'The Boggy Mire'- Hidden Landscapes of the boglands
Walking through the boglands on the farm is an almost otherworldly experience; as if entering a world unknown; a world beyond reach and understanding. Its danger is what protects its unique environment. The creatures that inhabit it are safe within its boundaries; calling home within the twisted aching branches of the sally’s, the tall bull rushes, and the wild grasses that pierce up through the boggy mire and shoot towards the bright awaiting sky. In prehistory these places have long held mystery and reverence; the final destination of sacrificial offerings to the goddess of the land. They still retain enigma, but we are understanding their significance and importance more and more.
Boglands are now being rightfully respected and encouraged to be left alone, and thrive as a unique and vital ecology. Our boglands run through the back fields of our farm. They were once cut for turf, but those days are long passed. They now offer sanctuary for both flora and fauna, and an essential natural basin for heavy rainfalls, which prevent the grazing fields from damaging flooding
We have our bog fenced off, as bog holes are something you do not want to experience falling into; that’s if you live to tell the tale. We leave it to flourish, and just simply be. It is an enchantingly poignant landscape, with a stark beauty even in winter. It often reminds me of a swiftly painted canvas, its sfumato contours and lines blurring between reality and dream. I feel lucky to experience this unique and magical place everyday, and observe it through the changing seasons. I can’t help but be endlessly inspired by it.
The boglands during a warm summers day stretching as far as the eye can see.
Small waterways weave their way through the bog, carving gentle streams through the soft earth.
You’re always guaranteed a spectacular sunset on a clear evening. An awakening and humbling experiencing.
Looking down from a high outcrop on the farm down onto the bog, with a shroud of cold November mist softly cradling the contours of the distant hills.