
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 - will carry out an ambitious programme of restoration on Mynydd Garnclochdy following the devastating fires in July and August, which 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 acts like a sponge, storing rainfall and releasing 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 valuable peat soils to be lost.
To address these challenges, the Commoners will be undertaking a variety of practical interventions designed to restore the mountain's natural processes.
The work will include restoring drainage pathways, blocking artificial grips and drains, installing leaky barriers within channels, and strategically placing boulders and natural stone features to slow the flow of water.
As the vegetation and peatland recover over time, the landscape will become more resilient to future extreme weather events 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 programme of recovery and restoration being delivered through the multi-agency Blaenavon Wildfire Recovery Group.