1900 A. D.

Starting in the 1700s, the raised bogs of Ireland were exploited as a source of cheap fuel. Most of this was cut by hand, and laid in the sun to dry before being burned. At the time of the Irish Potato famine, peat (called 'turf' when cut) was often the only source of fuel available. Most intact raised bogs vary between 3 to 12 metres in thickness.
In recent years, there has been increased understanding of the importance of raised bogs to science. In the Republic of Ireland, there are plans to set aside 10,000 hectares of raised bog for conservation purposes. In Northern Ireland, which has less raised bog to begin with, almost all raised bogs are being preserved as Areas of Special Scientific Interest.
Corey and Gary