In the framework of an experimental network for wetland rehabilitation set up in the Finistère (Brittany, France), a former cultivated field, was restored in order to re-establish a functional wet meadow. Drainage ditches were filled and as the site was partially backfilled, it has been stripped to the level of the former wetland soil, resulting in the removal of between 25 and 50 cm of soil on approximately 6 800 m2.

Thereafter, in order to accelerate vegetation colonization, different sowing modalities were tested. Stripes of 12m wide taking up the whole length of the field were materialized and sowed according to 5 different modalities: two densities of monospecific Italian raygrass, a commercial mixture of seeds intended for mown wet meadows, and the transfer of hay from a wet meadow located nearby. Control plots were included in the design to follow spontaneous colonization. Site preparation and treatments were applied during summer 2014.

Plant diversity and specific cover was monitored on all sowing modalities and controls. Spiders and ground beetles communities were characterized globally before treatment and observed in each modality.

The results concerning these two taxonomics groups two years after restoration works will be presented and analyze in relation to restoration treatment and to other parameters as soil characteristics.