Natural Flood Management

Leaky dams were installed in 2017 during the early days of the Hills to Levels project. We pushed the boundaries by placing them on a wider watercourse than we had previously attempted. After monitoring their performance, we carried out remedial work the following year, strengthening the structures and improving their function. Willow whips were planted […]

This film showcases some of our natural flood management work from above. Please get in touch if you can help slow the flow. You will find more useful information on our Resource Library page.

This Hills to Levels scheme has been designed to divert water away from the farmyard, where it was causing issues, and move it into areas where it can be managed more effectively. It is an example of two landowners working together to reduce and manage run-off, where one farmer came up with the concept and

As part of the Hills to Levels project in Somerset, Lidar data has been collected in order to establish the whereabouts of old floodplains, in order to reconnect them. This data allows us to map the ground in 3D. We have dug out a channel to allow a rising river to flow into a field,

A ‘Leaky Pond’ is just one example of natural flood management being undertaken across Somerset to help reduce flooding. In times of flooding, it is important to store as much water as possible, safely, higher up in the catchment. This example, installed in the valley of a steeply sloping field, features a dug out pond,

Woodland Planting is just one example of natural flood management measures being installed across Somerset to help reduce flooding. In times of heavy rainfall, higher up in river catchments, trees help soak up groundwater, and prevent excessive water run-off. With careful consideration to existing species of trees, these plantations blend in seamlessly with their surroundings.

Woody Dams are just one example of natural flood management measures being installed across Somerset to help reduce flooding. Historically, woody dams that occurred naturally were removed, because they were believed to impair fish migration and cause local flooding. Now, we are seeking to re-introduce woody dams in the right locations, as research has shown

Filter Soxx are a natural flood management measure used to intercept water flow pathways in fields, particularly in areas where this causes issues such as flooding roads. Run-off, which is likely to be carrying soil with it, is slowed down allowing sediment to settle and be kept within the field. This is just one of

The Hills to Levels project was chosen as one of the four finalists in the UK River Prize 2018. This is the short video we made in order to showcase the project. The Hills to Levels project went on to win the overall UK Rivers Prize 2018.   You will find more useful information on