Peatlands are one of Yorkshire’s most important natural landscapes, yet they are also among the most damaged. Found across upland areas such as the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, peatlands play a crucial role in carbon storage, flood prevention, water quality, and biodiversity. When peat becomes degraded through drainage, erosion, or historic land use, it begins to release stored carbon and loses its ability to support wildlife and regulate water flow. Peatland restoration is essential to reverse this damage and protect these environments for the long term.

ADS Timber provides practical peatland restoration services across Yorkshire, working with estates, landowners, farmers, and environmental organisations. Our focus is on delivering responsible, well planned restoration work that supports natural recovery while respecting the working nature of the land. With extensive experience in challenging terrain and sensitive environments, we are well equipped to carry out peatland projects where care and precision are essential.

Yorkshire peatlands have often been affected by drainage grips cut decades ago to improve grazing or access. These grips lower the water table, drying out the peat and making it vulnerable to erosion. Over time, bare peat can develop, leading to peat loss during heavy rainfall and strong winds. Once erosion starts, it can accelerate quickly if left untreated. Restoration aims to rewet the peat, stabilise exposed areas, and create conditions where vegetation can naturally re establish.

Our approach to peatland restoration is based on understanding each site as an individual landscape. No two peatlands behave in exactly the same way, which is why careful assessment is vital before work begins. ADS Timber carries out restoration using methods designed to raise water levels, reduce surface erosion, and protect surrounding habitats. This often includes grip blocking, re profiling damaged peat faces, and stabilising bare peat to prevent further loss.

We use low ground pressure machinery and skilled operators to minimise disturbance during works. Access is carefully managed, particularly in upland areas where ground conditions can be fragile. Where required, we also undertake associated groundworks such as temporary access solutions and sensitive excavation, ensuring the site remains protected throughout the project.

Restoring peatland delivers significant environmental benefits. Healthy peatlands store vast amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. They also slow the movement of water through the landscape, reducing flood risk downstream and improving water quality in rivers and reservoirs. In addition, restored peatlands provide valuable habitats for birds, insects, and plant species that are uniquely adapted to these environments.

For landowners and estates in Yorkshire, peatland restoration is also an investment in the future resilience of the land. Stabilised peat reduces ongoing erosion issues and supports long term land management objectives. Restoration can also align with agri environment and conservation schemes, helping land managers meet environmental targets while maintaining the character of upland landscapes.

ADS Timber is known for taking on difficult work that others cannot or will not do. Our background in forestry contracting, site clearance, and challenging ground conditions gives us a strong foundation for peatland restoration projects. We understand the balance between environmental responsibility and practical delivery, ensuring work is completed efficiently without compromising sensitive areas.

We work closely with land managers and advisors to ensure restoration integrates smoothly with wider land use plans. Clear communication, reliable scheduling, and a practical understanding of rural operations are central to how we work. Our aim is always to deliver restoration that stands the test of time rather than short term fixes.

ADS Timber offers peatland restoration services across Yorkshire, supporting projects of varying scale in upland and rural locations. If you are considering peatland restoration and need an experienced contractor who understands both the land and the challenges involved, we are ready to help. Contact ADS Timber to discuss your site and how we can support sustainable peatland recovery in Yorkshire.