Significance of peatmoors in the protection of natural and water resources in the area of białystok county in podlaskie voivodeship

In the paper, there was shown the natural and economical significance of lowmoors in Poland and especially in Białystok county. In the area of Poland there is about 49,6 thousands of lowmoors which cover 1,2 mln ha [4% of the country surface]. 90% of this surface are lowmoors, 6% – highmoors and 4% – transitial moors. The most substantial role in the environment play lowmoors, characterised by high ability of water retention. In Poland, peatmoors gather 34 mld m3 of water, which has essential significance in decreasing of water resources on the country surface. In the area of Białystok county, there are 147 peatmoors and cover the surface of 8181 ha, which amounts 2,7% of the district surface. These peatmoors can retain such water quantity which is close to the capacity of water reservoir of Siemianówka. There was shown the signifi cant role of lowmoors in the specimen diversity of hygrophilous fauna and fl ora. In Białystok county, lowmoors are mainly used as stable grassland, which provide to proper protection against progressive unfavourable changes