Work has begun to restore water courses on common land between Abersychan and Blaenavon that were destroyed by wildfires.
The Blorenge Commoners Association, supported by Torfaen Council, is carrying out restoration on Mynydd Garnclochdy following fires in July and August that affected 220 hectares of land. The wildfires caused significant damage to vegetation and areas of peatland, reducing the land’s natural ability to retain and regulate water.
Healthy peatland stores rainfall and releases it gradually, helping to reduce erosion, support wildlife and lower the risk of flooding downstream. When damaged, water can flow more rapidly across the mountain, increasing erosion, the potential risk of flooding, and causing peat soils to be lost.
The Commoners will restore drainage pathways, block artificial grips and drains, install leaky barriers within channels, and place boulders and natural stone features to slow the flow of water. As vegetation and peatland recover, the landscape is expected to become more resilient to extreme weather while continuing to deliver benefits for biodiversity, carbon storage and downstream communities.
Sara Warman, Secretary, Blorenge Commoners Association, said: “We’re pleased to be starting this important work.
“By putting these measures in place, we can help restore natural watercourses affected by earlier fire prevention works and improve water management across the mountain for years to come.
“We’re grateful for the support that has made this project possible. It marks an important step in our wider efforts to restore and protect the landscape for the future.”
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for Environment, said: “The Commoners have shown real dedication in responding to the impact of this summer’s wildfires.
“Their work to restore damaged peatland and introduce natural water management measures will help protect the environment, support local wildlife and strengthen the mountain’s resilience to flooding and climate change.
“This partnership is a great example of the Torfaen Deal’s mission to empower communities – bringing together local knowledge and expertise to help repair one of Torfaen’s most valued natural landscapes and protect communities that would otherwise be at risk of flooding.”
Torfaen Council will contribute £50,000 towards works on Mynydd Garnclochdy to reinstate areas affected by emergency fire prevention measures undertaken during the wildfires. The work forms part of a wider recovery and restoration programme being delivered through the multi-agency Blaenavon Wildfire Recovery Group.
