Sediment delivery and erosion processes in drained peatlands

Sediment delivery and erosion processes have been studied in a number of peatland drainage areas and catchments in order to determine the effects of drainage on sediment and erosion dynamics and mechanics. This information is necessary for management of catchments where sediment poses a serious risk to water protection. Results from recent studies performed in peat mining, peatland forestry and disturbed headwater catchments in Finland are reviewed and potential sediment load management methods are discussed for drainage areas and headwater brooks. The issues especially covered are erosion of organic peat, sediment transport and methods to restore and reduce the impacts of peatland drainage in boreal headwaters.