Home / Environment / Farmers Build Own Flood Defenses With Grant
Farmers Build Own Flood Defenses With Grant
11 Nov
Summary
- Earth barriers and restored bog installed to combat flooding.
- A £250,000 government grant funded the flood defense project.
- Scheme aims to protect against increased flood risk from El Niño.
A proactive community effort has resulted in the construction of new flood defenses in Brampton, driven by a £250,000 Environment Agency grant awarded in 2021. Local farmer Alan Bowman, alongside the Brampton 2 Zero Community Interest Company, spearheaded the project at Brampton Beck and Brampton Fell Moss.
The initiative involved installing low-level earth barriers, known as bunds, to regulate water flow from the beck. Additionally, shallow ponds were created and planted with natural bog vegetation, and leaky dams were built to further retain water. These measures are designed to enhance flood protection for the town center.
Project leader Phil Furneaux expressed confidence that these defenses will hold back future deluges, noting their effectiveness during Storm Boelo on October 23rd. The scheme, managed by Eden Rivers Trust with advice from Natural England, aims to be a cost-effective solution compared to flood damage.
Alan Bowman highlighted the personal motivation stemming from past childhood flooding experiences. He envisions the restored area as a nature retreat for relaxation, education, and appreciation, emphasizing the vital role farmers play in such environmental stewardship.
