Landowners and Parish Councils with small areas of land that would not ordinarily attract funding can apply. Local knowledge of water pathways and areas that frequently flood would be helpful but is not essential; rather it would be useful to think about areas which are adjacent to watercourses or which will intercept surface water runoff and slow the flow in Somerset’s’ rivers. Retaining water in the mid and Upper catchments will help reduce flooding in the levels.
Local environmental group Reimagining the Levels, in partnership with Somerset Rivers Authority, Farmers and Wildlife Advisory Group SouthWest, and the Woodland Trust, have funding, expertise and materials available for small plantings of trees and hedges that will aid water management.
In recent years, Somerset has experienced sudden and prolonged flooding from extreme weather events and Somerset Rivers Authority is keen
to support local flood management schemes. Slowing the flow of water by allowing it to percolate through the soil into the aquifers rather than overwhelming streams and rivers is the focus of the scheme. It is a way of working with nature to alleviate flood risk, using trees to infiltrate the soil and intercept heavy rainfall.
Landowners and Parish Councils with small areas of land that would not ordinarily attract funding can apply. Local knowledge of water pathways and areas that frequently flood would be helpful but is not essential; rather it would be useful to think about areas which are adjacent to watercourses or which will intercept surface water runoff and slow the flow in Somerset’s’ rivers. Retaining water in the mid and upper catchments will help reduce flooding in the levels.
Reimagining the Levels will offer expert advice on appropriate planting for the landscape, supply trees, supports and protections along with a payment for every tree planted.
This programme is available for the planting season of 2020-2021. To find out more call Kate on 07872 664543 or email: katetowers.rtl@gmail.com
