Wetland restoration in the Kvarnån catchment area

About the project

A wetland is an area where the ground is wet or covered by water for all or part of the year. Wetlands include bogs, marshes, fens and shallow lakes. They provide important habitats for many plants and animals. Wetlands can also store water, filter pollutants and capture carbon.

In 2025, Bodens Municipality and the Edeforsbygden Economic Association (EDEK) received just over SEK 3 million to restore wetlands in the Kvarnån catchment area. The project builds on previous work to develop the Edeforsbygden area. An earlier feasibility study identified suitable areas for restoration.

The municipality is working with local partners and landowners. Local contractors are carrying out the work, which also helps create jobs in the area.

What we are doing

Many wetlands were previously drained to create land for forestry and agriculture. When water is drained away, the natural environment changes. The ground dries out, biodiversity declines and stored carbon can be released as greenhouse gases.

Restoring wetlands allows water to follow its natural flow again. This benefits plants and animals, improves water quality and reduces the risk of flooding. Wetlands also retain and filter water while storing carbon.

The wetlands are restored by blocking or filling in drainage ditches, using both machinery and manual methods. Timber from work at the site is used to block the ditches.

Goals and expected results

The project aims to:

• restore natural water flows by blocking drainage ditches
• improve habitats for plants and animals, including threatened species
• improve habitats for fish such as grayling and brown trout, which will also benefit recreational fishing and outdoor activities
• reduce greenhouse gas emissions from peatlands that were previously drained.

In the longer term, the work aims to contribute to:

• greater biodiversity
• a lower risk of flooding
• better water quality
• a lower impact on the climate
• attractive natural areas for outdoor activities and recreation.

Timeline and current status

The project started in 2025 when Bodens Municipality and the Edeforsbygden Economic Association (EDEK) received funding for the work. The first phase focused on planning, coordination and preparations for the wetland restoration.

Work is now underway to restore wetlands in the selected areas. The main focus is on blocking drainage ditches and restoring natural water flows. The work is carried out together with landowners, local contractors and other stakeholders.

The planned work will be completed in 2027. The results will then be reviewed to see whether the wetlands are functioning better and whether the project has achieved its goals.

Funding, collaboration and responsibilities

Bodens Municipality is the project owner. EDEK manages the project, and the local company BOMEK carries out the work. Sveaskog owns the land where the wetlands are being restored.

The project receives 90 per cent of its funding through Sweden's government initiative for local nature conservation projects (LONA). The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency provides the funding through the county administrative boards.