<![CDATA[Peatland ecosystems play a crucial role in regulating water balance. However, the construction of canals within peatland areas can disrupt groundwater equilibrium by lowering the groundwater table (GWT), thereby increasing the risk of peat degradation and threatening the sustainability of its natural functions. This study aims to examine peat depths, groundwater table conditions, and to evaluate the impact of canals on the Peatland Protection Forest (HLG) of Sungai Buluh, located in Sinar Wajo Village, Tanjung Jabung Timur Regency, Jambi Province, Indonesia. This research employed a quantitative approach through direct field measurements of peat thickness and groundwater table depth at observation points both inside and outside the HLG area. The impact of canals on groundwater table dynamics was assessed using the Hooghoudt steady-state model to determine the extent of canal influence into areas without canals. In addition, the spatial distribution of peat thickness was analyzed using the kriging interpolation method within a Geographic Information System (GIS) framework to illustrate peat thickness variability across the study area.The results indicate that peat thickness within the Sungai Buluh HLG ranges from 1,97 to 4,9 meters, with peat deposits inside the protected area generally thicker than those outside. The groundwater table within the HLG ranges from −0,41 to −0,49 meters below the ground surface, while outside the pro tected area the groundwater table is significantly lower, ranging from −0,56 to −0,64 meters. This contrast reflects drier conditions outside the HLG, likely influenced by canal presence. The Hooghoudt steady-state modeling results further demonstrate that canals located within and around the HLG significantly contribute to groundwater table drawdown, extending their influence into areas without canals as far as 169 m further inside HLG Sungai Buluh. These findings suggest that canal development poses a substantial threat to the hydrological function of peatland ecosystems. Therefore, adaptive canal management that accounts for integrated groundwater flow systems is essential to support the protection and long-term sustainability of peatland conservation areas.]]>
