Hamra National Park - Water restoration

The County Administrative Board of Gävleborg County is working to restore the hydrology and thus also the biodiversity of the wetlands in Hamra National Park. Water levels have previously been lowered by draining the wetlands, which has led to areas drying out and becoming overgrown.

Ecogain was commissioned to design and implement the work to create dams to restore the water level.

National parks are strictly protected areas in Sweden and place high demands on project management for this type of action in order not to cause damage to sensitive wetland areas. In addition to identifying suitable locations to, for example, recreate former stream channels, it is also a challenge to plan the routes of the excavator so that the machine does not get stuck in the area when the water level rises.

Thanks to well-planned driving logistics and the use of logging mats, the heavy vehicle was able to carry out its work without leaving road damage and without getting stuck.

The results of the work were quickly visible in the form of a rise in the water level, and within a week the area was significantly wetter. In addition to restoring biodiversity in the area, this type of restoration also contributes to positive climate effects, as a higher water level reduces greenhouse gas emissions.