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Nature Fights Floods: Lancashire's Green Defense Strategy
20 Feb
Summary
- Natural flood defenses mimic fallen trees to slow water.
- Eco-friendly barriers protect nearly 500 properties.
- Natural methods cost significantly less than concrete.
A decade after severe flooding impacted Lancashire towns like Whalley, natural flood management is proving to be a sustainable and cost-effective solution. The Ribble Rivers Trust has implemented innovative schemes along Mearley Brook and Worston Brook in Clitheroe, employing natural defenses such as engineered log jams and leaky dams. These structures, costing approximately £400,000, mimic the effects of fallen trees to hold back rainwater and reduce river flow.
These natural barriers are designed to protect nearly 500 properties, with hopes of storing around 1.7 million liters of water. Projects on Mearley Brook have also involved reintroducing large wood, removing artificial riverbeds, and creating new ponds for fish. The initiative includes planting trees and hedgerows to support wildlife and improve habitat connectivity.
Funded by the Environment Agency and the Species Survival Fund, these natural approaches offer significant benefits over traditional concrete defenses. They are not only cheaper but also contribute to improved water quality, habitat creation, and enhanced climate resilience across the wider catchment area.
