What happens on a peatland restoration training course? Phoebe writes about her experience as an attendee on one of our courses.
Last week, CCC conducted an intensive five-day Peatland ACTION restoration training course in Ayrshire, tailored specifically for designers and contractors. This course focused on the detailed processes and requirements involved in designing and delivering a peatland restoration project.
As a trainee attending the course, I found the blend of classroom sessions and practical on-site surveying particularly valuable. The practical components of surveying and mapping a site, in addition with the funding application procedure, laid the groundwork for designing a robust restoration project.
The site for this course was generously provided by Hargreaves, offering trainees the opportunity to conduct practical surveys and apply their newly acquired knowledge to design a restoration scheme, directly informing and implementing the necessary restoration for the site.
Before going on site, we discussed the entire design process, addressing key aspects such as site access and machine considerations, mapping, the restoration techniques needed, calculating material quantities, and other elements necessary for a successful restoration project. We conducted peatland condition surveys and peat slide risk assessments and learned how to select and implement appropriate restoration techniques based on site-specific conditions. Key features, such as any presence of protected species, archaeological interests, and drinking water sources were also essential to our planning.
These concepts (and more!) were then applied on-site, where we conducted a peat depth survey, assessed peatland condition and mapped erosion features. Having the opportunity to work on an active restoration site and receiving expert guidance, provided valuable insights into the practical techniques and challenges of peatland restoration.
Having previously attended the two-day Peatland ACTION Theory and Principles course, as well as working on projects with CCC, I already had an understating of the various restoration techniques, but this training has given me the opportunity to work on a project from its inception. I was able to see and understand every step of the design process, from initial site assessments to the completion of the restoration plan, helping me to fully understand how to successfully design and implement my own project.
In addition to the technical knowledge, the course provided an excellent opportunity for networking and collaboration. Interacting with other trainees, sharing experiences, and learning from each other enhanced the learning process and helped build strong connections with others committed to peatland restoration.
The key takeaways from this course include a more thorough understanding of site assessments, the selection of appropriate restoration techniques, and the practical skills in mapping features as well as what information is needed to inform restoration and to able to complete a project design. This experience has given me the ability to design and implement effective peatland restoration projects, offering a clear framework for addressing all aspects of project design.
Our training courses are designed for contractors, ECOWs, land managers/owners, and peatland restoration agents. If you'd like to sign up to our mailing list for future events click here.
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