Dovestone Reservoir volunteers have planted their one millionth sphagnum moss, celebrating the milestone with RSPB and United Utilities. Sphagnum moss planting has dual purposes: enhancing biodiversity and aiding flood management by absorbing 20 times its weight in water.

The moss, sourced from external suppliers, has been hand-planted for a decade and is expected to self-propagate in five to 10 years, eliminating the need for external purchasing. Restoration efforts at Dovestone include the construction of stone and peat dams to create habitats, prevent peat erosion, and protect the water supply.

The long-term restoration plan encompasses planting over one million trees, cultivating flower-rich grassland and heather, aiming for a landscape that sequesters carbon, mitigates floods, supports biodiversity, and provides health and wellbeing benefits.