Case study areas

Background

The central area of the Graminhais Plateau is home to the largest area of peatlands on the island of San Miguel, covering more than 100 hectares. The peatlands of the Graminhais Plateau serve as natural water reservoirs and a pioneer area in restoration actions.

The Problem

In the past, the peatlands experienced significant degradation due to their use as grazing land and the introduction of invasive species. The main effects of these impacts were the alteration of the water dynamics of this ecosystem, affecting its water retention capacity, and the loss of native biodiversity. As a result, downstream cities experienced severe floods.

Restoration efforts

Thanks to the implementation of the projects LIFE Laurissilva Sustentável (LIFE07 NAT/P/000630) and LIFE IP Azores Natura (LIFE17 IPE/PT/00010), restoration work has been carried out, and long-term monitoring of soils and biodiversity has been established. At present, the knowledge gained through these efforts is being shared and further developed within the SpongeBoost project.