Characterization of the Kringelmomyra peatland: geotechnical, hydrogeological, and ecological aspects

Peats are abundant in the Northern Hemisphere and tropics, yet soil mechanics traditionally emphasize sands, clays, and silts, often overlooking peats. Despite this, engineering challenges related to peats, such as differential settlements and landslides, impact society. Understanding peat behavior is crucial for addressing modern issues like infrastructure resilience, CO₂ emissions, and climate change adaptation, and for developing less intrusive construction methods that reduce peatland degradation. Kringelmomyra is a peatland in northern Norway where the surcharging method is being used to construct a new highway. This paper presents its geotechnical, hydrogeological, and ecological characteristics, initial quantitative data on potential changes in hydrogeology, and the remaining plant biodiversity resulting from road construction. Geotechnical testing and hydrogeological monitoring reveal complex peat stratification and minimal initial hydrogeological impact. The endangered peat moss Sphagnum venustum was found at the site, highlighting the need to monitor the impact at the site in the coming years. Continued interdisciplinary monitoring is essential to understand long-term effects and ensure sustainable construction practices on peatlands.