Sources of stream base flow in blanket peat covered catchments

A two year hydrological characterisation programme of relatively intact blanket peat-covered catchments, underlain by geochemically distinct substrates, investigated the influence sub-peat materials on runoff regimes first order and second streams draining them. Semi-continuous monitoring flow water quality revealed a strong inverse relationship between stream rates specific electrical conductance (SEC), with chemistries during storm proving comparable in all three catchments. By contrast, differences catchments became more pronounced at lower flow, where increased ion concentrations reflected reactions peat substrate materials. Water table sites groundwater levels to vary less than 0.6 m over investigation period. Findings suggest consists near constant inputs higher discharge, mixing variable proportions mineralised compositionally bog water. Although making up 5% total runoff, contribution waters plays an important role maintaining particularly prolonged dry periods, may help explain aquatic biodiversity encountered covered areas.