Hydrology in differently drained agricultural peatlands in Norway

High water content and poor trafficability are typical challenges of cultivation on peatlands. Draining of peatlands is necessary for cultivation which results in peat degradation and emission of Green House Gases (GHGs). The primary aim of this ongoing study is to understand the hydrology of “peat inversion” used as an alternative to other drainage systems in Norway. In the peat inversion method, the mineral soil layer underlying the peat soil is excavated and placed on top of the peat to provide a cover layer to limit further decomposition of peat and GHG emissions. To better understand drainage effects on hydrology, Carbon balances and GHG emissions in agricultural peatlands in Norway, we study different drainage systems located in different climatic settings. Water table behavior and the relationship with precipitation is investigated at four cultivated peatland sites: Farstad (Western Norway, wet, mild climates), Våler (Southeast Norway, dry, cold winter dominated), Sortland (Northwest Norway, mild climate), Pasvik (Northern Norway, dry, cold winter dominated). Different drainage settings including pipe drainage, surface grading and peat inversion exist in these fields.