" to growing urbanization or to make space for traditional farming. 64% of wetlands have disappeared since the beginning of the 20th century. Today, the wetlands play a key role in protecting biodiversity and water retention. Therefore, preservation of the wetlands is crucial to forest ecosystems. To carry out this project, we need your support!

€39,018

collected of €418,476

10%

Participate

Overview

The site in question is 2.69 ha. of land in the heart of Brittany in the town of Ploërdut. It’s found in a diverse, hilly landscape that alternates with forests, prairies, pastures, and croplands, interspersed with valleys and different bodies of water. The site is bordered on the east by an inlet stream, tributary to the Scorff River.

Our actions

The elimination of ground cover, specifically purple moor grass, by forestry mulching. An indication of overgrazing, the abundance of purple moor grass prevents other species from developing. Getting rid of it allows for a diverse range of plants to take back their natural habitat.

The thinning of vegetation in the midst of overgrown natural habitats and young, peripheral woodlands. Manual logging, primarily among willows and birches, is carried out on the edges and in wooded wetland areas.

The cultivation of ideal conditions for amphibians (and wildlife in general) creates favorable environments for their reproduction. Aquatic insects and dragonflies will also benefit from these newly formed ponds. Their creation will contribute to create a network of wetlands relevant to the ecological continuity of the area.

The preservation of herbaceous plants on the moors, prairies, and fallows ensures a myriad of necessary habitats for certain heritage species. It will also prevent the progressive loss of these types of habitats which otherwise can occur if the surroundings are not humid enough for trees to thrive.