We have long been interested in assessing the historical extent of floodplain meadows and have worked with a range of individuals over the years who are researching their local meadows in terms of their historic extent. This work requires in-depth research, exploration of the archives and a good knowledge of the local area and is therefore quite specialised.
A recent report published by the European Environment Agency shows the necessity of a more ecosystem-based approach to the management of floodplains to conserve and restore biodiversity in rivers, lakes and wetlands, and increase water retention.
A more ecosystem-based approach to the management of floodplains would help to conserve and restore biodiversity and reduce chemical and nutrient pollution in rivers, lakes and wetlands, and increase water retention according to the EEA report ‘Floodplains: a natural system to preserve and restore.’ Such an approach would recognise the multiple functions floodplains play.
In a bid to reconnect a river with its natural floodplain, the National Trust and Natural Resources Wales are beginning on a 1km river restoration project to help slow the flow of water and attract more wildlife, such as brown trout and otter, to the Afon Machno in Snowdonia.
A shocking 90% of the country's floodplains are not fit for purpose, according to a new study.
An in-depth scientific study by Co-op Insurance has found nine tenths of England’s floodplains, which store the water from over-flown rivers, have changed to such a degree that they ‘no longer work properly.’
