Why is all this important?
During my studies of bogs and in the course of my university classes, I have learned several reasons why bogs should be protected. And they are all excellent reasons to protect this unique habitat.
They are as follows:
- 1. Plant and animal diversity- Bogs house a very rare habitat that only certain plants, animals, and insects can live in. (Alumäe, H, pers. com., 19/9/00) They are an excellent source of edible berries and mushrooms as well. On top of this plant diversity, bogs are a resting point for migratory water fowl. Without bogs, these birds would have more limited resources for migrations.
- 2. Water resources- Bogs hold water. (Alumäe, H, pers. com., 19/9/00) Not much groundwater can enter a bog system (most of the water comes from ainfall, but some water can escape. This can be an excellent source of water in times of municipal need. Also, the peat bogs help to filter the water, so water leaving bogs is relatively clean (although acidic). I've also been told that bog pools are excellent swimming spots in the spring.
- 3. Peat- Peat is mined and used for several reasons. The main use is as a heating element (Masing 24). It is made into peat briquettes and is used to heat homes. Different people view peat as important for different reasons as well. Horticulturists can use peat as a replacement for soil. Chemists can obtain many substances from peat and it's organic make up. And Geologists can view peat as a record of the plant life throughout the ages.
- 4. Carbon content- The carbon that is contained in peat bogs around the world makes up 60% of the carbon in terresterial ecosystems. (Alumäe, H, pers. com., 19/9/00) Similar to what was mentioned above, the elements that can be obtained from the peat bog is reason enough to preserve these habitats.