Laggs of Raised Bogs in Coastal British Columbia, Canada: Hydrology, Hydrochemistry, and Vegetation at the Mire Margin

Authors:
S.A. Howie, P.H. Whitfield, R.J. Hebda, and H.J. van Meerveld

Book:
Proceedings of the 14th International Peat Congress

Venue:
Stockholm

Keywords:
classification, conservation, hydrology, lagg, raised-bog

Documentfile:
Howie et al 2012: Laggs of Raised Bogs in Coastal British Columbia, Canada: Hydrology, Hydrochemistry, and Vegetation at the Mir

Summary:

Theme I.  Inventory, stratigraphy and conservation of mires and peatlands

SUMMARY

We studied water levels, hydrochemistry, vegetation, and peat characteristics of 17 lagg transects in coastal British Columbia, Canada. Based on field observations, the laggs were classified into two hydrotopographic lagg forms: [1] marginal depression, and [2] flat transition. We split these forms into four vegetative types: [a] Spiraea thicket, [b] Carex fen, [c] peaty forest, and [d] direct transition to forest (without an ecotone). Greater understanding of regional lagg types contributes to better management, helps identify conservation sites, and allows for improvement of restoration plans for raised bogs in coastal British Columbia.