Find out more about how Evenlode Catchment Partnership are utilising natural flood management measures to protect local UK villages
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Since landlord Archie Orr-Ewing took management of The King’s Head pub in the Cotswolds almost three decades ago, 12 floods have ravaged the area. Now, his insurance company have revoked his cover, meaning Orr-Ewing is left to foot the costs of any future damage that floods can bring.
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This is just one example of many stories from individuals affected by flooding across the UK, illustrated through Evenlode Catchment Partnership‘s film A River Sings.
Through the film, we see as Evenlode Catchment Partnership uses natural flood management measures to help reduce flooding, co-operating with landowners and farmers to produce amazing benefits for both habitats and wildlife alike.
For example, in Cromwell in Oxfordshire, Evenlode Catchment Partnership has embarked on a river restoration project with a local farmer, creating three wetlands on his farm. After just one year, the results are phenomenal: water flowing through the wetlands are essentially cleaned before heading into the Chipping Norton brook. Gravel banks and low-lying marshes have also been created by the flowing water, creating perfect natural habitats for wildlife to flourish.
Within hours of the wetlands being created, many bird species – such as peregrine falcon and swallows – were spotted.
Creating these wetlands also helps to reduce the chance of a devastating flood. Calculations suggest around 20,000 cubic metres of water can be stored within them, ensuring local villages can avoid damaging floods.
Other measures taken under the project include installation of dams to slow flow, and areas within fields dedicated to storing water during high rainfall events.
Ultimately, the entire project has been effective in preventing flooding downstream, helping residents who have previously dealt with serious impacts from rising water levels.
