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River Flooding Risk Reduced by New Funding
18 Jul
Summary
- Eden Rivers Trust received £218,685 for river conservation.
- Scheme aims to make the river more resilient to climate change.
- Focus on upland areas to reduce downstream flood risk.
A significant funding boost of £218,685 has been awarded to Eden Rivers Trust (ERT) for its Reconnecting and Reviving the Caldew initiative. This funding will enable the charity to explore the River Caldew and implement solutions designed to reduce flood risks in the region.
The trust plans to work closely with farmers in Upper Caldew and local residents to deepen understanding of the river's dynamics. This collaboration is expected to enhance the river's resilience against climate change impacts and decrease potential flood hazards by managing water flow.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund has provided this crucial capital for the scheme's initial 18-month phase. Past funding limitations had hindered thorough exploration of the area. ERT anticipates this phase will foster shared knowledge and lead to effective nature-based projects and farmyard water management strategies.
The River Caldew, originating from upland sheep farms and flowing through dairy and beef farms towards Carlisle, faces increasing strain from intense rainfall due to climate change. This leads to heightened risks of flooding and erosion, alongside issues of soil loss, water quality degradation, and invasive species.
ERT believes that addressing challenges in the upper reaches of the river is paramount. Their strategy aims to decrease flood risk downstream, safeguard agricultural production, and restore vital habitats for wildlife. They aim to secure further funding by the end of the initial phase to advance subsequent project stages.
