Here, the rate of decomposition of organic material is slower than the rate of production, as a result, dark-colored peat accumulates. In other words, when plants die, it takes a very long time for their remains, which add nutrients to the soil and water, to break down into organic debris. In fact, the rate of decomposition is so slow that the partially decomposed plant material accumulates and forms peat. Coastal bogs are located primarily along the Northumberland shore of New Brunswick. They're characterized by exposed peat cliffs.
Sphagnum moss is the most common plant in coastal bogs.
Today, peat mining is an important economic activity, especially in New Brunswick. It is mined for horticulture, as garden mulch, as fuel, and for sewage treatment. By mining bogs for peat, we destroy original habitats for plants and animals. Also, by mining peat in proximity to settlements, blowing peat dust from developed peatland becomes a nuisance and can affect people with respiratory problems.